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Star Micronics BSC10 Series - User Manual

Star Micronics BSC10 Series
24 pages
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Hardware Manual
THERMAL PRINTER
BSC10
Series
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Summary

Unpacking and Installation

Unpacking

Check all necessary accessories are included in the package after unpacking the unit.

Notes about Installation

Guidelines for choosing a suitable environment and location for printer installation.

Parts Identification and Nomenclature

Overview of Printer Components

Identifies key external parts of the printer, including covers, control panel, and buttons.

External Connectors and Controls

Details the various ports and controls located on the printer's exterior for connectivity and operation.

Setup

Connecting the Interface Cable to the PC

Instructions for connecting the printer to a PC via USB, Parallel, RS-232C, and Ethernet cables.

Connecting the Interface Cable to the Printer

Procedures for connecting various interface cables, including USB and Parallel, to the printer.

RS-232 C and Ethernet Cable Connections

Details connecting RS-232C and Ethernet cables to the printer and network setup.

Ethernet Link Disconnection Feature

Explanation of the Ethernet interface's link disconnection detection and recovery features.

Dip Switch Settings for Ethernet

Configuration options for Ethernet functions using dip switches on the printer.

Connecting the AC Adapter

Step-by-step guide on connecting the AC adapter for power supply and recommended power specifications.

Turning Power On and Peripheral Device Connection

Procedures for turning the printer on and connecting peripheral devices like cash drawers.

Loading a Paper Roll

Instructions on how to properly load a paper roll into the printer.

Compliant Paper Roll Specifications

Details the required specifications for paper thickness, width, and dimensions for optimal performance.

Changing the Paper Width

Guide on adjusting the paper roll guide to accommodate different paper widths.

Setup Precautions

Important safety warnings and cautions to follow during the printer setup process.

LED Display

Error Indicators

Explanation of POWER and ERROR lamp states for identifying recoverable and unrecoverable printer errors.

Preventing and Removing Paper Jams

Preventing Paper Jams

Tips and procedures to avoid paper jams during normal printer operation.

Removing Paper Jams

Step-by-step guide on how to safely clear jammed paper from the printer.

Releasing the Cutter Lock

Procedure to release the auto cutter if it becomes locked during operation or paper jams.

Maintenance

Thermal Head Cleaning

Instructions for cleaning the thermal print head to maintain print quality and prevent damage.

Platen Rubber Roller Cleaning

Guide on cleaning the rubber roller to remove dirt and ensure proper paper feeding.

Paper Holder Cleaning

Steps for cleaning the paper holder to remove dust and debris.

Sensor Area Cleaning

Instructions for cleaning sensors to ensure accurate paper detection.

Overview

The BSC10 Series Thermal Printer is a robust and versatile device designed for efficient and reliable printing in various commercial environments. This hardware manual provides comprehensive instructions for unpacking, installation, setup, operation, and maintenance, ensuring users can maximize the printer's performance and longevity.

Function Description

The BSC10 Series Thermal Printer is primarily used for printing receipts, tickets, and other transactional documents. It operates using thermal printing technology, which means it does not require ink or toner, relying instead on heat to produce images on special thermal paper. This makes it a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution for businesses.

The printer is equipped with a control panel that features a FEED button, a POWER lamp (green), and an ERROR lamp (red). The FEED button allows for manual paper feeding when the printer is online, facilitating quick adjustments or paper advancement. The POWER lamp indicates when the printer is online and ready for operation, while the ERROR lamp signals various operational issues or errors, often in combination with the POWER lamp.

Connectivity options vary depending on the model. The BSC10UC/BSC10UD models typically offer an interface connector for connecting to a host PC via a cable and a USB port for USB cable connections. Both models also include a power inlet for an optional AC adapter and a peripheral drive connector for connecting devices such as cash drawers. It is crucial to note that the peripheral drive connector should not be connected to a telephone line to prevent malfunction.

The BSC10LAN model, designed for network environments, features a 100/10BASE Ethernet connector, allowing it to connect to various host computers via an Ethernet cable. This model also includes dip switches for setting Ethernet functions, such as DHCP address acquisition timeout and network settings reset. A unique feature of the Ethernet interface model is its link disconnection detection, where the POWER and ERROR lamps flash simultaneously to indicate a disconnected Ethernet cable or an unrecognized IP address.

The printer is designed to handle different paper widths, specifically 79.5 ± 0.5 mm and 57.5 ± 0.5 mm, with a maximum roll diameter of 102 mm. This flexibility allows users to adapt the printer to various printing needs. The paper roll guide can be adjusted to accommodate the desired paper width, a process that should be performed carefully and only when the printer is not in use to prevent wear and tear on internal components.

Usage Features

Setting up the BSC10 Series printer involves several key steps to ensure proper functionality. First, the printer should be placed on a firm, level surface, away from direct sunlight, heaters, and sources of extreme heat or humidity. It should also be connected to a reliable power outlet that is not shared with appliances causing power spikes.

