ARGOX iX4 Series Printer User Manual
- June 6, 2024
- ARGOX
Table of Contents
ARGOX iX4 Series Printer
Liability Disclaimer
Argox Corporation takes steps to assure that the company’s published engineering specifications and manuals are correct; however, errors do occur. Argox reserves the right to correct any such errors and disclaims any resulting liability. In no event shall Argox or anyone else involved in the creation, production, or delivery of the accompanying product (including hardware and software) be liable for any damages whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or other pecuniary loss) arising out of the use of or the results of use of or inability to use such product, even if Argox has been advised of the possibility of such damages.
FCC Compliance Statement
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 in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by the following
measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
Connect the equipment into a different outlet on a different circuit. Consult
the dealer or an experience Radio/TV technician for help.
This unit was tested with shielded cables on the peripheral devices. Shielded
cables must be used with the unit to insure compliance. The user is cautioned
that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Argox Information
Co., Ltd. could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This is a Grade A product. In living environment, the product may cause
interference to radio communications. In this case, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by effective measures.
Caution
Ensure to connect the power cord of power adapter to a socket-outlet with
earth connection.
Caution
There will be a risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type.
Dispose of used batteries according to the instructions. After performing any
installation or servicing, make sure the enclosure is correct in position
before turning on the power.
Caution
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Introduction
This manual provides information about how to set up and operate your printer, load media, ribbon and solve common problems. Illustrations are provided to help you quickly become familiar with the printer.
Features
-
Fast Print Speed
Max. 8 IPS, fastest print speed in its class. -
Communication
Standard: Ethernet, dual USB hosts, USB device, and RS-232.
Option: Wi-Fi, GPIO, Parallel, and Buzzer -
Online management
Web management and SNMP v2 support -
Duel USB host function
Stand-alone mode of scanner/ keyboard multiple data entry devices -
New media calibration
Intelli mode & Auto-feed mode & Smart mode
Unpacking
Make sure all of the following items are included in your package.
When you receive the printer, open the package immediately and inspect for shipping damage. If you discover any damage, contact the shipping company and file a claim. Argox is not responsible for any damage incurred during shipping. Save all package materials for the shipping company to inspect.
Understand Your Printer
Perspective View
-
iX4-250, iX4-350
-
iX4-240, iX4-200
Back View
-
iX4-240, iX4-250, iX4-350 Standard
-
iX4-240, iX4-250, iX4-350 Optional
-
iX4-200 Standard
Interior View
- Internal Parts and Features
- Rotate Head Latch
Printer Control Panel
There are three lights on the front panel – READY, MEDIA and RIBBON. These indicators display operation status of the printer. Three Buttons – FEED, PAUSE, CANCEL can control printer simple function.
Status Lights
Status lights help you check printer’s condition. The following tables show
the status lights and the conditions they indicate.
LCD Display
| READY| MEDIA| RIBBON|
Description
---|---|---|---|---
READY|
ON
| ON|
ON
| In the ready mode
PRINT HEAD
HEAT
|
ON
| Blinking|
ON
| Print head needs to cool down.
COMMAND
ERROR
|
ON
| Blinking|
Blinking
| A command error was found while checking the command sequence.
EEPROM
ERROR
|
ON
| Blinking|
Blinking
| An EEPROM for back-up cannot be read/written properly.
MEMORY ERROR|
ON
| Blinking|
Blinking
|
- An error has occurred in writing
- data into USB memory or flash memory.
- An erase error has occurred in
- formatting USB memory or flash memory.
- Saving failed because of the
- insufficient capacity of USB memory or flash memory.
- Firmware update has error.
CANCEL …|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Press CANCEL KEY to interrupt and delete a print task
CLEAR FLASH|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Clear flash memory.
CUTTER FAILED|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Cutter has failed, or there is paper jam inside the cutter.
MEMORY FULL|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Printer buffer is full caused by the loaded soft fonts, graphics or forms.
MEMORY INITIALIZED|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| USB Memory is being initialized.
PAUSE|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Printer is in PAUSE status. Media sensor cannot index label gaps
PRINTHEAD BROKEN|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Head broken error
PRINT HEAD OPEN|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Head latch is not closed.
RESET|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Press CANCEL KEY + POWER ON to reset NVR table.
SERIAL IO ERROR|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| The format or baud rate of the RS232 communication is inconsistent between
the printer and host.
SELF TEST …|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Press FEED KEY + POWER ON to print the self-test label.
UPGRADING
FW.
|
Blinking
| ON|
ON
| Printer is receiving data
RIBBON OUT|
Blinking
| ON|
Blinking
| Ribbon is not installed or end-of-ribbon occurred.
CALIBRATION|
Blinking
| Blinking|
ON
| Press PAUSE KEY + POWER ON to calibrate media.
MEDIA OUT|
Blinking
| Blinking|
ON
| Media is not installed or used up. Printer fails to detect the media gap.
The media sensor is out of range during calibration. The label has run out.
The last label has been issued normally and the label has run out.
PAPER JAM|
Blinking
| Blinking|
ON
| A paper jam occurred during paper feed.
Buttons
There are three buttons, each with two basic functions.
Button| Function 1|
Function 2
---|---|---
FEED
|
Feed a label
|
PAUSE
|
Pause printing
| Press again to resume printing
CANCEL
|
Interrupt and delete a print task
| Force printer to continue after an error is solved.
Get Started
This chapter describes how to set up your printer.
Attach the Power Cord
- Make sure the power switch is set to the OFF position.
- Place the printer within cable distance of the host and printer (USB or Serial cable.)
- Isolate the power cord from other electrical cables.
- Plug the other end of the AC power cord into the wall socket.
Warning: Do not plug the AC power cord with wet hands, or operate the printer and the power supply in an area where they may get wet. Serious injury may result from these actions!
Turn on/off Your Printer
When your printer is connected to a host (a computer), it is good to turn on the printer before turning on the host, and turn off the host before turning off the printer.
Turn On Your Printer
-
To turn on your printer, turn on the Power Switch as below. The “I” is the ON position.
