Instruction/ maintenance manual of the product Z4Mplus Zebra Technologies
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© Copyright 2003 ZIH Corp. This copyrighted guide and the label pr inters described herein are owned by Zebra T echnologies Corporation. All rights are reserved. Unauthorized reproduction of the guide or the software in the label printer may result in imprisonment of up to one year and fines of up to $10,000 (17 U.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide iii Your feedback helps us improve our documents to better serve you! Please take a few minutes to evaluate your experience using this document. Product and Personal Information 1. What printer are you using? ____________________________ 2.
iv Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Feedback Form Thank you for taking the time to provide us with feedback. ! ! ! ! Fax: 1. 847.821.1795 Attention: T echPubs — CTC ! ! ! ! E-mail: techpubs@zebra.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide v Proprietary Statement This manual contains proprietary inform ation of Zebra T echnol ogies Corporation and its subsidiaries (“Zebra T echnologies”). It is intended solely for the information and use of parties operating and maintaining the equipment described he rein.
vi Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e FCC Compliance Statement 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.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide vii Copyrights The copyrights in this manual and the labe l printer described therein are owned by Zebra T echnologies Corporation. All right s are reserved. Unauthorized reproduction of this manual or the software in the labe l printer may result in imprisonment of up to one year and fines of up to $10,000 (17 U.
viii Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide ix DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY I have determined that the Zebr a printers identified as the Z 4M plus/ Z6M plus -Series manufactured by: Zebra T echnologies Corporation 333 Corporate W oods Parkway V ernon Hills, Illinois 60061-3109 U.
x Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xi Warranty Information Effective November 1, 2001 All Zebra T echnologies Corpor ation products are sold with warranties.
xii Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Printer Products product returned for warranty service or replacement is not defective as herein defined, the customer will pay al l handling and transportation costs. Printheads . Since printhead wear is part of normal operation, the original printhead is covered by a limited warranty as indicated below .
Printer Products Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xiii Supplies Products Supplies are warranted to be free from de fect in material and workmanship for a period of six (6) months for media and twelve (12) months for ribbon from the date of shipment by Zebra.
xiv Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Printer Soft ware and Firmware License Agreement Zebra Link License Agreement Printer Software and Firmware License Agreement YOU SHOULD CAREFULL Y READ THE FOL.
Printer Sof tware and Firmware License Agre ement Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xv • S torage/Network Use. Y ou may also st ore or install a copy of the SOFTW ARE and FIRMW ARE on a storage dev.
xvi Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Soft ware and Firmware License Agreement • Replacement, Modification and U pgrade of the SOFTW ARE and/or FIRMW ARE.
Printer Sof tware and Firmware License Agre ement Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xvii 6. U.S. GOVERNMENT RESTRICTED RIGHTS. All SOFTW ARE and/or FIRMW ARE provided to the U.S. Governme nt pursuant to solicitations issued on or after December 1, 1995 is provided with the commercial rights and restrictions described elsewhere herein.
xviii Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Printer Soft ware and Firmware License Agreement 9. EXCLUSION OF ALL DAMAGES. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LA W , IN NO EVENT SHA LL ZEBRA OR.
Printer Sof tware and Firmware License Agre ement Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xix • The SOFTW ARE and FIRMW ARE was provided to you at no additional charge and ZEBRA has included in this PSFLA terms that disclaim all warranties and liability for the SOFTW ARE and FIRMW ARE.
Printer Software and Firmware License Agreement xx Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xxi Table of Contents 1 • Propriet ary St atement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v Product Improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
xxii Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e T able of Content s 3 • Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Inspect the prin ter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
T able of Content s Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xxiii 6 • Printer Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Printer Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
xxiv Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e T able of Content s Printer Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 10 Power-On Self T est . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xxv Preface The Preface discusses the topics and illustrate s standards that are used throughout this guide. Content s Contact s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xxvi Support . . . . . . . . . . .
xxvi Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Preface Contact s Contacts Y ou can contact Zebra T echnologies Corpor ation, USA at any of the following: V isit us at: www .zebra.com Our Mailing Address: Zebra T echnologies Corporation 333 Corporate W oods Parkway V ernon Hills, Illinois 60061.
Preface About this Document Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xxvii About this Document The User Guide contains these chapters: Title Content Description Intr oduction Provides a high level overview of the Z4Mplus and Z6Mplus prin ter . Printer Setup Provides instructions for loading media and ribbon.
xxviii Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Preface Document Conventio ns Document Conventions The following conventions are used thr oughout this document to convey certain information: About this Chapter: This section lists and describes each main section of the chapter , including the initial page number of that sec tion.
