Troubleshooting 123

Print Quality Problems

Table 13 • Print Quality Problems (Continued)

Problem

Possible Cause

Recommended Solution

 

 

 

Fine, angular gray

Wrinkled ribbon.

See wrinkled ribbon causes and solutions in this

lines on blank labels

 

table.

 

 

 

Printing too light or

Media or ribbon is not designed

Replace supplies with those recommended for

too dark over the

for high-speed operation.

high-speed operation.

entire label

 

 

You are using an incorrect

1. Switch to a different type of media or ribbon

 

 

combination of labels and

to try to find a compatible combination.

 

ribbon for your application.

2. If necessary, consult your authorized Zebra

 

 

reseller or distributor for information and

 

 

advice.

 

 

 

 

You are using ribbon with

Direct thermal media does not require ribbon. To

 

direct thermal media.

check if you are using direct thermal media,

 

 

perform the label scratch test in When to Use

 

 

Ribbon on page 27.

 

 

If you are using ribbon intentionally with direct

 

 

thermal media, increase the darkness level, but

 

 

note that high darkness levels may decrease

 

 

printhead life. You may wish to perform the

 

 

FEED Self Test on page 134 to determine the

 

 

ideal darkness setting.

 

 

 

 

Incorrect or uneven printhead

Set the pressure to the minimum needed. See

 

pressure.

Printhead Pressure Adjustment on page 70.

 

 

 

Smudge marks on

Media or ribbon is not designed

Replace supplies with those recommended for

labels

for high-speed operation.

high-speed operation.

 

 

 

Misregistration/skips

The printer is not calibrated.

Recalibrate the printer.

labels

 

 

Media sensor is not positioned

Perform media sensor position adjustment.

 

 

correctly.

 

 

 

 

 

Improper label format.

Use correct label format.

 

 

 

Misregistration and

The platen roller is dirty.

See Clean the Printhead and Platen Roller

misprint of one to

 

on page 109.

three labels

 

 

Media sensor is not positioned

Place media sensor in proper position.

 

 

correctly.

 

 

 

 

 

Media does not meet

Use media that meets specifications.

 

specifications.

 

 

 

 

6/30/06

105SL User Guide

11342L-001 Rev. A