Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance

4.5 ADJUSTING PRINT QUALITY

Print quality can be optimized with regular cleaning and maintenance of the print head and components along the label path. Additionally, you can fine-tune print quality by adjusting print darkness and print speed settings via the front panel PRINT potentiometer and via the control panel LCD menu.

4.5.1 Adjusting Print Darkness

This adjustment allows the user to control (within a specified range) the amount of power applied to the individual print head heat elements. It is important to find a proper print darkness level based on your particular label and ribbon combination. The printed images should not be too light nor should the ink from the ribbon “bleed.” The edges of each image should be crisp and well defined.

There are two levels of print darkness setting:

1.the hardware setting via the PRINT potentiometer (see picture above)

2.the software setting (via the PRINT DARKNESS menu when you turn the printer ON while press- ing the LINE and FEED buttons). The same setting can be achieved via the ESC+#E command (SBPL).

The hardware setting is the master setting, and affects all the software settings for print darkness. For example, the PRINT potentiometer adjustment will affect the darkness in all of the command code speed ranges, i.e. if the PRINT potentiometer is adjusted for lighter print, the darkness will be lighter in all speed ranges selected by the command code.

PRINT Potentiometer — To perform fine adjustment for print darkness, use the potentiometer labelled PRINT on the configuration panel. It provides a continuous range of adjustment, allowing you to make precise changes. Use a small cross-head screwdriver with a plastic head (not provided), turning clockwise for darker print and counterclockwise for lighter print. See Section 3: Configuration for instructions on performing potentiometer adjustments.

lighterdarker

Screwdriver with plastic head

LCD Panel — The Print Darkness can also be set from the configuration panel or by sending the Print Darkness software command from a computer. The setting range is not as fine as the potentiometer adjustment: there are only five settings, from 1 (lightest) to 5 (darkest). The default setting is 3. Once the range has been selected, the Darkness Potentiometer on the front panel can be used to make finer adjustments. For instructions on setting Print Darkness, refer to Section 3: Configuration.

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LM Basic 408e/412e Operator’s Manual

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SATO 408e, 412E manual Adjusting Print Quality, Adjusting Print Darkness
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412E, 408e specifications

The SATO 408e is a high-performance thermal transfer printer that stands out in the world of barcode and label printing, particularly known for its reliability and versatility. Designed for various industrial applications, this printer is well-suited for environments that require durable and efficient printing solutions.

One of the main features of the SATO 408e is its superior print quality. It utilizes advanced thermal transfer technology, allowing for crisp and clear printing at speeds of up to 10 inches per second. The printer is capable of producing sharp barcodes, text, and graphics, ensuring that labels meet high standards for readability and durability.

The SATO 408e supports a wide range of media types and sizes, accommodating labels from 0.63 inches to 4.1 inches in width. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for industries such as manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and retail, where diverse labeling needs may arise. Whether you need labels for shipping, inventory management, or patient identification, the SATO 408e can handle it all.

Another significant characteristic of the SATO 408e is its user-friendly interface. The printer features an intuitive LCD screen that simplifies navigation through the printer’s settings. Additionally, it includes easy-to-access components for media and ribbon loading, allowing for quick replacement and minimal downtime. This ergonomic design caters to various user levels, from novices to seasoned operators.

Connectivity options are also a strong point for the SATO 408e. It comes equipped with multiple connectivity interfaces, including USB, Ethernet, and serial ports, providing flexibility in how the printer can be integrated into existing systems. This seamless integration allows for enhanced workflow efficiency and adaptability to different business setups.

Furthermore, the SATO 408e incorporates advanced monitoring and maintenance features. It supports real-time monitoring of printer status and media usage, enabling proactive management and reducing the risk of interruptions during print runs.

In conclusion, the SATO 408e thermal transfer printer is characterized by its high print quality, versatility in media handling, user-friendly design, and robust connectivity options. It is a reliable solution for businesses that demand precision and efficiency in their labeling processes, making it a leading choice among industrial printers in the market today.
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