ZT610/ZT620

Industrial Printer with Color Touch

Display

User Guide

P1100103-03EN Rev A
 Copyright

2023/07/10
ZEBRA and the stylized Zebra head are trademarks of Zebra Technologies Corporation, registered in many
jurisdictions worldwide. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2023 Zebra
Technologies Corporation and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. The software described in this document
is furnished under a license agreement or nondisclosure agreement. The software may be used or copied
only in accordance with the terms of those agreements.
For further information regarding legal and proprietary statements, please go to:
SOFTWARE: zebra.com/linkoslegal.
COPYRIGHTS: zebra.com/copyright.
PATENTS: ip.zebra.com.
WARRANTY: zebra.com/warranty.
END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT: zebra.com/eula.

Terms of Use
Proprietary Statement
This manual contains proprietary information of Zebra Technologies Corporation and its subsidiaries
(“Zebra Technologies”). It is intended solely for the information and use of parties operating and
maintaining the equipment described herein. Such proprietary information may not be used, reproduced,
or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the express, written permission of Zebra
Technologies.

Product Improvements
Continuous improvement of products is a policy of Zebra Technologies. All specifications and designs are
subject to change without notice.

Liability Disclaimer
Zebra Technologies takes steps to ensure that its published Engineering specifications and manuals are
correct; however, errors do occur. Zebra Technologies reserves the right to correct any such errors and
disclaims liability resulting therefrom.

Limitation of Liability
In no event shall Zebra Technologies or anyone else involved in the creation, production, or delivery of the
accompanying product (including hardware and software) be liable for any damages whatsoever (including,
without limitation, consequential damages including loss of business profits, business interruption, or loss
of business information) arising out of the use of, the results of use of, or inability to use such product, even
if Zebra Technologies has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Some jurisdictions do not allow
the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may
not apply to you.
Contents

Printer Setup..................................................................................................................................................... 7
Selecting a Location for the Printer................................................................................................... 7
Ordering Supplies and Accessories.................................................................................................. 8
Media...................................................................................................................................................8
Ribbon................................................................................................................................................. 8
Inspecting the Contents of the Box...................................................................................................9
Connecting the Printer to a Device..................................................................................................10
Connect to a Phone or Tablet................................................................................................... 10
Installing Drivers and Connecting to a Windows-Based Computer................................. 10
Connecting the Printer to a Computer Using a USB Port...................................................17
Connecting to Your Network through the Printer's Ethernet Port....................................19
Connecting to a Computer Using the Printer's Serial or Parallel Port............................ 22
Connecting the Printer to Your Wireless Network.............................................................. 23
What to Do If You Forget to Install Printer Drivers First.....................................................24
Determine the Label Collection Method........................................................................................28
Loading the Media............................................................................................................................... 30
Finish Loading the Media – Tear-Off Mode.......................................................................... 33
Finish Loading the Media – Cutter Mode or Delayed Cut Mode.....................................36
Finish Loading the Media – Peel-Off Mode or Applicator Mode..................................... 39
Finish Loading the Media – Rewind Mode............................................................................46
Determining the Type of Ribbon to Use........................................................................................52
What Kind of Ribbon Can I Use?............................................................................................. 52
Performing an Adhesive Test....................................................................................................52
Performing a Ribbon Scratch Test...........................................................................................52
Loading the Ribbon..............................................................................................................................53

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Running the Print Wizard and Printing a Test Label................................................................... 57

Using the Print Quality Assistance Wizard............................................................................ 60
Installing Label Design Software.......................................................................................................61
ZebraDesigner System Requirements..................................................................................... 61

Printer Configuration and Adjustment....................................................................................................... 63

Home Screen......................................................................................................................................... 63
Print Wizards.......................................................................................................................................... 65
User Menus............................................................................................................................................ 66
System Menu..................................................................................................................................68
Connection Menu...........................................................................................................................81
Print Menu..................................................................................................................................... 109
RFID Menu..................................................................................................................................... 127
Storage Menu................................................................................................................................137
Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors.................................................................................. 141
Performing Auto Calibration..................................................................................................... 142
Performing Manual Sensor Calibration..................................................................................142
Adjusting the Printhead Pressure and the Toggle Position............................................. 143
Rewind-Liner Take-Up Plate Installation............................................................................... 149

Routine Maintenance...................................................................................................................................153
Cleaning Schedule and Procedures.............................................................................................. 153
Clean the Exterior, the Media Compartment, and the Sensors..............................................154
Clean the Printer Exterior..........................................................................................................154
Cleaning the Media Compartment and the Sensors......................................................... 155
Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller....................................................................................155
Cleaning and Lubricating the Cutter Module..............................................................................159
Removing Used Ribbon.....................................................................................................................167
Replacing Printer Components....................................................................................................... 169
Ordering Replacement Parts....................................................................................................169
Recycling Printer Components................................................................................................ 169
Storing the Printer...............................................................................................................................169
Lubrication............................................................................................................................................. 170

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Diagnosis and Troubleshooting.................................................................................................................. 171

Evaluating Barcode Quality................................................................................................................171
Configuration Labels........................................................................................................................... 174
PAUSE Self-Test...................................................................................................................................175
Sensor Profile........................................................................................................................................176
Using Communication Diagnostics Mode.....................................................................................177
Load Defaults or Last-Saved Values..............................................................................................178
Alert and Error States.........................................................................................................................179
Alerts and Error Messages....................................................................................................... 180
Indicator Lights............................................................................................................................. 184
Troubleshooting................................................................................................................................... 188
Printing or Print Quality Issues................................................................................................ 188
Ribbon Issues................................................................................................................................193
RFID Issues....................................................................................................................................195
Communication Issues............................................................................................................... 198
Miscellaneous Issues..................................................................................................................199
Servicing the Printer..........................................................................................................................202
Shipping the Printer...................................................................................................................202

Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature............................................................................203

Items Required for the Exercises.................................................................................................. 203
Files for Completing the Exercises....................................................................................... 203
USB Host.............................................................................................................................................. 206
Exercise 1: Copy Files to a USB Flash Drive and Perform USB Mirror......................... 206
Exercise 2: Print a Label Format from a USB Flash Drive...............................................207
Exercise 3: Copy Files to/from a USB Flash Drive............................................................208
Exercise 4: Enter Data for a Stored File with a USB Keyboard and Print a Label.......210
Print Touch/Near Field Communication (NFC)............................................................................ 212
Exercise 5: Enter Data for a Stored File with a Smart Device and Print a Label......... 213

Specifications................................................................................................................................................ 215
General Specifications....................................................................................................................... 215
Power Specifications.......................................................................................................................... 215

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Power Cord Specifications............................................................................................................... 216

Communication Interface Specifications.......................................................................................218
Standard Connections................................................................................................................219
Optional Connections................................................................................................................220
Wireless Specifications.............................................................................................................. 221
Printing Specifications.......................................................................................................................223
Media Specifications..........................................................................................................................224
Ribbon Specifications........................................................................................................................225
Compliance Information................................................................................................................... 226

Glossary......................................................................................................................................................... 227

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Printer Setup
Printer Setup

This section assists a user with initial setup and operation of the printer.

Selecting a Location for the Printer

Select a location for the printer that meets these conditions.
• Surface—The surface where the printer will be located must be solid, level, and of sufficient size and
strength to hold the printer.

• Space—The area where the printer will be located must include enough space for ventilation and for
accessing the printer components and connectors. To allow for proper ventilation and cooling, leave
open space on all sides of the printer.

CAUTION: Do not place any padding or cushioning material behind or under the printer
because this restricts air flow and could cause the printer to overheat.
• Power—The printer should be within a short distance of an appropriate power outlet that is easily
accessible.
• Data communication interfaces—The printer must be within range of your WLAN radio (if applicable)
or within an acceptable range for other connectors to reach your data source (usually a computer).
For more information on maximum cable lengths and configuration, see Communication Interface
Specifications on page 218.
• Operating conditions—The printer is designed to function in a wide range of environmental and
electrical conditions, including in a warehouse or on a factory floor. The following table shows the
temperature and relative humidity requirements for the printer when it is operating.

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Table 1 Operating Temperature and Humidity

Mode Temperature Relative Humidity
Thermal Transfer 5°C to 40°C (40°F to 104°F) 20 to 85% non-condensing
Direct Thermal 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)

Ordering Supplies and Accessories

The following things that you will need do NOT come with the printer:
• Communication/network cables (such as serial or wired Ethernet) other than USB
• Media
• Ribbon (if your printer has a thermal transfer option)
For recommended supplies to ensure optimal operation of your printer, go to zebra.com/supplies.

Media
The type and size of media that you choose should be appropriate for the options installed on the printer.
See Determine the Label Collection Method on page 28 and Media Specifications on page 224 for
minimum label lengths and other important things to consider.
For optimal printing quality and proper printer performance across the product lines, Zebra strongly
recommends the use of Zebra Certified Supplies as part of the total solution. A wide range of paper,
polypropylene, polyester, and vinyl stock has been specifically engineered to enhance the printing
capabilities of the printer and prevent premature printhead wear. To purchase supplies, go to zebra.com/
supplies.
The Glossary on page 227 includes terms associated with media, such as black mark media, gap/notch
media, RFID media, fanfold media, and roll media. Use these terms to help determine which type of media
will suit your needs.

Ribbon
NOTE: This section applies only to printers that have the Thermal Transfer option installed.

Do I need to use ribbon? The media itself determines if you will need to use ribbon.
• Thermal Transfer media—Requires ribbon.
• Direct Thermal media—Does NOT require ribbon.

How can I tell if media is Direct The easiest way to find out is to scratch the surface of the media
Thermal or Thermal Transfer? rapidly with your fingernail. If a black mark appears where you
(See direct thermal on page scratched, the media is Direct Thermal, so you do NOT need ribbon.
229 and thermal transfer on
page 235 for definitions.)

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 Printer Setup

What kind of ribbon can I use? This printer can use ONLY ribbon coated on the outside, unless you
purchase and install the optional spindle that allows the use of ribbon
coated on the inside. Contact your authorized Zebra reseller for
ordering information.
How can I tell which side of the Use one of these two methods to determine which side of the ribbon
ribbon is coated? is coated:
• Performing an Adhesive Test on page 52.
• Performing a Ribbon Scratch Test on page 52.

Inspecting the Contents of the Box

Make sure that the printer box contains all the items you need to set it up.

IMPORTANT: Zebra Technologies is not responsible for any damage incurred during the
shipment of the equipment and will not repair this damage under warranty.
1. Carefully remove the printer from the box and verify that the items show here are included.

2. If anything is missing, notify your authorized Zebra reseller.

3. Immediately unwrap the printer and inspect for shipping damage.
• Save all packing materials.
• Check all exterior surfaces for damage.
• Raise the media door, and inspect the media compartment for damage to components.
4. If you discover shipping damage upon inspection:
• Immediately notify the shipping company and file a damage report.
• Keep all packaging material for shipping company inspection.
• Notify your authorized Zebra reseller.

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 Printer Setup

5. Before setting up the printer, remove the protective items included in the box for shipping. This includes
a film of plastic over the transparent window on the media door.

Connecting the Printer to a Device

After you have set up the printer, you are ready to connect the printer to your device (such as a computer,
phone, or tablet).

Connect to a Phone or Tablet

Download the free Zebra Printer Setup Utility app for your device.
• Android devices
• Apple devices
The applications support the following types of connectivity:
• Bluetooth Classic
• Bluetooth Low Energy (Bluetooth LE)
• Wired/Ethernet
• Wireless
• USB On-The-Go
For the User Guides for these printer setup utilities, go to zebra.com/setup.

Installing Drivers and Connecting to a Windows-Based Computer

To use your printer with a Microsoft Windows-based computer, you must install the correct drivers first.

IMPORTANT: You may connect your printer to your computer using any of the connections that
you have available. However, do not connect any cables from your computer to the printer until
you are instructed to do so. If you connect them at the wrong time, your printer will not install the
correct printer drivers. To recover from incorrect driver installation, see What to Do If You Forget
to Install Printer Drivers First on page 24.

Installing the Drivers

Follow these steps to install the correct drivers.
1. Navigate to zebra.com/drivers.
2. Click Printers.
3. Select your printer model.
4. On the printer product page, click Drivers.
5. Download the appropriate driver for Windows.
The driver executable file (such as zd86423827-certified.exe) is added to your Download folder.

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 Printer Setup

6. Run the executable file and follow the prompts.

When setup is complete, you may select to add all of the drivers to your system (Configure System) or
to add/configure specific printers (see Running the Printer Installation Wizard on page 13).

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 Printer Setup

7. Select Configure System, then click Finish.

The Printer Installation Wizard installs the drivers.

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 Printer Setup

Running the Printer Installation Wizard

1. On the last screen of the driver installer, leave Run the Printer Installation Wizard checked, then click
Finish.
The Printer Installation wizard displays.

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 Printer Setup

2. Click Next.

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 Printer Setup

3. Click Install Printer Driver.

The license agreement displays.

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 Printer Setup

4. Read and accept the terms of the license agreement, then click Next.

5. Select the communication option that you want to configure for your printer:
• Network Port—To install printers with an Ethernet (LAN) or wireless (Wi-Fi) network connection. Wait
for the driver to scan your local network for devices and follow the prompts. If necessary, set the
values as directed in Connecting to Your Network through the Printer's Ethernet Port on page 19
or in Connecting the Printer to Your Wireless Network on page 23.
• USB Port—To install printers connected with the USB cable. Connect the printer to the computer
as shown in Connecting the Printer to a Computer Using a USB Port on page 17. If the printer is
already connected and powered on, you may need to remove the USB cable and install it again. The
driver will automatically search for the model of the connected printer.
• Bluetooth Port—To install printers with a Bluetooth connection.
• Other—To install using another type of cable, such as Parallel (LPT) and Serial (COM). No additional
configuration is necessary. See Connecting to a Computer Using the Printer's Serial or Parallel Port
on page 22.

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 Printer Setup

6. If prompted, select your printer model and resolution.

The model and resolution are on the part number sticker on the printer, usually located below the
media hanger. The information will be in the following format:

Part Number: XXXXXxY – xxxxxxxx

where
XXXXX = the printer model, and Y = the printer resolution (2 = 203 dpi, 3 = 300 dpi, 6 = 600 dpi).
For example, in the part number ZT610x6 – xxxxxxxx, ZT610 indicates that the printer is a ZT610
model, and 6 indicates that the maximum printhead resolution is 600 dpi.

Connecting the Printer to a Computer Using a USB Port

1. After you install the drivers, remove the label that covers the USB port.

2. Connect the USB cord to the USB port on your printer.

3. Connect the other end of the USB cord to your computer.

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 Printer Setup

4. Plug the A/C power cord into the A/C power connector on the back of the printer.

5. Plug the A/C power cord into an appropriate power outlet.

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 Printer Setup

6. Turn printer power on (I).

As the printer boots up, your computer completes the driver installation and recognizes your printer.
If you did not install the drivers first, see What to Do If You Forget to Install Printer Drivers First on page
24.

Connecting to Your Network through the Printer's Ethernet Port

To use a wired print server (Ethernet) connection, you may need to configure the printer to communicate
with your Local Area Network (LAN).
For additional information about Zebra print servers, refer to the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print
Servers User Guide. To download the latest version of these guides, go to zebra.com/support.
1. After you install the drivers (see Installing the Drivers on page 10), connect the printer to an Ethernet
cable that is connected to your network.

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 Printer Setup

2. Plug the A/C power cord into the A/C power connector on the back of the printer.

3. Plug the A/C power cord into an appropriate power outlet. Your printer's electrical specifications
are 100–240 VAC, 50-60 Hz.

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 Printer Setup

4. Turn printer power on (I).

The printer attempts to communicate with your network. If the search is successful, it fills in your LAN's
gateway and subnet values and gets an IP address.
5. On the Home screen, touch the Printer Info tab. Check the display to see if an IP address was assigned
to the printer.

If the printer’s IP address is... Then...

0.0.0.0 The NETWORK light is off or displays steady red. See Indicator
or Lights on page 184 for more information.

000.000.000.000 a. Check the Ethernet connector on the back of the printer. If

no light is on or if it is blinking, the Ethernet connection is
not active. Check that both ends of the cord are plugged
in correctly and that the network port that you are plugging
into is active. When this issue is resolved, the printer should
connect automatically.
b. If necessary, configure the following printer settings to set
a static IP address and then reset the network. Contact
your network administrator for the proper values for your
network.
• Connection > Wired > Wired IP Protocol—Change the
value from ALL to PERMANENT.
• Connection > Wired > Wired Gateway—Match the
gateway value of your LAN.
• Connection > Wired > Wired Subnet—Match the subnet
value of your LAN.
• Connection > Wired > Wired IP Address—Assign a
unique IP address to the printer.

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 Printer Setup

If the printer’s IP address is... Then...

any other value The connection was successful. The NETWORK light displays
steady green or yellow, depending on the network. (See
Indicator Lights on page 184 for more information.)

6. Reset the network (see Reset Network in Connection Menu on page 81) to allow changes to the
network settings to take effect.

Connecting to a Computer Using the Printer's Serial or Parallel Port

1. Make sure printer power is OFF.
2. Connect the serial or parallel cable to the appropriate port on your printer.

A B

A Serial cable connection B Parallel cable connection

3. Connect the other end of the cord to the appropriate port on your computer.
4. Plug the female end of the A/C power cord into the A/C power connector on the back of the printer.

A B

A Serial cable connection B Parallel cable connection

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 Printer Setup

5. Plug the male end of the A/C power cord into an appropriate power outlet. Your printer can
support 100–240 VAC, 50-60 Hz.

115 V AC

230 VAC

6. Run the Zebra Setup Utilities Printer Installation Wizard and turn printer power on (I) when the Wizard
instructs you to do so. See Running the Printer Installation Wizard on page 13.

A Serial cable connection B Parallel cable connection

7. If necessary, adjust the printer’s port settings to match those of your computer. For details on the
settings, see Connection Menu on page 81.

Connecting the Printer to Your Wireless Network

If you will connect the printer to a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) using the printer's option internal
wireless print server, you may need to configure the printer to establish the wireless connection.
For more information on this server, see the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print Server User Guide. You
can download the latest version of this guide from zebra.com/manuals.
1. Install the drivers as instructed in Installing Drivers and Connecting to a Windows-Based Computer on
page 10.
2. If necessary, specify the ESSID value that matches the value used by your wireless router. Check with
your network administrator for the ESSID value to use. See ESSID in Connection Menu on page 81
for ways to change the value.
3. If necessary, configure the following printer settings. (See Connection Menu on page 81). Contact
your network administrator for the proper values for your network.
• Connection > WLAN > WLAN Subnet—Match the subnet value of your WLAN.
• Connection > WLAN > WLAN Gateway—Match the gateway value of your WLAN.

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 Printer Setup

4. Reset the network (see Reset Network in Connection Menu on page 81) to allow changes to these
network settings to take effect.
5. If the printer still does not connect, consider setting a static IP address by configuring the following
additional settings, and then reset the network again (see Reset Network in Connection Menu on page
81). Contact your network administrator for the proper values for your network.
• Connection > WLAN > WLAN IP Protocol—Change the value from ALL to PERMANENT.
• Connection > WLAN > WLAN IP Address—Assign a unique IP address to the printer.
If needed, add the printer to your computer for management through Zebra Setup Utilities. For detailed
instructions, see Running the Printer Installation Wizard on page 13 and What to Do If You Forget to
Install Printer Drivers First on page 24.