-
READY, MEDIA and RIBBON LED are solid blue. Then READY LED turn off few second while LCD screen shows firmware version. LCD screen will show Ready to print and READY LED will back to solid blue.
Turn Off Your Printer
- Make sure READY, MEDIA, RIBBON are solid blue before turning off the printer.
- To turn off your printer, turn off the Power Switch as below. The “O” is the OFF position.
Caution: Do not turn off your printer during data transmission.
Load Media
The iX4 Series printers offer three different loading modes: standard, peel- off, or with a cutter.
- Standard mode allows you to collect each label freely.
- Peel-off mode peels backing material away from the label as it prints. After the label is removed, the next label prints.
- Cutter mode automatically cuts the label after it prints. There are rotate cutter and guillotine cutter types to cut media.
Important: The first time to use peel-off mode and cutter mode. Make sure to enable the PEELER INSTALLED or CUTTER INSTALLED setting in front panel.
Thermal Transfer Media Loading Instructions
Prepare Media
The inside wound and outside wound media roll can be loaded into the printer the same way. In case the media roll is dirty during shipping, handling or storage, remove the outside length of the media. It helps avoid dragging adhesive and dirty media between the printhead and platen roller.
Placing Media Roll
Load Media In Standard Mode
-
Lift the top cover to expose the media compartment.
-
Insert the media roll into the media supply spindle and move the media guide to the inside.
-
Turn the head latch counter-clockwise and open the outside media guide counter-clockwise for media insert.
-
Label must face up when lead the media through the print head module. Media is under “media guide” and through two rings before lock “Outside Media Guide”. Then, under the paper sensor guide module and over the roller.
-
Return the outside media guide and hook the head latch.
-
Close the top cover.
-
Press the FEED button if the printer is already on.
Important
After the media is loaded, please perform media calibration to calibrate the
label sensor before printing.
Load Media In Peel Off Mode
Steps 1 to 3 are the similar with “Standard Mode”.
-
Lift the top cover to expose the media compartment.
-
Insert the media roll into the media supply spindle and move the media guide to the inside.
-
Turn the head latch counter-clockwise and open the outside media guide for media insert.
-
From the leading end of the media roll remove enough labels to expose 6-inches of backing paper.
-
Lead the media backing paper under the print head module. For more specific leading media refer to standard mode step 4.
-
Push down the peel-off mechanism release lever and lead the media backing paper behind the peeler module.
-
Close the peeler module using the peel-off mechanism release lever. Return the outside media guide and hook the head latch.
-
Close the top cover and turn on the printer or press the FEED button if the printer is already on.
Important
After the media is loaded, please perform media calibration to calibrate the
label sensor before printing.
Load Media In Rotary Cutter Mode
Steps 1 to 3 are the similar with “Standard Mode”.
-
Lift the top cover to expose the media compartment.
-
Insert the media roll into the media supply spindle and move the media guide to the inside.
-
Turn the head latch counter-clockwise and turn on the outside media guide.
-
Insert the media under the print head module and under the paper sensor guide over the roller. For more specific leading media refer to standard mode step 4.
-
Return the outside media guide and hook the head latch.
-
Close the top cover and turn on the printer or press the FEED button if the printer is already on. The printer will then feed the labels through the cutter automatically.
Important
After the media is loaded, please perform media calibration to calibrate the
label sensor before printing.
Load Media In Guillotine Cutter Mode
Steps 1 to 3 are the similar with “Standard Mode”.
-
Lift the top cover to expose the media compartment.
-
Insert the media roll into the media supply spindle and move the media guide to the inside.
-
Turn the head latch counter-clockwise and turn on the outside media guide.
-
Insert the media into the print head module and under the paper sensor guide. For more specific leading media refer to standard mode step 4. Unhook the cutter module and pull down mechanism release lever from Guillotine Cutter and lead media through Guillotine Cutter.
-
Push back Guillotine Cutter and return the outside media guide and hook the head latch.
-
Close the top cover and turn on the printer or press the FEED button if the printer is already on. The printer will then feed the labels through the cutter automatically.
Important
After the media is loaded, please perform media calibration to calibrate the
label sensor before printing.
Media Types
Your printer supports various media types, including non-continuous media,
continuous media, and fanfold media. The following table provides details
about them.
Media Type
| Looks Like|
Description
---|---|---
Non-Continuous Media| 
| Non-continuous
media is the typical media for bar code printing. Labels and tags are made of
various materials, such as paper, fabric or cardstock, and are separated by
gaps, holes, notches or black marks. Many labels are self-adhesive with
liners, while some are linerless.
Continuous Media| 
| Continuous media does not have gaps, holes, notches or black marks. It
allows you to print data anywhere on the media. A cutter may be used for
splitting labels. Mostly it is used for direct thermal printing.
Fanfold Media| 
| Fanfold media is in continuous
form, but it can be used as non-continuous media, because its labels are
separated by folds. Some fanfold media also has black marks or liners.
Tag Media| 
| Tag media is usually made from a heavy paper, with center
hole to index. It does not have adhesive or a liner, and it is typically
perforated between tags. The media may also have black marks or other
separations.
Load Ribbon
The following steps only apply to thermal transfer printing mode. Direct
thermal does not need ribbon to be installed.
iX4 Series printers apply to both Inside wound ribbon and Outside wound
ribbon. Printers can switch automatically.
Note:
- Media and ribbon types should be matched to provide with optimal print results.
- Always use ribbon that is wider than the media to protect the print head from wear.
Placing Ribbon Roll
-
Lift the top cover to expose the media compartment.
-
Turn the head latch counter-clockwise.
-
Unwrap the ribbon and separate the ribbon roll from the bare core. Insert the ribbon roll onto the ribbon supply spindle.
-
Lead the ribbon through the print head module. Attach the edge of the ribbon onto the bare core and wind it a bit onto the core. Make sure the coating side of the ribbon is face down.
-
Insert the core onto the ribbon pick-up spindle. Turn the pick-up spindle to ensure the ribbon is tightly wound.
-
Close the top cover and turn on the printer.
Printer Operation
This chapter provides more specific information about printer operation.
