SECTION 5.

TROUBLESHOOTING

This section has been devised to help you if you are unable to produce output on the M-84PRO printers. Use this section to make sure the basics have been checked before deciding you are unable to proceed any further. The section is divided into five parts:

Initial Checklist

IEEE1284 Parallel Interface

RS232C Serial Interface

Universal Serial Bus Interface

LAN Ethernet Interface

INITIAL CHECKLIST

1.Is the printer powered up and ON-LINE?

2.Is the ERROR light on the front panel off? Is this light is on, it may mean the Print Head Assembly or the Label Hold-Down is not closed and latched in position.

3.Are the LABEL and RIBBON lights on the front panel off? If these lights are on, the labels or ribbons may be incorrectly loaded.

USING THE IEEE1284 PARALLEL INTERFACE

1.Is the IEEE1284 printer cable connected securely to your parallel port (DB-25S Female) on the PC and to the Parallel Interface connector on the printer?

WARNING: Never connect or disconnect interface cables (or use a switch box) with power applied to either the printer or the host. This may cause damage to the interface circuitry and is not covered by warranty.

2.Does the Parallel interface cable used meet IEEE1284 specifications? If it does not and you are connected to an IEEE1284 or ECP parallel port on the computer, the printer may not be able to communicate correctly.

3.Is there more than one parallel interface port on your PC (LPT1, LPT2, etc.)? If so, make sure you are sending data out the correct port.

4.Is the IEEE1284 Interface Module installed in the printer? Older versions of the Parallel Interface module will not work correctly in the M-84PRO printers.

5.When you send the print job to the printer, and it does not respond, do you get an error message on your PC that says “Device Fault” or something similar?

This may mean that the computer doesn’t know the printer is there. Verify that:

a.Both ends of the cable are securely inserted into their respective connectors.

b.The printer is ONLINE.

c.The cable is not defective. There are other things that can cause this error message on your computer, but at this stage, a defective cable may be one of the reasons.

SATO M-84PRO

PN 9001105 Rev. A

Page 5-1

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SATO M-84PRO manual Initial Checklist, Using the IEEE1284 Parallel Interface

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.