Connecting the interface cable to the PC depends on the model and the available ports. For USB models, a USB cable connects to the PC's USB port. Parallel models use a parallel cable connected to the PC's parallel port, while RS-232C models require an RS-232C cable. For Ethernet models, the Ethernet cable connects to the PC's Ethernet port or a router/hub. Before connecting or disconnecting any interface cable, it is essential to disconnect the AC adapter's power cord from the outlet. Once connected, cables should be routed through the provided cable hooks to secure them in place.

Connecting the AC adapter is a critical step. Users must ensure the printer and all connected devices are turned off and the power cord is removed from the outlet before connecting the AC adapter to the printer and then plugging the power cable into an AC outlet. It is recommended to use the standard AC adapter and power cord. If using an optional power supply, it must meet specific voltage and current capacity requirements (24 VDC ± 10% and 2.1 A or more) and support SELV output, while also considering noise protection and static electricity measures.

Turning on the printer is straightforward: after connecting the power cord, the power switch on the left side of the printer is flipped, and the POWER lamp on the control panel should light up.

Loading a paper roll involves opening the rear cover by placing fingers in the grooves on either side of the printer. The paper roll is then loaded in the specified direction, and the leading edge is pulled straight out. It is crucial to pull the paper straight and not at an angle to prevent jams. After loading, the rear cover is closed by pushing on both sides, ensuring it is securely shut. The printer will perform initial operations, including paper feeding and cutting, during which the cover should not be opened.

Changing the paper width requires adjusting the paper roll guide. The guide is removed, then reinserted into the appropriate groove for the desired paper width (e.g., 58 mm or 80 mm). This adjustment should only be done when the printer is off, and the printer utility's memory switch setting should be updated to match the new paper width.

The printer also features a peripheral drive connector for devices like cash drawers. Connecting a modular jack plug from the peripheral device to this connector allows for integrated system functionality. Again, caution is advised against connecting telephone lines to this port.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the BSC10 Series printer operates efficiently and to prevent issues such as unprinted characters due to paper dust accumulation. As a guideline, maintenance should be performed every six months or every 1 million lines of printing. Crucially, the printer's power switch must be turned off before any maintenance is performed.

The thermal print head is a sensitive component that requires careful cleaning. Blackened paper dust can accumulate on its surface, affecting print quality. To clean it, a cotton swab or soft cloth dipped in alcohol (ethanol, methanol, or isopropyl) should be used to gently wipe the surface. Users must avoid touching the thermal head immediately after printing when it is hot, and care must be taken to prevent static electricity discharge, which can damage the head's driver IC and other components. Metal objects or abrasive materials like sandpaper should never be used on the thermal head.

The platen rubber roller, which helps feed the paper, can accumulate dirt. It should be cleaned with a dry, soft cloth, rotating the roller to clean its entire surface.

The paper holder should also be cleaned of any debris, dust, or paper particles that may accumulate over time.

Sensors and their surrounding areas are vital for proper printer operation, especially reflection sensors. If these become dirty, detection may not be performed correctly. Cleaning these areas with a brush or similar tool can help maintain their functionality.

In cases of paper jams, the first step is to turn off the power switch. The rear cover is then opened, and the jammed paper is carefully removed. If the rear cover cannot be opened, the cutter lock may need to be manually released. This involves removing the front cover, removing any visible jammed paper, and then turning a knob in front of the cutter in the direction of the red arrow until the rear cover can be opened. After clearing the jam, the paper roll is reloaded straight, the rear cover is securely closed, and the front cover is reattached before turning the power switch back on. It is important to ensure the ERROR lamp is not lit, indicating that the printer is ready to accept commands.

The manual also emphasizes several cautions:

  • Do not open printer covers while printing or cutting.
  • Do not pull out paper when the cover is closed.
  • If liquid or foreign objects enter the printer, turn off the power, disconnect it, and consult a dealer to avoid short-circuits, electric shock, or fire.
  • Avoid touching the thermal print head's heating element to prevent dirt and decreased print quality.
  • Do not operate the printer if there is moisture on the head's front surface.
  • Use recommended thermal paper, as other types, especially those with high ion densities (Na+, K+, Cl-), can drastically reduce the thermal print head's service life.
  • For optimal performance and to prevent paper jams, feed at least 1 mm of paper before printing and allow a margin of at least 5 mm from the end of the printed area to the cutting position when using the cutter.

These detailed instructions and warnings ensure that users can effectively maintain their BSC10 Series Thermal Printer, prolonging its operational life and ensuring consistent, high-quality performance.

Star Micronics BSC10 Series Specifications

General IconGeneral
Print Resolution203 dpi
Compatible PaperThermal paper roll
Print MethodThermal
ConnectivityBluetooth, USB
Battery LifeUp to 8 hours

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