Front Panel
Change settings via buttons on panel:
Buttons
|
Function
---|---
PAUSE+CANCEL| Press to enter setting mode.
Press again to exit setting mode and return to normal mode.
FEED| Press to show next parameter.
PAUSE| Press to show next setting item.
CANCEL| Selects and saves a parameter to permanent FLASH memory. Unless
changed via panel or command the parameter is saved even if you restart the
printer.
WARNING: Do not change settings during printing or sending printing data.
LCD Function Setting Procedure
The following procedure is an example of setting procedure to direct
thermal printing mode:
Press PAUSE + CANCEL over 5 seconds to set different languages.
Item
| Range|
Factory Default
---|---|---
LANGUAGE
| ENGLISH, FRENCH, GERMAN, ITALIAN, SPANISH,
PORTUGUESE,|
ENGLISH
Press PAUSE + CANCEL less then 1 second to set printer function.
NO.
| Item| Range| Factory Default|
Remarks
---|---|---|---|---
1
| PRINT MODE| THERM. TRANSFER DIRECT THERMAL|
THERM. TRANSFER
| (Restart printer after change setting)
2
| CALIBRATION MODE| INTELLI PRINT
SMART PRINT|
INTELLI PRINT
| INTELLI PRINT: Just install labels, latch print module, press FEED button
once, and then the printer will feed 1-2 labels to detect next gap / black
mark before printing.
SMART PRINT: Print from the first label immediately according to label length
setting. Make sure to carefully align label bottom edge at the tear-off
position before printing.(Restart printer after change setting)
3
| CONTROL CODE SET| STANDARD
ALTERNATIVE 1
ALTERNATIVE 2|
STANDARD
| Available only in PPLA printer language.
(Restart printer after change setting)
4
| CUT PEEL OFFSET| -015 ~ 015 mm|
000 mm
| To adjust cut and peel positions.
5
| TPH VER OFFSET| -009~009 mm|
000 mm
| To adjust offset of vertical print position.
6
| RECOVER
PRINT| ENABLE,
DISABLE|
ENABLE
| Will not reprint after recovering from media-out or ribbon-out errors.
7
| CUTTER INSTALLED| NO
YES|
NO
| (Restart printer after change setting)
8
| PEELER INSTALLED| NO
YES|
NO
|
9
| STANDLONE FORM FONT| NO
YES|
NO
| Available only in PPLB printer language
(Restart printer after change setting)
10
| WIN. CON. LEN.| 0 ~ 254 mm|
000 mm
| Available only in Windows with bundled printer driver and for continuous media.
11
| SPEED| 2 ~ 8 IPS(iX4-250)
2 ~ 6 IPS(iX4-350)|
6 IPS(iX4-250)
5 IPS(iX4-350)
|
12
| COUNTING| DOWN
UP|
DOWN
|
13
| MEDIASENSER TYPE| SEE-THROUGH REFLECTIVE|
SEE- THROUGH
| To select for different media types.
After changing sensor setting, make sure to calibrate before printing.(Restart
printer after change setting)
14
| BACK FEED| DISABLE ENABLE|
ENABLE
| Available only in PPLA and PPLB printer languages.
Once “ENABLE” is selected, printer enters BACK DISTANCE setting.
15
| BACK DISTANCE| 10~40 mm|
22 mm
| Available only when BACK FEED is enabled.
16
| BASE DARKNESS| -28~28| 0|
17
| DARKNESS| 0~30|
16
| To select darkness.
18
| BAUD RATE| 2400 / 4800 / 9600 / 19200 / 38400 / 57600 / 115200|
9600
| Should be as same as setting of host. (Restart printer after change setting)
19
| PARITY (RS232)| NONE ODD EVEN|
NONE
| Should be as same as setting of host. (Restart printer after change setting)
20
| LENGTH (RS232)| 8 DATA BITS
7 DATA BITS|
8 DATA BITS
| Should be as same as setting of host.
(Restart printer after change setting)
21
| CLEAR FLASH| NO YES|
NO
| When “YES” is selected, all the label forms, soft fonts, and graphics stored
will be deleted
(Restart printer after change setting)
22
| SETTING PRIORITY| COMMAND/ LCD PANEL|
COMMAND
| Choosing priority of LCD settings. It decides which setting method – by command or by LCD panel, is prior.
23
| EMULATION| AUTO PPLA
PPLB
PPLZ|
AUTO
| (Restart printer after change setting)
24
| BUZZER| DISABLE
ENABLE|
ENABLE
|
25
| STANDBY| DISABLE
1 MINUTE
2 MINUTES
5 MINUTES
10 MINUTES
20 MINUTES
30 MINUTES|
DISABLE
|
26
| LOAD DEFAULTS| LAST SAVED FACTORY NETWORK|
LAST SAVED
| LAST SAVED: NO.1~15, NO.17, NO.22, NO.24~25 and language will be loaded.
FACTORY: NO.1, NO6, NO9, NO11, NO14~15, NO17, NO.27~30 will be loaded.
NETWORK: NO.27~30 will be loaded.
(Restart printer after change setting)
Ethernet Settings and Parameters
NO.
| Item| Range| Factory Default|
Remarks
---|---|---|---|---
27
| DHCP|
DISABLE
ENABLE
| If printer has been connected to a router, IP address will be assigned
automatically by DHCP server after power on.
If printer is not connected to a router, with DHCP disabled, settings of IP
ADDRESS, SUBNET MASK, and DEFAULT GATEWAY settings will be available on LCD.
Every time when DISABLE is changed to be ENABLE, LCD will prompt “ETHERNET
CARD UPDATE FINISH…”
Then please reboot the printer.
28
| IP ADDRESS|
x xx.xxx.xxx.xxx
| xxx range:0~255
When DHCP is disabled, default IP address is 192.168.1.100.
If “_” sign appears, that means that DHCP setting is disabled. On the
contrary, DHCP setting is enabled.
-
_ _FEED/CONFIG.__ : change contents.
(ex. from 000.000.000.000 to 255.255.255.255) -
_ _PAUSE/CALIBR.__ : shift “”sign position.
