TSC MH241 Series Industrial Barcode Printers User Manual

TSC MH241 Series Industrial Barcode Printers User Manual

Series Lists:
MH241/MH341/MH641
MH241T/MH341T/MH641T
MH241P/MH341P/MH641P

Copyright Information

©2021 TSC Auto ID Technology Co., Ltd.
The copyright in this manual, the software and firmware in the printer described are owned by TSC Auto ID Technology Co., Ltd.
All rights reserved.
CG Triumvirate is a trademark of Agfa Corporation. CG Triumvirate Bold Condensed font is under license from the Monotype Corporation. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of TSC Auto ID Technology Co. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, for any purpose other than the purchaser’s personal use, without the expressed written permission of TSC Auto ID Technology Co.

1. Introduction

Thank you very much for purchasing TSC bar code printer.
The new high-performance MH241 Series was designed to deliver the high quality barcodes. It features a die-cast print mechanism housed in a very strong yet lightweight cabinet. This new design results in a more durable printer that is suited for your most heavy duty demand cycles. The MH241 Series printers are loaded with standard features including a color touch display with brand-new GUI design and six menu buttons to provide a great user experience, support for 600 meter long ribbons, 8” OD media rolls, built-in Ethernet, RS-232 interface, two USB hosts for keyboard and barcode scanner connections, USB 2.0 and serial interfaces. Parallel, GPIO ports, Wi-Fi module and internal Bluetooth module are available as an option.

This document provides an easy reference for operating the MH241 series. TSC printers include the Windows labeling software for creating your label template. For system integration, the TSPL/TSPL2 printer programming manual or SDKs can be found on TSC website at: https://www.tscprinters.com.

Applications

• Work In Process
• Product Marking
• Compliance Labeling
• Industrial-Duty Printing
• Packing
• Order Fulfillment
• Shipping/Receiving
• Inventory Management Retail
• Product Label
• Event Ticketing

1.1 Product Specification

2. Operation Overview

2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
This printer has been specially packaged to withstand damage during shipping. Please carefully inspect the packaging and printer upon receiving the bar code printer. Please retain the packaging materials in case you need to reship the printer.
Unpacking the printer, the following items are included in the carton.

• 1 Printer unit (MH241, MH241T, or MH241P Series)
• 1 Quick installation guide
• 1 Power cord
• 1 USB interface cable

If any parts are missing, please contact the Customer Service Department of your purchased reseller or distributor.

2.2 Printer Overview
2.2.1 Front View

2.2.2 Interior View

2.2.3 Rear View

Note: The interface picture here is for reference only. Please refer to the product specification for the interfaces availability.

2.3 Operator Control

2.3.1 LED Indication and Keypads

2.3.2 Touch Screen Manipulation

2.3.3 Power-on Utilities

3. Setup

3.1 Setting up the printer

1. Place the printer on flat surface.
2. Make sure the printer is power off.
3. Connect the printer to the computer with the provided USB cable.
4. Plug in the power cord.

◆ Note: Please switch OFF the printer before plugging in the power cord to printer power jack.

3.2 Loading the Ribbon

3.3 Loading the Media

3.4 Loading the Fanfold/External Media

3.5 Loading Media in Peel-off Mode (Option)

3.6 Loading Media in Rewinder Mode (Option-MH241P)

3.7 Loading Media in Rewinder Mode (Option-MH241/MH241T)

4. Knob Adjustment

Printhead Pressure Adjustment Knob has 5 levels’ adjustment. Different number means different pressure to the springs . Due to media is aligned to the inbound of the printer mechanism, different media width requires the different pressure. Users can try which level can meet their expectation.

Note:
For the media width less than 2 inches, please fix the Print head pressure position knob inside the edge of the label as possible (prevent the unnecessary friction between the print head and platen roller).

4.1 Ribbon Tension Adjustment Knob
Ribbon Tension Adjustment Knob has 5 positions for adjustment. Due to the ribbon is aligned to the inbound of print mechanism, different width of ribbons may need to adjust the tension adjustment knob to avoid the ribbon wrinkle and get the best print quality.

4.2 Mechanism Fine Adjustment to Avoid Ribbon Wrinkles
Ribbon wrinkle is related to the media width, thickness, print head pressure balance, ribbon film characteristics, print darkness setting…etc. In case the ribbon wrinkle happens, please follow the instructions below to adjust the printer parts.

Ribbon Tension Adjustment Knob has 5 positions for adjustment. Use screw driver to change the ribbon tension position.

Wrinkle happens from label lower right to upper left direction

• Make sure the Print Head Pressure Adjustment Knob is in correct position for the current media. Ex: 1~2”, 3~4”
• Turn the screw clockwise per level and print to see if the winkle has gone.
• If the ribbon tension adjustment knob has positioned on the level of innermost side but the ribbon wrinkle is not removed, please switch the print head pressure at 1 level and print the label again to check if the wrinkle is gone.
• If the wrinkle can’t be avoided, please contact the Customer Service Department of your purchased reseller or distributor for service.

