EasyManua.ls Logo

Practical Automation ITK 38 SERIES User Manual

Default Icon
79 pages
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
Page #1 background imageLoading...
Page #1 background image
ITK 38
Printer Series
User’s Manual
PRACTICAL AUTOMATION INC.
ITK 38 User’s Manual Version V1.03 Date: (7/2/09) File: UMITK103.pdf 1 of 79

Table of Contents

Question and Answer IconNeed help?

Do you have a question about the Practical Automation ITK 38 SERIES and is the answer not in the manual?

Practical Automation ITK 38 SERIES Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandPractical Automation
ModelITK 38 SERIES
CategoryPrinter
LanguageEnglish

Summary

1.0 HOW TO CONTACT US

1.1 Limited Product Warranty

Details the terms and conditions of the limited product warranty for the ITK 38 printer.

1.1.1 Warranty Terms

Outlines the specific terms of the limited warranty, including coverage and exclusions.

1.1.2 Warranty Procedure

Describes the steps to follow for resolving equipment problems and initiating a warranty claim.

1.2 FCC Notification

1.3 Regulatory Compliance

2.0 ITK 38 OVERVIEW

2.1 Introduction

Introduces the manual's scope, covering installation, operation, programming, and maintenance.

2.2 Product Description

Details the printer's direct thermal imaging technology, paper handling, connectivity, and modular design.

2.3 ITK 38 Model Number System

2.3.1 ITK 38 Power Supply Model Number

Details the model number system for the power supply options available for the ITK 38 printer.

2.3.2 ITK 38 Printer Model Number Example

2.3.3 ITK 38 Separate Component Model Numbers

2.4 Unpacking and Inspection

2.5 Installation Location

Provides guidance on selecting a suitable installation environment for the ITK 38 printer.

2.6 Power Connection

Details the correct procedure for connecting the power supply and ensuring the printer is ready.

2.7 Data I/O Interface Connection

Explains how to connect the printer to a computer using Parallel or USB interfaces.

2.7.1 Parallel Interface

Describes the connection requirements for the IEEE-1284 Parallel interface cable.

2.7.2 USB Interface

Describes the connection requirements for the USB 2.0 interface cable.

2.8 Printer Driver Installation

Provides information on installing printer drivers for various Windows operating systems.

2.8.1 Discussion of Printer Drivers

Explains the differences between V1.xx (unidirectional) and V2.xx (bi-directional) drivers.

2.8.1.1 Discussion of Driver Names

Details the naming convention used for the ITK 38 printer drivers.

2.8.1.2 Which Driver to Load?

2.8.1.3 Loading The Printer Driver

2.8.1.4 Printer's Status Information

2.8.1.5 Host Controlled Printer Firmware Update

2.8.1.6 Printer Utility DLL

2.8.2 Selecting and Configuring the Driver

2.9 Paper Supply

2.10 Paper Loading

2.11 Test Print

2.12 Operation From the Interface

3.0 OPERATOR CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

3.1 Switch and Display

Describes the function of the switch and display panel for operator interaction and status feedback.

3.2 Panel LEDs Indicators

Explains the meaning of the Power/Paper, Ready, and Attn./Error LEDs for printer status.

3.2.1 Power / Paper

Details the status information provided by the Power/Paper LED indicator.

3.2.2 Ready

Explains the status indicated by the Ready LED, showing system readiness and data flow.

3.2.3 Attn. / Error

Describes the Attn./Error LED's role in signaling warnings, errors, and normal operation.

3.3 Panel Switches

Details the four momentary push button switches used for manual printer interaction and diagnostics.

3.3.1 Forcing Reset Initialization

Explains how to force a printer reset initialization using panel switches.

3.4 Rear I/O Panel

4.0 PANEL SWITCH OPERATIONS

4.1 Switch Modes

Differentiates between offline and power-on modes for using the panel switches.

4.2 Offline Operations

Explains how switches function when the printer is in an offline state.

4.3 Offline Switch Operations Table

A table detailing switch operations and their corresponding functions in offline mode.

4.4 Offline Switch Operations

Describes the basic operations that can be performed using switches in offline mode.

4.5 Power-On Operations

Explains the functions accessed by holding switches while turning on the power for diagnostics.

