Key Components 35
Dancer Arm
The Dancer Arm decreases ribbon tension by releasing the brake pressure. If properly
adjusted, the ribbon drop sensor will not be active when the ribbon is threaded.
Ribbon Drop Sensor
The Ribbon Drop Sensor detects if the ribbon is no longer threaded during operations. A
ribbon drop can occur for numerous reasons, but it is most common with poor
presentation, improper ribbon tension, or debris in the Holder / Shear. A ribbon drop will
cause the dancer arm to return to its home position, activating a lever that moves the
ribbon drop tab over the sensor, energizing it. An alarm will notify the operator of a ribbon
drop.