Preface Document Conventions Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide xxix Illustration Call-out Instructions: Illustration call-out instructions are used when an illustration contains either information about a dialog box, step(s) to accomplish, or numbers in a table.
xxx Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Preface Related Documents Related Documents In addition to the Z4Mplus and Z6Mplus User Guide, the following documents might be helpful references: • The ZPL II Pr ogramming Guide V olume I and V olume II (Zebra part number 45540L) details how to create the perfect label format for your application.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 1 C HAPTER 1 Introduction This chapter provides a high level overview of the Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus Printer . Content s Inspect the printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Report Damage . . . . . . .
2 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Introduction Inspect the printer Inspect the printer • Check all exterior surfaces. • Raise the media access door and inspect the media compartment. • Save the carton and all packing material in case the printer needs to be shipped.
Introduction Z4Mplus and Z6Mplus Pri nter Overview Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 3 Z4Mplus and Z6Mplus Printer Overview The following information is a general overview of the Z4Mplus and Z6Mplus printers operational controls and location of ma jor components needed in the loading of media and ribbon.
4 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Introduction Z4Mplus and Z6Mplu s Pr inter Overview Number Description 1 Power LED 2 Pause LED 3 Error LED 4 Data LED 5 LCD 6 PLUS (+) Key 7 SETUP/EXIT Key 8 CANC.
Introduction Z4Mplus and Z6Mplus Pri nter Overview Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 5 Printer Side View The illustration below is a simplified view of your printer .
6 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Introduction Z4Mplus and Z6Mplu s Pr inter Overview.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 7 C HAPTER 2 Printer Setup This chapter provides instructions for loading labels and ribbon. Content s Before Y ou Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Printer Setup Before Y ou Begin Before You Begin Media The Z4Mplus and Z6Mplus are capable of usi ng various types of me dia. These include continuous roll and fanfold media as labels or card stock with optional perforations and registration holes.
Printer Setup Before Y ou Begin Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 9 Ribbon Ribbon is a thin film carrying wax or wax resi n that is transferred to the media during the thermal transfer process. Direct thermal media does not require the use of a ribbon, but printhead life may be shor tened because of the abrasion of direct contact with the media.
10 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Before Y ou Begin Types of Media The following is a descriptio n of the various types of media approved for use in the Z4Mplus and Z6Mplus printers. Non-Continuous Web Media Non-continuous web media (show n below) refers to indivi dual labels separated by a gap, notch, or hole.
Printer Setup Before Y ou Begin Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 1 1 Non-Continuous Black Mark Labels Non-continuous black mark labels have blac k marks printed on the back of the liner indicating the start and end of each label (shown below).
12 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Before Y ou Begin Print Mode Print modes are displayed on the LCD on the front panel of the printer . Print modes should match the media and printer options chosen. Print mode choices are listed in the table below .
Printer Setup Load Media and Ri bbon Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 13 Load Media and Ribbon Load the Media One method of media loading is shown in the illustration below . For more detailed instructions, as well as informat ion about how to load the di fferent types of media and the various printing modes, see Printer Basics on page 33 .
14 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Load the Ribbon Load the Ribbon If the media is thermal transfer material, you must load a ribbon to print labels. See the illustration below . If the media is dire ct thermal material, do not load a ribbon.
Printer Setup Calibration Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 15 Calibration Auto Calibration The Z4Mplus and Z6Mplus automatically calibrate on power up.
16 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Printhead Pressure Adju stment Printhead Pressure Adjustment Refer to the illustration below . This adjustment may be necessary if printing is too light on one side or if thick media is used.
Printer Setup Printhead Pressu re Adjustment Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 17 Set Printhead Pressure Use the tables below , depending upon which pr inter you have, to select the initial dial settings for your media. Some media types require highe r pressure to print well.
18 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Rewind Media Alignment Rewind Media Alignment The instructions below apply if the pr inter has a rewind option. Refer to the illustration below . Do the adjustments in the order given. Do only what is needed to solve the problem.
Printer Setup Configuration L abel Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 19 Configuration Label Print a configuration label to test the printer setup. Do this when the printer is first installed, or when the printer cannot properly detect the top of the label.
20 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Configuration L abel Z6Mplus - 300dpi 4 4 Z4Mplus - 200dpi.
Printer Setup T roubleshoot Print ing Problems Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 21 Troubleshoot Printing Problems If the configuration label did not print, or if the labels ar e aligned properly , review the items below in the order show n. Do only as many steps as n eeded to solve the printing problem.
22 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Basic Configuration Basic Configuration If your labels are not printing correctly , th e configuration may need to be changed because the printer defaults may not reflect the options you need.
