Data Validator User’s Manual

The Printronix T5000 series of Label Printers

The Printronix T5000 series of Thermal Printers
Data Validator User’s Manual

170895-001D
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Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 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
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commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
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This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
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German Conformity Statement:
Zulassungsbescheinigung Gesetz über die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit von Geraten (EMVG) vom 30.
August 1995
Dieses Gerät ist berechtigt in Übereinstimmung mit dem deutschen das EG-Konformitätszelchen - CE - zu
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Der Außteller der Konformitätserklärung ist die Printronix......(1)
Informationen in Hinsicht EMVG Paragraph 3 Abs. (2) 2:

Das Gerät erfüllt die Schutzanforderungen nach EN 50082-1 und

EN 55022 Klasse A.

EN 55022 Klasse A Geräte bedürfen folgender Hinweise:

Nach dem EMVG: “Geräte dürfen an Orten, für die sie nicht asreichend entstört sind, nur mit besonderer
Genehmigung des Bundesminesters für Post und Telekommunikation oder des Bundesamtes für Post und
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ist nach Paragraph 9 EMVG in Verbindung mit der entsprechenden Kostenverordnung (Amtsblatt 14/93)
kostenpflichtig.
Nach der EN 55022: “Dies ist eine Einrichtung der Klasse A. Diese Einrichtung kann im Wohnbereich
Funkstörungen verursachen; in diesem Fall kann vom Betreiber verlangt werden, angemessene Maßnahmen
durchzuführen und dafür aufzkommen.”
Anmerkung: Um die Einhaltung des EMVG sicherzustellen sind die Geräte, wie in den Handbüchern
angegeben, zu installieren und zu betreiben.
This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class A Information Technology
Equipment according to European Standard EN 55022. The limits for Class A equipment were derived for
commercial and industrial environments to provide reasonable protection against interference with licensed
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 Warning
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this product may cause radio interference in which
case the user may be required to take adequate
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COPYRIGHT © 2000, 2001, PRINTRONIX, INC. All rights reserved.

Trademark Acknowledgements
Printronix, LinePrinter Plus, IGP, PGL, and PrintNet are registered trademarks of Printronix, Inc.
Code V is a trademark of Quality Micro Systems, Inc.
 Table of Contents
1 Installation Instructions ........................... 11
Overview..............................................................................11
Safety Notices .....................................................................12
Installation ...........................................................................14
Adjusting The Validator Beam .............................................18
Enabling And Disabling The Validator...........................21
Shifting The Scanner Beam ..........................................22
Calibration ...........................................................................23
Bar Code Validation Demo Page ..................................25

2 Operation ................................................ 27
Basic Validator Setup ..........................................................27
Validator Menu Structure ..............................................29
Configuring The Validator ....................................................31
Enabling And Disabling The Validator...........................31
Validator Reporting .......................................................31
Validator Statistics.........................................................35
Defining Validator Options ............................................36
Advanced Validator Options..........................................40
Operation.............................................................................44
Print Speed Limits .........................................................44
Demand Printing Modes................................................47
Calibration Warning.......................................................48
Ambient Light Fault .......................................................48
Bar Code Failures................................................................49
Bad Bar Code Error Detection ......................................49
Missing Bar Code Error Detection.................................49
Error Action ...................................................................50
Error Messages.............................................................52

9
 Table of Contents

Maintenance ........................................................................54
Troubleshooting...................................................................54

10
 1 Installation
Instructions

Overview
The data validator is an external device attached near the paper
exit of the printer. Once activated, it scans the printed output,
looking for bar codes. When the validator finds a bar code, it
determines what type of bar code it is and monitors the bar code
quality as it passes through the scan area. After the bar code
passes the scan beam, the validator grades the bar code and
sends a report to the printer. How the printer responds is
determined by the validator settings, explained in “Configuring The
Validator” on page 31.
• The validator can track the performance of up to four horizontal
linear bar codes or one PDF 417 bar code on one line. (Vertical
bar codes are not scanned.)
• The validator requires a minimum distance of 1/2 inch or 20
times the minimum element width (x-dimension) between
barcodes, whichever distance is greater.
• The validator only recognizes the following linear, picket fence
bar codes: Codabar, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, Interleaved
2 of 5, and UPC/EAN + add-ons. The validator can only
evaluate the PDF 417 bar codes.
• For PDF 417 Limited, the validator works best with security
level 5 or higher, using the current default printer settings for
Defects Percentage, Percent Decode, and Decodeability. For

11
Chapter 1 Safety Notices

lower security levels, you must lower the Defects Percentage to

5% to enable checking for bar code damage.
Refer to Table 1 for the minimum x-dimension requirements for
each printer size.