What to Do If You Forget to Install Printer Drivers First

If you plug in your Zebra printer before installing the drivers, the printer displays as an Unspecified device.
1. Follow the instructions in Installing Drivers and Connecting to a Windows-Based Computer on page
10 to download and install the drivers.
2. From the Windows menu, open the Control Panel.
3. Click Devices and Printers.
In this example, the MZ320 is an incorrectly-installed Zebra printer.

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 Printer Setup

4. Right-click on the device, and select Properties.

The properties for the device display.

5. Click the Hardware tab.

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 Printer Setup

6. Select the Zebra printer in the Device Functions list, then click Properties.
The properties display.

7. Click Change settings, then click the Driver tab.

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 Printer Setup

8. Click Update Driver.

9. Click Browse my computer for driver software.

10. Click Browse... and navigate to the Downloads folder.
11. Click OK to select the folder.

12. Click Next.

The device is updated with the correct drivers.

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 Printer Setup

Determine the Label Collection Method

Before loading media, decide on a label collection method that matches the media being used and the
printer options available.

Figure 1 Printer Options

A B

C D

A Tear Off (standard) B Cutter

C Rewind option – Peel Off mode setting D Rewind option – Rewind mode setting

Table 2 Media Collection Methods and Printer Options

Method Required Description
Printer Option
Tear Off Can be used with any The printer prints label formats as it receives them. The
printer option and with printer operator can tear off the printed labels when the
most media types. printer stops.
Cutter Cutter option The printer cuts between labels after each one is printed.
Delayed Cut Cutter option setting The printer waits for a delayed cut (~JK) ZPL
command before it cuts the last printed label.

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 Printer Setup

Table 2 Media Collection Methods and Printer Options (Continued)

Method Required Description
Printer Option
Peel Off One of the two Rewind The printer peels the label from the backing during printing
option settings and then pauses until the label is removed. The empty
backing is wound onto the rewind spindle without using
the rewind plate.
Rewind One of the two Rewind The printer prints without pausing between labels. The
option settings media is wound onto a core after printing. The rewind
plate is used to keep the labels from separating from the
backing.
Applicator Requires an Applicator The printer prints when it receives a signal from the
Port connection. This applicator. Authorized Service Technicians should refer to
mode is for use with a the Advanced User Information section of the Maintenance
machine that applies Manual for additional information about the applicator
labels. interface.

NOTE: These options are reserved for future use:

• Linerless Peel
• Linerless Rewind
• Linerless Tear
• Linerless Cut
• Linerless Delayed Cut

1. On the Home screen, touch Menu > Print > Label Position > Collection Method.
The Collection Method options display.

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 Printer Setup

2. Select a method that matches the media being used and the printer options available.
3. Touch Home ( ) to return to the Home screen.

Loading the Media

Use the instructions in this section to load either roll or fanfold media for the label collection method you
plan to use.

IMPORTANT: You do not have to turn printer power off when working near an open printhead,
but Zebra recommends it as a precaution. If you turn off the power, you will lose all temporary
settings, such as label formats, and you must reload them before you resume printing.
The media path is the same for roll and fanfold media.
1. Raise the media door.

2. Remove and discard any tags or labels that are torn or dirty or that are held by adhesives or tape.

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 Printer Setup

3. Insert roll or fanfold media into the printer. While the media loading path is the same for both media
types, this step will be different.

If using roll media... Place the roll on the media supply spindle and push the roll as far back as it

will go.

If using fanfold You can place the supplies and feed them one of two ways:
media...
• from behind the printer (see image on the left below), or
• from under the printer, using the bottom access slot (see image on the
right below).

4. Use one of the links listed here to finish loading the media depending on the media collection method
you plan to use:

If using... Complete the steps listed in...

Tear Off Finish Loading the Media – Tear-Off Mode on
page 33.

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 Printer Setup

If using... Complete the steps listed in...

Peel Off or Applicator Finish Loading the Media – Peel-Off Mode or
Applicator Mode on page 39.

Rewind Finish Loading the Media – Rewind Mode on

page 46.

Cutter or Delayed Cut Finish Loading the Media – Cutter Mode or

Delayed Cut Mode on page 36.

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 Printer Setup

Finish Loading the Media – Tear-Off Mode

Before proceeding, if you have not already done so, complete the steps in Loading the Media on page 30.
1. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

2. Rotate the media guide adjustment knob as shown until the media guide slides all the way out.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

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 Printer Setup

3. From the media spindle (1), feed the media under the dancer assembly (2), through the media sensor
(3), and under the printhead assembly (4). Slide the media back until it touches the inside back wall of
the media sensor.

4. Rotate the media guide adjustment knob as shown until the media guide just touches the edge of the
media.

5. Does the media that you are using require ribbon for printing? If you are not sure, see Ribbon on page
8.

If using... Then...
Direct Thermal media (no ribbon needed) Continue to the next step in this procedure.
Thermal Transfer media (ribbon needed) If you have not already done so, load ribbon in
the printer. See Loading the Ribbon on page
53. Then continue to the next step in this
procedure.

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 Printer Setup

6. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

7. Close the media door.

8. Set the printer to the appropriate collection method. See Print > Label Position > Collection Method
in Print Menu on page 109.
9. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.
10. For best results, calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
11. If desired, print a configuration or other label to verify that your printer is able to print. See System >
Settings > Print: System Settings in System Menu on page 68.

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 Printer Setup

Finish Loading the Media – Cutter Mode or Delayed Cut Mode

Before proceeding, if you have not already done so, complete the steps in Loading the Media on page 30.
1. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

2. Rotate the media guide adjustment knob as shown until the media guide slides all the way out.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

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 Printer Setup

3. From the media spindle (1), feed the media under the dancer assembly (2), through the media sensor
(3), and under the printhead assembly (4). Slide the media back until it touches the inside back wall of
the media sensor.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch or rub the blade with your fingers.

4. Feed the media through the cutter.

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 Printer Setup

5. Rotate the media guide adjustment knob as shown until the media guide just touches the edge of the
media.

6. Does the media that you are using require ribbon for printing? If you are not sure, see Ribbon on page
8.

If using... Then...
Direct Thermal media (no ribbon needed) Continue to the next step in this procedure.
Thermal Transfer media (ribbon needed) If you have not already done so, load ribbon in
the printer. See Loading the Ribbon on page
53. Then continue to the next step in this
procedure.

7. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

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 Printer Setup

8. Close the media door.

9. Set the printer to the appropriate collection method. See Print > Label Position > Collection Method
in Print Menu on page 109.
10. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.
11. For best results, calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
12. If desired, print a configuration or other label to verify that your printer is able to print. See System >
Settings > Print: System Settings in System Menu on page 68.

Finish Loading the Media – Peel-Off Mode or Applicator Mode

Before proceeding, if you have not already done so, complete the steps in Loading the Media on page 30.

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 Printer Setup

1. If necessary, install the rewind/liner take-up plate in the peel-off position as shown.

2. If desired, slide a core onto the rewind spindle until it is flush against the guide plate. A core is not
necessary for liner take-up.

40
 Printer Setup

3. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

4. Rotate the media guide adjustment knob as shown until the media guide slides all the way out.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

41
 Printer Setup

5. From the media spindle (1), feed the media under the dancer assembly (2), through the media sensor
(3), and under the printhead assembly (4). Slide the media back until it touches the inside back wall of
the media sensor.

6. Extend approximately 500 mm (18 in.) of media out of the printer. Remove and discard the labels from
this exposed media, leaving just the liner.

42
 Printer Setup

7. Feed the liner behind the rewind/liner take-up plate.

8. Remove the hook from the rewind spindle.

9. Wind the liner around the rewind spindle as shown. Rotate the rewind spindle several turns to tighten
the liner and remove any slack.

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 Printer Setup

10. Reinstall the spindle hook over the liner. Insert the long end of the hook into the small hole on the
guide plate (1). Insert the short end of the hook into the hole in the center of the adjusting nut (2).

11. Rotate the media guide adjustment knob as shown until the media guide just touches the edge of the
media.

12. Does the media that you are using require ribbon for printing? If you are not sure, see Ribbon on page
8.

If using... Then...
Direct Thermal media (no ribbon needed) Continue to the next step in this procedure.
Thermal Transfer media (ribbon needed) If you have not already done so, load ribbon in
the printer. See Loading the Ribbon on page
53. Then continue to the next step in this
procedure.

44
 Printer Setup

13. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

14. Close the media door.

15. Set the printer to the appropriate collection method. See Print > Label Position > Collection Method
in Print Menu on page 109.
16. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or it may feed a label, depending on your settings.
17. For best results, calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.

45
 Printer Setup

18. If desired, print a configuration or other label to verify that your printer is able to print. See System >
Settings > Print: System Settings in System Menu on page 68.

Finish Loading the Media – Rewind Mode

Before proceeding, if you have not already done so, complete the steps in Loading the Media on page 30.
1. If necessary, install the rewind/liner take-up plate in the peel-off position as shown.

46
 Printer Setup

2. Slide a core onto the rewind spindle until it is flush against the guide plate.

3. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

47
 Printer Setup

4. Rotate the media guide adjustment knob as shown until the media guide slides all the way out.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.
5. From the media spindle (1), feed the media under the dancer assembly (2), through the media sensor
(3), and under the printhead assembly (4). Slide the media back until it touches the inside back wall of
the media sensor.

48
 Printer Setup

6. Extend approximately 500 mm (18 in.) of media out of the printer. Remove and discard the labels from
this exposed media, leaving just the liner.

7. Feed the liner behind the rewind/liner take-up plate.

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 Printer Setup

8. Wind the liner around the rewind spindle as shown. Rotate the rewind spindle several turns to tighten
the liner and remove any slack.

9. Rotate the media guide adjustment knob as shown until the media guide just touches the edge of the
media.

10. Does the media that you are using require ribbon for printing? If you are not sure, see Ribbon on page
8.

If using... Then...
Direct Thermal media (no ribbon needed) Continue to the next step in this procedure.
Thermal Transfer media (ribbon needed) If you have not already done so, load ribbon in
the printer. See Loading the Ribbon on page

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 Printer Setup

If using... Then...
53. Then continue to the next step in this
procedure.

11. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

12. Close the media door.

13. Set the printer to the appropriate collection method. See Print > Label Position > Collection Method
in Print Menu on page 109.

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 Printer Setup

14. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.

The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.
15. For best results, calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
16. If desired, print a configuration or other label to verify that your printer is able to print. See System >
Settings > Print: System Settings in System Menu on page 68.

Determining the Type of Ribbon to Use

NOTE: This section applies only to printers that have the Thermal Transfer option installed.

What Kind of Ribbon Can I Use?

Rolls of ribbon are wound with the coated surface of ink on the inside of the roll or on the outside of the
roll. This printer with a standard Thermal Transfer option uses ribbon that is coated on the outside. An
optional ribbon spindle is available to use ribbon that is coated on the inside. Contact your authorized
Zebra reseller for ordering information.
If you are unsure which side of a particular roll of ribbon is coated, perform an adhesive test or a ribbon
scratch test to determine which side is coated.

Performing an Adhesive Test

If you have labels available, perform the adhesive test to determine which side of a ribbon is coated. This
method works well for ribbon that is already installed.
1. Peel a label from its liner.
2. Press a corner of the sticky side of the label to the outer surface of the roll of ribbon.
3. Peel the label off the ribbon.
4. Observe the results.
Did flakes or particles of ink from the ribbon adhere to the label?

If ink from Then...

the ribbon...
Adhered to the The ribbon is coated on the outside and it can be used
label in this printer.

Did not adhere The ribbon is coated on the inside and it cannot be
to the label used in the standard printer.
To verify this result, repeat the test on the other surface
of the roll of ribbon.

Performing a Ribbon Scratch Test

Perform the ribbon scratch test when labels are unavailable.
1. Unroll a short length of ribbon.

52
 Printer Setup

2. Place the unrolled section of ribbon on a piece of paper with the outer surface of the ribbon in contact
with the paper.
3. Scratch the inner surface of the unrolled ribbon with your fingernail.
4. Lift the ribbon from the paper.
5. Observe the results.
Did the ribbon leave a mark on the paper?

If the ribbon... Then...

Left a mark on the The ribbon is coated on the outside and it can be used
paper in this printer.

Did not leave a The ribbon is coated on the inside and it cannot be
mark on the paper used in the standard printer.
To verify this result, repeat the test on the other surface
of the roll of ribbon.

Loading the Ribbon

IMPORTANT: You do not have to turn printer power off when working near an open printhead,
but Zebra recommends it as a precaution. If you turn off the power, you will lose all temporary
settings, such as label formats, and you must reload them before you resume printing.

IMPORTANT: To protect the printhead from wear, use ribbon that is wider than the media.

Ribbon must be coated on the outside for use in a standard printer. For more information, see What Kind of
Ribbon Can I Use? on page 52.

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 Printer Setup

1. Raise the media door.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.
2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

54
 Printer Setup

3. Place the roll of ribbon on the ribbon supply spindle with the loose end of the ribbon unrolling as
shown. Push the roll back as far as it will go.

4. Bring the ribbon under the printhead assembly and around its left side, as shown.

55
 Printer Setup

5. With the ribbon tracking as far back as it can under the printhead assembly, wrap the ribbon around the
ribbon take-up spindle. Rotate the spindle several turns in the direction shown to tighten and align the
ribbon.

6. If media is not loaded in the printer, complete the steps in Loading the Media on page 30, continue with
the next steps in this procedure. If media is loaded, proceed to the next step.
7. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

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 Printer Setup

8. Close the media door.

9. If necessary, press PAUSE to enable printing.

Running the Print Wizard and Printing a Test Label

The Print Wizard configures the printer, prints test labels, and adjusts print quality based on the results of
the test labels.

IMPORTANT: When using the Wizards, do not send data to the printer from the host.

For optimal results, use full-width media running the Print Wizard or Set All Wizard. If the media is smaller
than an image to be printed, the results may be truncated or print across multiple labels.
After you have completed the printer setup procedures and run the printer setup wizard, use this section to
print a test label. Printing this label allows you to see if your connection is working and if you need to adjust
any of the print settings.
1. On the Home screen, touch Wizards > Print > Start Print.
2. Follow the prompts to specify the following information:
• print type (Thermal Transfer or Direct Thermal)
• label type (Continuous, Gap/Notch, or Mark)
• label width
• collection method (tear off, peel off, rewind, cutter, delayed cut, linerless peel, linerless rewind,
linerless tear, or applicator)
After you have specified these, the wizard instructs you to load media and then place a label over the
media sensor.

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 Printer Setup

3. Load media so that a label is over the green light from the media sensor, then touch the
checkmark. See Loading the Media on page 30.

4. At the prompt, close the printhead, and then touch the Next checkmark.
The printer calibrates and then asks if you would like to print a test label.
5. Follow the prompts until the printer completes auto calibration.

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 Printer Setup

6. When asked to print a test label, touch the checkmark.

A test label similar to this one prints. If your labels are smaller than the image, only a portion of the test
label will print.

59
 Printer Setup

7. Examine the position of the label over the tear bar. If necessary, shift the position of the media over the
tear-off bar after printing.
• If the space between labels falls on the tear bar, continue with the next step.
• If the space between labels does not fall directly on the tear bar, shift the position of the media over
the tear bar after printing.
Lower numbers move the media into the printer by the specified number of dots (the tear line moves
closer to the edge of the label just printed).
Higher numbers move the media out of the printer (the tear line moves closer to the leading edge of
the next label).

8. Examine the quality of the image on the test label. Is the quality of the barcode and text on the test label
acceptable? See Evaluating Barcode Quality on page 171 for assistance.
• If yes, touch the checkmark, and then look for any other issues that may be affecting print quality.
See Printing or Print Quality Issues on page 188.
• If no, adjust the print quality manually by changing darkness and speed settings through the printer’s
menu system, or run the Print Quality Assistance wizard. See Using the Print Quality Assistance
Wizard on page 60.

Using the Print Quality Assistance Wizard

1. From the last step of the Print wizard, touch Print Quality Assistance.
The printer prompts for the number of test labels to print. The more labels you choose to print, the more
choices that you will have available to decide on label quality. In general, if your test label from the
previous wizard was acceptable, a lower number of test labels in this step will probably suffice.
2. Select a number of test labels to print.
The printer prints the specified number of test labels and prompts you for the preferred test label.
3. Decide which test label is the optimal quality. (Refer to Evaluating Barcode Quality on page 171 for
assistance.) If none of the labels are acceptable, use the arrow to back up a screen in the wizard, and
select a larger number of test labels.
4. In the list on the display, select the identifier for the test label with the specified quality, and then touch
the checkmark.
The printer changes the darkness and speed to the levels used on the preferred test label.

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 Printer Setup

5. If necessary, see Printing or Print Quality Issues on page 188 to see what other issues may be
affecting your print quality.
The print setup procedure is complete.

Installing Label Design Software

Select and install the software that you will use to create label formats for your printer.
One option is ZebraDesigner, which you can download from zebra.com/zebradesigner. You can choose to
use ZebraDesigner Essentials for free or purchase ZebraDesigner Professional for a more robust toolset.

Figure 2 Sample ZebraDesigner Essentials Screen

ZebraDesigner System Requirements

System requirements for the ZebraDesigner label-format design application are listed below:
• 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 10 desktop editions, Windows 11 desktop editions, Windows Server 2016,
Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022 operating systems.
• CPU: Intel or compatible x86 family processor
• Memory: 2 GB or more RAM
• Hard drive: 1 GB of available disk space
• Microsoft.NET Framework Version 4.7.2
• Display: 1366 × 768 or higher resolution monitor
• ZDesigner printer drivers

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 Printer Setup

NOTE: Remote Desktop Services and Virtual Machines are not supported.

62
Printer Configuration and
Adjustment
Printer Configuration and Adjustment

This section assists you with configuration of the printer and adjustments to the printer.

Home Screen
The printer’s Home screen shows you the printer’s current status and allows you to access the printer’s
menus. You can rotate the image of the printer 360 degrees to view it from all angles.

NOTE: If the background color of the Home screen is yellow or red, the printer is in an alert or
error state. For more information, see Alert and Error States on page 179.
The following items are located on the Home screen Print Status tab:
• Menu—Use the menu to change the printer settings. For more information, see User Menus on page
66.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

• Wizards—Use the wizards to change printer settings by going through prompts. See Print Wizards on
page 65.

• Shortcuts—Use the shortcuts to quickly access the most recent menu items and save your favorites.
To save a menu item to your list of favorites, touch the darkened heart icon located to the left of it. The
favorites are listed in the order in which they were saved.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Print Wizards
Printer wizards walk you through the setup process for various printer settings and features.
The following wizards are available:
• Set All Wizard—Runs all the wizards in sequence.
• System Wizard—Sets up non-print related operating system settings.
• Connection Wizard—Configures the printer’s connectivity options.
• Print Wizard—Configures key printing parameters and features. See Running the Print Wizard and
Printing a Test Label on page 57.
• RFID Wizard—Sets up the RFID subsystem’s operations.
On the Home screen, touch Wizards to see the available options.
For more information about individual settings set by any of the wizards, see User Menus on page 66.