Printer Setup Basic Configur ation Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 23 Basic Configuration Process See the instructions below to perform basic a configuration: 1. Enter the configuration mode by pressing SETUP/EXIT . DARKNESS displays. 2. If there is no print darkness problem, press PLUS ( + ) to move to the next option, Print Speed.
24 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Basic Configuration 15. Press PLUS (+) to move to the next option. PRINT MODE displays. When the wrong Print Mode is selected, the top of the label is not found by the printer .
Printer Setup Basic Configur ation Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 25 If the label liner has black marks, continue with Step 24 . 24. Press SELECT . 25. Press PLUS ( + ) or MINUS ( – ) to scroll through the setting options. Stop at the setting that matches your printer options (W eb or Mark).
26 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Position the Label Sensor Position the Label Sensor There are two media sensors in this printer: reflective and transmissive. Reflective Sensor The reflective sensor detects the start-of-lab el indicator (the notch, hole, black mark, or gap between die-cut labels).
Printer Setup Position the Label Sensor Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 27 4. Close the printhead assembly . Number Description 1 Printhead Assembly 2 Reflective Sensor 3 Adjustment Lever 4 Printhe.
28 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Setup Position the Label Sensor Transmissive Sensor The standard transmissive sensor is in a fixed position and enabled from the front panel.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 29 C HAPTER 3 Communication This chapter describes communicati ons options and their connections. Content s System Considerat ions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Communication System Consideration s System Considerations Interfaces S t andard interfaces: the RS-232 DB-9 serial data port, and IEEE 1284 compliant bi-directional parallel port.
Communicat ion System Considerations Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 31 communication parameters. The values selected must be the same as those used by the host equipment connected to the printer . Parallel Port Communicating using the parallel por t (see the parallel illustration below), does not require special settings.
32 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Communication System Consideration s Cable Requirements Data cables must be fully shie lded and fitted with metal or metalized conne ctor shells. Shielded cables and connectors are require d to prevent radiation and reception of electrical noise.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 33 C HAPTER 4 Printer Basics This chapter provides instructions for loading media and ribbon. Content s Printer Overvie w . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
34 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Printer Overvie w Printer Overview This printer overview provides you the basics of printer controls and media loading. Front Panel The front panel display shows the printer ’ s operating status and allows you to change settings as needed to work with your media and label formats.
Printer Basics Printer Ov erview Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 35 Number Description 1 Power LED 2 Pause LED 3 Error LED 4 Data LED 5 LCD 6 PLUS (+) Key 7 SETUP/EXIT Key 8 CANCEL Key 9 P AUSE Key.
36 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Printer Overvie w Front Panel Keys Key Function FEED Forces the printer to feed one blank label each time the key is pressed. Printer not printing: one bl ank label immediately feeds. Printing: one blank label feeds af ter the current batch of labels is complete.
Printer Basics Printer Ov erview Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 37 Front Panel Lights Light Status Indication POWER Off The printer is of f or no power is applied. On The printer is on. P AUSE Off Normal printer operation. On The printer has stopped all printing operations.
38 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load Roll Media Load Roll Media Tear-Off Mode See the instructions below to load media in Tear-Off Mode: This is the default mode. The printer is set to this mode in the factory . 1. Press the printhead open lever .
Printer Basics Load Roll Media Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 39 Number Description 1 Printhead Assembly 2 T ransmissive Sensor 3 Label Supply Guide 4 Label Supply Hanger 5 Dancer 6 Label Guide 7 .
40 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load Roll Media Cutter Mode See the instructions below to load media in Cutter-Off Mode: Cutter Mode requires that the cutter be installed. 1. Press the printhead open lever . The printhead assembly springs up.
Printer Basics Load Roll Media Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 41 Number Description 1 Printhead Assembly 2 T ransmissive Sensor 3 Label Supply Guide 4 Label Supply Hanger 5 Dancer 6 Label Guide 7 .
42 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load Roll Media Peel-Off Mode See the instructions below to load media in Peel-Off Mo de: This setting works only with the Peel-Off Option installed on the printer . An illustration of the printer with the Peel -Off Option is shown on the next page.
Printer Basics Load Roll Media Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 43 Number Description 1 Printhead Assembly 2 T ransmissive Sensor 3 Media Supply Guide 4 Media Supply Hanger 5 Dancer 6 Media Guide 7 .
44 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load Roll Media Liner Take-Up Mode See the instructions below to load media in Liner Take-Up Mode: The Liner T ake-up option must be installed to use this mode. The option is shown in the illustration on the next page.