Table 1: Minimum X-Dimension and Beam Width for

a 300 dpi Printer

Minimum
Printer Size Beam Width
X-Dimension

4 inch 4.5 inches 6.6 mils

6 inch 6.5 inches 10 mils

8 inch 8.5 inches 13 mils

Tools And Materials You Will Need

• Static Wrist Strap
• 3 mm Allen key
• 2.5 mm Allen key
• T5000 User’s Manual

Parts List
• Validator and Upper Bracket Assembly
• Cable Assembly
• Lower Bracket Assembly
• Overlays

Safety Notices
WARNING Using controls, making adjustments, or performing
procedures other than those specified herein may result in
hazardous radiation exposure.

12
WARNING Class 2 laser light. Do not stare into the laser beam or a reflected
image of the laser beam.

Note: This is the laser exit window.

Figure 1. Safety Warnings

13
Chapter 1 Installation

Installation

Support
Bracket

Screw (3)

No screw here

Figure 2. Installing the Support Bracket

1. Remove the validator, the support bracket, and the power/data
cable from the packaging.
2. Make sure the printer is off, and unplug the printer from its
power source.
3. Raise the media cover.
4. Using the three screws and Allen key provided, install the
support bracket, as shown in Figure 2.

14
 NOTE: Use the three screws to install the support bracket, as
shown in Figure 2. (Figure 3 shows the bracket in place.)
The screw heads can prevent complete opening of the
printhead on some models if the support bracket is not
installed as shown.

Notch $
$
Thumb
Screw

4 in. 6 in. 8 in.

Printer

Bracket

Figure 3. Attaching the Validator to the Support Bracket

5. Face the front of the printer while installing the validator.
6. Loosen the thumb screw on the side of the validator. Slide the
validator unit onto the bracket. Refer to Figure 3, Detail A for
location of the validator notch for each printer model size.
7. When the unit is positioned correctly, tighten the thumb screw
to lock the unit onto the proper notch on the lower bracket.

15
Chapter 1 Installation

Flex Cable

Cable Holder

Bracket Tab

Grommet

Figure 4. Attaching the Power/Data Cable

8. Attach the flex cable end of the power/data cable to the
validator unit.
9. Attach the flat cable end of the power/data cable to the two
cable holders on the side of the validator.
10. Insert the grommet into the hole in the printer frame.
11. Route the flex cable through the appropriate cutouts and feed it
through the grommet, as shown in Figure 4. When the printer is
ordered from the factory with the validator option, the cable is
already installed and this step can be skipped.
NOTE: If necessary, loosen the bracket mounting screws enough
to slip the power/data cable behind the bracket tab, then
retighten the bracket screws.
12. Lower the media cover.

16
 $

Side Cover
Side Hole $

Cable
Clip

Cable Path

t53bkgut
October 22, 2001
RJ-11 Receptacle

Figure 5. Connecting the Validator

NOTE: Do the following steps only if the field kit was purchased.
The following steps must be done by a qualified electronic
technician.
13. Remove the side cover.
14. Run the cable through side hole and cable clips.
15. If necessary, remove the CT board. (Refer to the T5000
Maintenance Manual.)
16. Plug the cable into the RJ-11 receptacle.
17. Replace the side cover.

17
Chapter 1 Adjusting The Validator Beam

Adjusting The Validator Beam

When the validator is first installed, the visible scanning beam may
need to be aligned with the two notches on the sides of the tear bar,
as shown in Detail A of Figure 6. When the visible scanning beam
is properly aligned it will line up with the two notches. If your printer
has a cutter installed, align the beam with the notches at each side
of the opening on the hinged upper lid.
NOTE: This adjustment is only possible with the newer version of
the upper bracket assembly, which has a thumbscrew.

$
Scanning Beam

Notch in Tear Bar

t 5lsrlc2
June19, 20 0

$
Figure 6. Adjusting Validator Beam

18
 Top Left Screw

Bottom Left Screw

Thumb Screw

Bottom Right Screw

Figure 7. Adjustment Screws

Figure 7 shows the screws used to adjust the parallelism and
position of the validator beam. The positions of the screws assume
you are behind the validator unit and facing the printer. The
following instructions and illustrations show how to adjust the
validator according to how the beam appears.
1. Power the printer on and make sure the validator beam is on. If
the validator beam is off, press the RESET button for less than
two seconds to turn on the scanning beam.
2. Use the Allen key provided to adjust the screws.

19
Chapter 1 Adjusting The Validator Beam

NOTE: You may have to loosen all three screws and allow the rubber
spacers to expand (relax) before making any adjustments.

Correct alignment of the

validator beam. The beam
should line up with the two
notches and be parallel to the
tear bar outside edge.

Tighten the top left screw to

pivot the beam downward. If
already tight, loosen both bottom
screws to lower the validator
beam.

Tighten both bottom screws to

raise the beam. If already tight,
try loosening the top left screw to
pivot the beam upward.

Loosen the bottom right screw to

rotate the beam clockwise. If
already loose, try tightening the
bottom left screw.

Loosen the bottom left screw to

rotate the beam counter-
clockwise. If already loose, try
tightening the bottom right
screw.