IMPORTANT: When using the Wizards, do not send data to the printer from the host.
For optimal results, use full-width media when running Print Wizard or Set All Wizards. If the
media is shorter than an image to be printed, the image may be truncated or print across multiple
labels.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

User Menus
Use the printer user menus to configure the printer as needed.
For detailed information on each of these menus, see:
• System Menu on page 68.
• Connection Menu on page 81.
• Print Menu on page 109.
• RFID Menu on page 127.
• Storage Menu on page 137.
You can modify printer settings through the user menus or optionally using the methods listed below. The
user menu descriptions in this section include information on these optional methods where applicable.
• ZPL and Set/Get/Do (SGD) commands. See the Zebra Programming Guide at zebra.com/manuals for
more information.
• The printer’s web pages, in cases where the printer has an active wired or wireless print server
connection. See the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print Servers User Guide at zebra.com/manuals for
details.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

You can also use the printer’s task wizards to change some settings. See Print Wizards on page 65.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

System Menu
Menu Display Menu Option Description
System > Language
If necessary, change the language that the printer displays. This
change affects the words shown on the following:
• the Home screen
• the user menus
• error messages
• the printer configuration label, the network configuration label,
and other labels that you can select to print through the user
menus

Accepted values: ENGLISH, SPANISH, FRENCH,

GERMAN, ITALIAN, NORWEGIAN,
PORTUGUESE, SWEDISH, DANISH,
DUTCH, FINNISH, CZECH, JAPANESE,
KOREAN, ROMANIAN, RUSSIAN,
POLISH, SIMPLIFIED CHINESE,
TRADITIONAL CHINESE
The selections for this parameter are
displayed in the actual languages to
make it easier for you to find one that
you are able to read.
Related ZPL ^KL
command(s):
SGD command used: display.language
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
General Setup > Language

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Program Language > Diagnostic Mode
Use this diagnostics tool to make the printer output hexadecimal
values for all data received by the printer. (For more information,
see Using Communication Diagnostics Mode on page 177.)
Accepted values: PRINT—The printer prints the text and
hexadecimal representation of data
bytes received instead of printing the
formatted labels which that data might
represent.
E: Drive—The printer saves the
information to its E: drive.
USB Host—The printer saves the
information to a USB Host memory
device if one is present.
OFF—The printer’s normal operating
mode. Cycling power also returns the
printer to OFF mode.

NOTE: This command does

not capture a network packet
trace.
Related ZPL ~JD to enable
command(s): ~JE to disable
SGD command used: input.capture
Control panel key(s): Hold PAUSE + FEED for 2 seconds
when the printer is in the Ready state.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Program Language > Virtual Device
If any Virtual Device apps are installed on your printer, you may
view or enable/disable them from this user menu.
For more information, go to the User Guide for the appropriate
Virtual Device, or contact your local reseller.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Program Language > ZBI
Zebra Basic Interpreter (ZBI 2.0™) is a programming option that may
be purchased for your printer. If you would like to purchase this
option, contact your Zebra reseller for more information.
If ZBI programs have been downloaded to your printer, you may
select one to run using this menu item. If no program exists on your
printer, NONE is listed.
When ZBI programs have been downloaded but none are running,
the printer lists all available programs. To run one of them, touch
Run (highlighted in white) under the program name.
After a program is running, only that program is listed. Touch Stop
(highlighted in white) to end the program.

SGD command used: zbi.key—Shows if a valid ZBI 2.0

license is installed on the printer.
zbi.enable—Shows if the ZBI 2.0
option is enabled or disabled on the
printer.

NOTE: zbi.key must be

set to "enabled" and
zbi.enable must be set to
"on" to be able to use the
ZBI feature.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Settings > Display Time Format
Select the time format used by the printer.
Accepted values: 12-Hour, 24-Hour
SGD command used: device.idle_display_value

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Settings > Password Level
Select the level of password protection for user menu items.
Accepted values: Selected, All, None
SGD command used: display.password.level

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Settings > Set Password
Set a new printer password for menu items protected by the
previous parameter. The default printer password is 1234.
Accepted values: Numerals 0-9
Related ZPL ^KP
command(s):

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Settings > Power Up Action
Set the action for the printer to take during the power-up
sequence.
Accepted values: CALIBRATE—Adjusts sensor levels and
thresholds, determines the label length,
and feeds the media to the next web.
FEED—Feeds the labels to the first
registration point.
LENGTH—Determines the label length
using current sensor values, and feeds
the media to the next web.
NO MOTION—Tells the printer not to
move the media. You must manually
ensure that the web is positioned
correctly, or press feed to position the
next web.
SHORT CAL—Sets the media and web
thresholds without adjusting sensor
gain, determines the label length, and
feeds the media to the next web.
Related ZPL ^MF
command(s):
SGD command used: ezpl.power_up_action
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Calibration

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Settings > Head Close Action
Set the action for the printer to take when you close the printhead.
Accepted values: CALIBRATE—Adjusts sensor levels and
thresholds, determines the label length,
and feeds the media to the next web.
FEED—Feeds the labels to the first
registration point.
LENGTH—Determines the label length
using current sensor values, and feeds
the media to the next web.
NO MOTION—Tells the printer not to
move the media. You must manually
ensure that the web is positioned
correctly, or press feed to position the
next web.
SHORT CAL—Sets the media and web
thresholds without adjusting sensor
gain, determines the label length, and
feeds the media to the next web.
Related ZPL ^MF
command(s):
SGD command used: ezpl.head_close_action
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Calibration

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Settings > Screen Calibration
Touch each crosshair to calibrate the screen.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Settings > Restore Defaults
Restore specific printer, print server, and network settings back
to the factory defaults. Use care when loading defaults because
you will need to reload all settings that you changed manually.
This menu item is available through two user menus with different
default values for each.
Accepted values: PRINTER—Restores all printer settings
other than the network settings back
to the factory defaults. Use care when
loading defaults because you will need
to reload all settings that you changed
manually.
NETWORK—Reinitializes the printer’s
wired or wireless print server. With a
wireless print server, the printer also re-
associates with your wireless network.
LAST SAVED—Loads settings from the
last permanent save.
Related ZPL PRINTER— ^JUF
command(s): NETWORK— ^JUN
LAST SAVED— ^JUR
Control panel key(s): PRINTER—Hold FEED + PAUSE during
printer power-up to reset the printer
parameters to factory values.
NETWORK—Hold CANCEL + PAUSE
during printer power-up to reset the
network parameters to factory values.
LAST SAVED—N/A
Printer web page: PRINTER—View and Modify
Printer Settings > Restore Default
Configuration
NETWORK—Print Server Settings >
Reset Print Server
LAST SAVED—View and Modify
Printer Settings > Restore Saved
Configuration

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

System > Settings > Print: System Settings
Prints a printer configuration label. The following is a sample label.

Related ZPL ~WC

command(s):
Control panel key(s): Do one of the following:*
• Hold CANCEL during printer power-
up. (Formerly called a CANCEL self
test.)
• Hold FEED + CANCEL for 2
seconds when the printer is in the
Ready state.

NOTE: * Prints a printer

configuration label and a
network configuration label.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Print Listings on Label *

NOTE: * Prints a printer

configuration label and a
network configuration label.
System > Energy Saving > Energy Star
When Energy Star mode is enabled, the printer goes into a “sleep”
mode after a timeout period, thereby lowering power consumption.
Press any button on the control panel to bring the printer back to
an active state.
Accepted values: ON, OFF
SGD command used: power.energy_star.enable
power.energy_star_timeout
(to set the amount of idle time before
Energy Star is invoked)

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Connection Menu

This table lists the Connection Menu items.

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Networks > Reset Network
This option resets the wired or wireless print server and saves any
changes that you made to any network settings.

IMPORTANT: You must reset the print server to allow

changes to the network settings to take effect.
Related ZPL ~WR
command(s):
Printer web Print Server Settings > Reset Print Server
page:

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Networks > Primary Network
View or modify whether the wired or wireless print server is
considered primary. You may select which one is primary.
Accepted Wired, WLAN
values:
Related ZPL ^NC
command(s):
SGD ip.primary_network
command
used:

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Networks > IP Port
This printer setting refers to the internal wired print servers port
number that the TCP print service is listening on. Normal TCP
communications from the host should be directed to this port.
SGD ip.port
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Networks > IP Alternate Port
This command sets the port number of the alternate TCP port.

NOTE: Print servers that support this command monitor

both primary and alternate ports for connections
simultainously.
SGD ip.port_alternate
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Networks > Print: Network Info
Prints the settings for any print server or Bluetooth device that is
installed. The following is a sample label.

Related ZPL ~WL

command(s):
Control Do one of the following:*
panel key(s):
• Hold CANCEL during printer power-up (formerly
called a CANCEL self test.)
• Hold FEED + CANCEL for 2 seconds when the
printer is in the Ready state.

Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Print Listings on
page: Label *

NOTE: * Prints a printer configuration label and a network

configuration label.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Networks > Visibility Agent
When the printer is connected to a wired or wireless network, it will
attempt to connect to Zebra’s Asset Visibility Service via the Cloud-
based Zebra Printer Connector using an encrypted, certificate-
authenticated web socket connection. The printer sends Discovery
Data and Settings and Alerts Data. Data printed via any label formats
is NOT transmitted.
To opt out of this feature, disable this setting.
Accepted ON, OFF
values:
SGD weblink.zebra_connector.enable
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Configuration > Cloud Connect Settings

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Wired > Wired IP Protocol
This parameter indicates if the user (permanent) or the server
(dynamic) selects the wired print server’s IP address. When a
dynamic option is chosen, this parameter tells the method(s) by
which this print server receives the IP address from the server.

IMPORTANT: You must reset the print server to allow

changes to the network settings to take effect. Use
meNetworks > Reset Network > in this menu to reset the
server.
Accepted ALL, GLEANING ONLY, RARP, BOOTP, DHCP, DHCP
values: & BOOTP, PERMANENT
Related ZPL ^ND
command(s):
SGD internal_wired.ip.protocol
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Wired > Wired IP Address
View and, if necessary, change the printer’s wired IP address.
To save changes to this setting, set Wired IP Protocol in this menu to
PERMANENT. Then use Reset Network in this menu to reset the
print server.
Accepted 000 to 255 for each field
values:
Related ZPL ^ND
command(s):
SGD internal_wired.ip.addr
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Wired > Wired Subnet
View and, if necessary, change the wired subnet mask.
To save changes to this setting, set Wired IP Protocol in this menu to
PERMANENT. Then use Reset Network in this menu to reset the
print server.
Accepted 000 to 255 for each field
values:
Related ZPL ^ND
command(s):
SGD internal_wired.ip.netmask
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings

89
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Wired > Wired Gateway
View and, if necessary, change the default wired gateway.
To save changes to this setting, set Wired IP Protocol in this menu to
PERMANENT. Then use Reset Network in this menu to reset the
print server.
Accepted 000 to 255 for each field
values:
Related ZPL ^ND
command(s):
SGD internal_wired.ip.gateway
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Wired > Wired MAC Address
View the Media Access Control (MAC) address of the wired print
server. This value cannot be modified.
SGD internal_wired.mac_addr
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > WLAN > WLAN IP Protocol
This parameter indicates if the user (permanent) or the server
(dynamic) selects the wireless print server’s IP address. When a
dynamic option is chosen, this parameter tells the method(s) by
which this print server receives the IP address from the server.

NOTE: You must reset the print server to allow changes to

the network settings to take effect. Use Reset Network in
this menu to reset the print server.
Accepted ALL, GLEANING ONLY, RARP, BOOTP, DHCP, DHCP
values: & BOOTP, PERMANENT
Related ZPL ^ND
command(s):
SGD wlan.ip.protocol
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > Wireless Setup

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > WLAN > WLAN IP Address
View and, if necessary, change the printer’s wireless IP address.
To save changes to this setting, set WLAN IP Protocol in this menu to
PERMANENT. Then use Reset Network in this menu to reset the
print server.
Accepted 000 to 255 for each field
values:
Related ZPL ^ND
command(s):
SGD wlan.ip.addr
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > Wireless Setup

93
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > WLAN > WLAN Subnet
View and, if necessary, change the wireless subnet mask.
To save changes to this setting, set WLAN IP Protocol in this menu to
PERMANENT. Then use Reset Network in this menu to reset the
print server.
Accepted 000 to 255 for each field
values:
Related ZPL ^ND
command(s):
SGD wlan.ip.netmask
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > Wireless Setup

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > WLAN > WLAN Gateway
View and, if necessary, change the default wireless gateway.
To save changes to this setting, set WLAN IP Protocol in this menu to
PERMANENT. Then use Reset Network in this menu to reset the
print server.
Accepted 000 to 255 for each field
values:
Related ZPL ^ND
command(s):
SGD wlan.ip.gateway
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > Wireless Setup

95
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > WLAN > WLAN MAC Address
View the Media Access Control (MAC) address of the wireless print
server. This value cannot be modified.
SGD wlan.mac_addr
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > Wireless Setup

96
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > WLAN > ESSID
The Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) is an identifier for
your wireless network. Specify the ESSID for the current wireless
configuration.
Accepted 32-character alphanumeric string (default 125)
values:
SGD wlan.essid
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > Wireless Setup

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > WLAN > WLAN Security
Select the security type being used on your wireless network.
Related ZPL ^WX
command(s):
SGD wlan.security
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications Setup > Wireless Encryption Setup

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > WLAN > WLAN Band
Set a preferred band to connect with via Wi-Fi.
Accepted 2.4, 5, None
values:
SGD wlan.band_preference
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
page: Communications > Wireless Setup

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > WLAN > WLAN Country Code
The country code defines the regulatory country for which the
wireless radio is currently configured.

IMPORTANT: The list of country codes is specific to each

printer and depends on the printer model and its wireless
radio configuration. The list is subject to change, addition,
or deletion with any firmware update, at any time, without
notice.
To determine the country codes available on your printer, issue the
! U1 getvar "wlan" command to return all commands related
to WLAN settings. Locate the wlan.country.code command in
the results and view the country codes available for your printer.
SGD wlan.country_code
command
used:

100
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Bluetooth > Bluetooth
Select if the printer is “Discoverable” for Bluetooth device pairing.
Accepted ON—Enables the Bluetooth radio.
values: OFF—Disables the Bluetooth radio.
SGD bluetooth.enable
command
used:

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Bluetooth > Bluetooth Discovery
Select if the printer is “Discoverable” for Bluetooth device pairing.
Accepted ON—Enables Bluetooth discoverable mode.
values: OFF—Disables Bluetooth discoverable mode.
SGD bluetooth.discoverable
command
used:

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Bluetooth > Friendly Name
This command sets the friendly name, which is used during service
discovery. For changes to take effect, you must power cycle the
printer or issue the device.reset command. You can also use
Reset Network in this menu to reset the print server.
If you do not set a friendly name, the setting will default to the printer
serial number.
Accepted 17-character text string
values:
SGD bluetooth.friendly_name
command
used:

103
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Bluetooth > Minimum Security Mode
This printer setting parameter sets the Bluetooth Minimum Security
mode. Minimum Security Mode provides for different levels of
security, depending on the printer radio version and printer firmware.
See the Zebra Programming Guide at zebra.com/manuals for more
information.
Accepted 1, 2, 3, 4
values:
SGD bluetooth.minimum_security_mode
command
used:

104
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Bluetooth > Specification Version
This parameter displays the Bluetooth library version number.
SGD bluetooth.version
command
used:

105
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Bluetooth > MAC Address
This parameter displays the Bluetooth device address.
SGD bluetooth.address
command
used:

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Bluetooth > Bluetooth Auth. PIN
Set the PIN used when Bluetooth authentication is enabled.
SGD bluetooth.bluetooth_pin (to set the PIN)
command bluetooth.authentication (to enable
used: authentication)

107
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Connection > Bluetooth > Bluetooth Bonding
Controls whether the Bluetooth stack will “bond” or save link keys
for devices that successfully connect to the printer.
Accepted ON—Enables Bluetooth bonding.
values: OFF—Disables Bluetooth bonding.
SGD bluetooth.bonding
command
used:

108
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Print Menu
This table lists the Print Menu items.

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Print Quality > Darkness
Set the print darkness to the lowest setting that provides good print
quality. If you set the darkness too high, the label image may print
unclearly, barcodes may not scan correctly, the ribbon may burn
through, or the printhead may wear prematurely.
Accepted 0.0 to 30.0
values:
Related ZPL ^MD
command(s): ~SD
SGD print.tone
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > General Setup >
page: Darkness

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Print Quality > Print Speed
Select the speed, in inches per second (ips), for printing a label.
Slower print speeds typically yield better print quality.
Accepted ZT610 203 dpi = 2 to 14 ips
values: ZT610 300 dpi = 2 to 12 ips
ZT610 600 dpi = 1 to 6 ips
ZT620 203 dpi = 2 to 12 ips
ZT620 300 dpi = 2 to 8 ips
Related ZPL ^PR
command(s):
SGD media.speed
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > General Setup >
page: Print Speed

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Print Quality > Print Type
Specify if the printer needs to use ribbon for printing.
Accepted • Thermal Transfer—Uses ribbon and thermal
values: transfer media.
• Direct Thermal—Uses direct thermal media and no
ribbon.

Related ZPL ^MT

command(s):
SGD ezpl.print_method
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Media Setup >
page: Print Method

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Print Quality > Label Type
Select the type of media that you are using.
Accepted Continuous, Gap/Notch, Mark
values: If you select Continuous, you must include a label
length in your label format (^LL if you are using
ZPL). If you select Gap/Notch or Mark for various
noncontinuous media, the printer feeds media to
calculate the label length.
Related ZPL ^MN
command(s):
SGD ezpl.media_type
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Media Setup >
page: Media Type

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Print Quality > Label Length
View the calibrated label length in dots.
This value may be modified only under one of these conditions:
• the printer is set to use continuous media
• the second parameter of ^LL is set to Y

Related ZPL ^LL

command(s):

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Print Quality > Label Width (Dots)
Specify the width of the labels being used, in dots. The default value
is the maximum width for the printer, based on the printhead’s DPI
value.
Accepted
NOTE: Setting the width too narrow can
values:
result in portions of a label format not being
printed on the media. Setting the width too
wide wastes formatting memory and can
cause the printer to print beyond the label
and onto the platen roller. This setting can
affect the horizontal position of the label
format if the image was inverted using the
^POI ZPL II command.
ZT610 203 dpi = 0002 to 832
ZT610 300 dpi = 0002 to 1248
ZT610 600 dpi = 0002 to 2496
ZT620 203 dpi = 0002 to 1344
ZT620 300 dpi = 0002 to 1984
Related ZPL ^PW
command(s):
SGD ezpl.print_width
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Media Setup >
page: Print Width

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Label Position > Collection Method
Select a collection method that is compatible with the options
available on your printer.
Accepted Tear Off, Peel Off, Rewind, Cutter, Delayed Cut,
values: Linerless Peel, Linerless Rewind, Linerless Tear,
Applicator, Linerless Cut, Linerless Delayed Cut
Related ZPL ^MM
command(s):
SGD media.printmode
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > General Setup >
page: Print Mode

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Label Position > Tear Line Offset
If necessary, shift the position of the media over the tear-off bar after
printing.
• Lower numbers move the media into the printer by the specified
number of dots (the tear line moves closer to the edge of the
label just printed).
• Higher numbers move the media out of the printer (the tear line
moves closer to the leading edge of the next label).

Accepted –120 to +120

values:
Related ZPL ~TA
command(s):
SGD ezpl.tear_off
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > General Setup >
page: Tear Off

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Label Position > Label Offset
If necessary, shift the position of the image horizontally or vertically
on the label.
Horizontal
• Negative numbers move the left edge of the image toward the
left edge of the label by the number of dots selected.
• Positive numbers move the edge of the image toward the right
edge of the label.

Accepted –9999 to 9999

values:
Related ZPL ^LS
command(s):
SGD zpl.left_position
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Advanced Setup
page: > Left Position
Vertical
• Lower numbers move the image higher on the label (toward the
printhead).
• Higher numbers move the image farther down on the label (away
from the printhead) by the specified number of dots.

