Dover markem-Imaje SmartDate X45

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Summary

Printer Overview

System Components

Details the physical components that make up the SmartDate X45 printer system.

Printer Type

Describes and illustrates the continuous and intermittent versions of the printer.

Connecting the Power

Instructions for correctly connecting the power cable to the printer unit.

Power On;Off

Guidance on the proper procedure for switching the printer on and off.

Indicator Lights

Explains the meaning of the different LED indicator lights on the printer.

User Interface

Main Screen Layout

Overview of the printer's touchscreen interface, including key panels and sections.

Start;Stop the Printer

Starting the Printer

Step-by-step instructions on how to initiate the printer's operational mode.

Stopping the Printer

Step-by-step instructions on how to safely shut down the printer.

Select a Job

Selecting a Job

Detailed guide on how to select, load, and prepare a printing job.

Job Selection Progress

Information displayed during the job selection and loading process.

Menu Tree

Menu Navigation

Visual representation of the printer's menu structure and navigation paths.

Clean the Printhead

Printhead Cleaning Procedure

Instructions for cleaning the printhead using approved wipes and avoiding abrasives.

Change the Ribbon

Ribbon Removal

Steps for safely removing the used ribbon cassette and waste cores.

Ribbon Loading

Instructions for correctly installing a new ribbon according to the load diagram.

Information

Faults and Warnings

Explanation of printer faults that stop operation and warnings requiring attention.

Common Faults and Warnings

Lists typical error messages and their recommended solutions for the printer.

Serial Number and Ribbon Type

Space provided to record the printer's serial number and the type of ribbon used.

Summary

Printer Overview

System Components

Details the physical components that make up the SmartDate X45 printer system.

Printer Type

Describes and illustrates the continuous and intermittent versions of the printer.

Connecting the Power

Instructions for correctly connecting the power cable to the printer unit.

Power On;Off

Guidance on the proper procedure for switching the printer on and off.

Indicator Lights

Explains the meaning of the different LED indicator lights on the printer.

User Interface

Main Screen Layout

Overview of the printer's touchscreen interface, including key panels and sections.

Start;Stop the Printer

Starting the Printer

Step-by-step instructions on how to initiate the printer's operational mode.

Stopping the Printer

Step-by-step instructions on how to safely shut down the printer.

Select a Job

Selecting a Job

Detailed guide on how to select, load, and prepare a printing job.

Job Selection Progress

Information displayed during the job selection and loading process.

Menu Tree

Menu Navigation

Visual representation of the printer's menu structure and navigation paths.

Clean the Printhead

Printhead Cleaning Procedure

Instructions for cleaning the printhead using approved wipes and avoiding abrasives.

Change the Ribbon

Ribbon Removal

Steps for safely removing the used ribbon cassette and waste cores.

Ribbon Loading

Instructions for correctly installing a new ribbon according to the load diagram.

Information

Faults and Warnings

Explanation of printer faults that stop operation and warnings requiring attention.

Common Faults and Warnings

Lists typical error messages and their recommended solutions for the printer.

Serial Number and Ribbon Type

Space provided to record the printer's serial number and the type of ribbon used.

The SmartDate X45 is a thermal transfer overprinter designed for high-quality coding and marking on flexible packaging films, foils, and labels. It is engineered to provide reliable and efficient printing solutions for various industrial applications, ensuring clear and consistent codes such as best-before dates, use-by dates, weight information, and barcodes. The device is available in both continuous and intermittent versions, offering versatility to integrate into different production lines and meet specific printing requirements.

Function Description

The primary function of the SmartDate X45 is to print variable information directly onto packaging materials in real-time during the production process. It utilizes thermal transfer technology, where a heated printhead transfers ink from a ribbon onto the substrate, creating durable and high-resolution prints. This method is ideal for applications requiring crisp, legible codes that can withstand various environmental conditions.

The printer operates by receiving job data, which includes the content to be printed (e.g., text, dates, barcodes) and printing parameters (e.g., speed, darkness). Once a job is selected and the printer is started, it synchronizes with the production line's speed to ensure accurate placement of the print on each package. The SmartDate X45 is designed for seamless integration, offering robust performance in demanding industrial environments.

Usage Features

The SmartDate X45 features a user-friendly interface, typically a controller with a touchscreen display, which serves as the primary point of interaction for operators. This interface provides access to various functions, including job selection, printer status monitoring, and system adjustments.

