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Fargo Electronics, Inc.

Firmware Upgrades (as of 10/07/03)

Reference Technical Update No. 53 (dated 02/27/2003). These Firmware Upgrades are for the HDP720 (V2.2.x) and HDP820/820-LC (V2.0.2) Card Printer/Encoders.

Improvement No. 1 (unique error codes): Upper and Lower Film errors are now

displayed with unique error codes. In both Firmware versions, the message is: “Film (Upper)-xxx.” A unique code is mapped to every possible Upper and Lower Film error. The “xxx” is a three digit code that is different for each Film error. (Technician Note: When off-site Technicians contact Fargo Technical Support with a “Film (Upper)-xxx” error, they can now provide our in-house Technicians with a unique error code for a more precise exchange of information.)

The Printer/Encoder now decides when it can and cannot recover from Upper Film errors. For example, if an image has already been transferred to a card during a batch job (and the User encounters an Upper Film error), the Printer/Encoder displays the error without the Resume option. Canceling the print job is the best recovery method and the User must cancel the job from the PC and re-send the job when the Printer/Encoder is ready. (Technician Note: Additionally, the Printer/Encoder will not allow the User to resume from an Upper Film error if the job is no longer resident in the unit’s memory.)

Improvement No. 2 (auto-recovery):Another improvement to this type of error handling is auto-recovery. Since the Printer/Encoder can determine which Upper Film errors are recoverable and which are not, it can automatically decide to reprint an image. For example, if the Printer/Encoder encounters an unexpected Upper Film error while it is printing, it will attempt to reprint the image. (Technician Note: The reprinting process includes the abandonment of the current section of Film, queuing the next fresh Film Panel and starting the job over from the beginning. Should the Printer/Encoder encounter another Upper Film error on the same job, the Printer/Encoder then displays the Film Error message (with the error code) and provides the User with the Cancel and Resume options. Pressing Resume directs the Printer/Encoder to again attempt to reprint the image from scratch. The Cancel key will reboot the unit.)

Improvement No. 3 (prevention of circular Film errors): Another improvement to this type of error handling is the prevention of “circular” Film errors. When the User presses the Resume key in previous versions of the Firmware, the Printer/Encoder often displayed another Film Error message shortly after Resume was pressed. Press Resume after an Upper Film error to direct the Printer/Encoder to realign the Film and reprint the job. (Technician Note: These Upper and Lower Film errors and their auto- recovery attempts, are logged in the LCD Error Count as “Unique Film” errors.)

Improvement No. 4 (auto-Film realignment): Another improvement to the Film handling is the addition of an auto-Film realignment feature. Should the Printer/Encoder experience an error while aligning the Film (most likely following a boot-up or Cover close), it will automatically attempt to realign the Film. (Technician Note: As with Upper Film errors, if another error is encountered during the alignment phase, then the error is posted to the LCD screen. Pressing Resume attempts to align the Film again. Pressing Cancel reboots the Printer/Encoder.)

HDP￿ 800 Series Card Printer/Encoders Service Manual (Rev. 5.0)

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FARGO electronic HDP820 service manual Firmware Upgrades as of 10/07/03

HDP820 specifications

The FARGO electronic HDP820 is a high-definition printer particularly renowned for its advanced technologies and exceptional performance in producing high-quality ID cards and badges. This printer is designed to meet the demands of organizations requiring efficient and reliable card personalization.

One of the key features of the HDP820 is its retransfer technology. Unlike traditional direct-to-card printers, the HDP820 utilizes a unique process where the image is first printed onto a transfer film, which is then heat-transferred onto the card surface. This method allows for sharp, vibrant images and ensures that the entire card surface can be printed, including the edges, without any white borders. The resulting cards are both durable and visually striking, making them ideal for identification, access control, and other security purposes.

The HDP820 also boasts a high speed and high volume output. It is capable of producing up to 120 cards per hour, significantly speeding up the card production process for large organizations. This efficiency is further enhanced by its dual-sided printing capability, allowing for the simultaneous printing on both sides of the card without sacrificing speed.

Another notable feature is the printer's versatility. The HDP820 supports a wide range of card types, including PVC, composite PVC, and even smart cards. This flexibility enables organizations to utilize the printer for various applications, from employee badges to member cards and more.

Security features are also integrated into the HDP820. The printer supports advanced encryption and data protection protocols, ensuring that sensitive information printed on cards remains secure. This is critical for businesses handling confidential information, as well as for government entities dealing with security assets.

Additionally, the HDP820 is equipped with a user-friendly interface. The printer includes an LCD display that allows users to monitor the printing process, check status updates, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. This accessibility makes it easier for operators to maintain the printer and ensures smooth operation.

In summary, the FARGO electronic HDP820 combines advanced retransfer technology, high-speed performance, versatility in card types, security features, and user-friendly design. This makes it a top choice for organizations looking for a reliable and efficient solution for their card printing needs. Whether for operational efficiency or security purposes, the HDP820 stands out in the market as a leading choice for ID card production.