20
 Enabling And Disabling The Validator

Summary Of Beam Adjustment

To Move Beam To Rotate Beam To Rotate Beam

To Move Beam Up
Down Clockwise Counterclockwise

Tighten top left screw Loosen top left Tighten bottom Tighten bottom
screw left screw right screw

or or or or

Loosen both bottom Tighten both Loosen bottom Loosen bottom left
screws bottom screws right screw screw

NOTE: Your printer may not have a tear bar with the notch on the
ends. Adjust the beam so that the center of the beam is
approximately .06 inch (1.5 mm) from the edge as shown.

.06 inches
1.5 mm

Enabling And Disabling The Validator

Enabling and disabling the validator is done through the printer
configuration menu.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Validator Funct.” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - until “Enable” appears on the printer display.

21
Chapter 1 Adjusting The Validator Beam

5. Press ↵ to enable the validator. Once enabled, the printer will

command the validator to begin scanning and reporting errors,
and the counters will be incremented.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.
NOTE: To disable the validator once it has been enabled, repeat
the steps above and select the “Disable” option in step 4.

Shifting The Scanner Beam

This option enables you to shift the beam horizontally to the left or
right. The left edge of the beam should be 0.13 inches to the left of
the left edge of the tear bar. After you set this value, save it as part
of the configuration for future use.
The value range is from -99 to 99. The default setting is 0. Lower
values will move the beam to the left.
1. This is an advanced operation and is only visible if the
Advanced menu (under Printer Control) is enabled. Refer to
"Configuring the Printer" for information.
2. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
3. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
4. Press ↓ until “Validator Funct.” appears on the printer.
5. Make sure the “Enable” option is selected.
6. Press ↓ until "Beam Shift" appears on the printer display.
7. Press + or - to scroll through the values: -99 to 99. The default
is 0. Lower values will move the beam to the left. Press ↵ to
accept the shift value.
Keep selecting the new value until the beam width is at the
desired position. The left edge of beam should be
approximately 0.13 inch from the left of the left edge of the tear
bar.
8. Save the configuration for future use.

22
 Shifting The Scanner Beam

Calibration
WARNING Using controls, making adjustments, or performing procedures
other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation
exposure.

WARNING Class 2 laser light. Do not stare into the laser beam or a reflected
image of the laser beam.
The validator must be calibrated before it can be used. A special
calibration bar code is included with the validator package.
1. Make sure the printer is on and the validator beam is on. If the
validator beam is off, press the RESET button for less than two
seconds to turn on the beam.

Table 2. Reset Button Settings

Time Reset Button Is Depressed Result

Less than 2 seconds Turns on laser beam

More than 4 but less than 6 seconds Validator goes into calibration mode
Greater than 6 seconds Resets validator to factory calibration and
turns on laser beam

2. Raise the media cover. Open the printhead assembly by

rotating the release lever clockwise to the end of its travel. The
printhead assembly will pop open.
3. If the printer has the cutter option, put the cutter in the open
(down) position.
4. Remove the calibration bar code card from its protective sleeve
and slide it into the open printhead and under the scanning
beam.
5. Make sure the bar code is under the beam and the
CALIBRATION light is on.

23
Chapter 1 Calibration

6. Press and hold the RESET button on the validator until the
CALIBRATION light begins flashing.
CALIBRATION Light

RESET Button

Printhead
Release
Lever

Calibration Bar Code Card

Figure 8. Opening the Printhead Assembly

7. The scanning beam should turn off for few seconds then back
on, and the CALIBRATION light should turn off. This indicates
a successful calibration.
NOTE: If the scanning beam does not turn back on and the
calibration light is still on or flashing, the calibration has
failed. In this case, refer to Table 2 on page 23 to repeat
the calibration procedure or to reset the validator settings
back to factory default.
8. Once you have a successful calibration, remove the calibration
bar code card.
9. Close the printhead and rotate the release lever
counterclockwise to the end of its travel.

24
 Bar Code Validation Demo Page

10. Close the media cover.

11. Power the printer off, then on.
If the calibration was successful, the scanning beam is on and
the CALIBRATION light is off.

If the calibration was not successful, the beam remains on and

the CALIBRATION light stays lit without flashing. Repeat the
calibration procedure. If repeated attempts fail, check the
ambient light conditions (see “Ambient Light Fault” in the User’s
Manual).
NOTE: In some cases the validator can detect and indicate to the
printer that calibration is required. Refer to “Calibration
Warning” in the User’s Manual for details.