Printer Basics Load Roll Media Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 45 15. Slide the liner into the slot (see inset) in the spindle of the liner take-up. Ensure the liner is resting against the back plate of the spindle assembly . 16. T urn the spindle assembly count erclockwise a few times to snug the liner .
46 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load Roll Media Liner Removal 1. Pull the liner slide toward you (see inset) until it stops (about a third of the way down the liner take-up spindle).
Printer Basics Load Roll Media Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 47 11 . Pull down the peel lever to open the peel assembly . 12. Feed the media over the tear -off/peel-of f bar , and through the slot in the peel assembly . 13. Loosen the thumbscrew and slide out th e rewind media guide to the end of the take-up spindle.
48 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load Roll Media Number Description 1 Printhead Assembly 2 T ransmissive Sensor 3 Label Supply Guide 4 Label Supply Hanger 5 Rewind Spindle 6 Rewind.
Printer Basics Load Roll Media Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 49 Liner Removal 1. Cut the liner between the media alignm ent spindle and the take-up spindle. 2. Rotate the take-up spindle co unterclockwise until the re wind media guide is in the 12 o’clock position.
50 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load Roll Media 13. Slide an empty core onto the take-up spi ndle; wrap the media around the core and turn the take-up spindle countercloc kwise to wind up the excess material. 14. Slide the rewind media guide against th e media, and tighten the thumbscrew .
Printer Basics Load Roll Media Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 51 Number Description 1 Printhead Assembly 2 T ransmissive Sensor 3 Label Supply Guide 4 Label Supply Hanger 5 Rewind Spindle 6 Rewind.
52 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load Fanfold Media Media Removal 1. Cut the media between the media alignm ent spindle and the take-up spindle. 2. Rotate the take-up spindle co unterclockwise until the re wind media guide is in the 12 o’clock position.
Printer Basics Load Fanfo ld Media Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 53 Number Description 1 Printhead Assembly 2 T ransmissive Sensor 3 Label Supply Guide 4 Label Supply Hanger 5 Dancer 6 Label Guid.
54 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load the Ribbon Load the Ribbon See the instructions be low to load the ribbon: 1. T o place this spindle in the normal posit ion, firmly pull out the spindle end cap until it clicks as shown in below .
Printer Basics Load the Ri bbon Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 55 Number Description 1 Strip Plate 2 Printhead Assembly 3 Release Knob 4 T ension Blades 5 Ribbon T ake-Up Spindle 6 Ribbon Supply S.
56 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Printer Basics Load the Ribbon Remove the Ribbon 1. If the ribbon has not run out, break it betw een the strip plate and the ribbon take-up spindle. 2. While turning the ribbon take-up spindle release knob counter clockwise, squeeze the ribbon against the ribbon ta ke-up spindle tension blades.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 57 C HAPTER 5 Configuration This chapter discusses detailed configuration settings. Content s Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Enter Setup Mo de . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
58 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration Configuration After you have installed the media and ribbon, and the Power - On Self T est (POST) is complete, the front panel displays PRINTER READY . If the printer fails its POST , see T roubleshooting on page 97 .
Configuration Configurat ion Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 59 Change Password-Protected Parameters Certain parameters are password protected by factory default. 1. Enter a four-digit password at the ENTER P ASSWORD display . MINUS ( – ) changes the selected digit position.
60 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration Leave the Setup Mode Y ou can leave the program m ode at any time by pressing SETUP/EXIT . The SA VE CHANGES display appears. There are five choices, which are described below . Pressing PLUS (+) or MINUS (–) displays other choices and pressing SELECT selects the displayed choice.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 61 Configuration and Calibration Sequence Display Shows Action/Explanation PRINTER READY Normal printer operation. Set Print Parameters DARKNESS Press SELECT to make change.
62 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence TEAR OFF Press SELECT to make change. Adjusting the T ear -off Position: Press PLUS ( + ) to increase the value, press MINUS ( – ) to decrease the value. Each press adjusts the tear -o ff position by four dot rows.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 63 MEDIA TYPE Press SELECT to make change. Setting Media T ype: Press PLUS ( + ) or MINUS ( – ) to display other choices. Default: Non-Continuous Selections: Non-continuous, Continuous Press SELECT to accept the change.
64 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence SENSOR SELECT Press SELECT to make change. Setting the Sensor Select: Press PLUS ( + ) or MINUS ( – ) to display other choices. Default: Auto select Selections: Auto select, reflective, transmissive Press SELECT to accept the change.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 65 PRINT WIDTH Press SELECT to make change. Setting Print Width: Press PLUS ( + ) to increase the value, press MINUS ( – ) to decrease the value.