Accepted –120 to +120

values:
Related ZPL ^LT
command(s):
SGD zpl.label_top
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > General Setup >
page: Label Top

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Sensors > Manual Calibration
Calibrate the printer to adjust the sensitivity of the media and ribbon
sensors.
For complete instructions on how to perform a calibration procedure,
see Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
Related ZPL ~JC
command(s):
SGD ezpl.manual_calibration
command
used:
Control Hold PAUSE + FEED + CANCEL for 2 seconds to
panel key(s): initiate calibration.
Printer web The calibration procedure cannot be initiated through
page: the web pages. See the following web page for
settings that are set during sensor calibration:
View and Modify Printer Settings > Calibration

IMPORTANT: Do NOT change these

settings unless you are told to do so
by Zebra Technical Support or by an
authorized service technician.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Sensors > Label Sensor
Set the sensitivity of the label sensor.

IMPORTANT: This value is set during sensor calibration.

Do NOT change these settings unless you are told to do
so by Zebra Technical Support or by an authorized service
technician.
Accepted 0 to 255
values:
SGD ezpl.label_sensor
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Calibration
page:

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Sensors > Sensor Type
Select the appropriate media sensor for the media that you are
using. The reflective sensor is typically used for black mark media.
The transmissive sensor is typically used for other media types.
Accepted TRANSMISSIVE, REFLECTIVE
values:
Related ZPL ^JS
command(s):
SGD device.sensor_select
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Media Setup
page:

120
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Sensors > Print: Sensor Profile
Shows the sensor settings compared to actual sensor readings. To
interpret the results, see Sensor Profile on page 176.
Related ZPL ~JG
command(s):
Control Hold FEED + CANCEL during printer power-up.
panel key(s):
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Print Listings on
page: Label >

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Print Station
Use this menu item to fill in variable fields in a label format and
print the label using a Human Input Device (HID), such as a USB
keyboard, scale, or barcode scanner. A suitable label format must
be stored on the E: drive of the printer to use this option. See the
exercises in Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature on
page 203 for an exercise using this capability.
When you plug an HID into one of the printer’s USB host ports, use
this user menu to select a form on the printer’s E: drive. After you
have been prompted to fill in each variable ^FN field on the form,
you can specify the desired quantity of labels to print.
For more information about using the ^FN command or the SGD
commands related to this feature, see the Zebra Programming Guide
at zebra.com/manuals for more information.

NOTE: This menu item can be used only if a USB device is

connected to a USB host port on the printer.
SGD usb.host.keyboard_input
command (must be set to ON)
used:
usb.host.template_list
usb.host.fn_field_list
usb.host.fn_field_data
usb.host.fn_last_field
usb.host.template_print_amount

122
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Applicator > Applicator Port Mode
Controls the way in which the applicator port’s End Print signal
functions.
Accepted Off
values: 1 = End Print signal normally high, and low ONLY
when the printer is moving the label forward.
2 = End Print signal normally low, and high ONLY
when the printer is moving the label forward.
3 = End Print signal normally high, and low for 20 ms
when a label has been printed and positioned.
4 = End Print signal normally low, and high for 20 ms
when a label has been printed and positioned.
Related ZPL ^JJ
command(s):
SGD device.applicator.end_print
command
used:

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Applicator > Start Print Mode
Determines if the applicator port’s Start Print signal is in level mode
or pulse mode.
Accepted Pulse—The Start Print signal must be de-asserted
values: before it can be asserted for the next label.
Level—The Start Print signal does not have to be de-
asserted to print the next label. As long as the Start
Print signal is low and a label is formatted, a label
prints.
Related ZPL ^JJ
command(s):
SGD device.applicator.start_print
command
used:

124
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Applicator > Error on Pause
Determines how applicator port errors are treated by the printer.
Enabling this feature also causes the Service Required pin to be
asserted.
Accepted ENABLED, DISABLED
values:
SGD device.applicator.error_on_pause
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Advanced Setup
page: > Error on Pause

125
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Print > Applicator > Applicator Reprint
Specifies if a high or low value is required for an applicator to reprint
a label.
Enables or disables the ~PR command, which when enabled reprints
the last printed label. It also enables the Reprint button on the Home
screen.
Related ZPL ^JJ and ~PR
command(s):
SGD device.applicator.reprint
command
used:

126
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

RFID Menu

This table lists the RFID Menu items.

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > RFID Status
Display the status of the RFID subsystem of the printer.
Related ZPL ^HL or ~HL
command(s):
SGD rfid.error.response
command
used:

127
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > RFID Test
During the RFID test, the printer attempts to read and write to a
transponder. No printer movement occurs with this test.
To test an RFID label:
1. Position the RFID label with its transponder over the RFID
antenna array.
2. Touch Start.
The results of the test appear on the display.

SGD rfid.tag.test.content and

command rfid.tag.test.execute
used:

128
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > RFID Calibrate
Initiate tag calibration for RFID media. This is not the same as media
and ribbon calibration.
During the process, the printer moves the media, calibrates the RFID
tag position, and determines the optimal settings for the RFID media
being used.
These settings include the programming position, the antenna
element to use, and the read/write power level to use. See RFID
Programming Guide 3 for more information. Go to zebra.com/
support and use the search facility to find and download the guide.

NOTE: Before running this command, load the printer with

RFID media, calibrate your printer, close the printhead, and
feed at least one label to make sure that tag calibration will
begin from the correct position.
Leave all transponders before and after the tag that is being
calibrated. This allows the printer to determine RFID settings which
do not encode the adjacent tag. Allow a portion of media to extend
out the front of the printer to allow for backfeed during the tag
calibration procedure.
Related ZPL ^HR
command(s):
SGD rfid.tag.calibrate
command
used:

129
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > Read Power
If the desired read power is not achieved through RFID tag
calibration, a value may be specified.
Accepted 0 to 30
values:
Related ZPL ^RW
command(s):
SGD rfid.reader_1.power.read
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > RFID Setup >
page: RFID READ PWR

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > RFID Write Power
If the desired write power is not achieved through RFID tag
calibration, a value may be specified.
Accepted 0 to 30
values:
Related ZPL ^RW
command(s):
SGD rfid.reader_1.power.write
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > RFID Setup >
page: RFID WRITE PWR

131
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > RFID Antenna
If the desired antenna is not achieved through RFID tag calibration, a
value may be specified.
Accepted A1, A2, A3, A4
values: B1, B2, B3, B4
C1, C2, C3, C4
D1, D2, D3, D4
E1, E2, E3, E4
Related ZPL ^RW
command(s):
SGD rfid.reader_1.antenna_port
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > RFID Setup >
page: RFID ANTENNA

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > RFID Valid Count
Resets the RFID valid label counter to zero.
Related ZPL ~RO
command(s):
SGD odometer.rfid.valid_resettable
command
used:

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > RFID Void Count
Resets the RFID void label counter to zero.
Related ZPL ~RO
command(s):
SGD odometer.rfid.void_resettable
command
used:

134
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > RFID Program Position
If the desired programming position (read/write position) is not
achieved through RFID tag calibration, a value may be specified.
Accepted F0 to Fxxx (where xxx is the label length in
values: millimeters or 999, whichever is less)—The printer
feeds the label forward for the specified distance and
begins programming.
B0 to B30—The printer backfeeds the label for the
specified distance and begins programming. To
account for the backfeed, allow empty media liner
to extend out of the front of the printer when using a
backward programming position.
Related ZPL ^RS
command(s):
SGD rfid.position.program
command
used:
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > RFID Setup >
page: PROGRAM POSITION

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

RFID > Read RFID Data
Read and return the specified tag data from the RFID tag located
over the RFID antenna. No printer movement occurs while tag data is
being read. The printhead can be open or closed.
To read and display the information stored on an RFID tag:
1. Position the RFID label with its transponder over the RFID
antenna.
2. Touch Read RFID Data.
The results of the test are shown on the display.

Related ZPL ^RF

command(s):
SGD rfid.tag.read.content
command rfid.tag.read.execut
used:

136
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Storage Menu

This table lists the Storage Menu items.

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Storage > USB > Copy: Files to USB
Select files from the printer to store on a USB Flash drive.
To copy files from the printer to a USB Flash drive:
1. Insert a USB flash drive into the printer’s USB host port.
The printer lists available files.
2. Touch the box next to the desired files. Select All is also
available.
3. Touch the check mark to copy the selected files.

SGD usb.host.write_list
command
used:

137
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Storage > USB > Copy: Files to Printer
Select files to copy to the printer from a USB Flash drive.
To copy files to the printer from a USB Flash drive:
1. Insert a USB flash drive into the printer’s USB host port.
The printer lists available files.
2. Touch the box next to the desired files. Select All is also
available.
3. Touch the check mark to copy the selected files.

SGD usb.host.read_list
command
used:

138
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Storage > USB > Copy: Configuration to USB
Use this function to copy the printer’s configuration information to a
USB mass storage device (such as a USB Flash drive) that is plugged
into one of the printer’s USB host ports. This way, you do not have to
print a configuration label to view the configuration settings.
Related ZPL ^HH—Returns the printer configuration information
command(s): returned to the host computer.
Printer web Printer Home Page > View Printer Configuration (to
page: view printer configuration information on your web
browser)
View and Modify Printer Settings > Print Listings on
Label (to print the configuration information on labels)

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Storage > USB > Print: From USB
Select files to print from a USB Flash drive.
To print files from a USB Flash drive:
1. Insert a USB flash drive into the printer’s USB host port.
The printer lists available files.
2. Touch the box next to the desired files. Select All is also
available.
3. Touch the check mark to print the selected files.

SGD usb.host.read_list
command
used:

140
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Menu Display Menu Option Description

Storage > Print Asset Lists
Print the specified information on one or more labels.
Accepted Formats—Prints the available formats stored in the
values: printer’s RAM, Flash memory, or optional memory
card.
Images—Prints the available images stored in the
printer’s RAM, Flash memory, or optional memory
card.
Fonts—Prints the available fonts in the printer,
including standard printer fonts plus any optional
fonts. Fonts may be stored in RAM or Flash memory.
Barcodes—Prints the available barcodes in the
printer. Barcodes may be stored in RAM or Flash
memory.
All—Prints the previous labels plus the printer
configuration label and the network configuration
label.
Related ZPL ^WD
command(s):
Printer web View and Modify Printer Settings > Print Listings on
page: Label

Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors

Printer calibration adjusts the sensitivity of the media and ribbon sensors. It also helps ensure proper
alignment of the image being printed and optimal print quality.
Perform calibration in the following situations:
• You switched to a different size or type of ribbon or media.
• The printer experiences any of the following issues:
• Skips labels.
• The printed image wanders or drifts side to side or up and down.
• Ribbon is not being detected either when it is installed or when it runs out.
• Non-continuous labels are being treated as continuous labels.

141
 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Performing Auto Calibration

You can set the printer to perform an auto calibration (CALIBRATE) or a short calibration (SHORT CAL)
using the POWER UP ACTION or HEAD CLOSE ACTION parameters.
• CALIBRATE—Adjusts sensor levels and thresholds, determines the label length, and feeds the media to
the next web.
• SHORT CAL—Sets the media and web thresholds without adjusting sensor gain, determines the label
length, and feeds the media to the next web.
See Power-Up Action or Head-Close Action in System Menu on page 68 for details.

Performing Manual Sensor Calibration

You may need to manually calibrate the printer if you see issues with the print output.
1. Touch Print > Sensors > Manual Calibration.

2. Touch Start Calibration.

3. Follow the steps in the calibration procedure as prompted.

IMPORTANT: Follow the calibration procedure exactly as presented.

• Touch Next to advance to the next prompt.
• You may press and hold CANCEL on the control panel at any step in the procedure to
cancel the calibration process.
4. When calibration is complete, press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.

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Adjusting the Printhead Pressure and the Toggle Position

The printhead pressure toggles can be adjusted to create more or less pressure, as needed. They can also
be moved from side to side to adjust the pressure in certain areas.
You may need to adjust printhead pressure and the toggle position if one or more of these occur:
• Printing is too light on one side.
• Media or ribbon tend to slip.
• Ribbon tends to wrinkle.
• You use thick media.
• Media drifts from side to side during printing.

1 Inside toggle (left)

2 Outside toggle (right)

Adjusting the Toggle Position

If the toggles are not positioned correctly or adjusted to apply the correct pressure, you may see issues
while printing. Use these steps to adjust the toggle pressure.
For details on the circumstances in which the toggle pressure may need adjusting, see Adjusting the
Printhead Pressure and the Toggle Position on page 143.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

1. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever to lessen the pressure on the
toggles.

2. Loosen the locking nut at the top of the toggle you want to move.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

3. Reposition the toggle as necessary to provide even pressure on the media. For extremely narrow
media, position the inside toggle over the center of the media, and decrease the pressure on the
outside toggle.

4. Tighten the locking nut.

Adjusting the Printhead Pressure

If positioning the toggles properly does not solve a print quality or other issue, try adjusting the printhead
pressure. Maximize printhead life by using the lowest pressure that produces the desired print quality.
1. Initiate a PAUSE Self-Test on page 175.
2. While printing labels, use the control panel to lower the darkness setting until the labels are printing
gray instead of black. (See Print Quality > Darkness in Print Menu on page 109.)

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

3. Check if you experiencing any of the following issues:

If the media... Then...

Requires higher pressure overall to print well... Increase the pressure on both toggles.
Requires lower pressure overall to print well... Decrease the pressure on both toggles.
Prints too lightly on the left side of the label... Increase the pressure on the inside toggle.
Prints too lightly on the right side of the label... Increase the pressure on the outside toggle.
Shifts left while printing... Increase the pressure on the outside toggle OR
decrease the pressure on the inside toggle.
Shifts right while printing... Increase the pressure on the inside toggle OR
decrease the pressure on the outside toggle.

If none of these issues exist, do not continue with this procedure.

4. To make adjustments to the printhead pressure, loosen the upper knurled nut on the toggle to be
adjusted.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

5. Increase or decrease the pressure by rotating the lower nut. Rotate clockwise to increase the pressure
(as shown below on the left) and counterclockwise to decrease the pressure (as shown below on the
right).

6. Hold the lower nut in place and tighten the upper knurled nut.

7. If necessary, re-initiate a PAUSE Self-Test on page 175.

8. While printing labels, use the control panel to raise the darkness setting until the labels are again
printing black instead of gray. (See Print Quality > Darkness in Print Menu on page 109.)
9. Check the print quality, and if necessary, repeat this procedure until the printhead pressure is adequate.

Adjusting the Sensor Position

This adjustment is needed only if the printer cannot detect the top of the labels. In this situation, the display
shows a media-out error even though there is media loaded in the printer. For non-continuous media with a
notch or hole, the sensor must be positioned directly at the notch or hole.
The transmissive media sensor assembly consists of two parts: a light source and a light sensor. The lower
part of the media sensor is the light source, and the upper part of the media sensor is the light sensor. The
media passes between the two parts.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

For non-continuous media with a notch or hole, the sensor must be positioned directly at the notch or hole.
1. Remove the ribbon so you can clearly see the media path.
2. With media loaded, locate the green light that shines from the lower part of the media sensor.

3. If necessary, turn the gold transmissive sensor adjustment wheel to move the sensor until it is
positioned at a notch or hole in the media.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Rewind-Liner Take-Up Plate Installation

The rewind/liner take-up plate is installed in different positions for Rewind mode and Peel or Applicator
modes.

Rewind/Liner Take-Up Plate Installed Rewind/Liner Take-Up Plate

for Peel Mode / Applicator Mode Installed for Rewind Mode

To install for Peel mode or Applicator mode, follow the steps in Installing the Rewind/Liner Take-Up
Plate – Peel Mode and Applicator Mode on page 149.
To install for Rewind mode, follow the steps in Installing the Rewind/Liner Take-Up Plate – Rewind Mode
on page 151.

Installing the Rewind/Liner Take-Up Plate – Peel Mode and Applicator Mode
NOTE: These steps apply only to take-up plate installation for Peel mode and Applicator mode.
To install the plate for Rewind mode, see Installing the Rewind/Liner Take-Up Plate – Rewind
Mode on page 151.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

1. Loosen the knurled nut on the outside stud on the printer’s base.

2. Align the large hole of the keyhole in the rewind/peel plate over the knurled nut, then slide the plate
down until it hits the studs.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

3. Tighten the knurled nut.

Installing the Rewind/Liner Take-Up Plate – Rewind Mode

NOTE: These steps apply only to take-up plate installation for Rewind mode. To install the plate
for Peel mode and Applicator mode, see Installing the Rewind/Liner Take-Up Plate – Peel Mode
and Applicator Mode on page 149.
1. Locate the four mounting slots for the rewind/liner take-up plate.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

2. Locate the four mounting tabs on the rewind/liner take-up plate.

3. Insert the mounting tabs of the rewind plate into the mounting slots of the printer, then slide the rewind
plate to the left until it will not go any farther.

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Routine Maintenance
Routine Maintenance

This section provides routine cleaning and maintenance procedures.

Cleaning Schedule and Procedures

Routine preventive maintenance is a crucial part of normal printer operation. By taking good care of your
printer, you can minimize potential problems and achieve/maintain the desired print quality standards.
Over time, the movement of media or ribbon across the printhead wears through the protective ceramic
coating, exposing and eventually damaging the print elements (dots). To avoid abrasion:
• Clean the printhead frequently.
• Minimize printhead pressure and burn temperature (darkness) settings by optimizing the balance
between the two.
• When using Thermal Transfer mode, ensure that the ribbon is either as wide or wider than the media.
This is to avoid exposing printhead elements to the more abrasive label material.

IMPORTANT: Zebra is not responsible for damage caused by the use of cleaning fluids on this
printer.
Specific cleaning procedures are included in this section. Follow the recommended cleaning schedule
listed in the table below.

NOTE: These recommended cleaning intervals are intended as guidelines only. You may have to
clean more often depending on your specific application and the media you use for printing.

Table 3 Recommended Cleaning Schedule

Area Method Interval
Printhead Solvent* Direct Thermal Mode: After every roll of media
(or 500 feet of fanfold media).
Platen roller Solvent*
Thermal Transfer Mode: After every roll of
Media sensors Air blow ribbon.
Ribbon sensor Air blow
Media path Solvent*
Ribbon path Solvent*
Pinch roller (part of Peel-Off option) Solvent*

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 Routine Maintenance

Table 3 Recommended Cleaning Schedule (Continued)

Area Method Interval
Cutter If cutting continuous, Solvent* After every roll of media (or more often,
module pressure-sensitive media depending upon your application and media).
If cutting tag stock or Solvent* and After every two or three rolls of media.
label liner material air blow
Tear-off/peel-off bar Solvent* Once a month.
Take-label sensor Air blow Once every six months.

NOTE:
* Zebra recommends using the Preventive Maintenance Kit (p/n 47362 or p/n 105950-035 -
multipack). In place of the Preventive Maintenance Kit, you may use a lint-free cloth dipped in
99.7% isopropyl alcohol.
For 600 dpi printers, use Save-a-Printhead cleaning film. This specially-coated material
removes contamination buildup without damaging the printhead. Call your authorized reseller
or distributor for more information.

Clean the Exterior, the Media Compartment, and the Sensors

Over time, dust, grime, and other debris may build up on the outside and inside of your printer, particularly
in a harsh operating environment.

Clean the Printer Exterior

You may clean the exterior surfaces of the printer with a lint-free cloth and a small amount of a mild
detergent, if necessary. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaning agents or solvents.

IMPORTANT: Zebra is not responsible for damage caused by the use of cleaning fluids on this
printer.