Bar Code Validation Demo Page

This demo page allows you to test or demo the validator operation
without a host. This page contains some text and two good bar
code symbologies: one in Code 39, the other in Code 128.
To print and validate the bar code validation demo page:
1. Load the factory default configuration (see the User’s Manual
for information).
2. In the VALIDATOR menu, set Validator Funct. to Enable.
3. In the CALIBRATE CTRL menu, set Gap/Mark Sensing to Gap.
4. Load the sample media provided with the printer you are using:
• Four inch printer: 4 x 6 inch labels
• Six inch printer: 6.5 x 4 inch labels
• Eight inch printer: 8.5 x 6 inch labels
5. In the CALIBRATE CTRL menu, run Auto Calibrate for proper
gap sensing.
6. The printer must be in Offline mode. If the printer is in Menu
mode, press the PAUSE key to take the printer offline.

25
Chapter 1 Calibration

7. Press the TEST PRINT key to enter the Test Print menu.
Continue to press TEST PRINT key until "Barcode Demo"
appears on the printer display.
8. Press the ↵ key to print and validate the demo page. (If the ↵
key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.)
9. The printer will make three demo pages, and each page
contains two good bar codes. To demonstrate the bad bar code
reading, block the scanning beam with an opaque object while
the bar code moves under the beam. When you block the
beam, the validator will generate a reading error and will
perform a default error action. The default setting for the
"Validator Action" under the Validator menu is Retry Form.
10. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer back online.

26
 2 Operation

Basic Validator Setup

Unit Positioning
The validator must be positioned so the beam properly covers the
entire area containing the bar codes, including the area required for
quiet zones. The validator can be moved along the support bracket
and latched into any of the pre-cut notches, depending on the size
of the labels printed and the positioning of the bar codes on those
labels. In addition, the beam width can be moved horizontally to the
left or right. See “Summary Of Beam Adjustment” on page 21.
If a bar code is completely out of the scanning area, or it straddles
an edge, it is interpreted as a missing bar code and generates error
conditions.

Validator Front Panel

The front panel on the validator has a number of indicators:
• Power. Indicates the validator is at full power.
• Calibration. Flashes when the validator needs to be calibrated.
See “Calibration” on page 23 for calibration instructions.
• Read. Flashes “On” when the validator is reading a bar code.
• 1 and 2. Used for maintenance purposes only.
• Reset button. This button is used in the calibration procedure
and possible troubleshooting situations. Except in these
specific circumstances, the Reset button should not be used.

27
Chapter 2 Basic Validator Setup

Table 3. Reset Button Settings

Time Reset Button Is Depressed Result

Less than 2 seconds Turns on laser beam

More than 4 but less than 6 seconds Validator goes into calibration mode

Greater than 6 seconds Resets validator to factory calibration and

turns on laser beam

CAUTION Do not lift the printer by the validator unit or by the support
bracket.

CAUTION The validator contains sensitive electronic equipment. Do not

bang or drop the validator unit.

28
 Validator Menu Structure

Validator Menu Structure

VALIDATOR

Validator Report
page 32

Auto Report
Disable* Enable
page 32

Clear Data
page 33

Good Barcodes
0
page 35

Good Forms
0
page 35

Overstrike Forms
page 35 0

Average BWD
0%
page 35

Last BWD
page 35 0%

Validator Funct.
page 31 Disable* Enable

Telemetry Path
page 33 Disabled* Serial Port Network Port

Telemetry Data
page 34 Short Report* Full Report Validation Mode

Number of Codes
page 36 Auto* 1-10

Notes:
* = Factory Default
Italicized items are available only when
you enable Advanced User (in the
Continued at the top of next page PRINTER CONTROL menu).

29
Chapter 2 Basic Validator Setup

VALIDATOR
(cont. from previous page)

Validator Action
Retry Form* Stop Overstrike
page 50

Symbol Contrast
page 36 Enable* Disable

Quiet Zones
Enable* Disable
page 37

Decodeability
40%* 30-90%
page 41

Percent Decode
60%* 0-99%
page 40

Defects
page 41
20%* 0-100%

Min. Code Height

page 44 0.40 inches* 0.13 inches 0.16 inches 0.20 inches

0.25 inches 0.32 inches

Form Spacing
page 46 0.6 inches* 0.2 to 1.7 inches

Skip Labels
Minimum* Maximum
page 38

F/W Revision
page 38

Overstrike Style
Grid* Grey Checkerboard
page 39
Notes:
Scanner Settings
page 42 4xx, 6yy, 8zz* (1) * = Factory Default
Italicized items are available only
Beam Shift when you enable Advanced User (in
page 43 0* -99 to 99
the PRINTER CONTROL menu).
1
I2of5 Checksum Depends on printer model and
page 39 Disable* Enable custom files. xx, yy, zz = file revision
numbers.

30
 Enabling And Disabling The Validator

Configuring The Validator

Setting validator options is done through the printer configuration
menu. The validator comes equipped with a default setting for each
configuration option, and it works without having to change any of
these options. However, in some cases it is necessary to adjust
these options, which are described below.

Enabling And Disabling The Validator

1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Validator Funct.” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - until “Enable” appears on the printer display.
5. Press ↵ to enable the validator. Once enabled, the printer will
command the validator to begin scanning and reporting errors,
and the counters will be incremented.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.
NOTE: To disable the validator once it has been enabled, repeat
the steps above and select the “Disable” option in step 4.