(ex. from 2 55.255.255.255 to 255.255.255.25 5 )_ -
_ _CANCEL/RESET__ . : Select next function setting. (“” sign must at the third_ _digit of each parameter, for example, xx x )._
-
To change IP ADDRESS or SUBNET MASK, enter DEFAULT GATEWAY setting, press CANCEL button once; LCD will prompt “ETHERNET CARD UPDATE FINISH…”
Then reboot the printer. To have more information on Ethernet settings, please refer to Ethernet User’s Guide.
29
| SUBNET MASK|
x xx.xxx.xxx.xxx
30
| DEFAULT GATEWAY|
x xx.xxx.xxx.xxx
31
| MAC ADDRESS|
Read only
Wi-Fi Module (Option)
Item
| Range|
Remarks
---|---|---
WIFI SSID
|
Read only
| WIFI module is an option for iX4 Series. Connect printer to PC and use print
tool to set WIFI module. To have more information, please refer to Print Tool
user guide.
WIFI IP ADDRESS|
Read only
WIFI SUBNET MASK
|
Read only
WIFI GATEWAY
|
Read only
WIFI MAC ADDRESS
|
Read only
Printing Media Calibration & Configuration
Before calibration, be sure media and ribbon (for thermal transfer printing) have been loaded correctly. The label sensor needs to locate properly to index labels’ gaps/ notches/ holes. After the media is loaded, please perform media calibration to calibrate the label sensor in advance. For printer without LCD, please see indicators.
- Turn off the printer
- Press and hold the PAUSE button and turn on the power.
- When “CALIBRATION …” is displayed on the LCD, and both READY and MEDIA indicators blink, release the PAUSE button.
- The printer feeds 1 or 2 blank labels.
- When “READY” is displayed, the READY and MEDIA indicators stop blinking but remain illuminated.
Printing a Configuration Report
To perform a self-test and print a configuration report, helping to check printer’s print quality and internal settings. Steps as below:
- Turn off the printer.
- Load media and ribbon.
- Press and hold the FEED button while turning on the power.
- When “SELF-TEST…” is displayed on the LCD, release the FEED button.
- The printer now prints out a configuration report. (as the sample in next page) All characters will be printed in 2 columns: the right shows characters received from your system, and the left are the corresponding hexadecimal values of the characters. It allows users or engineers to verify and debug the program.
For printer without LCD, please see indicators.
Sample of Configuration Report
-
Version Information
The firmware version and its build date. -
Standard RAM
Total SDRAM size. -
Available RAM
RAM is able to be used. -
Flash Type
The flash memory type and size. -
Available Flash
Flash is able to be used. -
No of DL soft fonts (FLASH)
The number of fonts is downloaded in Flash. -
No of DL soft fonts (RAM)
The number of fonts is downloaded in RAM. -
No of DL soft fonts (HOST)
The number of fonts is downloaded in USB HOST. -
H. Position Adjust
Move the print position horizontally. -
Sensor Type
The media sensor type such as reflective sensor. -
Label-less Calibration Value
Check if a label-less calibration has been performed on the printer. If not, the value is 0000. -
RTC Time
The date and time of the real-time clock (RTC). The default format is month/day/year (hour:minute:second). If your printer has a built-in RTC, the RTC time shows here. -
Max Label Height
The max label length you can print at a time. For 200 dpi models, it is 100 inches; for 300 dpi models, it is 50 inches. -
Print Width
The print width in dots. -
Lab Len (Top to Top)
For non-continues media, it is the length between the tops of two labels. -
Speed
The speed of printing. The unit is inch per second (ips). -
Darkness
The current darkness. -
Print Method
It is either thermal transfer (TT) or direct thermal (DT) printing. TT requires ribbons and DT doesn’t. -
Print Length
The total print length. -
Cut Count
It counts the times the cutter cuts. -
RS232 Protocol
It lists RS-232C settings in the following order: baud rate, data length, parity check, stop bit and flow control. -
Code page
The character set table. -
Media
The media type in use. -
Calibration mode
There are intelli mode or smart mode.
Intelli mode: Just install labels, latch print module, press FEED button once, and then the printer will feed 1-2 labels to detect next gap / black mark before printing. The printer will feed 1-2 labels automatically before printing, if FEED button is not pressed.
Smart mode: Print from the first label immediately according to label length setting. Make sure to carefully align label bottom edge at the tear-off position before printing. -
Backfeed Enabled/Disabled
Enable or disable backfeed during the printing process. When it is enabled, the printer moves the paper forward in a predefined length 1 second after printing, and pulls the paper back in a predefined length once the printing begins again. When it is disabled, the printer won’t move the paper at all. -
Cutter Enabled/Disabled
Enable or disable the cutter during the printing process. -
Dispenser Enabled/Disabled
Enable or disable the dispenser during the printing process. -
Cutter/Dispenser Offset
Move the cutting line or the peeling position forward or backward. The value in the angle brackets is the offset unit. -
IP Address
The static IP address of the printer. The default value is “192.168.1.1”. -
Subnet Mask
The manually specified subnet mask of the printer. The default value is “255.255.255.0”. -
Gateway
The manually specified gateway of the printer. The default value is “0.0.0.0.” -
MAC Address
The unique address assigned to the printer that connects to the internet. -
DHCP
When DHCP is enabled, it assigns an IP address to the printer automatically. -
DHCP Client ID
It is an arbitrary value sent to the DHCP server to reserve an IP address for the printer. -
DHCP Host Name
The name of a DHCP client. -
SNMP
When it is enabled, the host gets or sets parameters registered as SNMP entities. -
Socket Communication
When it is enabled, the host communicates with the printer via the socket. -
Socket Port
The socket number of the printer. -
IPv6 Mode
It determines how you get the IPv6 address of your printer. There are three modes: MANUAL, DHCPv6 or AUTO. -
IPv6 Type
It is the IPv6 address type of your printer. There are four types: NONE, NORMAL, EUI and ANY. -
IPv6 Address
The static IPv6 address of your printer. -
Link Local
The IPv6 address that used in a network segment. It is allocated automatically. -
Product SN
The serial number of product. -
USB SN
The Serial number of USB host. -
CG Enable
Printer is able to use True Type font. -
TPH and Cutter Offset
For developers to debug. -
Reflective Sensor Gap Calibration
For developers to debug. -
See-Through Sensor Gap Calibration
For developers to debug. -
Reflective Sensor Profile
For developers to debug. -
See-Through Sensor Profile
For developers to debug. -
Ribbon Sensor Profile
For developers to debug. -
Reflective Sensor Offset
For developers to debug. -
See-Through Sensor Offset
For developers to debug. -
Font Image
You can use them as the reference to check your label font. -
TPH Test Pattern
You can use them to check broken pins on the printhead.