66 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence LIST IMAGES Press SELECT to select. List Images: Press PLUS (+) to print a label listing all of the available images.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 67 FORMA T CARD A B Initialize Memory Card Caution • Perform this operation only when it is necessary to erase all previously stored information from the optional memory card.
68 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence INIT FLASH MEM Initialize Flash Memory Caution • Perform this operation only when it is necessary to erase all previously stored information from the FLASH memory .
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 69 Media and Ribbon Sens or Calibration Performing the manual calibration procedure re sets the sensitivity o f the sensors to detect the media and ribbon you are using mo re accurately .
70 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence CALIBRA TING PLEASE W AIT The printer automatically adjusts the scale (gain) of the signals it receives from the media and ribbon sensors based on the specific media and ribbon combination you are using.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 71 Display Shows Action/Explanation Setting Communication Parameters Communication parameters must be se t correctly for the printer to communicate with the host computer .
72 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence DA T A BITS Setting Data Bits: Press the INCREMENT (+) or DECREMENT (–) key to display other choices.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 73 PROTOCOL Press SELECT to make change. Setting Protocol: Press PLUS ( + ) or MINUS ( – ) to display other choices. Default: None Selections: None, Zebra, ACK_NACK Press SELECT to accept the change.
74 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence COMMUNICA TIONS Press SELECT to make change. Setting Communications Mode: Press PLUS ( + ) or MINUS ( – ) to display other choices. Default: Normal mode Selections: Normal mode, diagnostics Press SELECT to accept the change.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 75 Selecting Prefix and Delimiter Characters Prefix and delimiter charact ers are 2-digit hex values used within the ZPL/ZPL II formats sent to the printer .
76 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence DELIMITER CHAR Press SELECT to make change. Delimiter Character: Press MINUS ( – ) to move to the next digit position, press PLUS ( + ) to increase the value of the digit.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 77 Power-Up and Head Close Parameters MEDIA POWER UP Press SELECT to make change.
78 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence Label Positioning Parameters BACKFEED Press SELECT to make change.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 79 LEFT POSITION Press SELECT to make change. Adjusting Left Position: Press MINUS (–) to move to the next position, press PLUS ( + ) to change between + and to increase the value of the digit.
80 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence FORMA T CONVER T Press SELECT to make change. Note • The Format Convert setting is used when upgrading from a printer of lower resolution to a printer of higher resolution and the user does not wish to modify their formats.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 81 P ASSWORD LEVEL Press SELECT to make change. Password Level: Press PLUS ( + ) or MINUS ( – ) to display other choices. Default: Selected items Selections: Selected items, all items Press SELECT to accept the change.
82 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence IP ADDRESS* Press SELECT to make change. IP Address: Press MINUS ( – ) to move to the next digit position, press PLUS ( + ) to increase the value of the digit.
Configuration Configuration and Calibration Sequence Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 83 LANGUAGE Press SELECT to make change. Selecting the Display Language: Press PLUS ( + ) or MINUS ( – ) to display other choices.
84 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Configuration Configuration and Calibrat ion Sequence SA VE SETTINGS Save Settings: Press PLUS ( + ) or MINUS ( – ) to display other choices. Default: Permanent Selections: Permanent, temporary , cancel, load defaults, load last save Press SELECT to accept the change.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 85 C HAPTER 6 Routine Care and Adjustments This chapter discusses printer cleaning and minor adjustments. Content s Cleaning Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Clean the Exterior . . . . . . . . . .
86 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es Cleaning Procedures Specific cleaning procedures are provided on the following pages. Below is a recommended cleaning schedule. . Area Method Interval Printhead Solvent* Direct Thermal Mode: After every roll of media (or 500 feet of fanfold media).
87 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es Clean the Exterior The exterior surfaces of the printer may be cleaned with a lint- free cloth. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaning agents or solvents . If necessary , a mild deterg ent or desktop cleaner may be used sparingly .
88 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es To clean the printhead, refer to the open printhead illustration on the next page an d follow these steps: 1. Open the printhead assembly . 2. Remove the media and ribbon.
89 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es Clean the Sensors Brush or vacuum any accumulate d paper lint and dust away from the printer sensors.
90 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es Clean the Rewind Option The Rewind option is required. Refer to the illustrati on on next page and perform the following procedure if adhesive buildu p begins to affect peel performance.
91 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es Number Description 1 Printhead Assembly 2 T ear -Off/Peel-Of f Bar 3 Pinch Roller 4 Peel Assembly 1 2 3 4.