Validator Reporting
After any completed print job, you can request a report from the
printer which describes the validation statistics since the printer
was turned on, or since the last data reset (for information on
resetting data, see page 33).

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Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator

Requesting A Validator Report

This procedure prints a summarized validator report on the printer
itself.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Validator Report” appears on the printer display.
4. Press ↵ to print the report.
5. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
6. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

Setting Auto Report

This function allows you to disable or enable an automatic validator
report printout after a batch job. The factory default is Disable.
You can determine the end of a batch job in two ways:
• by using an Execute command, or
• a timeout of more than 10 seconds.
To enable Auto Report:
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Auto Report” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the choices: Enable or Disable.
The default is Disable.
5. When Enable displays, press ↵ to activate Auto Report.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

32
 Validator Reporting

Resetting Validator Data

The validator reports on all bar codes it detects since the last data
reset. For example, you print a large batch of labels with bar codes
and then print a validator report. Then you print another batch of
labels with bar codes and print another report. The report will
contain information on both batch jobs. However, if you reset the
validator data between batch jobs, the second report will only
contain information on the second batch job.
To reset Validator Data:
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Clear Data” appears on the printer display.
4. Press ↵ to clear validator data.
5. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
6. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

Defining The Data Output Destination (Telemetry

Path)
You may want to send a streaming flow of validation data to an
external device during the print job. Follow the procedure below to
select the data output destination.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Telemetry Path” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + and - to cycle through the choices:
• Disabled. Default setting. The validator does not send any
data to an external device.
• Serial Port. The printer outputs the bar code analysis and
underlying data from the validator to a device connected to
the serial port, so the validator data can be seen and
analyzed with the optional Printer Management Utility.
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Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator

• Network Port. The printer outputs the bar code analysis

and underlying data from the validator to a device
connected to the network port so the validator data can be
seen and analyzed with the optional Printer Management
Utility.
5. When your selection displays, press ↵ to activate it. All future
reports are output to your selection.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

Selecting The Type Of Report For the

Data Output Destination (Telemetry Data)
By default, the validator sends the Short Report to the selected
data output destination, but there are two other report options
available: Full Report and Validation Mode.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Telemetry Data” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + and - to cycle through the choices:
• Short Report. Default setting. Provides the encoded
failure cause or pass indication and the bar width deviation,
shown as a percentage.
• Full Report. Provides a completed report of all the data
captured by the validator. This report can be fed directly to
the analysis software for capture and review.
• Validation Mode. Provides the same data as the Short
Report, but adds the actual bar code data read.
5. When your selection displays, press ↵ to activate it.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

34
 Validator Statistics

Validator Statistics
The validator displays a number of statistics directly on the printer
LCD, without having to print a report. To view any of the statistics:
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ to scroll through the following statistics on the printer
display:

• Good Barcodes. The number of bar code reports sent

from the validator since the last Clear Data command.
• Good Forms. The number of forms printed since the last
Clear Data command.
• Overstrike Forms. The number of forms containing a bar
code that fell below the minimum acceptable level since the
last Clear Data command.
• Average BWD. The average of all Bar Width Deviations
reported since the last Clear Data command, shown as a
percentage.
• Last BWD. The Bar Width Deviation included in the most
recent report received from the validator, shown as a
percentage.
NOTE: A bar code’s Bar Width Deviation is determined by
comparing the bar width the validator expects to the bar
width that is actually printed. For example, if the bar width
is printed exactly as the validator expects, the BWD is 0%.
However, if the bar width as printed is 25% wider or
narrower than the validator expects it to be, it reports a
BWD of 25%.
4. Press PAUSE to put the printer offline.
5. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

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Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator

Defining Validator Options

A number of validator options which define specific parameters for
certain print jobs can be set from the printer configuration menu.

Setting Number Of Bar Codes On A Form

You can define how many bar codes the validator should expect on
a form. This setting is required when bar codes are produced as a
part of a larger bitmapped image. When set to a specific number,
the printer checks after a form has printed and passed the validator
and determines if it has received an analysis report for each bar
code. If the printer does not have as many reports as it expects, it
can assume a gross bar code failure.
When Auto is selected, the printer only expects as many bar code
analyses as bar codes printed using printer bar code commands
defined by the host software.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Number of Codes” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the choices: Auto, 1–10. The
default is Auto.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

Setting The Symbol Contrast

Symbol Contrast represents the contrast between the bars and
spaces in the bar code. The bar code must have a certain level of
contrast to be recognized by the validator. When you enable the
Symbol Contrast parameter, the bar code contrast is included as
part of the pass/fail criteria.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
36
 Defining Validator Options

3. Press ↓ until “Symbol Contrast” appears on the printer display.

4. Press + or - to scroll through the choices: Enable or Disable.
The default is Enable.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

Checking Quiet Zones

Quiet zones are the white spaces surrounding the bar code. Each
bar code requires a minimum quiet zone distance in order for the
bar code to be scanned properly.
NOTE: The validator requires a minimum distance of 1/2” or 20
times the minimum element width (x-dimension), whichever
is greater, between bar codes.
When the Quiet Zones parameter is enabled, then the bar code
quiet zone is included as part of the pass/fail criteria.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Quiet Zones” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the choices: Enable or Disable.
The default is Enable.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.
NOTE: The validator does not recognize x-dimensions greater
than 40-mil with Quiet Zones enabled.