If your printer has a Wi-Fi module, your PPLB configuration label will contain the following entries:
-
FW Version
WLAN board firmware version. -
Date
WLAN board firmware version date. -
IP Address
The IP address of your printer. When DHCP is enabled, it shows the automatically assigned IP address; when DHCP is disabled, it shows the manually specified IP address. -
Subnet mask
The netmask of your printer. When DHCP is enabled, it shows the automatically assigned netmask; when DHCP is disabled, it shows the manually specified netmask. -
Gateway
The gateway of your printer. When DHCP is enabled, it shows the automatically assigned gateway; when DHCP is disabled, it shows the manually specified gateway. -
Mac address
The unique address assigned to your printer that connects to the internet. -
DHCP
When DHCP is enabled, it assigns an IP address to your printer automatically. -
DHCP Hostname
The name of a DHCP client. -
Socket Port
The socket number of the printer. -
SSID
Short for service set identifier. It is the name of a wireless local area network. -
Mode
There are ad-hoc and infrastructure mode. Refer to Print Tool Network type description from Technical manual. -
Country Code
The country or region. -
Channel
The Wi-Fi channel. -
Network Authentication
There are six mode. Refer to Printer Tool Network authentication description from Technical manual. -
WEP
Refer to Printer Tool Wep description from Technical manual.
PPLA
PPLZ
Resetting to Factory Default Settings
Be cautioned that this will reset all printer settings back to defaults; if
possible, print the configuration label in advance before reset. All settings
stored in FLASH memory are retained even after turning off the printer.
Printer mode without LCD can see indicators.
To reset the printer to factory default settings:
- Turn off the printer.
- Press and hold the CANCEL button and turn on the printer.
- When “RESET …” is displayed on the LCD and the READY indicator blinks, release the CANCEL button.
- When “READY” is displayed on the LCD, the READY indicator stops blinking but remains illuminated.
- The following information is now back to defaults:
- Label parameters
- Heat (Darkness)
- Speed
- Others for specific emulation
Media Sensing
Printer offer two types of media sensor: transmissive and reflective. They are used for detecting specific media types. Both sensor types are installed together as a movable module.
Transmissive Sensor
The transmissive sensor is used for detecting gaps across the entire width
of the label.
Single Column
Reflective Sensor
The reflective sensor detects gaps, notches and black marks.
Multi Columns
Notch
Black Mark
Flip the media so the black-mark side is facing down to align with the
sensor.
Adjust Position of Label Sensor
Function of the label sensor is to detect the gap, notch, or holes of
labels, to help the printer for accurate print positions and label length. For
labels with gaps, label sensor can be positioned wherever media locates. If
labels with notches or holes are in use, pull in or out Paper Sensor Position
Lever, to horizontally adjust position of label sensor.
- Make sure the Media sensor position mark locates right on notch or hole of labels. Check below
Communications
Interfaces and Requirements
This printer comes with USB type A and type B interface, a nine-pin Electronics Industries Association (EIA) RS-232 serial data interface, a standard Centronics parallel interface(Option), GPIO interface(Option), .
-
USB Interface Requirements
The Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface is compatible with your existing PC hardware. The USB’s “plug and play” design makes installation easy. Multiple printers can share a single USB port/hub. The different usage of type A and B as below.USB type A| USB Flash drive, USB keyboard or USB Scanner.
---|---
USB type B| PC to set printer. -
Serial (RS-232) Port
The required cable must have a nine-pin “D” type male connector on one end, which is plugged into serial port located on the back of the printer. The other end of the cable connects to a serial port on the host computer. For technical and pin-out information, please refer to RS-232C in this manual. -
Centronics Parallel Port (Option)
You can connect the printer to the host computer’s parallel port using any standard Centronics cable. The required cable must have a standard 36-pin parallel connector on one end, which is plugged into the parallel port located on the back of the printer. The other end of the parallel interface cable connects to the printer connector at the host computer. For pin-out information, please refer to Centronics in this manual. -
General-purpose input/output (GPIO)
Pins depend on usage and the signal is user selectable. The function is diversity. For general-purpose, I/O signals programmed as inputs can cause CPU interrupted. For more information, contact local dealer. -
Ethernet Module Status Indicators
The indicators with two different colors help users understand the status of Ethernet:
LED Status
|
Description
---|---
Both Off| No Ethernet link detected.
Blinking| The printer waits for printer ready.
It will take about few seconds to be ready.
Orange (Yellow)| Duplex/COL LED| On: Full duplex Off: Half duplex
Blinking: Collision occurs
Green| Link/Activity LED| On: link up Off: link down
Blinking: activity
Driver Installation
The bundled printer driver can be applied to all applications under Windows
XP/ Vista/ Windows 7/ Windows 8/ Windows 10, supporting 32-bit/ 64-bit
operation systems. With this driver you can operate any popular Windows
software applications including Argox Bartender UL label editing software or
MS Word, etc., to print to this printer.
Drivers can be downloaded from Argox website
Installing a Plug and Play Printer Driver (For USB Only)
Note:
We strongly recommend that you use the Seagull Driver Wizard instead of the
Microsoft Windows Add Printer Wizard when installing and updating your Drivers
by Seagull.
(Even though the “Add Printer Wizard” is from Microsoft, it too easily
performs a number of tasks incorrectly when updating existing drivers. It also
badly handles the situation where a printer driver is already in use by a
Windows application.)
-
Turn off the printer. Plug the power cable into the power socket on the wall, and then connect the other end of the cable to printer’s power socket. Connect the USB cable to the USB port on the printer and on the PC.