4.6 Power-On Operations Table

A table listing power-on operations, their functions, and related section references.

4.7 Printer System Information and Reports

Describes the types of reports available for printer status, EEPROM, and diagnostics.

4.7.1 System Status Report

4.7.1.1 System Report – for Registration Marked Paper

Shows an example of the System Status Report when using registration marked paper.

4.7.1.2 System Report – for Continuous Paper

4.8 System Information Help Report

4.9 Diagnostic Menu

4.10 Change TOF Configurations

4.11 EEPROM Change Menu

4.12 Re-Program Flash Memory

4.13 Hex Dump Diagnostic Mode

4.14 Printhead Cleaning Diagnostic Mode

5.0 PAPER HANDLING OPTIONS & ACTIONS

5.1 Paper Delivery Output Options

Lists and describes unique paper delivery output options like cutters and tearbars.

5.1.1 Disposing Transport-Presenter

Explains the versatile Disposing Transport-Presenter, its modes, and applications.

5.1.1.1 Perforated Paper Stock

Discusses considerations for using perforated paper stock with the transport-presenter.

5.1.1.2 Loop Storage Chamber

Details the loop storage chamber's capacity for documents and required clearance space.

5.1.1.3 Dispose Storage Chamber

Highlights the need for adequate space for storing disposed documents with the presenter.

5.1.1.5 Document Not Taken Status

5.1.1.6 Transport-Presenter Control Parameters and Operating Mode Selection

5.1.1.6.1 Transport-Presenter Control Parameters for a Document Not Taken

Outlines parameters that define how the printer reacts when a document is not taken.

5.1.1.6.1.1 Host Controlled - Document Not Taken Reactions

Explains host-controlled reactions for documents not taken, focusing on host supervision.

5.1.1.6.1.2 Printer Assisted - Document Not Taken Reactions

5.1.1.6.1.3 Purge Options – Document Not Taken

5.1.1.6.2 Transport-Presenter Control Parameters for a Blocked Output Jam

5.1.1.7 Printer & Host Reactions – Document Not Taken or Blocked Output

5.1.1.7.1 Document Not Taken

Outlines how documents not removed by the user can be handled by the system.

5.1.1.7.2 Blocked Output

Describes how the printer can react to temporarily blocked output delivery slots.

5.1.2 Cutter with Jam Resistant Output Chamber Option

5.1.3 Cutter Only Output Option

5.1.4 Tearbar With Jam Resistant Output Chamber Option

5.1.5 Minimum Form Length Adjustment

5.2 Paper Input Delivery Options

5.2.1 Formula for Calculating Paper Roll Capacity

Provides a formula to calculate the length of paper supplied on rolls based on dimensions.

5.2.1.1 Paper Roll I.D.

Notes the importance of a large internal diameter (I.D.) for paper rolls to reduce curl.

5.2.2 Internal 6"/8" (152mm/203mm) Diameter Paper Roll Holder

Describes the internal roll holder, its mounting, and low paper sensor capabilities.

5.2.3 External 10" Diameter Paper Roll Holder

Details the external roll holder for longer unattended operation and its low paper sensor.

5.2.3.1 External 10"" Diameter Paper Roll Holder Drawing

Includes a dimensional drawing of the external 10" diameter paper roll holder.

5.2.3.2 Externally Located Paper Design Considerations

5.2.3.2.1 External Roll Holder Paper Path Recommendations Drawing

Provides drawings illustrating recommended paper paths for external roll holders.

5.2.4 Low Paper Monitoring

5.2.4.1 Low Paper Host Status Information

Describes how low paper status information is available to the host system unless disabled.

5.2.4.2 Printer Reactions to the Low Paper Conditions

5.2.4.3 Low Paper Cable Detection

6.0 PAPER INFORMATION

6.1 Paper Specifications

Lists specifications for paper width, roll sizes, and recommended paper types.

6.1.1 Paper Width

Specifies the standard and adjustable paper widths supported by the printer.

6.1.2 Roll Size

Details the internal and external roll sizes compatible with the printer's holders.

6.1.3 Recommended Papers

Lists recommended paper manufacturers and their corresponding types for optimal printing.

