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Getting Started

Hooking Up the Printer and Computer

Communicating with the Printer

Begin installing the Zebra Windows Driver and then turn on the printer. If the operating system automatically starts a ‘Add new hardware’ wizard, then close the wizard and continue installing the driver.

Universal Serial Bus (USB) Communications

The printer is a terminal device when using a universal serial bus interface. You can refer to the Universal Serial Bus Specification for details regarding this interface. Scanners, scales or other data input devices must use the serial port to send data to the printer.

USB and Parallel Port Printer Detection and Windows® operating systems

Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000 and Windows 98 Second Edition (USB only) operating systems support the USB and bidirectional parallel port communications with printers. The Zebra Windows Driver supports your printer in these operating systems.

These operating systems automatically detect the printer when connected via the USB interface. The operating system automatically starts a “Add new hardware’ wizard when connecting the printer for the first time to the PC. Close the wizard. Install the Zebra Windows Driver found on the user’s CD or for the latest driver go to www.zebra.com. Select the USB or parallel port and then media size (closest match). Click on the ‘Print test page’ button to verify a successful installation.

The Windows operating system will detect and re-link a previously installed printer if it is reconnected to the USB interface or power is turned on after the PC has finished its restart of the operating system. Ignore the new device detected warnings and close the Task bar prompts. Wait several seconds for the operating system to match the printer to the driver software. The warnings will quit and the printer now should be ready to begin printing.

Serial Port and Windows® operating systems

The Windows operating system default settings for the serial port communication closely match the printer’s defaults settings with one exception; the data Flow Control settings. The Windows default data Flow Control setting is NONE. The G-Series printer requires data Flow Control set to Hardware.

Note • The G-Series printer does not support Windows Serial Port Plug and Play (PnP) device detection at this time.

980612-001 Rev. A

GX420t / GX430t User Guide

12/14/07

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Zebra Technologies GX430t, GX420t manual Communicating with the Printer, Universal Serial Bus USB Communications

GX420t, GX430t specifications

Zebra Technologies has established itself as a leader in the printing solutions market, especially with the introduction of its GX series of thermal printers. Among the most notable models are the GX430t and GX420t, both widely recognized for their reliability, versatility, and advanced features.

The GX430t printer boasts a high-resolution printing capability of up to 300 dpi, making it ideal for applications where clarity and detail are paramount. This makes the printer particularly useful for producing labels that require intricate graphics and small text. On the other hand, the GX420t provides a resolution of 203 dpi, which is still impressive for standard label printing applications. Both models support a range of media types, including labels, tags, and wristbands, making them adaptable to various industries such as healthcare, retail, and manufacturing.

One of the standout features of the GX series is their ease of use. Both models incorporate a straightforward, user-friendly interface with a large graphic LCD display that simplifies operation and configuration. The printers are designed for quick setup and maintenance, with features like a clamshell design that allows for fast media loading. Additionally, both models come with USB and serial connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of systems.

Both the GX430t and GX420t utilize thermal transfer and direct thermal printing technologies, offering flexibility depending on the application's requirements. The thermal transfer method enables the use of different ribbon types and materials, facilitating high-quality prints that are durable and smudge-proof. This is particularly important in environments where labels face wear and tear.

Another significant characteristic is their compact size, which makes them suitable for both desktop and mobile use. The GX series printers are designed for speed, with print speeds of up to 4 inches per second for the GX420t and slightly higher for the GX430t, enhancing productivity in busy environments.

Moreover, Zebra Technologies ensures that these printers are equipped with advanced management and monitoring capabilities. The ZebraSetup Utilities enable easy configuration, and the printer's status can be monitored in real-time, minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operation.

In conclusion, the Zebra Technologies GX430t and GX420t printers stand out in the market due to their high-resolution printing capabilities, ease of use, and robust connectivity options. Their range of features makes them ideal for various industries, where reliable and high-quality label printing is essential. As businesses continue to seek efficient solutions for their labeling needs, these models provide a reliable choice, ensuring quality and performance as top priorities.