92 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es Clean the Peel-Off Assembly The Peel-Off option is required. Refer to the illustration on the previous page and perform the following procedure if adhesive buildup begins to affect peel- off performance.
93 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es Clean the Cutter Module Cutter option required. Refer to the illustration on the next page an d the procedures below to clean adhesive off of the upper and lower cutt er blades: 1.
94 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es Lubrication No lubrication is needed for this printer . Number Description 1 Thumbscrew and Lock W asher 2 Cutt.
95 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es Fuse Replacement A user -replaceable AC power fuse is locate d just below the AC power switch at the rear of the printer . The replacement fuse is a 5 × 20 mm fast blow style rated at 5 Amp/ 250 V AC.
96 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Routine Care and Adjustment s Cleaning Procedur es.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 97 C HAPTER 7 Troubleshooting This chapter discusses typical probl ems and their probable solutions. Content LCD Error Conditions and W arnings . . . . . . . . 98 Error Cond itions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
98 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide T roubleshooting LCD Error Conditio ns and W arnings LCD Error Conditions and Warnings The LCD displays error condition messages and warnings if the printer detects a problem. The messages, along with their causes and solutions, are listed below .
T roubleshoot ing LCD Error Conditions and W arnings Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 99 Error condition — PAPER OUT Problem Solution The media is not loaded or loaded incorrectly . Reload the media. See Load Roll M edia beginning on page 38 . The media sensor is not positioned properly .
100 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide T roubleshooting LCD Error Conditio ns and W arnings Error condition — HEAD OPEN Problem Solution The printhead is not fully closed. Close the printhead. The ribbon is loaded incorrectly; it is covering the head open sensor .
T roubleshoot ing LCD Error Conditions and W arnings Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 101 Warnings Warning — HEAD OVER TEMP Warning — HEAD UNDER TEMP Caution • The printhead is hot and can cause severe burns. Allow the printhead to cool. Problem Solution The printhead is over temperature.
102 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide T roubleshooting LCD Error Conditio ns and W arnings Warning — CUTTER JAM OUT OF MEMORY* Caution • Cutter blade is sharp. Use caution when cleaning. Do not rub the blade with your fingers. Problem Solution Cutter blade is in the media path.
T roubleshoot ing Print Quality Problems Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 103 Print Quality Problems General print quality issues Gray lines on blank labels with no consistent pattern Light, consistent vertical line s running through all labels Problem Solution Y ou are using an incorrect media and ribbon combination for your application.
104 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide T roubleshooting Print Quality Problems Intermittent creases on the left and right edges of the label Wrinkled ribbon Problem Solution There is too much pressure on the printhead. Reduce the printhead pressure. See Set Printhead Pressure on page 17 .
T roubleshoot ing Print Quality Problems Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 105 Calibration Problem Solution Loss of printing registration on labels. Excessive vertical drift in top-of-form registration. Adjust the reflective sensor position. See page 26 .
106 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide T roubleshooting Print Quality Problems Communication Problems Data light does not flash when a label format is sent. Several labels print, then the printer skips, misplaces, misses, or distorts the image on the label after a label is sent to th e printer .
T roubleshoot ing Print Quality Problems Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 107 Problem Solution The prefix and delimiter characters set in the printer do not match the ones in the label format. V erify the prefix and delimiter characters. See page 75 .
108 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide T roubleshooting Printer Diagnostics Printer Diagnostics Power-On Self Test A Power -On Self T est (POST) is performed automatically each time the printer is turned on. During this test sequence, the front panel light s and liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor the progre ss of the POST .
T roubleshoot ing Printer Diagnostics Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 109 Cancel Self Test This self test prints a listi ng of the configurati on parameters currently stored in the printer ’ s memory . See the labels below . Depending on the options ordered, your label may look different.
11 0 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e T roubleshooting Printer Diagnostics Pause Self Test This self test can be us ed to provide the test labels required when ma king adjustments to the printer ’ s mechanical as semblies. See the sample printout at right.
T roubleshoot ing Printer Diagnostics Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 1 1 1 Feed Self Test See the illustration at right. Perform the following procedure to complete the Feed Self Test: 1. T urn the printer Of f ( O ). 2. Press and hold FEED while turning the printer On ( l ).
11 2 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e T roubleshooting Printer Diagnostics Communications Diagnostics Test This test is controlled from the front panel display . See page 75 . A typical printout from this test is shown in below . T urn the printer Of f ( O ) to exit this self test.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 1 13 C HAPTER 8 Specifications This chapter contains all need ed specifications on the Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus printers. Content s General S pecifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 14 Printing S pecifications .