Wrinkle happens from label lower left to upper right direction

• Make sure the Print head Pressure Adjustment Knob is in correct position for the current media. Ex: 1~2”, 3~4”
• Turn the screw counterclockwise per level and print to see if the winkle has gone.
• If the ribbon tension adjustment knob has positioned on the level of outermost side but the ribbon wrinkle is not removed, please switch the print head pressure at 1 level and print the label again to check if the wrinkle is gone.
• If the wrinkle can’t be avoided, please contact the Customer Service Department of your purchased reseller or distributor for service.

5. TSC Console

TSC Console is a management tool combining the Printer Management, Diagnostic Tool, CommTool and Printer Webpage settings, which enables you to adjust printer’s settings/status; change printers’ settings; download graphics, deploy fonts, graphics, label templates or upgrade the firmware to the group of printers, and send additional commands to printers at the same time.

• Printer firmware version before A2.12 will only use 9100 Port as command port; Printer firmware after A2.12 will use 6101 Port as command port.

5.1 Start TSC Console

◼ For more information, please refer to TSC Console User Manual.

5.2 Setup Ethernet Interface
◼ Use USB or COM to establish the interface on TSC Console.

5.3 Set Wi-Fi and Add to TSC Console Interface

5.4 Initialize the Printer Wi-Fi Setting

5.5 TPH Care
TPH Care provides users to check the condition of the print head and be able to set the dot failure threshold for indicating errors when the threshold is triggered.

1. Enable the TPH Care function. (Note: The default is disabled/OFF.) Then click “Get TPH care profile” button and a diagram will show in the area above.
2. If the profile is flat, it means that the print head is good. Check “Unhealthy TPH dot number”. If the result is zero (0), that means the print head is good.
3. Bad dots are presented as a spike in the profile. The arrow in below profile indicates the presence of potentially damaged dots and printer will stop printing.

5.6 Printer Function

Printer Function could be found in Printer Configuration. “Printer Function” will be shown on the left side of the window.

5.7 Setting Post-Print Action
When the printer is equipped with other option kits, ex: cutter, peeler, rewinder, please select the mode after finishing the calibration.

Follow below procedure to set the post action for the printing:
Refer Chp 5.1 to Connect the printer with TSC Console > Double click the printer > The Printer Configuration Page will pop up > Click

Get to load information > Go to Common Tab > Find Post-Print Action > Select the mode depends on users’ application > Click Set.

6. LCD Menu Function

6.1 Enter the Menu

6.2 Menu Overview
There are 6 categories on the menu. Users can easily set the settings of the printer without connecting the computer. Please refer to following sections for more details.

6.3 Setting
Tap the Command Set on LCD to switch between TSPL and ZPL2. Command Set can also be activated by Navigational Keys.

6.3.1 TSPL
TSPL category can set up the printer settings for TSPL.

6.4 Sensor
This option is used to calibrate the selected sensor. We recommend calibrate the sensor before printing when changing the media.

6.5 Interface
Interface can set the printer interface settings.

6.5.1 Serial Comm
Serial comm can set the printer RS-232 settings.

6.5.2 Ethernet
Ethernet configures internal Ethernet configuration and checks the printer’s Ethernet module status, and reset the Ethernet module.

6.5.3 Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi can set the printer Wi-Fi settings.

6.5.4 Bluetooth
Bluetooth can set the printer Bluetooth settings.

6.7 File Manager
File Manager is used to check the printer available memory, show the files list, delete the files or run the files that saved in the printer DRAM/Flash/Card memory.

6.8 Diagnostic

6.9 Favorites

7. Troubleshooting

8. Maintenance

This session presents the clean tools and methods to maintain the printer.

• For Cleaning
  Depending on the media used, the printer may accumulate residues (media dust, adhesives, etc.) as a by-product of normal printing. To maintain the best printing quality, you should remove these residues by cleaning the printer periodically. Regularly clean the print head and supply sensors once change a new media to keep the printer at the optimized performance and extend printer life.

• For Disinfecting
  Sanitize your printer to protect yourself and others and can help prevent the spread of viruses.

• Important
  – Set the printer power switch to O (Off) prior to performing any cleaning or disinfecting tasks. Leave the power cord connected to keep the printer grounded and to reduce the risk of electrostatic damage.
  – Do not wear rings or other metallic objects while cleaning any interior area of the printer.
  – Use only the cleaning agents recommended in this document. Use of other agents may damage the printer and void its warranty.
  – Do not spray or drip liquid cleaning solutions directly into the printer. Apply the solution on a clean lint-free cloth and then apply the dampened cloth to the printer.
  – Do not use canned air in the interior of the printer as it can blow dust and debris onto sensors and other critical components.
  – Only use a vacuum cleaner with a nozzle and hose that are conductive and grounded to drain off static build up.
  – All reference in these procedures for use of isopropyl alcohol requires that a 99% or greater isopropyl alcohol content be used to reduce the risk of moisture corrosion to the printhead.
  – Do not touch printhead by hand. If you touch it careless, please use 99% Isopropyl alcohol to clean it.
  – Always taking personal precaution when using any cleaning agent.

