74 Intermec EasyCoder PF2i, PF4i, and PF4i Compact Industrial—Service Manual
Chapter 7—Print Mechanism
7.1 Description
The print mechanism is fully integrated with center section (see Chapter
4.2), the transfer ribbon mechanism (see Chapter 6), and optional liner
takeup unit (see Chapter 8).
The main parts of the print mechanism are:
• The rubber-coated platen roller drives the media past the printhead and
provides counter-pressure.
• The liner drive roller is used for peel-off operation and helps pulling the
liner towards the takeup unit.
• The stepper motor drives the platen roller and the liner drive roller via
two timing belts inside the electronics compartment. It also drives the
optional liner takeup unit via a third belt running inside the center sec-
tion. The liner drive roller and the takeup unit belt are always fi tted.
• The tear bar makes it easier to tear off continuous stock. It also helps
separate labels and liner during peel-off printing.
• The label stop sensor (LSS) controls the media feed and checks for out-
of-media conditions.
• The printhead produces the heat that blackens the direct thermal media
or melts the ink of the transfer ribbon in bitmap patterns that make up
letters, graphics, or bar codes.
• The headlift mechanism presses the printhead against the direct thermal
media or thermal transfer ribbon, or raises the printhead to allow media
and ribbon replenishment.