SATO 410e, 400e manual 10, Ribbon Spindle Tensioning

Unit 6: Maintenance

RIBBON SPINDLE TENSIONING

The printer has two ribbon spindles; one to supply ribbon medium from the rear of the printer past the print head to the spindle closest to the front for the purpose of rewinding the used medium. The rewind spindle is coupled to the drive train and draws the ribbon medium forward incrementally with the print media (label/tag) comparable with gearing ratios.

For proper function, the spindles must be individually adjusted with the correct drag. Drag is the resistance to the advancement of the meduim and is controlled by increasing or decreasing frictional tension to rotational movement. A torsion spring takes up excess slack in the ribbon medium during backfeed movement of the print media.

The following procedure explains how to adjust the ribbon spindles without the use of a tension gage. The procedure is the same for both, however, the tension requirements are different.

NOTE: The tension reuirements for the supply spindle is 400-500 grams and 500-700 grams for the rewind spindle should a tension gage be available.

To tension adjust the ribbon spindles without the use of a tension gage, perform the following.

1Open the top housing cover to access the ribbon spindle assemblies.

2 Loosen the set screw while holding the adjustment nut stationary.

3Turn the adjustment nut in a manner to achieve the required space between the ribbon boss and the stopper collar. (3.5 to 3.0mm supply spindle, 3.0 to 2.0mm rewind spindle)

4Hold the adjustment nut in position and secure the set screw.

5Repeat steps 2 through 4 for the remaining spindle.

NOTE: A complete revolution of the adjustment nut equals approximately 1mm (100g). Likewise, a half revolution equals .5mm (50g).

Metric Scale

Ribbon Boss

Collar

Adjustment Nut

Set Screw

Figure 6-10, Ribbon Spindle Tensioning

SATO XL400-410e Operator Manual PN 9001135A Page 6-12