-
Turn on the printer. If the printer supports Plug-and-Play, and you have successfully connected it using a USB cable, then the Windows Add Hardware Wizard will automatically detect the printer and display a dialog that allows you to install a driver. Click Cancel and do not install the driver using this wizard.
-
Run the driver from Argox website. On the prompt, Windows Printer Driver, select “I accept…” and click “Next”.
-
Assign the directory to keep Seagull driver, (for example: C:\Seagull) and click “Next”.
-
Click “Finish”.
-
Select Install printer drivers and Click “Next”
-
On the Seagull Driver Wizard prompt, select the first radio button to “Install a driver for a Plug and Play printer” Then click “Next.”
-
Enter Printer name (i.e. Argox iX4-250 PPLB) and select “do not share this printer”, and click “Next”.
-
Check all the data on the showing screen, if it is correct, click “Finish”.
-
After the related files have been copied to your system, click “Finish”.
-
After driver installation is complete, click “Close”. The driver should now be installed.
Installing a Printer Driver (For Other Interfaces Except USB)
-
Turn off the printer. Plug the power cable into the power socket on the wall, and then connect the other end of the cable to printer’s power socket. Connect the Parallel cable, Serial cable, or Ethernet cable to the proper port on the printer and on your computer.
-
Run the driver from Argox website. On the prompt, Windows Printer Driver, select “I accept…” and click “Next”.
-
Assign the directory to keep Seagull driver, (for example: C:\Seagull) and click “Next”.
-
Click “Finish”.
-
Select Install printer drivers and Click “Next”.
-
Make sure printer is connected to PC, select “Other” and click “Next”:
-
Select model & emulation – the following examples are based on model iX4-250 PPLB:
-
Select the port of the printer and click “Next”.
-
Enter Printer name (i.e. Argox iX4-250 PPLB) and select “do not share this printer”, and click “Next”.
-
Check all the data on the showing screen, if it is correct, click “Finish”.
-
After the related files have been copied to your system, click “Finish”.
-
After driver installation is complete, click “Close”. The driver should now be installed.
Configuration on Web Setting Tool
Before doing settings for your printer, be sure that you have a LAN cable. The
cable is connected to the LAN connector of your printer. The LAN connector is
an 8-PIN RJ45 type modular connector. Please use the LAN cable of CAT 5 of a
proper length to connect the LAN connector on the printer to a LAN hub as
appropriate.
The default static IP address of the printer is 0.0.0.0 and the default listen
port is 9100. For the first time, to configure your printer through the web
setting tool, you must still follow the step-by-step instructions below.
Attaching the Power Cord
-
Make sure the printer power switch is set to the OFF position.
-
Insert the power supply’s connector into the printer power jack.
-
Insert the AC power cord into the power supply.
Important: Use only the power supply listed in the user instructions. -
Plug the other end of the AC power cord into the wall socket.
Do not plug the AC power cord with wet hands or operate the printer and the power supply in an area where they may get wet. Serious injury may result from these actions!
Connecting the Printer to a LAN Hub
Use a LAN cable of CAT 5 of a proper length to connect the LAN connector on the printer to a LAN hub to which your desktop or laptop PC as a host terminal is also connected.
Getting the IP Address of the Printer
You can have the printer run a self test to print a configuration label, which helps you get the IP address of your printer connected to the LAN hub.
- Turn off the printer.
- Press and hold the FEED button, and turn on the printer.
- Both status lights glow solid amber for a few seconds. Next, they turn to green shortly, and then turn to other colors. When LED 2 turns to green and LED 1 turns to amber, release the FEED button.
- Press the FEED button to print a configuration label.
- Get the IP address of the printer from the printed configuration label.
Logging in to The Web Setting Tool
The Web Setting Tool is a build-in setting tool in firmware for ARGOX serial
printers. User can connect to the supported ARGOX serial printers with
browsers to get or set the printer settings, update firmware, download font,
etc.
After obtaining the IP address of the LAN printer from the printed
configuration label, you can connect to the printer with the supported
browsers by input the IP address of the printer, for example, 192.168.6.185,
in the URL field and connect to it.
When the connection is successful, the Login page will be displayed. Input the
user name and password to log in to the web setting tool. The default user
name and the default password are given below:
Default user name: admin
Default password: admin
The default password can be changed in the “Device Setting \ Change Login
Password” webpage.
This web setting tool can be used to manage multiple label printers in the
same local area network segment under the Windows operating system as long as
there is no conflicting IP address in the network. You can also check each of
the MAC addresses listed in this tool against the MAC address label you can
find on each of the printers.
The label printer that is connected through TCP/IP in the way like a directly
connected local printer can be used with a random PC connected in the same
local area network segment. So, through the tool, all commands applicable to
the LAN mode can work on the printer in the same way, as the printer must be
configured upon the TCP/IP communication protocol with the IP address of the
printer.
When doing settings through a tablet PC or Smart Phone for the printer working
in infra mode, please set the same network segment of the host terminal to
that of the printer, for example, 192.168.6.XXX (1~254). The Wi-Fi mode for
the printer is infra mode that can be searched by the wireless device manager
of the host terminal.
Maintenance
Vertical streaks in the printout usually indicate a dirty or faulty print head. (Refer to the following examples.) Clean the print head. If the problem persists, replace the print head.
For unstable ribbon roll rotation, check the label path and make sure the head latch is securely closed.
Poor printout quality:
- The ribbon may not match the media in use.
- Adjust the Darkness (heat temperature).
- Slow down the print speed.
- Refer to the following and clean the related spare parts.
Cleaning
To maintain print quality and prolong the printer’s life, you need to perform some routine maintenance. Daily maintenance should be done for high volume printing, and weekly for low volume printing.
Printhead
It is essential to keep printhead clean if you want the best print quality. We
strongly recommend that you clean the printhead when you load a new media
roll. If the printer is operated in critical environment, or the print quality
declines, you need to clean the printhead more frequently.
Keep in mind these things before you clean:
- Keep the water away in case of corrosion on heating elements.
- If you just finish printing, wait until the printhead cools down.