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 Routine Maintenance

Cleaning the Media Compartment and the Sensors

1. Brush, air blow, or vacuum any accumulated paper lint and dust away from the media and ribbon paths.
2. Brush, air blow, or vacuum any accumulated paper lint and dust away from the sensors.

2 3
1 Label-taken sensor
2 Ribbon sensor
3 Media sensor

Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller

Inconsistent print quality, such as voids in the barcode or graphics, may indicate a dirty printhead. For the
recommended cleaning schedule, see Cleaning Schedule and Procedures on page 153.

IMPORTANT: While you are not required to turn off printer power when working near an open
printhead, Zebra recommends it as a precaution.
If you turn off power, you will lose all temporary settings, such as label formats, and you must
reload them before you resume printing.

CAUTION—ESD: Before touching the printhead assembly, discharge any built-up static electricity
by touching the metal printer frame or by using an anti-static wrist-strap and mat.

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 Routine Maintenance

1. Raise the media door.

CAUTION: HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.
2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

3. Remove the ribbon (if used) and the media.

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 Routine Maintenance

4. Using the swab from a Zebra Preventive Maintenance Kit, wipe along the brown strip on the printhead
assembly from end to end. In place of the Preventive Maintenance Kit, you may use a clean swab
dipped in 99.7% isopropyl alcohol. Allow the solvent to evaporate.

5. While manually rotating the platen roller, clean it thoroughly with the swab. Allow the solvent to
evaporate.

6. Reload the ribbon (if used) and the media. For instructions, see Loading the Ribbon on page 53 or
Loading the Media on page 30.

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 Routine Maintenance

7. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

8. Close the media door.

The printer is ready to operate.

9. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.

NOTE: If performing this procedure does not improve print quality, try cleaning the printhead
with Save-A-Printhead cleaning film. This specially coated material removes contamination build-
up without damaging the printhead.
Call your authorized Zebra reseller for more information.

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 Routine Maintenance

Cleaning and Lubricating the Cutter Module

If the cutter is not cutting the labels cleanly or if it jams with labels, clean the cutter blades. After cleaning
the blades, apply lubrication to help extend the life of your cutter module.

CAUTION—ELECTRIC SHOCK: Turn off the printer (O) and disconnect it from the power source
before performing the following procedure.
1. Turn off (O) the printer and disconnect the AC power cord.
2. Raise the media door.

3. Remove media that is loaded through the cutter module.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch or rub the blade with your fingers.

4. Remove the cutter catch tray (if used).

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 Routine Maintenance

5. Loosen and remove the thumbscrew and lock washer on the cutter shield.

6. Remove the cutter shield.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch or rub the blade with your fingers.

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 Routine Maintenance

7. Is the cutter blade fully exposed?

A Blade in lowered position B Blade fully exposed

If the blade is... Then...

Lowered (A) Perform the sub-steps in this step to remove the
cutter module from the printer so that you can
rotate the blade upward.
Fully exposed (B) Skip to step 8 in this procedure.

IMPORTANT: This part of the procedure should be performed ONLY by experienced users
and only when the cutter blade is not fully exposed for cleaning, as shown in the previous
step.
a) Remove the cutter mounting screw.

b) Using the image provided in this step as a reference, slide the cutter module to the right to align
the cutter assembly tabs (1) and cutter cover tabs (2) with the corresponding slots (3) in the printer,

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 Routine Maintenance

and then lift the cutter module out of the printer. Take care not to damage the wires that connect
the cutter module to the printer. If desired, you may disconnect these wires.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch or rub the blade with your fingers.

c) On the back of the cutter module, rotate the cutter motor thumbscrew to fully expose the cutter
blade.

d) If you disconnected the wires that connect the cutter module to the printer, reconnect them.
e) Using the image provided in this step as a reference, align the cutter assembly tabs (1) and cutter
cover tabs (2) with the corresponding slots (3) in the printer, and then slide the cutter assembly

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 Routine Maintenance

back into the printer. Take care not to damage the wires that connect the cutter module to the
printer.

f) Slide the cutter module to the left, and then reinstall the cutter mounting screw.

g) Continue with the next step in this procedure.

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 Routine Maintenance

8. Using the swab from the Preventive Maintenance Kit (part number 47362), wipe along the upper
cutting surface and the cutter blade. In place of the Preventive Maintenance Kit, you may use a clean
swab dipped in 99.7% isopropyl alcohol. Allow the solvent to evaporate.

9. When the solvent has evaporated, soak a clean swab in a general-purpose, higher-viscosity silicone or
PTFE oil lubricant.

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 Routine Maintenance

10. Apply an even layer along all exposed surfaces of both cutter blades. Remove any excess oil so that
none of it comes in contact with the printhead or platen roller.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. For operator safety, replace the cutter shield.

11. Replace the cutter shield.

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 Routine Maintenance

12. Secure it with the thumbscrew and lock washer that you removed earlier.

13. Reload the media.

14. Close the media door.

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 Routine Maintenance

15. Reinstall the cutter catch tray (if used).

16. Plug the printer into its power source, and then turn on (I) the printer.
The cutter blade returns to its operating position.
If the cutter continues to perform unsatisfactorily after it is cleaned and lubricated using this procedure,
contact an authorized service technician for assistance.

Removing Used Ribbon

At minimum, remove used ribbon from the ribbon take-up spindle each time you change the roll of ribbon.
With ribbon that is half or less the width of the printhead, remove used ribbon each time you load a new
roll of media. This ensures that uneven pressure on the ribbon take-up spindle does not interfere with the
ribbon release bars on the spindle.
1. Has the ribbon run out?

If the ribbon... Then

Ran out Continue with the next step in this procedure.

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 Routine Maintenance

If the ribbon... Then

Did not run out Cut or break the ribbon before the ribbon take-up spindle.

CAUTION—PRODUCT DAMAGE: Do not cut the ribbon directly on

the ribbon take-up spindle. Doing so may damage the spindle.

2. While holding the ribbon take-up spindle, turn the ribbon release knob to the left until it stops.

The ribbon release bars pivot down, easing the spindle’s grip on the used ribbon.

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 Routine Maintenance

3. Slide the used ribbon off the ribbon take-up spindle and discard.

Replacing Printer Components

Some printer components, such as the printhead and platen roller, may wear out over time and can be
replaced easily. Regular cleaning may extend the life of some of these components.
See Cleaning Schedule and Procedures on page 153 for the recommended cleaning intervals.

Ordering Replacement Parts

Zebra printers are designed to work only with genuine Zebra printheads, thus maximizing safety and print
quality. Contact your authorized Zebra reseller for part ordering information.

Recycling Printer Components

The majority of this printer’s components are recyclable. The printer’s main logic
board may include a battery that you should dispose of properly.
Do not dispose of any printer components in unsorted municipal waste. Please
dispose of the battery according to your local regulations, and recycle the other
printer components according to your local standards. For more information, see
zebra.com/environment.

Storing the Printer

If you are not placing the printer into immediate operation, repackage it using the original packing
materials. You may store the printer under the following conditions:
• Temperature: –40°F to 140°F (–40°C to 60°C)
• Relative humidity: 5% to 85% non-condensing

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 Routine Maintenance

Lubrication
The only lubrication needed for this printer is for the cutter module.
Follow the instructions in Cleaning and Lubricating the Cutter Module on page 159.

NOTE: Do not lubricate any other parts of the printer.

CAUTION—PRODUCT DAMAGE: Some commercially available lubricants will damage the finish
and the mechanical parts if used on this printer.

170
Diagnosis and
Troubleshooting
Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

This section provides diagnostic tests and other information that may help you to optimize printing or to
troubleshoot issues with your printer.
Go to zebra.com/zt600-info for access to videos and additional online information that will help you set up
and manage your printer.

Evaluating Barcode Quality

The figure below shows how printer settings such as darkness and print speed can affect the quality of the
printed barcodes.
Set the print darkness to the lowest setting that delivers good print quality. The Print Quality Assistant
described in Running the Print Wizard and Printing a Test Label on page 57 can help you determine the
most optimal settings.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Figure 3 Barcode Darkness Comparison

Appearance Description
Too dark labels Fairly obvious. These may be readable but are not “in-spec.”
• The normal barcode bars increase in size.
• The openings in small alphanumeric characters may fill in with ink.
• Rotated barcode bars and spaces run together.

Slightly dark Not as obvious as the too-dark labels.

labels
• The normal barcode will be “in-spec.”
• Small alphanumeric characters will be bold, and may appear slightly filled in.
• The rotated barcode spaces are small when compared to the “in-spec” code,
possibly making the code unreadable.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Appearance Description
“In-spec” labels Whether or not a label is “in-spec” can only be confirmed by a verifier, but they
typically exhibit some visible characteristics.
• The normal barcode will have complete, even bars along with clear, distinct
spaces.
• The rotated barcode will have complete, even bars along with clear, distinct
spaces. Although it may not look as good as a slightly dark barcode, the barcode
will be “in-spec.”
• In both normal and rotated styles, small alphanumeric characters will look
complete.

Slightly light In some cases, these are preferred to slightly dark ones for “in-spec” barcodes.
labels
• Both normal and rotated barcodes will be “in-spec,” but small alphanumeric
characters may not be complete.

Too light labels These are obvious.

• Both normal and rotated barcodes have incomplete bars and spaces.
• Small alphanumeric characters are unreadable.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Configuration Labels
Two of the most commonly used printer diagnostic items are the printer and network configuration
labels. Analyzing the information on these labels can help you to troubleshoot potential issues.

To print a printer configuration label, touch To print a network configuration label, touch
Menu > Settings > Print System Settings. Menu > Networks > Print: Network Info.

Figure 4 Sample Printer Configuration Label Figure 5 Sample Network Configuration Label

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

PAUSE Self-Test
This self test can be used to provide the test labels required when making adjustments to the printer’s
mechanical assemblies or to determine if any printhead elements are not working.
The following shows a sample printout.

Figure 6 PAUSE Test Label

1234567890123456789012345678901234567890123456789012345678901234567

1. Turn off (O) the printer.

2. Press and hold PAUSE while turning on (I) the printer. Hold PAUSE until the first control panel light turns
off.
The initial self test prints 15 labels at the printer’s slowest speed, and then automatically pauses the
printer. Each time PAUSE is pressed, an additional 15 labels print.
While the printer is paused:
• Pressing CANCEL alters the self test. Each time PAUSE is pressed, 15 labels print at 152 mm (6 in.)
per second.
• Pressing CANCEL again alters the self test a second time. Each time PAUSE is pressed, 50 labels
print at the printer’s slowest speed.
• Pressing CANCEL again alters the self test a third time. Each time PAUSE is pressed, 50 labels print
at 152 mm (6 in.) per second.
• Pressing CANCEL again alters the self test a fourth time. Each time PAUSE is pressed, 15 labels print
at the printer’s maximum speed.
3. To exit this self test at any time, press and hold CANCEL.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Sensor Profile
Use the sensor profile image to troubleshoot the following situations:
• The printer experiences difficulty in determining gaps (web) between labels.
• The printer incorrectly identifies preprinted areas on a label as gaps (web).
• The printer cannot detect ribbon.
Tap Menu > Print > Sensors > Print: Sensor Profile to print a sensor profile image. The image will extend
across several actual labels or tags.
Compare your results to the examples shown in this section. If the sensitivity of the sensors must be
adjusted, calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.

Ribbon Sensor Profile

The line labeled RIBBON (1) on the sensor profile indicates the ribbon sensor readings. The ribbon sensor
threshold setting is indicated by OUT (2). If the ribbon readings are below the threshold value, the printer
does not acknowledge that ribbon is loaded.

Figure 7 Sensor Profile (Ribbon Section)

Media Sensor Profile

The line labeled MEDIA (1) on the sensor profile indicates the media sensor readings. The media sensor
threshold settings are indicated by WEB (2). The media out threshold is indicated by OUT (3). The upward
or downward spikes (4) indicate divisions between labels (the web, notch, or black mark), and the lines
between the spikes (5) indicate where labels are located.
If you compare the sensor profile printout to a length of your media, the spikes should be the same
distance apart as the gaps on the media. If the distances are not the same, the printer may be having
difficulty determining where the gaps are located.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Figure 8 Media Sensor Profile (Gap/Notch Media)

100
OUT 3 80
4 4 4
60
WEB 2
40
5 5 1
MEDIA 20
0

Figure 9 Media Sensor Profile (Black Mark Media)

100
80
4 4 4 4 60 MEDIA 1
5 5 5 5 40
WEB 2
20 OUT 3
0

Using Communication Diagnostics Mode

The communication diagnostics test is a troubleshooting tool for checking the interconnection between
the printer and the host computer. When the printer is in diagnostics mode, it prints all data received
from the host computer as straight ASCII characters with the hex values below the ASCII text. The printer
prints all characters received, including control codes such as CR (carriage return). Figure 10 Sample
Communications Diagnostics Mode Label on page 177 shows a typical test label from this test.

NOTE: The test label prints upside-down.

Figure 10 Sample Communications Diagnostics Mode Label

53

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

1. Set the label width equal to or less than the actual media width being used for the test. Tap Menu >
Print > Print Quality > Label Width to access the label width setting.
2. Tap Menu > System > Program Language, and set the Diagnostic Mode option to ENABLED.
The printer enters diagnostics mode and prints any data received from the host computer on a test
label.
3. Check the test label for error codes. For any errors, check that your communication parameters are
correct.
Errors show on the test label as follows:
• FE indicates a framing error.
• OE indicates an overrun error.
• PE indicates a parity error.
• NE indicates noise.
4. To exit this self test and return to normal operation, power cycle the printer or set the Diagnostic Mode
option to DISABLED.

Load Defaults or Last-Saved Values

Restoring the printer to default values or to the last saved values can help if things are not working as
expected.
Touch Menu > System > Settings > Restore Defaults to see the available options.

RESTORE Restores all printer settings other than the

PRINTER network settings back to the factory defaults.
Use care when loading defaults because you
will need to reload all settings that you changed
manually.
RESTORE Reinitializes the printer’s wired or wireless print
NETWORK server. With a wireless print server, the printer
also re-associates with your wireless network.
RESTORE LAST Loads settings from the last permanent save.
SAVED

For additional ways to restore these values, see Restore Defaults in System Menu on page 68.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Alert and Error States

If the background color of the Home screen changes, you may need to take an action to restore the printer
to a Ready status.
• Red and yellow backgrounds typically halt printing until the issue is resolved.
• Informational messages with a green background usually disappear without user intervention, and
printing continues as normal.
• Touch Reprint to print the last label printed. If the button is not visible, no label format is available to
reprint

Touch the icons in the bar at the top of the Home screen to view the error, alert, or informational message.
See Alerts and Error Messages on page 180 for recommended actions.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Alerts and Error Messages

Display Possible Causes Recommended Solutions
The printhead is not fully Close the printhead completely.
closed.
The printhead open Call a service technician to
sensor is not working replace the sensor.
properly.

The media is not loaded Load media correctly. See

or is loaded incorrectly. Loading the Media on page 30.
Misaligned media Check the position of the media
sensor. sensor.
The printer is set for 1. Install the proper media type,
non-continuous media, or reset printer for the current
but continuous media is media type.
loaded.
2. Calibrate the printer. See
Calibrating the Ribbon and
Media Sensors on page 141.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Display Possible Causes Recommended Solutions

There is an issue with 1. Check for media that is
the media in the media loaded incorrectly or stuck
path. to components in the media
path.
2. Check if media is wrapped
around the platen roller.
Carefully remove any labels.
If necessary, clean the platen
roller to remove adhesive.
See Cleaning the Printhead
and Platen Roller on page
155.

In thermal transfer mode: 1. Load the ribbon correctly.

• ribbon is not loaded See Loading the Ribbon on
page 53.
• ribbon is loaded
incorrectly 2. Calibrate the printer. See
Calibrating the Ribbon and
• the ribbon sensor is Media Sensors on page 141.
not detecting ribbon
• media is blocking the
ribbon sensor

In thermal transfer mode, Calibrate the printer. See

the printer did not detect Calibrating the Ribbon and
the ribbon even though Media Sensors on page 141 or
it is loaded correctly. load printer defaults by touching
Menu > System > Settings >
Restore Defaults > Restore
Printer.
If you are using direct Set the printer for Direct Thermal
thermal media, the mode. See Print Quality > Print
printer is waiting for Type in Print Menu on page 109.
ribbon to be loaded
because it is incorrectly
set for thermal transfer
mode.
Ribbon is loaded, but the Ribbon is not required with direct
printer is set for direct thermal media. If you are using
thermal mode. direct thermal media, remove the
ribbon. This error message will
not affect printing.
If the message persists with no
ribbon in the printer, Calibrate
the printer. See Calibrating the
Ribbon and Media Sensors on
page 141.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Display Possible Causes Recommended Solutions

If you are using thermal transfer
media, which requires ribbon, set
the printer for Thermal Transfer
mode. See Determine the Label
Collection Method on page 28.
The printhead was Install a genuine Zebra
replaced with one that printhead.
is not a genuine Zebra
printhead.
There is an issue with Turn the printer off and then
the printhead. back on to see if the error
repeats. If it does, replace the
printhead.

A printhead element is If the location of the failed

no longer working. element affects printing, replace
the printhead.

The printhead is nearing Replace the printhead.

the end of its life and
should be replaced.

The printhead needs to Follow the cleaning instructions

be cleaned. in Cleaning the Printhead and
Platen Roller on page 155.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Display Possible Causes Recommended Solutions

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: An improperly

connected printhead data or power cable can
cause this error message. The printhead may
be hot enough to cause severe burns. Allow the
printhead to cool.
The printhead is over Allow the printer to cool. Printing
temperature. automatically resumes when
the printhead elements cool
to an acceptable operating
temperature.
If this error persists, consider
changing where the printer is
located or using a slower print
speed.
The printer shows one of these The printhead data Hook up the printhead properly.
messages, or it cycles back and forth cable is not properly
between them: connected.
The printhead has a Replace the printhead.
faulty thermistor.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: An improperly

connected printhead data or power cable can
cause this error message. The printhead may
be hot enough to cause severe burns. Allow the
printhead to cool.
The printhead Continue printing while the
temperature is printhead reaches the correct
approaching its lower operating temperature. If the
operating limit. error remains, the environment
may be too cold for proper
printing. Relocate the printer to a
warmer area.

183
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Display Possible Causes Recommended Solutions

The printhead data Hook up the printhead properly.
cable is not properly
connected.
The printhead has a Replace the printhead.
faulty thermistor.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch

or rub the blade with your fingers.
The cutter blade is in the Turn off the printer power and
media path. unplug the printer. Inspect the
cutter module for debris and
clean as needed following the
cleaning instructions in Cleaning
and Lubricating the Cutter
Module on page 159.
There is not enough Free up some of the printer’s
memory to perform the memory by adjusting the label
function specified. format or printer parameters.
One way to free up memory is
to adjust the print width to the
actual width of the label instead
of leaving the print width set to
the default.
Ensure that the data is not
directed to a device that is not
installed or is unavailable.
If the problem persists, call a
service technician.

Indicator Lights
The indicator lights located above the printer’s display also communicate the printer’s status.

Table 4 Printer Status As Conveyed by Indicator Lights

Indicator Lights What they indicate
The printer is ready.

STATUS light steady green (other lights

steady yellow for 2 seconds during printer
power-up).
The printer is paused.

PAUSE light steady yellow.

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 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Table 4 Printer Status As Conveyed by Indicator Lights (Continued)

Indicator Lights What they indicate
The media supply is out. The printer needs attention
and cannot continue without user intervention.

STATUS light steady red.

SUPPLIES light steady red.
The ribbon supply is out. The printer needs attention
and cannot continue without user intervention.

