Zebra Technologies 170PAX2TM Appendix B, Printer Communications Interface Technical Information

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Appendix B

Printer Communications Interface Technical Information

System Considerations

Communications Code — The printer sends and receives American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII). This code consists of 128 characters (256 for Code Page 850) including upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, punctuation marks, and various control codes.

Interfaces — The method of interfacing the printer to a data source depends on the communication options installed in the printer and the host. The standard interfaces are an RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 serial data port and a Centronics-compatible parallel port. Optional IBM Twinax, IBM Coax and Ethernet options are available for those applications which require them.

Data Specifications — When communicating via an asynchronous serial data port (RS-232/RS-422/ RS-485), the baud rate, number of data and stop bits, the parity, and the XON/XOFF or DTR control are user-selectable and should be set to match those of the host computer. When communicating via the Centronics-compatible parallel port, the previously mentioned parameters are not considered. Refer to “Configuration and Calibration” to configure the communication parameters for the printer.

Interface Considerations

RS-232– A serial communication method consisting of data and control signals; available as a standard feature on most PCs and other hosts.

Advantages: Cables and connectors are readily available from computer equipment stores and suppliers; easy to connect; two-way communication between the host and the printer. Disadvantages: Slower than the parallel connection; limited to 50 feet (15.24 meters) of cable.

RS-422– A single-user current loop serial communication method.

Advantages: Longer cable length up to 4000 feet (1219.2 m); greater immunity to data corruption caused by industrial motors and fluorescent lights; two-way communication between the host and the printer.

Disadvantages: Not commonly available on standard PCs without additional hardware; slower than the parallel connection.

RS-485– A multiple-user current loop serial communication method that is used to support multiple printers connected to a single host.

Advantages: Longer cable length up to 4000 feet (1219.2 m); greater immunity to data corruption caused by industrial motors and fluorescent lights; two-way communication between the host and the printer.

Disadvantages: Not commonly available on standard PCs without additional hardware; slower than the parallel connection.

Centronics-compatible Parallel – This is a common communication method available on most PCs and other hosts.

Advantages: Fastest of the four communication interfaces; cables and connectors are readily available from computer equipment stores and suppliers; easy to connect.

Disadvantages: One-way communication (the serial port is used to send printer status to the host); shorter recommended cable length of 6 feet (1.83 m).