- Do not touch the printhead with bare hands or hard objects.
Cleaning Steps:
- Moisten a soft cloth or a cotton swab with ethyl alcohol.
- Gently wipe the printhead in one direction. That is, wipe it only from left to right or vice versa. Do not wipe back-and-forth, in case dust or dirt attaches to the printhead again.
Platen Roller
The platen roller is also important for print quality. Dirty platen roller may
damage the printhead. Clean the platen roller right away if the adhesive, dirt
or dust accumulates on it.
- Moisten a soft cloth with absolute ethyl alcohol.
- Gently wipe the platen roller to remove the dust and adhesive.
Printer Adjustments
Printer Head Pressure Adjustment
Printing quality can be fine adjusted based on which area on the label the
printing quality discrepancy is located. There are two ways to enhancement
pressure. Spring pressure pad have two level can quickly adjust pressure
numerous. Star screws can adjust pressure slightly.
Adjust Spring Pressure Pad
-
Step 1: Choose right or left pad and loosen the screw below with tool.
-
Step 2: Move the pad horizontally. Position 1 is thicker than position 2. If you want more pressure, move pad to position 1.
Ribbon Tension Adjustment
Both ribbon supply spindle and ribbon pickup spindle are equipped with control
knobs to adjust ribbon tension. The control knobs can rotate to both
directions.
If the ribbon is wrinkled at ribbon supply, rotate clockwise control knob of
ribbon supply, to increase ribbon tension at ribbon supply and further improve
ribbon wrinkle.
-
Rotate control knob clockwise to increase ribbon tension.
Too much tension at
ribbon supply may result in ribbon not moving smoothly. Once it happens,
rotate counter-clockwise control knob of ribbon supply, to reduce ribbon
tension to balance the tension. -
Rotate control knob counter-clockwise to reduce ribbon tension.
[Remark]:
The ribbon shaft has its user-friendly feature to allow users to adjust the
tension of ribbon shaft by rotating the knob. User can reset to factory
default tension by adjusting the ribbon shaft while the black line was aligned
to the marked arrows. The default setting when shipped from Argox factory is
shown as Figure 2 – the two arrows are in line with the black line.
Note: If the ribbon is wrinkled at ribbon pickup, rotate counter- clockwise control knob of ribbon pickup, to decrease ribbon tension at ribbon pickup and further improve ribbon wrinkle. If the tension is too little at ribbon pickup, ribbon will not move smoothly, and needs control knob to rotate clockwise to increase tension.
Printing Wrinkle Adjustment
During printing, ribbon may wrinkle and cause abnormal printing quality. The
following describes how to solve ribbon wrinkle accordingly.
Once the printouts as above appear, the possible cause may be the unequal positions of Ribbon Bracket, which needs to be adjusted properly to make its heights equally the same at both sides. Steps to adjust are as below:
-
Loose the screws at both sides and rotate counter-clockwise:
-
Make sure the Ribbon Bracket is at its lowest position first; then tight up the screws by rotating clockwise.
-
Print a test page to check print quality. If the quality is improved, stop the adjustment; if not, continue with next step.
-
If the test print appears as below, remain the screw at the right of Ribbon Bracket fixed, then loose the screw at the left, and gradually fine-tune upward, until the print quality gets improved.
-
If the test print appears as Figure B, remain the screw at the left of Ribbon Bracket fixed, and then loose the screw at the right, and gradually fine-tune upward, until the print quality gets improved.
RTC Battery Replacement
RTC stands for real-time clock. It is a battery powered clock that keep track
of the current date and time. If your printer has a built-in RTC, you’ll find
the RTC battery on the main board. The RTC battery keeps the RTC running even
if the printer is turned off. If the battery is low or out, you need to
replace it with a new one.
To replace a RTC battery:
- Open the left cover of printer. Turn off the printer.
- Locate the battery on the main board.
- Remove the old coin battery and install a new one.
- Turn on the printer.
CAUTION:
Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used
batteries according to the instructions.
Troubleshooting
This chapter provides the information about printer problems and solutions.
Printer Issues
The Printer Won’t Turn On
- Did you attach the AC power cord?
- Check the power connection from the wall socket to the printer. Test the power cord and the socket with other electrical devices.
- Disconnect the printer from the wall socket, and connect it again.
The Printer Turns Itself Off
- Turn on the printer again.
- If the printer keeps turning itself off, check the socket and make sure it has enough power for the printer.
The Printer Does Not Feed the Media Out
- The media is not loaded correctly. See Section 2.3, “Loading Media” to reload the media.
- If there is a paper jam, clear it.
Media Issues
The Media is Out
- Load a new media roll.
The Paper is Jammed
- Open the printer and clear the jammed paper.
- Make sure the paper is held properly by the Media Guides.
The Printing Position is Not Correct
- Did you use the correct media type for printing?
- The media is not loaded correctly. See Section 2.3, “Loading Media” to reload the media.
- The media sensor needs to be calibrated. See Section 3.2, “Printing Media Calibration & Configuration” to calibrate the sensor.
- The media sensor is dirty. Clean the media sensor.
Nothing is Printed
- The media is not loaded correctly. See Section 2.3, “Loading Media” to reload the media.
- The print data might not be sent successfully. Make sure the interface is set correctly in the printer driver, and send the print data again.
- Make sure the media and ribbon are both matched.
The Print Quality is Poor
- The printhead is dirty. Clean the printhead.
- The platen roller is dirty. Clean the platen roller.
- Adjust the print darkness, or lower the print speed.
- The media is incompatible for the printer. Use appropriate media roll instead.
Ribbon Issues
The Ribbon is Out
- Load a new ribbon roll.
The Ribbon is Broken
- Check the print darkness and adjust it if it is too high, and take the following steps to fix the broken ribbon:
- Unload the ribbon supply roll and take-up roll from the printer.
- Pull the ribbon from the supply roll so it overlaps the broken end of the take-up roll.
- Tape the overlapped parts together.
- Reload both rolls into the printer.
The Ribbon is “Printed Out” with the Media
- The ribbon is not loaded correctly. See Section “Loading Ribbon” to reload the ribbon.