STATUS light steady red.

SUPPLIES light flashing red.
The printer is in Direct Thermal mode, which does
not require ribbon; however, ribbon is installed in the
printer.
STATUS light steady yellow.
SUPPLIES light flashing yellow.
The printhead is open. The printer needs attention and
cannot continue without user intervention.

STATUS light steady red.

PAUSE light steady yellow.
The printhead is over temperature.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead

STATUS light steady yellow. may be hot and could cause severe burns.
Allow the printhead to cool.
Indicates one of the following:
• The printhead is under temperature.

STATUS light flashing yellow. NOTE: It is possible this message may

be incorrect. The printhead may be hot
and could cause severe burns. Allow the
printhead to cool.
• The main logic board (MLB) or the power supply is
over temperature.

The printhead was replaced with one that is not a

genuine Zebra printhead. Install a genuine Zebra
printhead to continue.
STATUS light steady red.
PAUSE light steady red.
DATA light steady red.

185
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Table 4 Printer Status As Conveyed by Indicator Lights (Continued)

Indicator Lights What they indicate
The printer is unable to read the dpi setting of the
printhead.

STATUS light flashing red.

This indicates an error with the cutter. The cutter blade
is in the media path.

STATUS light steady red. NOTE: The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch
or rub the blade with your fingers.

Table 5 Additional Printer Status As Conveyed by Indicator Lights – Printers Equipped with the ZebraNet
Wired Ethernet Option
Indicator Lights What they indicate
No Ethernet link is available.

NETWORK light off.

A 100 Base-T link was found.

NETWORK light steady green.

A 10 Base-T link was found.

NETWORK light steady yellow.

An Ethernet error condition exists. The printer is not
connected to your network.

NETWORK light steady red.

186
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Table 6 Printer Status As Conveyed by Indicator Lights – Printers Equipped with the ZebraNet Wireless
Option
Indicator Lights What they indicate
A radio was found during power-up. The printer is
attempting to associate with the network.

NETWORK light off.

The light flashes red while the printer
associates with the network.
The light then flashes yellow while the printer
is authenticating with the network.
The radio is associated with your network and
authenticated, and the WLAN signal is strong.

NETWORK light steady green.

The radio is associated with your network and
authenticated, but the WLAN signal is weak.

NETWORK light flashing green.

A WLAN error condition exists. The printer is not
connected to your network.

NETWORK light steady red.

187
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting
Use this information to troubleshoot issues with the printer.

Printing or Print Quality Issues

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution
Barcode Does Not Scan
The barcode printed The barcode is not within 1. Perform the steps in Running the Print
on a label does not specifications because Wizard and Printing a Test Label on page
scan. the printer is set at an 57.
incorrect darkness level or the
printhead pressure is off. 2. If necessary, manually adjust the darkness
or print speed settings.
• Set the print darkness to the lowest
setting that provides good print quality.
If you set the darkness too high,
the label image may print unclearly,
barcodes may not scan correctly,
the ribbon may burn through, or the
printhead may wear prematurely.
• Slower print speeds typically yield
better print quality.
Access the darkness and print speed
settings from the Home screen by touching
Menu > Print > Print Quality.
3. If the issue is not resolved, check the
printhead pressure and toggle position.
See Adjusting the Printhead Pressure and
the Toggle Position on page 143.

There is not enough blank Leave at least 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) between the
space around the barcode. barcode and other printed areas on the label
and between the barcode and the edge of the
label.
Wrong Image Size
My label prints too The wrong printer driver is Check the printer driver or software
small (or too large) being used, or other settings communications settings (if applicable) for
are not correct for your your connection. You may wish to reinstall
printing application. the printer driver following the instructions in
Connecting the Printer to a Device on page 10.
Poor Print Quality
Smudge marks on The media or ribbon is not Replace supplies with those recommended for
labels designed for high-speed high-speed operation. For more information,
operation. see zebra.com/supplies.

188
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

Poor results when Incorrect printhead pressure. Set the printhead pressure to the minimum
using thick labels needed for good print quality. See Adjusting
the Printhead Pressure and the Toggle
Position on page 143.
Print Consistently Too Light or Too Dark
Printing is too light The media or ribbon is not Replace supplies with those recommended for
or too dark over the designed for high-speed high-speed operation. For more information,
entire label operation. see zebra.com/supplies.
The printer is set at an For optimal print quality, set the darkness
incorrect darkness level. to the lowest possible setting for your
application.
1. Perform the steps in Running the Print
Wizard and Printing a Test Label on page
57.
2. If necessary, manually adjust the darkness
or print speed settings.
• Set the print darkness to the lowest
setting that provides good print quality.
If you set the darkness too high,
the label image may print unclearly,
barcodes may not scan correctly,
the ribbon may burn through, or the
printhead may wear prematurely.
• Slower print speeds typically yield
better print quality.
Access the darkness and print speed
settings from the Home screen by touching
Menu > Print > Print Quality.

You are using an incorrect Switch to a different type of media or ribbon to

combination of media and try to find a compatible combination.
ribbon for your application. If necessary, consult your authorized Zebra
reseller or distributor for information and
advice.
Incorrect printhead pressure. If the issue is not resolved, check the
printhead pressure and toggle position. See
Adjusting the Printhead Pressure and the
Toggle Position on page 143.
Printing is too light or Uneven printhead pressure. Adjust the printhead pressure as needed for
too dark on one side good print quality. See Adjusting the Printhead
of the label Pressure and the Toggle Position on page 143.

189
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

General print quality The printer is set at an For optimal print quality, set the darkness
issues incorrect print speed or to the lowest possible setting for your
darkness level. Keep in mind application.
that printer settings may
1. Perform the steps in Running the Print
be affected by the driver or
Wizard and Printing a Test Label on page
software being used.
57.
2. If necessary, manually adjust the darkness
or print speed settings.
• Set the print darkness to the lowest
setting that provides good print quality.
If you set the darkness too high,
the label image may print unclearly,
barcodes may not scan correctly,
the ribbon may burn through, or the
printhead may wear prematurely.
• Slower print speeds typically yield
better print quality.
Access the darkness and print speed
settings from the Home screen by touching
Menu > Print > Print Quality.

You are using an incorrect Switch to a different type of media or ribbon to

combination of labels and try to find a compatible combination.
ribbon for your application. If necessary, consult your authorized Zebra
reseller or distributor for information and
advice.
The printhead is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller on
page 155.
Incorrect or uneven printhead If the issue is not resolved, check the
pressure. printhead pressure and toggle position. See
Adjusting the Printhead Pressure and the
Toggle Position on page 143.
The label format is scaling a Check the label format for font issues.
font that is not scalable.
Angled Gray Lines on Blank Labels
Fine, angular gray Wrinkled ribbon. See wrinkled ribbon causes and solutions in
lines on blank labels Miscellaneous Issues on page 199.
Missing Print
Long tracks of Print element damaged. Call a service technician for assistance.
missing print on
several labels Wrinkled ribbon. See wrinkled ribbon causes and solutions in
Ribbon Issues on page 193.

190
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

Loss of Registration
Loss of printing The platen roller is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
registration on labels Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller on
Excessive vertical page 155.
drift in top-of-form Media guides are positioned Ensure that the media guides are properly
registration improperly. positioned. See Loading the Media on page
30.
The media type is set Set the printer for the correct media type (gap/
incorrectly. notch, continuous, or mark).
The media is loaded Load media correctly. See Loading the Media
incorrectly. on page 30.
Mis-registration/skips The printer is not calibrated. Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
labels Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
Improper label format. Check your label format, and correct it as
necessary.
Mis-registration and The platen roller is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
misprint of one to Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller on
three labels page 155.
Media does not meet Use media that meets specifications. See
specifications. Media Specifications on page 224.
Vertical drift in top-of- The printer is out of Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
form position calibration. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
The platen roller is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller on
page 155.
Horizontal movement The previous labels were torn Pull down and to the left when tearing off
in placement of the off incorrectly. labels so that the tear-off bar assists in tearing
label image through the label backing. Pulling up or down
and to the right can shift the media sideways.
Vertical image or The printer is using non- Set the printer for the correct media type
label drift continuous labels but is (gap/notch, continuous, or mark) and calibrate
configured in continuous the printer, if necessary. See Calibrating the
mode. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
The media sensor is calibrated Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
improperly. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
The platen roller is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller on
page 155.

191
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

Improper printhead pressure Adjust the printhead pressure to ensure
settings (toggles). proper functionality. See Adjusting the
Printhead Pressure and the Toggle Position on
page 143.
The media or ribbon is loaded Ensure that the media and ribbon are loaded
incorrectly. correctly. See Loading the Ribbon on page 53
and Loading the Media on page 30.
Incompatible media. You must use media that meets the printer
specifications. Ensure that the inter-label gaps
or notches are 2 to 4 mm and consistently
placed. See Media Specifications on page
224.

192
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Ribbon Issues
See zebra.com/zt600-info for videos on resolving commonly-encountered issues.

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

Broken Ribbon
Broken or melted Darkness is set too high. 1. Perform the steps in Running the Print
ribbon Wizard and Printing a Test Label on page
57.
2. If necessary, manually adjust the darkness
or print speed settings.
• Set the print darkness to the lowest
setting that provides good print quality.
If you set the darkness too high,
the label image may print unclearly,
barcodes may not scan correctly,
the ribbon may burn through, or the
printhead may wear prematurely.
• Slower print speeds typically yield
better print quality.
Access the darkness and print speed
settings from the Home screen by touching
Menu > Print > Print Quality.
3. Clean the printhead thoroughly. See
Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller
on page 155.

The ribbon is coated on the Replace the ribbon with one coated on
wrong side and cannot be the correct side. For more information, see
used in this printer. Determining the Type of Ribbon to Use on
page 52.
Wrinkled Ribbon
Wrinkled ribbon Ribbon was loaded Load the ribbon correctly. See Loading the
incorrectly. Ribbon on page 53.

193
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

Incorrect burn temperature. 1. Perform the steps in Running the Print
Wizard and Printing a Test Label on page
57.
2. If necessary, manually adjust the darkness
or print speed settings.
• Set the print darkness to the lowest
setting that provides good print quality.
If you set the darkness too high,
the label image may print unclearly,
barcodes may not scan correctly,
the ribbon may burn through, or the
printhead may wear prematurely.
• Slower print speeds typically yield
better print quality.
Access the darkness and print speed
settings from the Home screen by touching
Menu > Print > Print Quality.

Incorrect or uneven printhead Set the printhead pressure to the minimum

pressure. needed for good print quality. See Adjusting
the Printhead Pressure and the Toggle
Position on page 143.
Media not feeding properly; Adjust the media guide until it just touches
“walking” from side to side. the edge of the media. If this does not solve
the issue, check the printhead pressure. See
Adjusting the Printhead Pressure and the
Toggle Position on page 143.
If necessary, call a service technician.
The printhead or platen roller Verify, if you can, that they are installed
may be installed incorrectly. correctly. If necessary, call a service
technician.

Ribbon Detection Issues

The printer does The printer may have been 1. Make sure that ribbon is loaded correctly
not detect when the calibrated without ribbon or so that it can be detected by the ribbon
ribbon runs out. without the ribbon loaded sensor. Under the printhead, the ribbon
properly. should track all the way back, near the
In thermal transfer
mode, the printer printer’s firewall. See Loading the Ribbon
did not detect the on page 53.
ribbon even though it 2. Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
is loaded correctly. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.

The printer indicates The printer was not calibrated Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
that ribbon is out, for the label and ribbon being Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
even though ribbon is used.
loaded correctly.

194
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

RFID Issues
Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution
Printer Stops at RFID Inlay
The printer stops at The printer calibrated the 1. Tap Menu > System > Settings, then select
the RFID inlay. label length only to the RFID FEED for the Power-Up and Head-Close
inlay instead of to the inter- actions.
label gap.
2. Manually calibrate the printer. See
Performing Manual Sensor Calibration on
page 142.

Voided Labels
The printer voids The printer is not calibrated Manually calibrate the printer. See Performing
every label. for the media being used. Manual Sensor Calibration on page 142.
You are using an RFID label These printers support only Gen 2 RFID
with a tag type that is not labels. For more information, refer to RFID
supported by your printer. Programming Guide 3 which is available
through search on zebra.com/support, or
contact an authorized Zebra RFID reseller.
The printer is unable to 1. Turn off (O) the printer.
communicate with the RFID
reader. 2. Wait 10 seconds.
3. Turn on (I) the printer.
4. If the problem persists, you may have a
bad RFID reader or a loose connection
between the RFID reader and the
printer. Contact Technical Support or an
authorized Zebra RFID service technician
for assistance.

Radio frequency (RF) Do one or more of the following as necessary:

interference from another RF
• Move the printer away from fixed RFID
source.
readers or other RF sources.
• Make sure that the media door is closed at
all times during RFID programming.

The settings are incorrect in The software settings override the printer
your label designer software. settings. Make sure that the software and
printer settings match.

195
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

You are using an incorrect Do one or more of the following as necessary:
programming position,
• Check the RFID programming position
particularly if the tags being
or the program position setting in your
used are within printer
label designer software. If the position is
specifications.
incorrect, change the setting.
• Restore the RFID programming position
back to the default value.
For more information, refer to RFID
Programming Guide 3 which is available
through search on zebra.com/support. For
transponder placement details, go to
zebra.com/transponders.
You are sending RFID ZPL Check your label formats. For more
or SGD commands that are information, refer to RFID Programming
incorrect. Guide 3 which is available through search on
zebra.com/support.
Low yields. Too many The RFID labels are not Make sure that the labels meet transponder
RFID tags per roll are within specifications for the placement specifications for your printer.
voided. printer, which means that See zebra.com/transponders for transponder
the transponder is not in an placement information.
area that can be programmed For more information, refer to RFID
consistently. Programming Guide 3 which is available
through search on zebra.com/support, or
contact an authorized Zebra RFID reseller.
Incorrect read and write Change the RFID read and write power levels.
power levels. For instructions, refer to RFID Programming
Guide 3which is available through search on
zebra.com/support.
Radio frequency (RF) Do one or more of the following as necessary:
interference from another RF
• Move the printer away from fixed RFID
source.
readers.
• Make sure that the media door is closed at
all times during RFID programming.

The printer is using outdated Go to zebra.com/firmware for updated

printer firmware and reader firmware.
firmware versions.

Other RFID Issues

196
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

RFID parameters do The printer was powered off Wait at least 10 seconds after turning the
not appear in Setup (O) and then back on (I) too printer power off before turning it back on.
mode, and RFID quickly for the RFID reader to
1. Turn off (O) the printer.
information does not initialize properly.
appear on the printer 2. Wait 10 seconds.
configuration label.
3. Turn on (I) the printer.
The printer does not
void RFID labels that 4. Check for the RFID parameters in Setup
are not programmed mode or for RFID information on a new
correctly. configuration label.

An incorrect version of printer 1. Verify that the correct firmware version

firmware was loaded on the is loaded on your printer. For more
printer. information, refer to RFID Programming
Guide 3 which is available through search
on zebra.com/support.
2. Download the correct printer firmware if
necessary.
3. If the problem persists, contact Technical
Support.

The printer is unable to 1. Turn off (O) the printer.

communicate with the RFID
subsystem. 2. Wait 10 seconds.
3. Turn on (I) the printer.
4. If the problem persists, you may have a
bad RFID reader or a loose connection
between the RFID reader and the printer.
Contact Technical Support or an authorized
service technician for assistance.

The DATA light The download was not 1. Turn off (O) the printer.
flashes indefinitely successful. For optimal results,
after you attempt to cycle power on the printer 2. Wait 10 seconds.
download printer or before downloading any 3. Turn on (I) the printer.
reader firmware. firmware.
4. Attempt to download the firmware again.
5. If the problem persists, contact Technical
Support.

197
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Communication Issues
Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution
Label Formats Not Recognized
A label format was sent The communication Check the printer driver or software
to the printer but was not parameters are incorrect. communications settings (if applicable) for
recognized. The DATA your connection. You may wish to reinstall
light does not flash. the printer driver following the instructions in
Connecting the Printer to a Device on page
10.
A label format was sent The prefix and delimiter Verify the prefix and delimiter characters
to the printer but was not characters set in the using the following SGD commands. Modify
recognized. The DATA printer do not match the the values if necessary.
light flashes but no printing ones in the label format.
• ! U1 getvar
occurs.
"zpl.format_prefix"
• ! U1 getvar "zpl.delimiter"

Incorrect data is being sent Check the communication settings on the

to the printer. computer. Ensure that they match the printer
settings.
If the problem persists, check the label
format.
The printer has an Verify that the label format matches the
emulation active. printer settings.
Labels Stop Printing Correctly
A label format was sent to The serial communication Ensure that the flow control settings match.
the printer. Several labels settings are incorrect.
print, then the printer Check the communication cable length. See
skips, misplaces, misses, Communication Interface Specifications on
or distorts the image on page 218 for requirements.
the label. Check the printer driver or software
communications settings (if applicable).

198
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Miscellaneous Issues
Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution
Issues with the Display
The control panel The language parameter was 1. On the Home screen, touch Menu (the icon
display shows a changed through the control on the bottom-left).
language that I panel or a firmware command.
cannot read

2. Touch the top selection on the screen.

3. Scroll through the language selections
under this menu option. The selections for
this parameter are displayed in the actual
languages to make it easier for you to find
one that you are able to read.
4. Touch the language that you want to
display to select it.
5. Touch Home to return to the Home screen.

The display is missing The display may need Call a service technician.
characters or parts of replacing.
characters
The USB Host Port Is Not Acknowledging a USB Device
The printer is not The printer currently supports Use a USB drive that is 1 TB or smaller.
acknowledging a USB drives only up to 1 TB in
USB device or is not size.
reading the files on
a USB device that is The USB device may require If your USB device requires external power,
plugged into the USB its own external power. make sure that it is plugged into a working
host port. power supply.

Printer Parameters Are Not Set As Expected

Changes in A firmware setting or Check your label formats or the settings of the
parameter settings command prevented software that you use to send formats to the
did not take effect. the ability to change the printer.
OR parameter. If necessary, refer to the Zebra Programming
Some parameters A command in a label format Guide or call a service technician. A copy
changed changed the parameter back of this guide is available from zebra.com/
unexpectedly. to the previous setting. manuals.

IP Address Changing

199
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

My printer reassigns a The settings for your network If the printer changing IP addresses causes
new IP address to the are causing the network to issues for you, follow these steps to assign it a
print server after the reassign a new IP address. static IP address:
printer has been off
1. Find out what values need to be assigned
for a while.
to the IP address, subnet mask, and
gateway for your print server (wired,
wireless, or both).
2. Change the appropriate IP protocol value
to PERMANENT.
3. Change the values for the IP address,
subnet mask, and gateway for the
appropriate print server to what you want
them to remain.
4. Reset the network by touching Menu >
Connections > Networks > Reset Network
and then touching the check mark to save
the changes.

Cannot Connect through Wired or Wireless Connections

I manually entered a The printer’s network must Reset the network by touching Menu >
wireless IP address, be reset after values are Connections > Networks > Reset Network
subnet, and gateway changed. and then touching the checkmark to save the
on my printer, but changes.
it won’t connect to
my wired or wireless An ESSID value has not been 1. For a wireless connection, specify the
network. specified. ESSID value that matches the value used
by your wireless router using the following
Set/Get/Do command:
! U1 setvar "wlan.essid" "value"
where "value" is the ESSID (sometimes
called a network SSID) for your router. You
can look on the back of your router for a
sticker with the router’s default information.