User Interface (UI): The UI displays critical information such as the selected job, printer status (e.g., Idle, Producing, Not Producing, Fault, Busy), system date/time, and consumables panel. The consumables panel shows the remaining ribbon percentage and provides statistics like total print count, batch print count, current substrate speed, and instant average pack rate. This real-time feedback allows operators to monitor performance and anticipate ribbon changes.
Job Selection: Operators can easily select a print job from a predefined list. The UI displays a preview of the selected job, allowing verification of the content before printing. The process involves navigating through a list of available jobs, selecting the desired one, and confirming the selection. A "Job selection in progress" message indicates that the printer is loading the new job.
Start/Stop Functionality: The printer can be started and stopped directly from the UI. A "Start" button initiates printing, while an "Off" or "Stop" button halts the operation. The printer status changes accordingly (e.g., from "Idle" to "Execute" when printing).
Menu Tree Navigation: A comprehensive menu tree provides access to various settings and tools. This includes:
- Adjustments: Options for test print, registration, offset, print darkness, and rotation, allowing fine-tuning of print quality and positioning.
- Information: Access to job details, system information, print counts, statistics, printhead status, and MI Sigma data.
- Maintenance: Diagnostic tools, event logs, speed profile graphs, and a printhead test pattern selection for troubleshooting and routine checks.
- Profiles: Selection of user profiles (Administrator, Operator, Supervisor) to manage access levels and permissions.
- Help: Guides and license information for user support.
Printer Status Indicators: The printer unit itself features LED indicators that provide a quick visual status check. These indicators typically show:
- Producing: Green light, indicating active printing.
- Not Producing: Blue light, indicating the printer is on but not actively printing.
- Fault: Red light, indicating an error that requires attention.
- Busy: A combination of lights or a specific pattern, indicating the printer is performing an internal task.
Power Management: The device includes clear instructions for connecting the power cable and turning the unit on/off using a dedicated switch.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the SmartDate X45. The manual outlines key maintenance procedures that operators can perform.

Cleaning the Printhead: The printhead is a critical component that requires regular cleaning to prevent print quality issues. The recommended procedure involves:
1. Removing the Cassette: The ribbon cassette must be removed to access the printhead.
2. Cooling Down: Allowing the printhead to cool down before cleaning to prevent injury and damage.
3. Using Approved Wipes: Using Markem-Imaje printhead cleaning wipes to remove any residue. It is explicitly warned against using abrasive materials or sharp tools like screwdrivers or knives, as these can damage the delicate printhead surface.
Changing the Ribbon: Ribbon replacement is a routine maintenance task. The process is designed to be straightforward:
1. Removing the Cassette: Similar to printhead cleaning, the cassette is removed first.
2. Removing Used Ribbon and Waste Cores: The depleted ribbon and its waste cores are taken out of the cassette.
3. Loading New Ribbon: A detailed ribbon load diagram guides the operator through the correct placement of the new ribbon onto the cassette's spindles. This ensures proper tension and alignment for optimal printing.
Fault and Warning System: The SmartDate X45 incorporates a system to alert operators to issues:
- Faults: These are critical errors that stop the printer's operation until resolved. Examples include "Cassette Open" (error code 1300), which requires the cassette latch to be closed. The UI displays the fault code and a brief description, along with an "Exit" option.
- Warnings: These are non-critical alerts that highlight conditions requiring attention but do not stop printing. An example is "Possible Damage To Print" (error code 2005). Warnings provide information and options to "Clear" the warning or "Exit" the warning screen.
- Common Faults and Warnings: The manual lists common issues such as "Low Ribbon" (prepare a new ribbon), "Cassette Open" (close the latch), "Calibration Failed" (ribbon broken during calibration, reload and retry), and "Ribbon Break Detected" (ribbon broken during printing, reload and retry). These alerts help operators quickly diagnose and address problems.
Event Log: The "Maintenance" section of the menu tree includes an "Events Log," which records printer activities, errors, and warnings. This log is valuable for troubleshooting and tracking printer performance over time.
Diagnostic Tools: The "Diagnostic" option under "Maintenance" provides tools to assess the printer's health and identify potential issues. This can include running self-tests or checking sensor readings.
Printhead Test Pattern: The ability to select a printhead test pattern allows operators to print a diagnostic pattern to check for clogged nozzles or other printhead issues, ensuring consistent print quality.

The SmartDate X45 is designed for ease of use and maintenance, with a clear interface and guided procedures to minimize downtime and ensure continuous, high-quality coding in industrial settings.

Dover markem-Imaje SmartDate X45 Specifications

General

Print Technology	Thermal Transfer
Resolution	300 dpi
Print Speed	Up to 600 mm/s
Print Width	32 mm
Connectivity	USB, Ethernet
User Interface	Touchscreen
Ribbon Length	Up to 1100 m
Supported Substrates	Flexible packaging films, labels
Operating Temperature	5°C to 40°C
Power Supply	100-240 V AC