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Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator

Checking The Firmware Revision Number

For troubleshooting purposes, you may need to reference the
firmware revision number.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “F/W Revision” appears on the printer display. The
firmware version number displays.
4. Press PAUSE to put the printer offline.
5. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

Setting For Skip Labels

This option is used for skipping blank labels after a bad label has
been marked. It is useful when you want to have extra blank labels
in between bad and good labels. The settings are Minimum (the
default) and Maximum. Minimum allows one blank label, and
Maximum allows two blank labels.
NOTE: Minimum and Maximum blank labels are only applicable for
labels 2” high or greater. For labels 2” high or less, the
minimum and maximum blank labels may vary.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until "Skip Labels” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the choices: Minimum or
Maximum. The default is Minimum.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

38
 Defining Validator Options

Setting Overstrike Style

This option is used for marking bad labels with different overstrike
styles: Grid or Grey.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until "Overstrike Style” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the choices: Grid or Grey. The
default is Grid.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

Setting I2of5 Checksum

This option allows you to include or exclude the checksum option in
the Interleaved 2 of 5 code as part of the grading. For example, if
you enable this option, then any incoming barcode data without
checksum digits will be graded as a failure, and a Checksum
Failure error will display.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until "I2of5 Checksum" appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the options: Enable or Disable.
The default is Disable.
5. Press ↵ to accept the desired value.
6. Relock the control panel by pressing ↓ and ↵ simultaneously,
then press PAUSE to put the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

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Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator

Advanced Validator Options

The following items are considered advanced items and are only
visible if the Advanced menus are selected. Refer to the
configuration section of your User’s Manual for more information.

Percent Decode
You can set how strict the validator grades each bar code. For
example, the Percent Decode default value is 60%. This means
that 60% of the scanned bar code must be readable for the
validator to give the bar code a passing grade. You can set the
Percent Decode parameter to a percentage value between 99%
and 0%. The higher the percentage value chosen, the stricter the
validator grades.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Percent Decode” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the percentage values: 99%, 98%,
etc. through 0%. The default is 60%.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

40
 Advanced Validator Options

Decodeability
You can set how strict the validator grades the wide/narrow bars
and spaces which compose the bar code. For example, if the
default Decodeability value is set to 40%, the validator gives the bar
code a failing grade. You can set the Decodeability parameter to a
percentage value between 90% and 30%. The lower the
percentage value chosen, the stricter the validator grades.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Decodeability” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the percentage values: 90%, 89%,
etc. through 30%. The default is 40%.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

Defects
You can set how strict the validator grades the irregularities such as
voids and spots found within elements and quiet zones for each bar
code. For example, the default value for Defects is 20%. This
means that if the bar code and quiet zone defects exceed 20%, the
validator gives the bar code a failing grade. You can set the Defects
parameter to a percentage value between 100% and 0%. The lower
the percentage value chosen, the stricter the validator grades.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Defects” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the percentage values: 100%,
99%, etc. through 0%. The default is 20%.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.

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Chapter 2 Configuring The Validator

6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put

the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

Scanner Setting
This option has two purposes:
• Allows the validator to upload an optimized setting for a
particular printer size at power up. This will use the full scanner
beam width and improve the performance and efficiency of the
validator.
• Allows you to customize a special scanner setting for a specific
application. The file can then be downloaded to the printer by
using normal printer download procedures and must be saved
as part of the power up configuration. For more information,
contact the Printronix Customer Solutions Center at 714-368-
2686.
To set this option when a special setting has been downloaded:
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing the ↓ and ↵ keys
together.
3. Press ↓ until "Scanner Setting" appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the options: Printronix Default or a
special file name. Printronix Default is the default.
5. Press ↵ to accept the desired value.
6. Save this configuration and set as the power up configuration.
7. Recycle power for the new setting to take effect.
8. The beam may need to be moved horizontally. (For
instructions, see “Beam Shift” on page 43.)

42
 Advanced Validator Options

Beam Shift
This option enables you to shift the beam horizontally to the left or
right. The left edge of the beam should be 0.13 inches to the left of
the left edge of the tear bar. After you set this value, save it as part
of the configuration for future use.
The value range is from -99 to 99. The default is 0. Lower values
will move the beam to the left.
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Validator Funct.” appears on the printer.
4. Make sure the “Enable” option is selected.
5. Press ↓ until "Beam Shift" appears on the printer display.
6. Press + or - to scroll through the values: -99 to 99. The default
is 0. Press ↵ to accept the shift value. Lower values will move
the beam to the left.
Keep selecting the new value until the beam width is at the
desired position. The left edge of beam should be
approximately 0.13 inch from the left of the left edge of the tear
bar.
7. Save the configuration for future use.

