Troubleshooting 145

Print Quality Problems

Table 12 • Print Quality Problems (Continued)

Problem

Possible Cause

Recommended Solution

 

 

 

Vertical drift in

Normal tolerances of

1. Calibrate the printer.

top-of-form position

mechanical parts and printer

2. Adjust the label top position setting. See

 

modes.

Adjust Label Top Position on page 82.

 

Note • A vertical drift of

 

 

± 4 to 6 dot rows

 

 

(approximately 0.5 mm)

 

 

is within normal

 

 

tolerances.

 

 

 

 

 

The printer is out of calibration.

Recalibrate the printer.

 

 

 

 

The platen roller is dirty.

Clean the platen roller. See Clean the Printhead

 

 

and Platen Roller on page 125.

 

 

 

Vertical image or

The printer is using

Configure the printer for non-continuous and run

label drift

noncontinuous labels but is

calibration routine, if necessary.

 

configured in continuous mode.

 

 

 

 

 

The media sensor is positioned

Ensure that the media sensor is properly

 

incorrectly.

positioned to read a single/consistent interlabel

 

 

gap.

 

 

 

 

The media sensor is calibrated

See Calibrate Media and Ribbon Sensor

 

improperly.

Sensitivity on page 77.

 

 

 

 

The platen roller is dirty.

Clean the platen roller. See Clean the Printhead

 

 

and Platen Roller on page 125.

 

 

 

 

Improper printhead pressure

Adjust the printhead pressure to ensure proper

 

settings (toggles).

functionality.

 

 

 

 

Improperly loaded ribbon or

Verify that the printer is loaded properly.

 

media.

 

 

 

 

 

Incompatible media.

Ensure that the interlabel gaps or notches are 2 to

 

 

4 mm and consistently placed. Media must not

 

 

exceed minimum specifications for mode of

 

 

operation.

 

 

 

The bar code printed

The bar code is not within

Perform the FEED Self Test on page 154. Adjust

on a label does not

specifications because the print

the darkness or print speed settings as necessary.

scan.

is too light or too dark.

 

 

 

 

 

Not enough blank space around

Leave at least 1/8 in. (3.2 mm) between the bar

 

the bar code.

code and other printed areas on the label and

 

 

between the bar code and the edge of the label.

 

 

 

1/11/07

X-Plus II User Guide

14068L-001 Rev. A