Zebra Technologies GC420t manual Managing the ZPL Printer Configuration

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Managing the ZPL Printer Configuration

Managing the ZPL Printer Configuration

The ZPL printer is designed to allow you to change printer settings dynamically for fast first label out printing. Printer parameters that are persistent, will be retained for following formats to use. Those settings will remain in effect until they are changed by subsequent commands, the printer is reset, power is cycled, or when you restore a parameter that has a factory default by using the Feed Button Mode four (4) flash routine. The ZPL Configuration Update command (^JU) saves and restores printer configurations to initialize (or re-initialize) the printer with pre-configured settings.

•To keep settings after a power cycle or printer reset, a ^JUS can be sent to the printer to save all current persistent settings.

•The values are recalled with a ^JUR command to restore the last saved values to you printer.

ZPL stores all parameters at once with a single command discussed above. The legacy EPL programming language (supported by this printer) changes and saves individual commands immediately. Most configuration and settings are shared between ZPL and EPL. For example, changing the speed setting with EPL will also change the speed set for ZPL operations. The changed EPL setting will persist even after a power cycle or reset issued by either printer language.

To assist the developer, the printer has a listing of the operating parameters, a Printer Configuration Label. It can be accessed by using the printer’s Feed button and the Printing a Test (Printer Configuration) Label on page 19. The Zebra Setup Utility and the ZebraDesigner™ Windows driver also print this label and other printer status labels to help you manage your printer.

ZPL Printer Configuration Format

Managing more than one printer can be done creating a printer configuration programming file to send to one or more printers or ZebraNet™ Bridge can be used to clone a printer’s setup. Figure 1 below shows the basic structure of a ZPL programming configuration file.

See the ZPL programmer’s guide and the ZPL Configuration Status to Command Cross- reference on page 89 to create a programming file. The Zebra Setup Utility (ZSU) can be used to send programming files to the printer. Windows Notepad (text editor) can be used to create programing files.

Figure 1 • Configuration Parameter Format Structure

P1052686-001

GC420t™ User Guide

5/22/2012

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Contents Zebra GC420t P1052686-001 GC420t User Guide 22/2012 Iii FCC Compliance Statement Contents About This DocumentWho Should Use This Document How This Document Is OrganizedContacts Mail Back Technical LibraryDocument Conventions Icons UsedContents Print Operations Appendix Dimensions P1052686-001 GC420t User Guide 22/2012 Introduction GC420t Thermal Printers What’s in the Box? Unpack and Inspect the PrinterYour Printer Opening the printerPrinter Features Operator Controls Power Switch Feed Button Status LightClosing the printer Contents Getting StartedAttaching Power Loading Roll Media Preparing MediaPlacing the Roll in the Media Compartment Loading Roll Media Guides Loading Transfer Ribbon Loading Transfer Ribbon Loading Transfer Ribbon Loading Transfer Ribbon Printing a Test Printer Configuration Label Pre-install Windows Printer Drivers Universal Serial Bus USB Device Communications Serial Port and Windows operating systemsConnecting your Printer to a Computer Interface Cable RequirementsUSB Interface Requirements Serial Communications AutobaudEPL Y Command Parallel Port Testing Communications by Printing After Your Printer is ConnectedAfter Your Printer is Connected Print Operations Long Term Printer In-activity or Storage Determining Printer ConfigurationThermal Printing Modes of Printing Print Media TypesTypes of Media Roll and Fanfold Media Determining Thermal Media Types Replacing SuppliesAdding a New Transfer Ribbon Adjusting the Print Quality Adjusting the Print WidthReplacing a Partially Used Transfer Ribbon Media Sensing Ribbon Overview When to Use RibbonCoated Side of Ribbon Ribbon Test with Adhesive Ribbon Scratch TestPrinting on Fan-Fold Media Printing on Fan-Fold Media Printing with Externally Mounted Roll Media Externally Mounted Roll Media ConsiderationsFonts and Your Printer Localizing the Printer with Code PagesIdentifying Fonts in Your Printer ZPL FontsStand Alone Printing Sending Files to the Printer Print Meter Printer Options Label Dispenser Option XA MMP XZLabel Dispenser Option Label Dispenser Option Zebra KDU Printer Accessory KDU Plus Printer Accessory ZBI 2.0 Zebra Basic Interpreter ZBI 2.0 Zebra Basic Interpreter Maintenance Cleaning See Cleaning the Printhead onCleaning the Printhead Media Path Considerations Sensor Cleaning Platen Cleaning and Replacement Maintenance Other Printer Maintenance Replacing the Printhead Maintenance Unplug both bundles of printhead wires from their connectors Maintenance Troubleshooting Status Light Descriptions Status Light Error Resolutions Printhead is over temperature Media is outRibbon is out Printhead is openNo print on the label Print Quality ProblemsPrinted image does not look right Print Quality Problems Is the printer in pause mode? If so, press the Feed button Manual Calibration Printing a Configuration Label Troubleshooting TestsRecalibration Resetting the Factory Default Values Communications DiagnosticsCommunications Diagnostics Feed Button Modes Flash Sequence ActionPower On Modes Feed Button Modes Appendix Interface Wiring Universal Serial Bus USB Interface Parallel Interface HostConnecting the Printer to a DCE Device Serial Port InterfaceAppendix Dimensions External GC420t Printer Dimensions Optional Label Dispenser External GC420t Printer Dimensions Appendix ZPL Configuration Managing the ZPL Printer Configuration ZPL Printer Configuration FormatZPL Configuration Status to Command Cross-reference Configuration Label PrintoutDefault 65536k.......B only displays this if installed Printer Memory Management and Related Status Reports ZPL Programming for Memory Management~WC Printer Memory Management and Related Status Reports

GC420t specifications

Zebra Technologies GC420t is a compact and versatile thermal transfer printer designed for a variety of printing applications. This printer is particularly favored in retail, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics due to its robust performance and user-friendly features.

One of the standout characteristics of the GC420t is its print speed. This printer can achieve speeds of up to 5 inches per second, making it efficient for high-volume printing tasks. With a maximum print resolution of 203 dpi, the GC420t produces clear and legible labels, receipts, and tags, which is essential in environments where accurate information is critical.

The GC420t utilizes thermal transfer technology, which involves the use of a ribbon to transfer ink onto the substrate. This method is particularly beneficial for producing high-quality prints that are resistant to smudging, scratching, and fading. This durability makes it suitable for labeling products that require a long-lasting solution.

In addition to its printing capabilities, the GC420t features a user-friendly design. The printer's simple setup and intuitive control panel make it easy for users to operate without the need for extensive training. The included ZPL II and EPL programming languages enable seamless integration into existing systems, further enhancing the ease of use.

The GC420t is also equipped with diverse connectivity options, including USB, serial, and parallel interfaces. This flexibility allows for easy integration into various environments and simplifies the connection to computers and other devices. Moreover, the printer's compact design ensures it can fit comfortably in small spaces, making it ideal for environments with limited room.

When it comes to media handling, the GC420t supports a wide range of label sizes and types. Whether you need to print shipping labels, barcode labels, or asset tags, this printer can accommodate your requirements. The adjustable media guides allow for quick and easy adjustments to suit different media types.

In conclusion, Zebra Technologies GC420t stands out as a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly thermal transfer printer. Its robust features, including high print speed, durable output, versatile connectivity options, and adaptability to various media types, make it an essential tool for businesses looking to enhance their labeling and printing processes. Whether in retail, healthcare, or logistics, the GC420t delivers performance and reliability that organizations require.
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