- The printhead temperature is too high. Reload the ribbon and print a configuration label to check the settings (See “Printing Media Calibration & Configuration”). If the print darkness is very high, adjust it in printer preference, or reset your printer (see Section “Resetting to Factory Default Setting”).
The Ribbon is Wrinkled
- Make sure the ribbon is loaded correctly.
Rotate Thumb Wheel of Ribbon spindles to straighten the ribbon.
Other Issues
There are broken lines in the printed label
- The printhead is dirty. Clean the printhead.
The printhead temperature is extremely high
- The printhead temperature is controlled by the printer. If it is extremely high, the printer will stop printing automatically, until the printhead is cool down. After that, the printer will resume printing automatically, if there is any unfinished print job.
The printhead is broken
- Contact your local dealer for assistance.
Specifications
This chapter provides specifications for the printer.
Media & Ribbon
Properties
|
Description
---|---
Media Size| Max. width: 4.4″ (112mm).
Min. width: 1″ (25.4 mm).
Thickness: 0.0025″~0.01″ (0.0635mm~0.254mm) 8.26″ (210mm) OD on a 3″ (76mm) ID
core.
7″ (177.8mm) OD on a 1.5″ (38mm) ID core.
Min. width 2.3″ (58mm) for partial cutter options.
Min. length 1″ (25.4mm) for cutter options.
Media Type| Roll-feed, die-cut, continuous, fan-fold, tags, ticket or
plain paper or label.
Ribbon Size| Width:1″~4″ (25.4 mm~101.6 mm)
Length: max 450m Wax, 450m Semi-Resin.
Max OD 3.2″ (81.3 mm).
Core size ID 1″ (25.4 mm).
Ribbon Type| Wax, Wax/Resin, Resin (Ribbon wound ink-side out or ink-
side in)
Electrical and Operating Environment
Properties
|
Description
---|---
Power Supply
| Voltage: AC 100 V ~ 240 V ± 10 % (full range)
Frequency: 50 Hz – 60 Hz ± 5 %
Temperature
| Operating: 40°F~104°F (4°C~40°C)
Storage: -4°F~122°F (-20°C~50°C)
Humidity
| Operating: 25 %RH ~ 85 %RH (non-condensing)
Storage: 10 %RH ~ 90 %RH (non-condensing)
Physical Dimension
Dimension
|
Size and Weight
---|---
Size| W 250mm x H 263mm x D 418 mm
Weight| 11 kg(24lbs)
Note: The specifications may be changed at any time without prior notice. For more information about the new specifications, visit Argox website or contact your dealer.
Fonts, Barcodes, and Graphics Specification
The specifications of fonts, bar codes and graphics depends on the printer emulation. The emulations PPLA, PPLB, and PPLZ are printer programming languages, through which the host can communicate with your printer.
Interfaces
This section provides information about IO port specifications for the printer.
USB
There are two common USB connectors. Typically, type A is found on hosts and
hubs; type B is found on devices. The figure below shows their pinouts.
Type A
Type B
Pin
| Signal|
Description
---|---|---
1
| VBUS|
+5V
2
| D-| Differential data signaling pair –
3| D+|
Differential data signaling pair +
4
| Ground|
Ground
RS-232C
The RS-232C on the printer is DB9 female. It transmits data bit by bit in
asynchronous start-stop mode. The figure below shows its pinout.
Pin
| Signal| Description
---|---|---
1| NA|
No Function
2
| TxD| Transmit
3| RxD|
Receive
4
| NA| No Function
5| GND|
Ground
6
| NA| No Function
7| CTS|
Clear to Send
8
| RTS| Request to Send
9| NC|
No Connection
Host (DB9)
| | Printer (DB9)
---|---|---
Signal| Description| Pin| Description|
Signal
CD
| Carrier Detect| 1>1| No Function|
NC
RxD
| Receive| 2>2| Transmit| RxD
TxD| Transmit| 3>3| Receive|
TxD
DTR
| Data Terminal Ready| 4>4| No Function| NC
GND| Ground| 5>5| Ground|
GND
DSR
| Data Set Ready| 6>6| No Function| NC
RTS| Request to Send| 7>7| Clear to Send|
RTS
CTS
| Clear to Send| 8>8| Request to Send| CTS
CI| | 9>9| No Function|
NC
Centronics
The 36-pin Centronics on the printer uses parallel communication, and complies
with IEEE 1284 compatibility mode (also called SPP, Standard Parallel Port).
The figure below shows its pinout.
Pin
| Signal Direction| Signal| Pin| Signal Direction|
Signal
---|---|---|---|---|---
1| To Printer| /STROBE| 19| S-GND|
Signal-GND
2
| To Printer| Data 1| 20| S-GND| Signal-GND
3| To Printer| Data 2| 21| S-GND|
Signal-GND
4
| To Printer| Data 3| 22| S-GND| Signal-GND
5| To Printer| Data 4| 23| S-GND|
Signal-GND
6
| To Printer| Data 5| 24| S-GND| Signal-GND
7| To Printer| Data 6| 25| S-GND|
Signal-GND
8
| To Printer| Data 7| 26| S-GND| Signal-GND
9| To Printer| Data 8| 27| S-GND|
Signal-GND
10
| From Printer| /ACK| 28| S-GND| Signal-GND
11| From Printer| BUSY| 29| S-GND|
Signal-GND
12
| From Printer| PE| 30| S-GND| Signal-GND
13| From Printer| SELECT| 31| To-Printer|
LPTINIT
14
| To Printer| AUTO| 32| From Printer| /FAULT
15| NC| | 33| NC|
16
| S-GND| Signal-GND| 34| NC|
17| P-GND| Power-GND| 35| NC|
18
| Power| 5V| 36| To Printer|
SELIN
GPIO
The input and output definition is below.
Initialize:
- During initialize process, please set all of output port to high for status clear, it mean all of outputs are active low.
- The active level maybe customize needed to modify.
- The input normal state (idle) is high level, so the all of inputs are also active low.
Ethernet
The Ethernet uses RJ-45 cable, which is 8P8C (8-Position 8-Contact). The
figure below shows its pinout.