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Contents Zebra 170PAX2 -Series User ’s Guide Canadian DOC Compliance Statement Proprietary StatementProduct Improvements FCC Compliance StatementContents 170PAX2-Series User’s Guide OptionsPrint Engine Mounting IntroductionZebra 170PAX2 Print Engine Getting StartedCable Connections Printer PowerMedia Loading Media & Ribbon LoadingMedia Loading Left-Hand Units Right Hand Units Ribbon LoadingLeft Hand Units Removing Used RibbonTransmissive Media Sensor Media Sensor PositionReflective Media Sensor 170PAX2-Series User’s Guide Front Panel Keys Power On/Off SwitchPrinter Operation Control Panel Keys Front Panel Indicator Lights LEDsLiquid Crystal Display Leaving the Program Mode Configuration and CalibrationEntering the Program Mode Changing Password-Protected ParametersSetting Darkness Configuration ProcessSetting Print Parameters Selecting the Sensor Type Setting the Tear Off PositionSelecting the Print Mode Selecting the Media TypeSelecting the Print Method Setting the Print WidthSetting the Maximum Label Length Label Feed Listing Printer Information Initialize Card Sensor Profile Media and Ribbon Sensor CalibrationMedia and Ribbon Calibration Setting the Data Bits Setting Communication ParametersSetting the Host Port Setting the Baud RateSetting the Protocol Setting the ParitySetting the Stop Bits Setting the Host HandshakeSetting the Communications Mode Setting the Network IDDelimiter Character Selecting Prefix and Delimiter CharactersControl Prefix Character Format Prefix CharacterMedia Power Up Selecting ZPL ModeSetting Ribbon Tension Power Up and Head Close ParametersBackfeed Sequence Label Positioning ParametersHead Close Label Top Position Setting the Label Top PositionLeft Position 170 PAX2-Series User’s Guide Setting the Left PositionVerifier Port Head Test FunctionHead Resistance Applicator Port Setting the Applicator PortPrinting Controls Setting the Start Print SignalSetting the Resync Mode Sensor Values Selecting the Ribbon Low FeatureReprint Mode Selecting the Liquid Crystal Display LCD Language LCD AdjustPrinter Language Cleaning the Interior Care & AdjustmentsCleaning Cleaning the ExteriorSensor Locations Right-Hand Unit Shown Cleaning the Printhead and Platen RollerToggle Positioning Printhead Pressure AdjustmentPrinthead Pressure Right-Hand Unit Shown Power On Self Test TroubleshootingFor Direct Thermal Power On TroubleshootingPrinter Troubleshooting For Thermal TransferStoring Format Explanation of Errors Creating BitmapStoring Bitmap Building FormatFirst calibrate the printer, then CC , CT , and CD Introduction Cancel Key Self TestPrinter Self Tests Pause Key Test Sample Printout 170PAX2-Series User’s Guide Pause Key Self TestFeed Key Self Test Feed Key Self TestParameter Controlled by Feed Key and Pause KeyResults of Communications Diagnostic Test Communications Diagnostics TestZebraNet Micro Print Server MPS OptionsSingle In-line Memory Module Simm Communication Interfaces170PAX2-Series User’s Guide Printing Considerations Printer SpecificationsMedia Specifications Ribbon SpecificationsBar Codes Communications SpecificationsZebra Programming Language ZPL Standard Printer Fonts Fuses MemoryPhysical ElectricalAppendix a AC Power Cord RequirementsPower Fuse Replacement AC Power Cord SpecificationsShipping Installing a FuseInterface Considerations Appendix BPrinter Communications Interface Technical Information System ConsiderationsRS-232/RS-422/RS-485 Pinouts RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 Serial Data PortPin to 25-Pin Interconnecting Cable RS-422/RS-485 Interconnecting Cable Centronics-Compatible Parallel Data Port Cabling Requirements Applicator Interface ConnectorDB-15 Connector Printer to Applicator See the Configuration and Calibration section Fuse 1 JP1 JP2 Appendix C Ascii Code Chart170PAX2-Series User’s Guide Appendix D Adjusting Darkness For In-Spec Bar CodesBar Code Darkness Comparison In-SpecAppendix E Installation InformationFront View of Right Hand Printer 451 748 11.45 mm 222.2 mm 170PAX2-Series User’s Guide Glossary Glossary Printer configuration See configuration 170PAX2-Series User’s Guide Index Index Index Page Page Zebra Technologies Corporation

170PAX2TM specifications

Zebra Technologies, a leader in industrial printing solutions, offers the 170PAX2TM printer, a versatile and robust solution targeted towards high-performance applications. Designed for industrial environments, the 170PAX2TM stands out for its advanced features and technologies that elevate operational efficiency and streamline workflows.

One of the key features of the 170PAX2TM is its exceptional printing speed. Capable of producing high-quality labels at a rapid pace, this printer significantly reduces the time required for label production, making it an ideal choice for businesses with large-scale printing needs. The printer supports a broad range of media types and sizes, allowing users to create everything from small labels to larger tags with ease.

Another hallmark of the 170PAX2TM is its rugged design. Built to endure the demanding conditions of industrial settings, this printer features a durable housing that can withstand impacts, dust, and moisture. This durability ensures long-term performance and reliability, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

In addition to its robust build, the 170PAX2TM incorporates state-of-the-art printing technologies. It utilizes direct thermal and thermal transfer printing methods, providing flexibility for various label materials. The printer's advanced thermal printhead technology ensures sharp, clear images and text, which is essential for barcode clarity and scannability.

The 170PAX2TM also boasts user-friendly features, including a large LCD display that simplifies navigation and operation. With intuitive controls, users can easily adjust settings, monitor print jobs, and perform maintenance tasks with minimal training. The printer also supports various connectivity options, including USB, Serial, and Ethernet, making integration into existing systems straightforward.

The device is also designed with energy efficiency in mind. It features power-saving modes that help reduce energy consumption, contributing to a greener, more sustainable workplace. Additionally, its smaller footprint allows it to fit seamlessly into any production line without taking up excessive space.

Overall, Zebra Technologies' 170PAX2TM printer combines speed, durability, and advanced printing capabilities, making it an invaluable asset for businesses looking to enhance their labeling processes. Whether in warehousing, manufacturing, or distribution, the 170PAX2TM delivers dependable performance that meets the high demands of today's industrial environments.
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