4–2 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Printer Self-Test
A sequence of automatic tests is performed during printer power-up. If any faults
are detected at that time, an error message will display (see Table 4–2).
Printer operation should also be verified before setting the printer for on-line
operation. This is is done by running the printer internal self-test diagnostic
program, which will produce a selection of printed test labels. Refer to Chapter 3,
“Configuring the Printer,” for instructions.
The Test Print program can be enabled from the printer through the secondary
operator panel diagnostics menu (a Service Menu selection only), and provides
the capability for printing a selected number of checkerboard, grid or gray test
pattern labels.
NOTE: Before attempting to print test labels, the printer must be properly
setup for the type of media installed (see the Paper Control and
Printer Control menu selections on pages 3–25 through 3–33).

Printing Test Labels

The printer has a built-in function that prints a selected number of test labels
using a checkerboard, grid or gray test pattern. The patterns are useful for
isolating printer faults and checking print quality.
Troubleshooting Common Situations
Occasionally, situations occur that require some troubleshooting skill. Possible
problem situations and potential solutions are listed in this section. While not
every conceivable situation is addressed here, you may find some of these tips
helpful. Contact a qualified service technician for problems that persist or are not
covered in this section.

Improving Processing Time

Before looking at solutions for decreasing processing time and increasing
throughput, it may help to understand what happens during processing. When
the printer receives a format command, it enters the label formatting mode. Label
formatting requires time to process the label data into the printer buffers.