NOTE: If the information has

been changed from the default,
check with your network
administrator for the ESSID value
to use.
2. If the printer still does not connect,
reset the network by touching Menu >
Connections > Networks > Reset Network
and then touching the checkmark to save
the changes, and then power-cycle the
printer.

200
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

The ESSID or other value was 1. Print a network configuration label and
not specified correctly. verify that your values are correct.
2. Make corrections as necessary.
3. Reset the network by touching Menu >
Connections > Networks > Reset Network
and then touching the check mark to save
the changes.

Calibration Issues
Auto Calibrate failed. The media or ribbon is loaded Ensure that the media and ribbon are loaded
incorrectly. correctly. See Loading the Ribbon on page 53
and Loading the Media on page 30.
The sensors could not detect Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
the media or ribbon. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
The sensors are dirty or Ensure that the sensors are clean and properly
positioned improperly. positioned.
The media type is set Set the printer for the correct media type (gap/
incorrectly. notch, continuous, or mark).
Non-continuous The printer was not calibrated Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
labels are being for the media being used. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 141.
treated as continuous
labels. The printer is configured for Set the printer for the correct media type (gap/
continuous media. notch, continuous, or mark).
Printer Locks Up
All indicator lights Internal electronic or firmware Power-cycle the printer. If the problem
are on, nothing is on failure. persists, call a service technician.
the display, and the
printer locks up.
The printer locks up Main logic board failure.
while booting up.

201
 Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Servicing the Printer

If you have a problem using the printer, contact your facility's technical or systems support. If there is
a problem with the printer, they will contact the Zebra Global Customer Support Center at zebra.com/
support.
Gather the following information before contacting Zebra Global Customer Support:
• Serial number of the unit
• Model number or product name
• Firmware version number
Zebra responds to calls by e-mail, telephone, or fax within the time limits set forth in service agreements.
If your problem cannot be solved by Zebra Global Customer Support, you may need to return your
equipment for servicing and will be given specific directions.
If you purchased your product from a Zebra business partner, please contact that business partner for
support.

Shipping the Printer

If you must ship the printer:
1. Turn off (O) the printer, and disconnect all cables.
2. Remove any media, ribbon, or loose objects from the printer interior.
3. Close the printhead.
4. Carefully pack the printer into the original container or a suitable alternate container to avoid damage
during transit.
A shipping container can be purchased from Zebra if the original packaging has been lost or destroyed.

IMPORTANT: Zebra is not responsible for any damages incurred during shipment if an
approved shipping container is not used. Shipping the units improperly can possibly void the
warranty.

202
Using a USB Host Port and
the Print Touch Feature
Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

The exercises presented here will help you learn how to use a USB host port and the printer’s Print Touch
feature with an Android™-based NFC-enabled device (such as a smartphone or a tablet).
Some SGD commands are listed as part of these exercises for advanced users.

Items Required for the Exercises

To perform the exercises in this document, you will need:
• a USB Flash drive that is up to 1 Terabyte (1 TB)

NOTE: The printer will not recognize drives larger than 1 TB.

• a USB keyboard.
• the various files listed in Files for Completing the Exercises.
• the free Zebra Utilities app for your smartphone (search for Zebra Technologies in the Google Play
store).

Files for Completing the Exercises

Most of the files you need to complete the exercises in these section are available on zebra.com in the
form of a .ZIP file located here. Copy these files to your computer before you begin the exercises. Where
possible, the contents of the files are shown. Contents of files that include coded content—which cannot
be viewed either as text or as an image—are not included.

File 1: ZEBRA.BMP

File 2: SAMPLELABEL.TXT
This simple label format prints the Zebra logo and a line of text at the end of the mirroring exercise.

^XA
^FO100,75^XGE:zebra.bmp^FS
^FO100,475^A0N,50,50^FDMirror from USB Completed^FS

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

^XZ

File 3: LOGO.ZPL

File 4: USBSTOREDFILE.ZPL
This label format prints an image and text. This file will be stored on the USB memory device at the root
level so that it can be printed.

CT~~CD,~CC^~CT~
^XA~TA012~JSN^LT0^LH0,0^JMA^PR4,4~SD15^LRN^CI0^XZ
~DG000.GRF,07680,024,,[image data]
^XA
^LS0
^SL0
^BY3,3,91^FT35,250^BCN,,Y,N^FC%,{,#^FD%d/%m/%Y^FS
^FT608,325^XG000.GRF,1,1^FS
^FT26,75^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed from a format stored^FS
^FT26,125^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDon a USB Flash Memory drive. ^FS
^BY3,3,90^FT33,425^BCN,,Y,N
^FD>:Zebra Technologies^FS
^PQ1,0,1,Y^XZ
^XA^ID000.GRF^FS^XZ

File 5: VLS_BONKGRF.ZPL
This file is included in the .ZIP file located here.

File 6: VLS_EIFFEL.ZPL
This file is included in the .ZIP file located here.

File 7: KEYBOARDINPUT.ZPL
This label format, used for the USB keyboard input exercise, does the following:
• creates a barcode with the current date, based on your Real-Time Clock (RTC) setting
• prints the Zebra logo graphic
• prints fixed text
• ^FN prompts you to enter your name, and the printer prints what you entered

^XA
^CI28
^BY2,3,91^FT38,184^BCN,,Y,N^FC%,{,#^FD%d/%m/%Y^FS
^FO385,75^XGE:zebra.bmp^FS
^FT40,70^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed using a keyboard input. ^FS
^FT35,260^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed by:^FS
^FT33,319^A0N,28,28^FN1"Enter Name"^FS
^XZ

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

File 8: SMARTDEVINPUT.ZPL
This is the same label format as the previous label, only with different text printing. This format is used for
the smart device input exercise.

^XA
^CI28
^BY2,3,91^FT38,184^BCN,,Y,N^FC%,{,#^FD%d/%m/%Y^FS
^FO385,75^XGE:zebra.bmp^FS
^FT40,70^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed using a smart device input.
^FS
^FT35,260^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed by:^FS
^FT33,319^A0N,28,28^FN1"Enter Name"^FS
^XZ

File 9: Firmware File

You may want to download a firmware file for your printer and copy it to your computer for use during the
exercises. You may omit doing this if you wish.
You can download the latest firmware file from zebra.com/firmware.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

USB Host
Your printer may be equipped with one or two USB host ports on the front panel. A USB host port allows
you to connect USB devices—such as a keyboard, scanner, or USB Flash drive—to the printer. The
exercises in this section will teach you how to perform USB mirror, how to transfer files to and from the
printer, and how to provide information for which you are prompted and then print a label using that
information.

IMPORTANT: When using a USB host port, files should be named only with 1 to 16 alphanumeric
characters (A, a, B, b, C, c, ..., 0, 1, 2, 3, ...). Do not use Asian characters, Cyrillic characters, or
accented characters in file names.

NOTE: Some functions may not work properly if there are underscores in a file name. Use
periods instead.

Exercise 1: Copy Files to a USB Flash Drive and Perform USB Mirror
1. On your USB Flash Drive, create the following:

• a folder called Zebra

• in that folder, three subfolders:
• appl
• commands
• files
2. In the /appl folder, place a copy of the latest firmware for your printer.
3. In the /files folder, place the following file:
File 1: ZEBRA.BMP on page 203
4. In the /commands folder, place the following files:
• File 2: SAMPLELABEL.TXT on page 203
• File 3: LOGO.ZPL on page 204
5. Insert the USB Flash drive into a USB host port on the front of your printer.
6. Observe the control panel and wait.
The following should happen:
• If the firmware on the USB Flash drive is different than what is on the printer, the firmware
downloads to the printer. The printer then restarts and prints a printer configuration label. (If there

206
 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

is no firmware on the USB Flash drive or if the firmware version is the same, the printer skips this
action.)
• The printer downloads the files in the /files folder and briefly shows the names of the files that
are downloading on the display.
• The printer executes any files in the /commands folder.
• The printer restarts and then displays this message: MIRROR PROCESSING FINISHED
7. Remove the USB Flash drive from the printer.

Advance User Information

See the Zebra Programming Guide for more information about these commands.
To enable/disable ! U1 setvar "usb.mirror.enable" "value"
mirroring: Values: "on" or "off"
To enable/disable ! U1 setvar "usb.mirror.auto" "value"
automatic mirroring that Values: "on" or "off"
occurs when a USB Flash
drive is inserted into the
USB host port:
To specify the number ! U1 setvar "usb.mirror.error_retry" "value"
of times that the mirror Values: 0 to 65535
operation will be repeated
if it fails:
To change the path to the ! U1 setvar "usb.mirror.appl_path" "new_path"
location on the USB device Default: "zebra/appl"
from which mirror files are
retrieved:
To change the path to ! U1 setvar "usb.host.lock_out" "value"
the location on the printer Default: "zebra"
from which mirror files are
retrieved:
To enable/disable the ! U1 setvar "usb.host.lock_out" "value"
ability to use the USB port: Values: "on" or "off"

Exercise 2: Print a Label Format from a USB Flash Drive

The Print USB File option allows you to print files from a USB mass storage device, such as a USB Flash
drive. Only printable files (.ZPL and .XML) may be printed from the USB mass storage device, and the files
must be located at the root level, not in a directory.
1. Copy the following files to your USB Flash drive:
• File 4: USBSTOREDFILE.ZPL on page 204
• File 5: VLS_BONKGRF.ZPL on page 204
• File 6: VLS_EIFFEL.ZPL on page 204
2. Insert the USB Flash drive into a USB host port on the front of your printer.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

3. Tap Menu > Storage > USB > Print: From USB.

The printer loads any executable files and processes them. The available files are listed. SELECT ALL is
available to print all files on the USB Flash drive.
4. Select USBSTOREDFILE.zpl.
5. Touch the check mark to copy the files.
The label prints.

Exercise 3: Copy Files to/from a USB Flash Drive

The Copy USB File option allows you to copy files from a USB mass storage device to the printer’s Flash
memory E: drive.
1. Copy the following files to the root directory of your USB Flash drive.
• File 7: KEYBOARDINPUT.ZPL on page 204
• File 8: SMARTDEVINPUT.ZPL on page 205

NOTE: Do not put these files into a subfolder.

2. Insert the USB Flash drive into a USB host port on the front of your printer.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

3. Tap Menu > Storage > USB > Copy: Files to Printer.

The printer loads any executable files and processes them. The available files are listed. (If desired, you
can use Select All to copy all the available files from the USB Flash drive.)
4. Select the files STOREFMT.ZPL. and STOREFMTM1.ZPL.
5. Touch the checkmark to copy the files.
The printer stores the files in E: memory.
6. Remove the USB Flash drive from the USB host port.
You can now copy these files from the printer to a USB Flash drive by tapping Menu > Storage > USB >
Copy: Files to USB.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

The option SELECT ALL is available to store all the available files from the printer to the USB Flash drive.
Any .ZPL file that is copied will be post-processed so that the contents of the file will be suitable to be
sent to a printer for normal execution.

Exercise 4: Enter Data for a Stored File with a USB Keyboard and Print a Label
The Print Station feature allows you to use a USB Human Interface Device (HID), such as a keyboard or a
barcode scanner, to enter ^FN field data into a *.ZPL template file.
1. After performing Exercise 3: Copy Files to/from a USB Flash Drive on page 208, plug a USB keyboard
into a USB host port.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

2. Tap Menu > Print > Print Station.

The printer loads any executable files and processes them. The available files are listed.

3. Select the file KEYBOARDINPUT.ZPL.

The printer accesses the file and prompts you for the information in the ^FN fields in the file. In this
case, it prompts you for your name.
4. Type your name on the keyboard, and then press <ENTER>.
The printer prompts for the number of labels to print.
5. Specify the desired quantity of labels, then press <ENTER> again.
The specified number of labels is printed, with your name in the appropriate fields.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

Print Touch/Near Field Communication (NFC)

The Zebra Print Touch feature allows you to touch an Android™-based, NFC-enabled device (such as a
smart phone or tablet) to the printer’s NFC logo to pair the device to the printer. This capability allows you
to use your device to provide information for which you are prompted and then print a label using that
information.

IMPORTANT: Some devices may not support NFC communication with the printer until you alter
their settings. If you encounter difficulties, consult your service provider or your smart device
manufacturer for more information.

Figure 11 NFC Logo Location

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

Exercise 5: Enter Data for a Stored File with a Smart Device and Print a Label
The steps in this exercise may vary somewhat based on:
• your device (phone or tablet)
• your service provider
• whether you already have the free Zebra Utilities app installed on your device
Refer to the Zebra Bluetooth User Guide for specific instructions for configuring your printer to use a
Bluetooth interface. A copy of this manual is available at zebra.com/manuals.
1. Copy the SMARTDEVINPUT.ZPL file to your device.
2. If you do not have the Zebra Utilities app installed on your device, go to the app store for your device,
search for the Zebra Utilities app, and install it.
3. If your phone supports Near-Field Communication (NFC), pair your device with the printer by holding

the device next to the NFC icon on the printer. Otherwise, pair using the Bluetooth settings on your
device.
a) If necessary, access the Bluetooth information about your printer using your device. For instructions,
refer to the manufacturer’s documentation for your device.
b) If necessary, select the Zebra printer’s serial number to pair it with the device.
c) After your device has been detected by the printer, the printer may prompt you to accept or reject
the pairing. If necessary, tap ACCEPT. Some devices will pair with the printer without this prompt.
The printer and your device are paired.
4. Start the Zebra Utilities app on your device.
The Zebra Utilities main menu displays.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

5. Tap Available Files.

The smart device gets data from the printer and displays it.

NOTE: This retrieval process may take a minute or more to complete.

6. Scroll through the formats shown and select SMARTDEVINPUT.ZPL.

Based on the ^FN field in the label format, the device prompts you for your name.
7. Enter your name at the prompt.
8. Change the quantity of labels to print, if desired.
9. Tap Send to Printer to print the label.

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Specifications
Specifications

This section lists general printer specifications, printing specifications, ribbon specifications, and media
specifications.

General Specifications
ZT610 ZT620
Height (base printer models) 395.68 mm (15.58 in.) 395.68 mm (15.58 in.)
Dimensions may vary depending
on configuration, such as adding
optional rewind.

Width 268.2 mm (10.56 in.) 341.45 mm (13.44 in.)

Depth 505.0 mm (19.88 in.) 505.0 mm (19.88 in.)
Weight 22.7 kgs (50 lbs.) 26 kgs (57.4 lbs.)
Temperature Operating Thermal Transfer: 5°C to 40°C (40°F to 105°F)
Direct Thermal: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 105°F)
Storage -30°C to 60°C (-22°F to 140°F)
Relative Operating 20% to 85%, non-condensing
humidity
Storage 20% to 85%, non-condensing
Memory 1 Gigabyte DRAM (32 MB user available)
2 Gigabyte Flash (512 MB user available on-board Flash)

Power Specifications
The following are typical values. Actual values vary from unit to unit and are affected by such things as the
options installed and printer settings

ZT610 ZT620
Electrical 100–240 VAC, 50-60 Hz

Power consumption 120 VAC, 60 Hz

215
 Specifications

ZT610 ZT620
Inrush Current < 35A peak8A RMS (half cycle) < 40A peak8A RMS (half cycle)

Energy Star Off Power (W) 0.05 0.05

Energy Star Sleep Power (W) <5 <5

Print Power* (W) 98 215

Print Power* (VA) 108 261

Power consumption 230 VAC, 50 Hz

Inrush Current < 80A peak < 90A peak

12A RMS (half cycle) 15A RMS (half cycle)
Energy Star Off Power (W) 0.15 0.15

Energy Star Sleep Power (W) <5 <5

Print Power* (W) 97 209

Print Power* (VA) 127 261

NOTE: * As measured when printing PAUSE self-test labels at 6 ips with either 4 inch x 6 inch
labels or 6.5 inch x 4 inch labels at a darkness level of 10 on direct thermal media.

Power Cord Specifications

Depending on how your printer was ordered, a power cord may or may not be included. If one is not
included, or if the one that is included is not suitable for your requirements, consider the following
information.

CAUTION—PRODUCT DAMAGE: For personnel and equipment safety, always use an approved
three-conductor power cord specific to the region or country intended for installation. This cord
must use an IEC 320 female connector and the appropriate region-specific, three-conductor
grounded plug configuration.

216
 Specifications

Figure 12 Power Cord Specifications

1 AC power plug for your country—This should bear the certification mark of at least one of the
known international safety organizations (see Figure 13 International Safety Organization
Certification Symbols on page 217). The chassis ground (earth) must be connected to ensure
safety and reduce electromagnetic interference.
2 3-conductor HAR cable or other cable approved for your country.
3 IEC 320 connector—This should bear the certification mark of at least one of the known
international safety organizations (see Figure 13 International Safety Organization Certification
Symbols on page 217).
4 Length ≤ 3 m (9.8 ft). Rating 10 Amp, 250 VAC.

Figure 13 International Safety Organization Certification Symbols

217
 Specifications

Communication Interface Specifications

Figure 14 Location of Communication Interfaces

Parallel port Internal wired Ethernet print server

Serial port USB port

NOTE: You must supply all data cables for your application. The use of cable strain relief clamps
is recommended.
Ethernet cables do not require shielding, but all other data cables must be fully shielded and fitted with
metal or metalized connector shells. Unshielded data cables may increase radiated emissions above the
regulated limits.
To minimize electrical noise pickup in the cable:
• Keep data cables as short as possible.
• Do not bundle the data cables tightly with the power cords.
• Do not tie the data cables to power wire conduits.

218
 Specifications

Standard Connections
Your printer supports a variety of standard connections.

Bluetooth Version 4.0

BT v4.0 is a standard feature included with your printer.

Limitations and requirements Many mobile devices can communicate with the printer within a 30-foot
radius of the printer.
Connections and Refer to the Zebra Bluetooth User Guide for specific instructions for
configuration configuring your printer to use a Bluetooth interface. This manual is
available at zebra.com/manuals.

USB Host Ports

Two USB host ports are built into your printer.

Limitations and requirements You can plug only one device into each of the printer’s two USB host
ports. You cannot use a third device by plugging it into a USB port on
one of the devices, nor can you use an adapter to split a USB host port
on the printer to accept more than one device at a time.
Connections and No additional configuration is necessary.
configuration

Zebra PrintTouch/Near Field Communication (NFC)

Limitations and requirements NFC communication must be initiated by touching your device to the
appropriate location on the printer.
Connections and Some devices may not support NFC communication with the printer
configuration until you alter their settings.

USB 2.0 Data Interface

Limitations and requirements A maximum cable length of 5m (16.4 ft).

Connections and No additional configuration is necessary.
configuration

219
 Specifications

Wired Gigabit Internal Ethernet Print Server

This ZebraNet Ethernet option stores network configuration information in the printer.
Limitations and requirements • The printer must be configured to use your LAN.
• A second wired print server can be installed in the bottom option
slot.

Connections and Refer to the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print Servers User Guide
configuration for configuration instructions. This manual is available at zebra.com/
manuals.

RS-232/C Serial Data Interface

Specifications • 2400 to 115000 baud

• parity, bits/character
• 7 or 8 data bit
• XON-XOFF, RTS/CTS, or DTR/DSR handshake protocol required
• 750mA at 5 V from pins 1 and 9

Limitations and requirements • You must use a null-modem cable to connect to the printer or a null-
modem adapter if using a standard modem cable.
• Maximum cable length of 15.24 m (50 ft).
• You may need to change printer parameters to match the host
computer.

Connections and The baud rate, number of data and stop bits, the parity, and the XON/
configuration XOFF or DTR control must match those of the host computer.

Optional Connections
Your printer support these connectivity options.