6.1.4 Other Thermal Papers

Lists other compatible thermal paper types from Appleton and Kanzaki.

6.1.5 Print Activation Energy

Discusses programmable print energy levels for accommodating different paper responses.

6.1.6 Roll Paper Curl Considerations

Explains how paper curl affects the path and aids in loop formation for delivery systems.

6.1.7 Paper Form Type

Covers the supported paper form types: continuous and registration marked.

6.1.7.1 Paper Supply

Describes variable length and fixed sized document paper supplies.

6.1.7.2 Continuous Forms

Defines continuous paper, which lacks a specific form size and may have background printing.

6.1.7.3 Registration Mark Forms

Explains registration marked forms defined by marks for printer synchronization.

6.1.8 Paper Pre-printing Information

6.1.8.1 Pre-printed Paper: Bottom Side Restrictions

Explains restrictions on bottom side pre-printing to avoid interfering with optical sensors.

6.1.8.2 Pre-Printed Paper: Top Side

Discusses using inks compatible with direct thermal printing on the top side of the paper.

6.1.8.3 Fan Fold / Perforated Paper

Advises against intermediate perforations within the first 3.5 inches of fan fold paper.

6.1.8.4 Cutting Perforated Paper

Guides on adjusting the cut position relative to perforations to ensure proper cutting.

6.1.8.5 Registration Mark Location: Bottom Side

6.2 Paper Form Type Recognition

6.2.1 Printer Recognition of Paper Form Type

Details how the printer uses a configuration strap to identify the paper form type.

6.2.2 Top and Bottom Margins

States the unprintable margins on the top and bottom of documents for the ITK 38 printer.

6.2.3 Host PC Recognition of Paper Form Type and Size

Explains how the host PC determines paper type and form length via reverse channel status.

6.3 Paper Form Size Determination

6.3.1 Document Length

Defines physical document length as printed length plus unprinted margins.

6.3.2 Registration Mark Document Size Measurement

6.3.3 Printer Determination of Form Size

6.3.3.1 Continuous Forms

Explains how the printer learns document length from host-provided data for continuous forms.

6.3.3.2 Registration Marked Forms

Details techniques for learning registration marked form length via Autosize or EEPROM.

6.3.3.2.1 Autosize Measurement of Form Length

Explains Autosize Measurement for determining form length, with and without backup.

6.3.3.2.2 Stored Form Length

Describes using stored fixed size data in EEPROM when Autosize is disabled.

6.3.3.2.2.1 Default Form Size

Refers to section 10.10 for information on the default form size value.

6.3.3.2.2.2 Entering a Fixed Form Size Into EEPROM Memory

Instructs to refer to section 10.7.2 for entering a fixed form size into EEPROM.

6.3.3.2.2.3 Autosize Measurement and Save to EEPROM

Explains using Autosize Measurement and a switch menu to save fixed size data to EEPROM.

6.3.3.2.2.4 Manual Size Data Entry

Details manually entering stored fixed size document data using panel switches.

6.3.3.2.2.5 Document Re-Sizing

Advises resetting or power cycling for periodic fixed length document changes.

6.3.3.2.2.6 Reporting Document Length

6.3.4 Host Determination of Form Size – Registration Marked Forms

7.0 PRINTER PROGRAMABLE CONFIGURATION SETTINGS

7.1 Overview

Overviews the four areas of printer programmability: resistors, EEPROM, output detection, and customizations.

7.1.1 I/O PCB Configuration resistors and configuration straps

Details factory settable resistors and straps on the I/O PCB that identify system features.

7.1.2 Printer EEPROM Parameter Storage

Refers to section 10.0 for information on parameters stored in the EEPROM memory.

7.1.3 Paper Output Delivery Option Detection

Explains the automatic detection of attached paper output delivery options via jumpers.

7.1.4 Special Customization

Mentions factory accommodation of special customizations for large order volumes.

8.0 DATA AND AUXILIARY INTERFACES

8.1 IEEE-1284 Parallel Data Interface

Describes the plug-in IEEE-1284 Parallel Interface module as the standard printer interface.

8.1.1 Parallel Interface Cable

Specifies the need for a standard IEEE-1284 A-B style compliant cable.