11 4 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Speci fications General S pecifications General Specifications General Specification s Z4Mplus Z6Mplus Height 13.3 in. 338 mm 13.3 in. 338 mm W idth 10.9 in. 277 mm 13.4 in. 341 mm Depth 18.7 in. 475 mm 18. 7 in.
Specificatio ns Printing S pecifications Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 1 15 Printing Specifications Printing Specifications Z4Mplus Z6Mplus Print resolution 203 dots/inch 8 dots/mm 203 dots/inch 8 dots/mm 300 dots/inch 12 dots/mm 300 dots/inch 12 dots/mm Dot size (width x length) 203 dpi 0.
11 6 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Speci fications Media S pecificatio ns Media Specifications Media Specifica tions Z4Mplus Z6Mplus Label length Minimum T ear -off 0.5 in. 13 mm 0.5 in. 13 mm Peel-off 1 in. 25.4 mm 1 in. 25.4 mm Rewind 0.5 in. 13 mm 0.
Specificatio ns Media S pecificat ions Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 1 17 Black mark dimensions V e rtical length 0.98 in. to 0.453 in. 2.5 to 11 . 5 mm 0.98 in. to 0.453 in. 2.5 to 11 . 5 m m Horizontal width > 0.37 in. > 9.5 mm > 0.37 in.
11 8 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guid e Speci fications Ribbon S pecifications Ribbon Specifications Ribbon Specifications Z4Mplus Z6Mplus Ribbon must be wound with the coated side out Ribbon width (Zebra rec ommends using ribbon at least as wide as th e media to pr otect the printhead f rom wear .
Specificatio ns Options Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 1 19 Options Z4Mplus Z6Mplus • Cutter • Cutter • Peel-of f • Peel-off • Liner take-up • Not A vailable • PCMCIA card socket (su.
120 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Speci fications Zebra Programmin g Language (ZPL II) Zebra Programming Language (ZPL II) Z4M/Z6Mplus ZPL II Features • Downloadable graphics (with data compres.
Specificatio ns Bar codes Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 121 Bar codes Z4M/Z6Mplus Bar Code Features Code 1 1 LOGMARS Code 39 (supports ratios of 2:1 to 3:1) Plessey Code 49 (2-dimensional bar c o.
122 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Speci fications AC Power Cord AC Power Cord Power Line Cord Specifications • The overall length must be less than 9.8 ft. (3.0 m). • It must be rated for at least 5A, 250 V AC. • The chassis ground (earth) MUST be conne cted to ensure safety and reduce electromagnetic interference.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 123 A PPENDIX A DB-9 Connectors This appendix discusses the Serial Port connections and adaptors. Content Printer Interfa ce T ec hnical Informa tion . . . . . 124 Serial Data Comm unications . . . . . . . . . . . 124 Cable S pecifications .
124 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide DB-9 Connectors Printer Inte rface T e chnical Inform ation Printer Interface Technical Information Serial Data Communications Hardware Control Si gnal D escript.
DB-9 Connectors Printer Interface T echni cal Information Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 125 The T able below shows the pin configuration a nd function of the rear panel serial data connector on the printer .
126 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide DB-9 Connectors Printer Inte rface T e chnical Inform ation RS-232 Interf ace Connections The printer is configured as Data T ermin al Equipment (DTE). Th e illustration below shows the internal connections of the printer ’ s RS-232 connector .
DB-9 Connectors Printer Interface T echni cal Information Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 127 When the printer is connected via its RS-232 interface to Data Communication Equipment (DCE) such as a modem, u se a standard RS-232 (straight-through) interface cable.
128 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide DB-9 Connectors Printer Inte rface T e chnical Inform ation RS-232 Interconnections Using a DB-25 Cable T o connect the printer ’ s RS-232 DB-9 inte rface to a DB-25 connector , an interface adapter is required (Zebra part number 331 38).
DB-9 Connectors Printer Interface T echni cal Information Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 129 RS-422/RS-485 Interconnections T o connect the printer ’ s RS-232 DB-9 interface to a host computer through an RS-422 or an RS-485 interface, an interface ad apter is required (Zebra part number 33130).
130 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide DB-9 Connectors Printer Inte rface T e chnical Inform ation.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 131 A PPENDIX B Parallel Data Port This appendix discusses the para llel data port and connections. Content s Parallel Data Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132 Parallel Interface . . . . . . . . . . . .
132 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Parallel Dat a Port Parallel Data Port Parallel Data Port Parallel Interface The 8-bit parallel data interface s upports IEEE 1284 bi-directional parallel communications in nibble mode.