43
Chapter 2 Operation

Operation
There are a number of factors which contribute to successful bar
code validation, including printer speed, demand print settings,
calibration, and ambient light. The following sections describe how
to ensure your bar code validator is scanning and reporting
properly.

Print Speed Limits

Two factors in the validation process affect the printer’s speed limit:
bar code height and the validation report type selected.

Bar Code Height (Min. Code Height)

The validator cannot function at the highest speed possible by the
printer. It requires a minimum number of scans per bar code to
make a reliable assessment, so the speed of the printer is limited
by the height of the bar code. If the bar code is very short, printing
needs to be slowed down to allow sufficient scans to occur. If the
print speed exceeds this limit, the message, “Speed Exceeds
Validator Limit” will appear. Print speed will be lowered
automatically if required, but will not automatically reset to a higher
speed.
The printer cannot predict how high all the bar codes in a given job
will be, so it cannot automatically limit or adjust the print speed to
insure the code height/speed requirement is being met. When the
bar code is too short for the selected speed, the printer produces a
missing bar code error condition. Therefore, printer speed must be
set manually to compensate for bar code height.

44
 Print Speed Limits

Use this formula to determine printer speed in relation to bar code

height:
Bar Code Height In Inches Maximum Printer Speed In
=
0.04 Inches Per Second

For example, a bar code 1 inch in height can scan successfully at a

printer speed of 25 inches per second; a bar code 1/8 inch in height
can scan successfully at no more than 3 inches per second.
By changing the Min. Code Height, the printer and slew speeds will
be changed automatically.
To change the Min. Code Height:
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until "Min. Code Height” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the choices: 0.40, 0.13, 0.16, 0.20,
0.25 and 0.32. The default is 0.40.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value. The printing and slew
speeds will be changed after ↵ is pressed.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.
To set the printer speed manually:
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
..
3. Press . until “MEDIA CONTROL” displays.
4. Press ↓ until “Print Speed” appears on the printer display.
5. Press + or - to scroll through the choices.
6. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
7. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer back offline.
8. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.

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Chapter 2 Operation

Validation Report Type

Another factor that limits print speed is the type of validation report
selected. The printer automatically examines the selected report
type and sets the defined maximum slew (vertical paper
movement) and print speeds to insure proper operation. If the
current speed selected in the menus is higher than the maximum,
the value is changed to equal the maximum. If the current menu
setting is lower than the newly set maximum, no change in speed
occurs. The limits are detailed in Table 4.

Table 4. Print Speed Limits By Report Type

Report Type Selected Maximum Print Speed

Short Report 6 inches per second

Full Report 3 inches per second

Validation Mode 6 inches per second

Form Spacing

Last bar code on a form

Form Spacing
Distance from
Form separation
bottom of last bar code to
bottom of first bar code
First bar code on a form

This parameter tells the printer how large the gap is between the
bottom of the last bar code on the form and the bottom of the first
bar code on the next form. This distance is important, because it
affects how fast the printer can be set to run. If the bottom most bar
code is very close to the form edge and the top most bar code of
the next form is very close to the top of the form, the printer could
have trouble distinguishing which bar code report correlates with
which form. To avoid the risk of miscorrelation, the printer will limit
the speed of the printer, based on the information given here to
insure the validation results are always accurate.

46
 Demand Printing Modes

To change the form spacing:

1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until "Form Spacing” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the choices: 0.2”, 0.3”,... 0.6”,...,
1.6”, 1.7”. The default is 0.6 inches.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer back offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.
Use the following equation to determine printer speed in relation to
report type and form spacing:

Table 5. Report Correlation Speed Limits

Short Report: Form Spacing inches X (16.5) = Print Speed ips

Validation Report: Form Spacing inches X (10.9) = Print Speed ips

Full Report: Form Spacing inches X (6.1) = Print Speed ips

NOTE: To avoid the risk of miscorrelation, the printer automatically

sets its speed limit based on the information that has been
selected to ensure validation results are accurate.

Demand Printing Modes

In order for each bar code to be successfully validated, the entire
code must pass through the scanning laser, even when the printer
is set up for demand printing mode. In cases where the bar code is
close to the bottom of a label and the printer is in a demand print
mode, the printer automatically pushes the label past the scanning
laser. Once the bar code is validated, the printer retracts the label
back to be cut or torn off.

47
Chapter 2 Operation

Because the printer has to push out and then retract labels in
demand modes, the extra movements slow the printing process.
You can avoid this by adjusting the form itself so that the bar code
appears “early” enough on the form so that it will pass completely
through the laser scanner during normal printing. This may involve
rotating the form or moving the bar code to a different position on
the form.