• Cleaning Tools
  ◼Cotton swab
  ◼ Lint-free cloth
  ◼ Brush with soft non-metallic bristles
  ◼ Vacuum cleaner
  ◼ 75% Ethanol (for disinfecting)
  ◼ 99% Isopropyl alcohol (for printhead and platen roller cleaning)
  ◼ Genuine printhead cleaning pen
  ◼ Mild detergent (without chlorine)

Cleaning Process:

9. Agency Compliance and Approvals

EN 55032: Class A
EN 55024
EN 60950-1
EN 62368
This is a class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
FCC part 15B, Class A
ICES-003, Class A

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction manual, may cause harmful interference with radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own expense.

This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conform à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

AS/NZS CISPR 32, Class A

UL 60950-1 (2nd Edition)
CSA C22.2 No. 60950-1-07 (2nd Edition)
UL 62368-1, 2nd Edition, 2014-12-01 (Audio/video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment
– Part 1: Safety Requirements) CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 62368-1-14, 2nd Edition, 2014-12 (Audio/video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment – Part 1: Safety Requirements)

Note: There may have certification differences in the series models, please refer to product label for accuracy.

Important safety instructions:

1. Read all of these instructions and keep them for later use.

2. Follow all warnings and instructions on the product.

3. Disconnect the power from the AC inlet before cleaning or if fault happened.
   Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. Using a damp cloth is suitable for cleaning.

4. The mains socket shall be installed near the equipment and easily accessible.

5. The unit must be protected against moisture.

6. Ensure the stability when installing the device, Tipping or dropping could cause damage.

7. Make sure to follow the correct power rating and power type indicated on marking label
   provided by manufacture.

8. Please refer to user manual for maximum operation ambient temperature provided by manufacture.

WARNING:
Moving parts. Keep finger or body away from moving parts.

CAUTION:
(For equipment with RTC (CR2032) battery or rechargeable battery pack) Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type.
Dispose of used batteries according to the Instructions as below.

1. DO NOT throw the battery in fire.
2. DO NOT short circuit the contacts.
3. DO NOT disassemble the battery.
4. DO NOT throw the battery in municipal waste.
5. The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal waste.

Caution: Hot surface for printhead.
Do not touch the printhead before it cooling.

WARNING:
Remove the power from AC inlet before opening the media cover for cleaning or repairing faults. After cleaning or fixing faults, media cover closing before power connecting to AC inlet.
CAUTION:
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
CE Statement:
This equipment complies with EU radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20 cm between the radiator & your body.

All operational modes:

2.4GHz: 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n (HT20), 802.11n (HT40)
5GHz: 802.11a,

The frequency, mode and the maximum transmitted power in EU are listed below:
2400 MHz – 2483.5 MHz: 19.88 dBm (EIRP)
5150 MHz – 5250 MHz: 17.51 dBm (EIRP)

5150-5350MHz for Only indoor use
5470-5725MHz for indoor/outdoor use

Restrictions In AZE
National restrictions information is provided below

Hereby, TSC Auto ID Technology Co., Ltd. declares that the radio equipment type [Wi-Fi] IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n is in compliance with Directive 2014/53/EU

The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at the following internet address: http:// www.tscprinters.com

RF exposure warning (Wi-Fi)
This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with provided instructions and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. End-users and installers must be providing with antenna installation instructions and transmitter operating conditions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.
SAR Value: 0.736 W/kg

RF exposure warning (For Bluetooth)
The equipment complies with FCC RF exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment.

The equipment must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

Canada, Industry Canada (IC) Notices
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS-210. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Information
The radiated output power of the Wireless Device is below the Industry Canada (IC) radio frequency exposure limits. The Wireless Device should be used in such a manner such that the potential for human contact during normal operation is minimized.

This device has been evaluated for and shown compliant with the IC Specific Absorption Rate (“SAR”) limits when installed in specific host products operated in portable exposure conditions. (For Wi-Fi)

This device has also been evaluated and shown compliant with the IC RF Exposure limits under portable exposure conditions. (Antennas are less than 20 cm of a person’s body). (For Bluetooth)

Canada, avis de l’Industry Canada (IC)

Use of the Made for Apple badge means that an accessory has been designed to connect specifically to the Apple product(s) identified in the badge, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

For US Model

Made for iPhone® XS Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 5s,
iPad Pro® 12.9-inch (2nd generation), iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad® (6th generation),
iPad (5th generation), iPad Pro 9.7-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation), iPad Air® 2,
iPad mini™ 4, iPad mini 3, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, iPod touch® (6th generation)
iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

For JP Model
Made for iPhone XS Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 5s, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation), iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad (6th generation), iPad (5th generation), iPad Pro 9.7-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation), iPad Air 2, iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, iPod touch (6th generation)
iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. The trademark “iPhone” is used in Japan with a license from Aiphone K.K.

Except for US, JP Model
Made for iPhone XS Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 5s, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation), iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad (6th generation), iPad (5th generation), iPad Pro 9.7-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation), iPad Air 2, iPad mini 4, iPad mini 3, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, iPod touch (6th generation)
iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

10. Revision History

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