Wireless Print Server

Specifications See Wireless Specifications on page 221 for details.

Limitations and requirements • Can print to the printer from any computer on your Wireless Local
Area Network (WLAN).
• Can communicate with the printer through the printer’s web pages.
• The printer must be configured to use your WLAN.
• Can be installed only in the top option slot.

Connections and Refer to the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print Servers User Guide
configuration for configuration instructions. A copy of this manual is available at
zebra.com/manuals.

220
 Specifications

IEEE 1284 Bidirectional Parallel data interface

Limitations and requirements • Maximum cable length of 10 ft, (3 m).

• Recommended cable length of 6 ft. (1.83 m).
• No printer parameter changes required to match the host computer.
• Can be installed in either the top or bottom option slot.
• An IEEE 1284 cable is required.

Connections and No additional configuration is necessary.

configuration

Applicator Interface

Requirements Must have a DB15F connector.

Wired 10/100 Ethernet Print Server (External)

This ZebraNet Ethernet option allows you to program network configuration information to the print server,
which can be shared between printers. The standard Ethernet connection stores configuration information
on the printer itself.

Requirements Must have the parallel data interface option.

Wireless Specifications

Antenna Information

Type • Patch; Gain = 3.66dBi @ 2.4GHz; Gain = 3.19dBi @ 5GHz; Impedance

= 50 ohms
• Omni directional antenna gain 3dBi @ 2.4GHz; 5dBi @ 5GHz
• PCBA antenna gain = –30dBi @ 900MHz

221
 Specifications

WLAN Specifications

802.11 b • 2.4 GHz

• DSSS (DBPSK, DQPSK, and CCK)
• RF power 17.77 dBm (EIRP)

802.11 g • 2.4 GHz

• OFDM (16-QAM and 64-QAM with BPSK, and QPSK)
• RF power 18.61 dBm (EIRP)

802.11 n • 2.4 GHz

• OFDM (16-QAM and 64-QAM with BPSK, and QPSK)
• RF power 18.62 dBm (EIRP)

802.11 a/n • 5.15-5.25 GHz, 5.25-5.35 GHz, 5.47-5.725 GHz

• OFDM (16-QAM and 64-QAM with BPSK and QPSK)
• RF power 17.89 dBm (EIRP)

802.11 ac • 5.15-5.25 GHz, 5.25-5.35 GHz, 5.47-5.725 GHz

• OFDM (16-QAM and 64-QAM with BPSK and QPSK)
• RF power 13.39 dBm (EIRP)

Bluetooth Specifications

Bluetooth 4.1 + Low Energy • 2.4 GHz

(LE)
• FHSS (BDR/EDR), GFSK (Bluetooth Low Energy)
• RF power 9.22 dBm (EIRP)

Bluetooth Classic + Low • 2.4 GHz

Energy (LE)
• FHSS (BDR/EDR), DSSS (Bluetooth LE)
• RF power 9.22 dBm (EIRP)
• FHSS (BDR/EDR), DSSS (Bluetooth LE)
• RF power 9.22 dBm (EIRP)

RFID Specifications

RFID M6e Radio Module • 865-928 MHz

• FHSS
• RF power 27.893 dBm

222
 Specifications

Printing Specifications
ZT610 ZT620
Print resolution 203 dpi (dots/in.)/8 dots/ 203 dpi (dots/in.)
mm 8 dots/mm
300 dpi/12 dots/mm 300 dpi
12 dots/mm
600 dpi/24 dots/mm N/A
Maximum print 203 dpi 104 mm (4.09 in.) 168 mm (6.6 in.)
width
300 dpi 104 mm (4.09 in.) 168 mm (6.6 in.)
600 dpi 104 mm (4.09 in.) N/A
Programmable 203 dpi 50.8 mm to 355.6 mm 50.8 mm to 304.8 mm per
constant print per second in 25.4-mm second in 25.4-mm increments
speeds (inches increments (2 in. to 14 in. in (2 in. to 12 in. in 1-inch
per second/ips 1-inch increments) increments)
or millimeters per
second) 300 dpi 50.8 mm to 304.8 mm 50.8 mm to 203.2 mm
per second in 25.4-mm per second in 25.4-mm
increments (2 in. to 12 in. in increments (2 in. to 8 in. in 1-
1-inch increments) inch increments)
600 dpi 25.4 mm to 152.4 mm N/A
per second in 25.4-
mm increments (1 in. to 6
in. per second in 1-inch
increments)
Dot size 203 dpi 0.125 mm x 0.125 mm 0.125 mm x 0.125 mm (0.0049
(nominal) (width x (0.0049 in. x 0.0049 in.) in. x 0.0049 in.)
length)
300 dpi 0.084 mm x 0.099 mm 0.084 mm x 0.099 mm (0.0033
(0.0033 in. x 0.0039 in.) in. x 0.0039 in.)
600 dpi 0.042 mm x 0.042 mm N/A
(0.0016 in. x 0.0016 in.)
First dot 203 dpi 3.5 mm ±1.25 mm (0.14 in. 2.5 mm ±0.9mm (0.10 in.
location (measured ±0.05 in.) ±0.035 in.)
from the inside
edge of the 300 dpi 2.1 mm ±1.25 mm (0.08 in. 2.5 mm ±0.9mm (0.10 in.
media) ±0.05 in.) ±0.035 in.)
600 dpi 2.1 mm ±1.25 mm (0.08 in. N/A
±0.05 in.)
Barcode modulus (X) dimension
Picket fence 203 dpi 4.9 mil to 49 mil 3.3 mil to 39 mil
(non-rotated)
orientation 300 dpi 3.3 mil to 49 mil
600 dpi 1.6 mil to 16 mil N/A

223
 Specifications

ZT610 ZT620
Ladder (rotated) 203 dpi 4.9 mil to 49 mil 3.9 mil to 39 mil
orientation
300 dpi 3.9 mil to 39 mil
600 dpi 1.6 mil to 16 mil N/A
Vertical < 4 ips ±0.30 mm ±1.5 mm
registration (203
and 300 dpi) 4 to 6 ips ±0.50 mm
> 6 ips ±1.5 mm
Vertical Tear ±0.20 mm N/A
registration (600
dpi) (1 and 2 ips) Rewind ±0.20 mm
Peel ±0.20 mm
Cutter ±0.40 mm
Vertical Tear ±0.43 mm N/A
registration (600
dpi) (3 to 6 ips) Rewind ±0.37 mm
Peel ±0.37 mm
Cutter ±0.43 mm
Horizontal registration ±1.5 mm ±1.5 mm

Media Specifications
ZT610 ZT620
Label length (200 Minimum Non-RFID
and 300 dpi)
Tear-off 18 mm (0.7 in.) 18 mm (0.7 in.)
Peel-off 13 mm (0.5 in.) 13 mm (0.5 in.)
Rewind 6 mm (0.25 in.) 6 mm (0.25 in.)
Cutter 38 mm (1.5 in.) 38 mm (1.5 in.)
RFID Varies for each transponder type
Label length (600 Minimum Non-RFID
dpi)
Tear-off 3 mm (0.125 in.) N/A
Peel-off 0.5 in. (13 mm)
Rewind 0.125 in. (3 mm)
Cutter 38 mm (1.5 in.)
RFID Varies for each transponder type

224
 Specifications

ZT610 ZT620
Label length Maximum 39 in. (991 mm)
(non-continuous
media)
Print length Maximum 200 dpi 3810 mm (150 in.) 3810 mm (150 in.)
(continuous
media) 300 dpi 2540 mm (100 in.) 2032 mm (80 in.)
600 dpi 762 mm (30 in.) N/A
Label width Minimum Non-RFID 20 mm (0.79 in.) 51 mm (2 in.)
RFID Varies for each transponder type
Label width (label Maximum 114 mm (4.5 in.) 180 mm (7.1 in.)
and liner)
Total Minimum 0.076 mm (0.003 in.)
thickness (includes
Maximum Cutter 0.23 mm (0.009 in.) 0.18 mm (0.007 in.)
liner, if any)
Other 0.30 mm (0.012 in.) 0.30 mm (0.012 in.)
Roll outside Maximum 203 mm (8 in.) — on a 76-mm (3-in.) inside
diameter diameter core
Inter-label gap Minimum 2 mm (0.079 in.)
Preferred 3 mm (0.118 in.)
Maximum 4 mm (0.157 in.)
Ticket/tag notch size (width x length) 6 mm x 3 mm (0.25 in. x 0.12 in.)
Sensing hole diameter 3 mm (0.125 in.)
Black mark density, in Optical Density Units (ODU) (black > 1.0 ODU
mark)
Black mark media density Maximum 0.5 ODU
Black mark length (parallel to inside media edge) 3 mm to 11 mm (0.12 in. to 0.43 in.)
Black mark width (perpendicular to inside media edge) > 11 mm (> 0.43 in.)
Black mark location Within 1 mm (0.040 in.) of inside media
edge

Ribbon Specifications
Standard printers use ribbon that is coated on the outside. An optional ribbon spindle is available to use
ribbon that is coated on the inside. Contact your authorized Zebra reseller for ordering information.

ZT411 ZT421
Ribbon width MINIMUM* 20 mm** (0.79 in.**) 51 mm** (2 in.)
Ribbon width MAXIMUM 110 mm (4.33 in.) 170 mm (6.7 in.)

225
 Specifications

ZT411 ZT421
Ribbon length MAXIUMUM 450 m (1476 ft.)
Ribbon core inside diameter 25 mm (1 in.)
Ribbon roll outside diameter MAXIMUM 81.3 mm (3.2 in.)

NOTE:
* Zebra recommends using ribbon that is at least as wide as the media to protect the printhead
from wear.
** Depending on your application, you may be able to use ribbon narrower than 51 mm (2 in.),
as long as the ribbon is wider than the media being used. To use a narrower ribbon, test the
ribbon’s performance with your media to assure that you get the desired results.

Compliance Information
FCC Compliance Statement
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
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful 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.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement (for printers with RFID encoders)

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This
equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator and your
body.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

Canadian DOC Compliance Statement

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

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Glossary
Glossary

alphanumeric
Indicating letters, numerals, and characters such as punctuation marks.

backfeed
When the printer pulls the media and ribbon (if used) backward into the printer so that the beginning of
the label to be printed is properly positioned behind the printhead. Backfeed occurs when operating the
printer in Tear-Off and Applicator modes.

barcode
A code by which alphanumeric characters can be represented by a series of adjacent stripes of different
widths. Many different code schemes exist, such as the universal product code (UPC) or Code 39.

black mark media

Media with registration marks found on the underside of the print media that act as start-of-label indications
for the printer. The reflective media sensor is the generally-selected option for use with black mark media.
Contrast this with continuous media on page 228 or gap/notch media on page 230.

calibration (of a printer)

A process in which the printer determines some basic information needed to print accurately with a
particular media and ribbon combination. To do this, the printer feeds some media and ribbon (if used)
and senses whether to use the direct thermal or thermal transfer print method, along with (if using non-
continuous media) the length of individual labels or tags.

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 Glossary

collection method
Select a media collection method that is compatible with your printer options. Selections include tear-off,
peel-off, cutter, and rewind. The basic media and ribbon loading instructions are the same for all collection
methods with some additional steps necessary for using any media collection options.

configuration
The printer configuration is a group of operating parameters specific to the printer application. Some
parameters are user selectable, while others are dependent on the installed options and mode of
operation. Parameters may be switch selectable, control panel programmable, or downloaded as ZPL II
commands. A configuration label listing all the current printer parameters may be printed for reference.

continuous media
Label or tag-stock media that does not have gaps, holes, notches, or black marks to indicate label
separations. The media is one long piece of material wound into a roll. This allows the image to be printed
anywhere on the label. Sometimes a cutter is used to cut apart individual labels or receipts.

A transmissive (gap) sensor is typically used for the printer to detect when the media runs out.
Contrast this with black mark media on page 227 or gap/notch media on page 230.

core diameter
The inside diameter of the cardboard core at the center of a roll of media or ribbon.

diagnostics
Information about which printer functions are not working that is used for troubleshooting printer problems.

die-cut media
A type of label stock that has individual labels stuck to a media liner. The labels may be lined up against
each other or separated by a small distance. Typically the material surrounding the labels has been
removed. (See non-continuous media on page 232.)

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 Glossary

direct thermal
A printing method in which the printhead presses directly against the media. Heating the printhead
elements causes a discoloration of the heat-sensitive coating on the media. By selectively heating the
printhead elements as the media moves past, an image is printed onto the media. No ribbon is used with
this printing method.
Contrast this with thermal transfer on page 235.

direct thermal media

Media that is coated with a substance that reacts to the application of direct heat from the printhead to
produce an image.

fanfold media

Non-continuous media that comes folded in a rectangular stack and folded in a zigzag pattern. Fanfold
media is either gap-notch media or black mark media, meaning it uses black marks or notches to track
media format positioning.
Fanfold media can have the same label separations as non-continuous roll media. The separations fall
either on or near the folds.
Contrast this with roll media on page 234.

firmware
This is the term used to specify the printer's operating program. This program is downloaded to the printer
from a host computer and stored in flash memory. Each time the printer power is turned on, this operating
program starts. This program controls when to feed the media forward or backward and when to print a
dot on the label stock.

FLASH memory
Non-volatile memory that maintains the stored information intact when power is off. This memory area is
used to store the printer's operating program. Can also be used to store optional printer fonts, graphic
formats, and complete label formats.

font
A complete set of alphanumeric characters in one style of type. Examples include CG Times™, CG
Triumvirate Bold Condensed™.

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 Glossary

gap/notch media
Media that contains a separation, notch, or hole, indicating where one label/printed format ends and the
next begins.

Contrast this with black mark media on page 227 or continuous media on page 228.

ips (inches-per-second)
The speed at which the label or tag is printed. Many Zebra printers can print from 1 ips to 14 ips.

label
An adhesive-backed piece of paper, plastic, or other material on which information is printed. A non-
continuous label has a defined length, as opposed to a continuous label or a receipt which can have a
varying length.

label backing (liner)

The material on which labels are affixed during manufacture and which is discarded or recycled.

label type
The printer recognizes the following label types.
Continuous

Gap/Notch

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 Glossary

Mark

LED (light emitting diode)

Indicators of specific printer status conditions. Each LED is either off, on, or blinking depending on the
feature being monitored.

linerless media
Linerless media does not use backing to keep the layers of labels on a roll from sticking to one another.
It is wound like a roll of tape, with the sticky side of one layer in contact with the non-sticky surface of the
one below it. Individual labels may be separated by perforations, or they can be cut apart. Because there is
no liner, more labels can potentially fit on a roll, cutting down the need to change media as often. Linerless
media is considered an environmentally-friendly option because no backing is wasted, and the cost per
label can be considerably less than that of standard labels.

LCD (liquid crystal display)

A backlit display that provides the user with either operating status during normal operation or option
menus when configuring the printer to a specific application.

mark media
See black mark media on page 227.

media
Material onto which data is printed by the printer. Types of media include: tag stock, die-cut labels,
continuous labels (with and without media liner), non-continuous media, fanfold media, and roll media.

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 Glossary

media sensor
This sensor is located behind the printhead to detect the presence of media and, for non-continuous
media, the position of the web, hole, or notch used to indicate the start of each label.

media supply hangar

The stationary arm that supports the media roll.

non-continuous media
Media that contains an indication of where one label/printed format ends and the next one begins. Types
of non-continuous media include gap-notch media and black mark media. (Contrast this with continuous
media.)
Non-continuous roll media usually comes in the form of labels with an adhesive backing on a liner. Tags (or
tickets) are separated by perforations.
Individual labels or tags are tracked and position-controlled using one of these methods:
• Web media separates labels by gaps, holes, or notches.

• Black mark media uses pre-printed black marks on the back side of the media to indicate label
separations.

• Perforated media has holes—to allow the labels or tags to be separated from each other easily—along
with position-control marks, notches, or label gaps.

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 Glossary

non-volatile memory
Electronic memory that retains data even when the power to the printer is turned off.

notched media
A type of tag stock containing a cutout area that can be sensed as a start-of-label indicator by the printer.
This is typically a heavier, cardboard-like material that is either cut or torn away from the next tag. See gap/
notch media on page 230.

peel-off mode
A mode of operation in which the printer peels a printed label away from the backing and allows the user
to remove it before another label is printed. Printing pauses until the label is removed.

perforated media

Media with perforations that allow the labels or tags to be separated from each other easily. The media
may also have black marks or other separations between labels or tags.

print speed
The speed at which printing occurs. For thermal transfer printers, this speed is expressed in terms of inches
per second (ips).

print type
The print type specifies whether the type of media being used requires ribbon to print. Thermal
transfer media requires ribbon while direct thermal media does not.

printhead wear
The degradation of the surface of the printhead and/or the print elements over time. Heat and abrasion
can cause printhead wear. Therefore, to maximize the life of the printhead, use the lowest print darkness
setting (sometimes called burn temperature or head temperature) and the lowest printhead pressure
necessary to produce good print quality. In the thermal transfer printing method, use ribbon that is as wide
or wider than the media to protect the printhead from the rough media surface.

233
 Glossary

Radio frequency identification (RFID) "smart" media

Each RFID label has an RFID transponder (sometimes called an "inlay"), made of a chip and an antenna,
embedded between the label and the liner. The shape of the transponder varies by manufacturer and is
visible through the label. All "smart" labels have memory that can be read, and many have memory that can
be encoded.
RFID media can be used in a printer that is equipped with an RFID reader/encoder. RFID labels are made
from the same materials and adhesives as non-RFID labels.

receipt
A receipt is a variable length printout. One example of a receipt is in retail stores, where each purchased
item occupies a separate line on the printout. Therefore, the more items purchased, the longer the receipt.

registration
Alignment of printing with respect to the top (vertical) or sides (horizontal) of a label or tag.

ribbon
Ribbon is a thin film that is coated on one side with wax, resin, or wax resin (usually called ink), which
is transferred to the media during the thermal transfer process. Ink is transferred onto the media when
heated by the small elements within the printhead.
Ribbon is only used with the thermal transfer print method. Direct thermal media does not use ribbon.
When ribbon is used, it must be as wide as or wider than the media being used. If the ribbon is narrower
than the media, areas of the printhead are unprotected and subject to premature wear. Zebra ribbons have
a coating on the back that protects the printhead from wear.

ribbon wrinkle
A wrinkling of the ribbon caused by improper alignment or improper printhead pressure. This wrinkle can
cause voids in the print and/or the used ribbon to rewind unevenly. This condition should be corrected by
performing adjustment procedures.

roll media
Media that comes supplied rolled onto a core (usually cardboard). It can be continuous (no separations
between labels)

234
 Glossary

or non-continuous (some type of separation between labels).

Contrast this with fanfold media on page 229.

supplies
A general term for media and ribbon.

symbology
The term generally used when referring to a barcode.

tag stock
A type of media having no adhesive backing but featuring a hole or notch by which the tag can be hung
on something. Tags are usually made of cardboard or other durable material and are typically perforated
between tags. Tag stock can come on rolls or in a fanfold stack. (See gap/notch media on page 230.)

tear-off mode
A mode of operation in which the user tears the label or tag stock away from the remaining media by hand.

thermal transfer
A printing method in which the printhead presses an ink or resin coated ribbon against the media. Heating
the printhead elements causes the ink or resin to transfer onto the media. By selectively heating the
printhead elements as the media and ribbon move past, an image is printed onto the media.
Contrast this with direct thermal on page 229.

void
A space on which printing should have occurred, but did not due to an error condition such as wrinkled
ribbon or faulty print elements. A void can cause a printed barcode symbol to be read incorrectly or not at
all.

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