8.1.2 Parallel Interface (IEEE-1284) Cable Schematic

Refers to section 18.16 for the IEEE-1284 parallel interface cable schematic.

8.1.3 Parallel Interface Pin-out Table

Refers to section 18.15 for the parallel interface pin-out table.

8.1.4 Parallel Port Signaling

Explains Compatibility mode signaling and Nibble Mode for reverse channel communications.

8.2 USB Data Interface

Describes the USB 2.0 Full Speed compliant interface as an alternate data option.

8.2.1 USB Data Interface Cable

Specifies the use of a standard USB A-B cable for the USB interface.

8.3 Data Interface Cable Quality

Emphasizes the need for high-quality shielded cables for EMI/EMC compliance and signal integrity.

8.4 Auxiliary I/O Connector

Describes the auxiliary I/O connector, primarily for low paper sensors.

8.4.1 Auxiliary I/O Pin-out

Refers to section 18.14 for the auxiliary I/O connector pin-out.

9.0 ERROR CODES

9.1 Annunciations

Describes the use of sequential beeper tones and ATTN/ERR LED flashes for error codes.

9.2 Sequence Length

Explains that flash/beep sequences are arranged into three groups based on length.

9.3 Weighted Positions

Details how flash/beep signals represent binary weights (1 for long, 0 for short) for error codes.

9.4 Counted

Explains how to determine the error code by counting weighted long flash/beep signals.

9.5 Example

Provides an example demonstrating the process of determining an error code from a sequence.

9.6 Error Code Table

9.7 Error Code Table Notes

9.8 Error Code Table Information

9.9 Error Code Computation

10.0 EEPROM PRINTER PARAMETER STORAGE MEMORY

10.1 EEPROM Overview

Overviews the EEPROM memory's role in storing parameters like print intensity and low paper reactions.

10.2 EEPROM Change Menu Operation

Guides users on accessing and operating the EEPROM change menu for parameter modification.

10.3 Active and In-active Menu Line

Explains how active and inactive menu lines are displayed and navigated within the EEPROM menu.

10.4 EEPROM Menu #1 Printout

Shows an example printout of the first EEPROM parameter menu, listing various settings.

10.5 EEPROM Menu #1 Parameters

10.5.1 Print Intensity

Explains the Print Intensity parameter, affecting dot energy and print darkness.

10.5.2 Print Energy Table

Describes the selection between Standard and Alternate tables for print energy and speed.

10.5.3 IPS Clamp

Explains the IPS Clamp parameter for limiting maximum print speed and smoothing performance.

10.5.4 Power Supply

Details the Power Supply parameter, allowing selection between 60W and 130W options.

10.5.5 Interface Control

Describes interface control selections, such as NO PARALLEL ACK and ACK timing.

10.5.6 Beeper Control

Explains how to control the printer's beeper for alert sounds, with ON/OFF options.

10.5.7 Low Paper Actions

Details printer responses to low paper conditions, including STATUS ONLY and WARNING ONLY.

10.5.8 Purge Spooler on Error

10.5.9 Configuration Misc.

10.6 EEPROM Menu #2 Printout

10.7 EEPROM Menu #2 Parameters

10.7.1 Paper Backup

Explains the Paper Backup parameter, enabling or disabling document backup at print cycle start.

10.7.2 Change Stored Size: Form Size 10's, 1's, 0.1's, 0.01's

Details how to incrementally change the stored form size digits via the EEPROM menu.

10.7.3 Stored Size

Explains that stored size data is used by the host for registration marked forms.

10.7.4 Form Control

Covers the Form Control parameter, allowing selection of strap configuration or forced modes.

10.7.5 End of Document Length

10.7.6 Autosize

10.7.7 Minimum Form Length

10.7.8 Status Pointer

10.7.9 Blocked Output Jam Error Control

10.7.10 Document Not Taken Control

10.8 EEPROM Menu #3 Printout

10.9 EEPROM Menu #3 Parameters

10.9.1 Parallel Interface

Explains Parallel Interface modes (Compatibility, ECP Mode) and their PC/OS dependencies.

10.9.2 Low Paper Cable Detection

10.10 EEPROM Factory Defaults

11.0 PRINTER STATUS INFORMATION

11.1 ITK 38 Printer Status Overview

Provides an overview of the three types of status information the printer offers.