Parallel Dat a Port Parallel Data Port Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 133 36-Pin Connectors Description 1 nStrobe/HostClk 2 to 9 Data Bits 1 to 8 10 nACK/PtrClk 1 1 Busy/PtrBusy 12 PError/ACKDataReq 13 Select/Xflag 14 nAutoFd/HostBusy 15 Not used 16 and 17 Ground 18 +5V @ 750 mA The maximum current draw may be limited by option configuration.
134 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Parallel Dat a Port Parallel Data Port.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 135 A PPENDIX C Memory Cards This appendix discusses the field availa ble memory cards and their installation. Content s Memory Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136 PCMCIA Card . . . . . . . . . .
136 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Memory Cards Memory Cards Memory Cards PCMCIA Card See the instructions below to in stall the Type I or Type II compliant PCMCIA card: Install the PCMCIA Card Refer to illustration on next page. 1. Remove the PCMCIA card shield from the rear of the printer .
Memory Cards Memory Cards Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 137 Note • Initialization of the PCMCIA card ma y take a few minutes; the Pause LED flashes while the card initializes. If the card is already initia lized, the Pause LED flashes only once or twice.
138 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Memory Cards Memory Cards.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 139 A PPENDIX D Extend Printhead Life This appendix discusses the processes needed to extend the life of the printhead. Content Extend the L ife of Y our Print head with Save-a-Printhead Cle aning Film . . . . . . . .
140 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Extend Printhead Life Extend the Li fe of Y our Pr inthead with Save-a-Printhe ad Cleaning Film Extend the Life of Your Printhead with Save-a-Printhead Cleaning Film Recommended for all Zebra printers Challenge The printhead is the most critical compone nt in your printer , and possibly the most delicate.
Extend Printhead Life Extend the Life of Y our Printhead with Save-a-Printhe ad Cleaning Film Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 141 Preventive Maintenance For optimum performance, clean the printhead regularly .
142 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Extend Printhead Life Extend the Li fe of Y our Pr inthead with Save-a-Printhe ad Cleaning Film Ribbon Backcoating and Buildup: Printhead contamination from direct thermal labels or thermal transfer ribbon may oc cur in applications requiring high burn settings, high head pressure , high speed, or high volume.
Extend Printhead Life Extend the Life of Y our Printhead with Save-a-Printhe ad Cleaning Film Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide 143 Use Save-a-Printhead Cleaning Film 1. Open the media cover . 2. Open the printhead, remove labels and ribbon from the print mechanism.
144 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Extend Printhead Life Extend the Li fe of Y our Pr inthead with Save-a-Printhe ad Cleaning Film How to Order Cleaning Film Kits There are five kits to accom modate printers with diff er ent print widths. Each kit contains three 10 in.
Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Index-1 Index A About this Document xxvii AC Power Cord Specifications, 122 Adjustments Printhead Pressure, 16 Reflective Sensor , 26 Auto Calibration, 28 B Bar Code.
Index Index-2 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide G General Specifications, 11 4 H Hardware Control Signal Descriptions, 124 I Interconnections Parallel Port, 132 RS-232, 125–128 RS-422, 129 RS-485, .
Index Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide Index-3 S Save-a-Printhead Cleaning Film 142–144 Self T ests CANCEL Key , 109 Communications Diagnostics, 11 2 FEED Key , 111 P AUSE Key , 11 0 Serial Data C.
Index Index-4 Z 4M plus and Z 6M plus User Guide.
An important point after buying a device Zebra Technologies Z4Mplus (or even before the purchase) is to read its user manual. We should do this for several simple reasons:
If you have not bought Zebra Technologies Z4Mplus yet, this is a good time to familiarize yourself with the basic data on the product. First of all view first pages of the manual, you can find above. You should find there the most important technical data Zebra Technologies Z4Mplus - thus you can check whether the hardware meets your expectations. When delving into next pages of the user manual, Zebra Technologies Z4Mplus you will learn all the available features of the product, as well as information on its operation. The information that you get Zebra Technologies Z4Mplus will certainly help you make a decision on the purchase.
If you already are a holder of Zebra Technologies Z4Mplus, but have not read the manual yet, you should do it for the reasons described above. You will learn then if you properly used the available features, and whether you have not made any mistakes, which can shorten the lifetime Zebra Technologies Z4Mplus.
However, one of the most important roles played by the user manual is to help in solving problems with Zebra Technologies Z4Mplus. Almost always you will find there Troubleshooting, which are the most frequently occurring failures and malfunctions of the device Zebra Technologies Z4Mplus along with tips on how to solve them. Even if you fail to solve the problem, the manual will show you a further procedure – contact to the customer service center or the nearest service center
