SECTION 1.

PRINTER OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION

The SATO M-84PRO Thermal Transfer Printers are complete, high-performance on-site labeling systems. All printer parameters are user programmable using the front panel controls and the DIP switches. All popular bar codes and 14 human-readable fonts, including a vector font and two ras- ter fonts, are resident in memory providing literally thousands of type styles and sizes.

The Operator’s Manual will help you understand the basic operations of the printer such as setup, installation, configuration, cleaning and maintenance.

The M-84PRO can print labels up to four inches wide and is available in three resolurions; 203 dpi, 305 dpi and 609 dpi. The resolution is determined by the print head that is installed in the printer and can be changed in the field simply by installing the desired print head. The printer aut- matically detects the resolution of the print head and loads the appropriate controlling firmware.

The M-84PRO uses the standard SATO RISC printer command codes. The only differences between it and other RISC printers are the allowable values representing the print positions on the label. These values are specified in “dots” and will vary depending upon the resolution of the printer and the amount of memory available for imaging the label. The allowable range for the various M-84PRO models is specified in a table in the “e” and PRO Printer Programming Refer- ence.

This commonality makes it very easy to convert labels from one RISC printer to another without having to create an entirely different command stream. There are some caveats that must be observed though to compensate for the different resolution print heads. The effect of the different printer resolutions are best illustrated by taking a label designed for a 203 dpi printer and sending the command stream to the its 305 dpi counterpart. The label printed will be an exact two-thirds scale, including the fonts, bar code dimensions and line lengths/widths. The only exception is the PostNet bar code which has only one legal size and the printer resolution is automatically com- pensated for by the printer. Conversely, a label designed for a 305 dpi printer and sent to its 203 dpi cousin will be one-third larger. It probably will be “truncated” if the resulting label size is larger than the maximum allowable for the printer.

SATO M-84PRO

PN 9001105 Rev. A

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SATO M-84PRO manual Section Printer Overview, Introduction

M-84PRO specifications

The SATO M-84PRO is a high-performance thermal printer designed for industrial applications, known for its reliability and efficiency in various labeling tasks. This printer is a part of SATO's esteemed M-84 series, which combines advanced technology with user-friendly design to meet the demands of large-scale operations.

One of the standout features of the SATO M-84PRO is its fast printing speed, capable of producing labels at a rate of up to 8 inches per second. This rapid output makes it an ideal choice for environments that require quick turnaround times, such as warehouses, manufacturing lines, and logistics centers.

The M-84PRO employs a direct thermal or thermal transfer printing method, allowing for outstanding print quality. With a maximum print resolution of 305 dpi, it ensures crisp and clear text and graphics, which is essential for barcodes and detailed images on labels. The printer supports a wide range of media types, accommodating label widths from 0.75 inches to 4.1 inches, making it versatile for various labeling needs.

Equipped with SATO's unique Smart Technology, the M-84PRO offers enhanced control over label production. This technology includes automatic label detection and calibration, which minimizes setup time and reduces waste, thus improving overall operational efficiency. Additionally, the printer is compatible with various programming languages, including SAPscript and ZPL, ensuring easy integration into existing systems.

Durability is another hallmark of the M-84PRO. Built with robust materials, it can withstand the rigors of industrial environments, ensuring long-term performance. The printer also features a compact design, which is perfect for tight workspaces, while still being rugged enough to handle demanding tasks.

Moreover, the SATO M-84PRO boasts extensive connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and serial interfaces, which allow for seamless integration into any operational workflow. It also supports various operating systems, providing flexibility and ease of use when working with different platforms.

The printer’s user-friendly interface, highlighted by an LCD panel and multi-functional buttons, facilitates easy navigation and operation. Maintenance is also simplified, thanks to modular components that allow for quick and easy replacement of parts when necessary.

In summary, the SATO M-84PRO stands out as a leading choice in the thermal printer market, combining high-speed printing, excellent durability, and versatile labeling capabilities. Its advanced technologies and features make it suitable for a variety of demanding applications, ensuring that businesses can rely on it for their labeling needs.