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Zebra Technologies GX420t, GX430t manual Media Sensing

Models: GX420t GX430t

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Print Operations

Media Sensing

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Media Sensing

The G-Series printer has automatic media sensing capability. The printer is designed to continuously check and adjust media length sensing for minor variations. Once the printer is printing or feeding media, the printer continually checks and adjusts the media sensing to accommodate for minor changes in media parameters from label to label on a roll and from roll to roll of media. The printer will automatically initiate a media length calibration if the expected media length or the label to label gap distance has exceeded the acceptable variation range when starting a print job or Feeding media. The automatic media sensing in the G-Series printers works the same for printer operations that use EPL and ZPL label formats and programming.

If the printer does not detect labels or blacklines (or notches with blackline sensing) after feeding the media the default maximum label length distance of 39 inches (1 meter), then the printer will switch to continuous (receipt) media mode. The printer will keep these settings until changed by software, programming or a manual calibration with different media.

Optionally, the printer can be set to do a short media calibration after printer power up or when closing the printer with power on. The printer will then feed up to three labels while calibrating.

The printer’s media settings can be verified by printing a Printer Configuration label. See the Printing a Test (Printer Configuration) Label on page 21 for more details.

The maximum distance that the automatic media type detection and sensing will check can be reduced by using the ZPL Maximum Label Length command (^ML). It is recommended that this distance be set to no less than two times the longest label being printed. If the largest label being printed was a 4 by 6 inch label, then the maximum label (media) length detection distance can be reduced from the default distance of 39 inches down to 12 inches.

If the printer has difficulty automatically detecting the media type and auto-calibrating, see Manual Calibration on page 85 to perform an extensive calibration. It includes a printed graph of sensor operation for your media. This method disables the printer’s automatic media sensing capability until the printer’s default parameters are reset to the factory defaults with the four flash Feed button mode. See the Feed Button Modes on page 89 for more details.

The automatic media calibration can be modified, turned on or turned off to meet your needs. Sometimes print job conditions require that the printer use all the media on a roll. The two automatic media conditions, power up with media loaded and closing the printer with power on, can be controlled individually with the ZPL Media Feed command, ^MF. The feed action discussed in the ZPL programmers guide for the ^MF command is primarily for automatic media sensing and calibration. The automatic media calibration that controls the dynamic media (label to label) calibration is the ^XS command. If multiple media types of different lengths, material or detection methods (web/gap, blackline or continuous) are used, you should not change these settings.

The media calibration and detection process can also be refined to match the media type loaded into the printer. Use the ZPL Media Tracking command (^MN) to set the media type. Sometimes the printer can detect preprinted media as the gap between labels or the liner backing with print as a blackline marks. If the ^MN parameter for continuous media is set, then the print does not preform the automatic calibration. The ^MN command also includes an automatic calibration parameter (^MNA) to return the printer to its default setting to automatically detect all media types.

12/14/07

GX420t / GX430t User Guide

980612-001 Rev. A

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Zebra Technologies GX420t, GX430t manual Media Sensing
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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.