11.1.1 Operator Status

Explains operator status via panel LEDs, error codes, and beeper feedback.

11.1.2 Parallel Interface - Compatibility Mode Status

Describes the legacy Centronics status signals (Busy, PError, Select, nFault).

11.1.3 Parallel IEEE 1284 Interface Standard

Introduces the IEEE-1284 standard for bi-directional parallel peripheral interfaces.

11.1.4 Parallel Interface IEEE-1284 Reverse Channel Status

Explains how to read detailed printer status via the IEEE-1284 reverse channel.

11.1.4.1 Requesting Status Data

Details how reading the parallel port requests status data from the printer.

11.1.4.2 Reverse Channel Status Data Types

Lists the two types of status data requests: IEEE 1284 ID String and Detailed Status.

11.1.4.3 Reverse Channel - Detailed Status - Application Program Reading Protocol

11.1.4.4 Reverse Channel Speed

11.2 Selection of Detailed Status Information

11.2.1 Status Data Request

Explains that reading the parallel port requests status data, defaulting to Default Status Group.

11.2.2 Status Group Selection Commands

11.2.3 Status Information Data Organization

11.2.3.1 IEEE 1284 ID String Format (Plug & Play ID String Reverse Channel Status)

Describes the format of the IEEE 1284 ID String for Plug and Play device identification.

11.2.3.2 Detailed Status Format (Normal Reverse Channel Status)

Explains the format of detailed status information, including group and field IDs.

11.2.3.2.1 Status Field Format

11.2.3.2.2 Status Field Notes

11.2.3.2.3 Status Field Descriptions

11.2.3.2.4 Short Status Group

11.2.3.2.4.1 Short Status Group – Bit Status Format

Details the Bit Status Format for the Short Status Group, organized into bytes and bits.

11.2.3.2.5 Normal Status Group

11.2.3.2.6 Extended Status Group

11.2.3.2.7 Complete Status Group

11.2.3.2.8 Addressed Status Group

11.2.3.2.9 Bit Flag Data - Status Field 00

11.2.3.2.10 Error Code - Status Field 01

11.2.3.2.11 Document Count - Status Field 02

11.2.3.2.12 Printhead Temperature – Status Field 03

11.2.3.2.13 Form Length - Status Field 04

11.2.3.2.13.1 Reporting Document Length

Explains how form length is reported in 1/100" increments, considering autosizing or stored values.

11.2.3.2.14 Firmware Version - Status Field 05

11.2.3.2.15 Plug & Play ID String - Status Field 08

11.2.3.2.16 Product Electronic Serial Number - Status Field 09

11.2.3.2.17 Capabilities – Status Field 11

11.2.3.2.18 Flash Ready Acknowledge Status – Status Field 15

11.2.4 Field 01 Error Code List

12.0 OPERATOR RE-PROGRAMMING OF FLASH MEMORY PROCEDURE

12.1 General

Provides a general overview of the firmware reprogramming process.

12.2 Requirements

Lists the necessary items and conditions required to load new firmware.

12.3 Entering the Flash Load Mode

Explains the three methods for entering the Flash Memory Reprogramming Mode.

12.4 Flash Loading Process

Details the process of copying the firmware data file to the printer's parallel interface.

12.5 Warning

Provides warnings regarding LED indicators and potential issues during flash loading.

12.6 Flash Loading Completion

Describes the indicators of successful flash loading and the printer's reset sequence.

12.7 Flash Loading Time

12.8 Firmware Data Files

13.0 HOST RE-PROGRAMMING OF FLASH MEMORY PROCEDURE

13.1 Overview

Overviews the process of reprogramming Flash memory to add features or correct errors.

13.2 Flash Memory Reprogramming Mode Entry

Explains manual and command-driven methods for entering the Flash Memory Reprogramming Mode.

13.2.1 Manual Entry

Details the manual entry procedure using front panel switches and power-on.

13.2.2 Command Entry

Describes the command-driven method for automatic reprogramming via host computer.

13.3 Flash Read Only Memory Organization

Explains the organization of Flash memory into Boot-Sector and Program Data Sector.

13.4 Firmware Binary Data Files

Describes firmware binary data files, their naming conventions, and suffixes (.BIN, .FUL).

13.5 Flash Memory Reprogramming Actions

13.6 Command Driven Process for Reprogramming the Flash Memory

13.6.1 Command Driven Process Details

14.0 APPLICATIONS PROGRAMMER INFORMATION

14.1 Printer Utility DLL

Refers to section 2.8.1.6 for details on the Printer Utility DLL for programmers.

14.2 Document Page Lengths

Explains pre-defined page sizes and how applications can enumerate and change them.

14.3 Status String Selection

Discusses selecting alternate status strings and avoiding port deadlocks due to interface busy conditions.

14.4 Status and Spooler Management

Advises on requesting printer status before/after documents and releasing the port on errors.

14.5 Document Re-Present (eject) and Dispose Commands

Lists escape sequences for re-presenting or disposing documents with the transport presenter.

15.0 MAINTENANCE

15.1 Printer Assembly- Maintenance Points

Identifies key maintenance points on the printer assembly, including screws and sensors.

15.2 Paper Registration Mark Sensor

Details the importance of cleaning the paper registration mark sensor to ensure proper operation.

15.3 Printhead Alignment & Pressure Cam

Explains factory settings for printhead alignment and pressure cam, advising against modification.

15.4 Printhead Cleaning

Describes periodic cleaning of the printhead and drive roller to remove residue and dust.

15.4.1 Printhead Cleaning Diagnostic Mode

15.4.2 Printhead Cleaning Sheets

15.5 Documentation Presenter / Jam Sensors

15.6 Sensor Access and Alignment Adjustments

15.7 Document Jam – Requiring Removal of the Head

16.0 DIAGNOSTIC

16.1 General

Provides a general overview of the printer's diagnostic capabilities.

16.2 Off-line Switch Operations

Refers to section 4.3 for basic printer functions used for verification.

16.3 Power On Switch

Explains how to access maintenance and special factory test functions via power-on switch entry.

16.4 Diagnostics

Details accessing special functions, burn-in, and cut tests via the power-on switch entry.

16.4.1 Special Functions

Describes special functions like Autosize, EEPROM Reset, and PH ADJ.

16.4.2 Burn-in and Cut Tests

Mentions burn-in and cut tests used by the factory for continuous cycling operations.

16.5 Hex Dump Mode

Explains Hex Dump Mode for printing received data in hex and ASCII format for verification.

16.5.1 Data Rate Measurement Test

Details the Data Rate Measurement Test for assessing port data delivery rate.

16.6 Printhead Cleaning Mode

Describes the Printhead Cleaning Mode for driving the paper advance roller for cleaning.

17.0 POWER INFORMATION

17.1 D.C. Power Input

Details the printer's use of external 24V, 60W or 130W power supplies.

17.2 Power Management

Explains the printer's power management technique for operating efficiently with power supplies.

17.3 Power Supply Requirements

Lists detailed specifications for output voltage, current, temperature, and input voltage.

17.3.1 Power Supply Additional Requirements

Advises on using shielded DC output cables and considering dynamic load for alternate supplies.

18.0 APPENDIX

18.1 Printer Specifications

Provides a summary of printer specifications, including print method, speed, width, and printhead details.

System Requirements

Printer Drivers

Regulatory Compliance

Environment

Interface

Options

Power

Weight

18.3 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – Cutter with Disposing Transport-Presenter

18.4 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – Optional Output Extension

18.5 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – Cutter with Output Protection Chamber

18.6 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – Cutter Only Output

18.7 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – Tearbar with Output Protection Chamber

18.8 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – Fanfold Paper Tray Model # ATX-FFPHLP

18.9 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – Large (10" diameter) Paper Roll Holder

18.10 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – Standard (6"/8" diameter) Paper Roll Holder

18.11 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – 60 Watt Power Supply

18.12 ITK 38 Printer Dimensional Drawings – 130 Watt Power Supply

18.13 Connector Pin-out – 8 Pin Power Connector

18.14 Connector Pin-out – 8 Pin Auxiliary Connector

18.15 Connector Pin-out 26 Pin Parallel Connector

18.16 IEEE-1284 Parallel A-B Cable Schematic

18.17 Test Document (Small)

18.18 Test Document (Large)