Calibration Warning
The validator can determine if it is out of calibration. When this
occurs, the validator communicates this condition as part of a bar
code report. In addition, the “Calibration” indicator lamp flashes and
the message “Validator needs calibration” displays. This
message is a warning and does not stop printer operation.
Press the PAUSE key to clear the message. Perform the calibration
procedure described on page 23.

Ambient Light Fault

The validator’s scanning laser cannot work properly in a room with
excessive ambient light, including direct sunlight. If the validator
senses that proper scanning could be compromised by the
surrounding ambient light in the room, printing stops and the error
message “Ambient light/Validator failure” displays.
Press the PAUSE key to clear the fault message, then take the
appropriate action to minimize the ambient light surrounding the
validator. This may involve moving the printer to a darker area of
the room.

48
 Bad Bar Code Error Detection

Bar Code Failures

There are two cases where the validator will notify the printer to
alert you to a fault situation: if the validator detects a bad bar code
or detects no bar code where it expects to find one. How the printer
reacts to these faults are determined by the printer’s configuration
settings, described below.

Bad Bar Code Error Detection

The validator examines each bar code which passes through the
laser scanner and sends an analysis report to the printer. If a bar
code is reported to have failed to meet any of the criteria, an error
condition is reported. How the printer then reacts is described in the
“Error Action” section, below.

Missing Bar Code Error Detection

For many reasons a bar code may print so poorly that the validator
cannot detect it, and the printer does not receive an analysis report
for the code. To catch this problem, the printer tracks the position of
the last label printed and knows when it should have completely
passed the validator beam. It can then compare the number of bar
code analysis reports it expected to the number it received. If the
printer does not receive enough bar code reports, it enters an error
condition. How it then reacts is described in the “Error Action”
section, below.
The number of bar codes expected is determined one of two ways:
• If “Auto” is selected for the “Number of Codes” parameter, and
you are using LinePrinter Plus® or IGP®/PGL® or IGP Code V
or IPDS™ graphics software, the printer compares the number
of bar code commands it receives from the software to the
number of analysis reports it receives from the validator.
• You can set the number of bar codes generated by a
bitmapped image that the printer should expect per form by
selecting a value in the “Number of Codes” parameter.

49
Chapter 2 Bar Code Failures

For more information on choosing a value for the “Number of

Codes” parameter, see “Setting Number Of Bar Codes On A Form”
on page 36.

Error Action
Regardless of whether the error stems from a bad or missing bar
code, the printer response is the same. The printer response is
determined by the setting in the configuration menu:
1. Press ... to place the printer in Menu mode. “VALIDATOR” will
appear on the LCD.
2. If the ↵ key is locked, unlock it by pressing ↓ and ↵ together.
3. Press ↓ until “Validator Action” appears on the printer display.
4. Press + or - to scroll through the choices:
• Stop
• Overstrike

• Reprint
These options are described in detail below.
5. Press ↵ to select the desired value.
6. Relock by pressing ↓ and ↵ together, then press PAUSE to put
the printer back offline.
7. Press PAUSE again to put the printer online.
Each of the “Validator Action” parameters is described below.

Stop
If the system detects a bar code failure, the print job stops, the
printer indicator lamp flashes, the alarm sounds, and the
appropriate error message displays.
The printer remains in a fault condition until you press the PAUSE
key. This clears the error message and puts the printer in the offline
state. You must correct any condition that may have caused the
fault. When ready, the printer can be placed back online and
resumes printing where it left off.

50
 Error Action

Overstrike
Use Overstrike mode in situations when you want bad labels to be
marked, but not reprinted, for example, when using pre-numbered
labels.
If the system detects a bar code failure, the print job stops, the
printer indicator lamp flashes, the alarm sounds, and the
appropriate error message displays.
Without pausing, the printer then automatically reverses to the top
of the form containing the failing bar code. It then overprints an
obliterating pattern over the form and any other forms partially
printed prior to the physical stop. The obliterating pattern is a grid of
fine lines or a grey fill that obviously marks the label as bad and yet
allows some visibility as to what was originally printed.
After the overstrike printing, the printer clears the error message
and stops the alarm itself, then resumes normal printing at the point
the job was stopped. The overprinted labels are lost and a separate
print command is required to resend them from the host, if needed.

Reprint
This mode is similar to the Overstrike mode, however, instead of
resuming printing where the printer had left off, the printer will
attempt to reprint the bad form.
The printer will stop, indicate an error, and overstrike as described
above. Then it will skip a number of blank labels, depending on the
setting for Skip Labels (see “Setting For Skip Labels” on page 38).
It will then slew to the next top of a blank form and reprint the entire
form that contained the bad bar code and any other forms that were
perhaps interrupted by the error.
NOTE: Because of physical differences between the location of the
print head and the laser scan line, it is likely that a second
form will be started before the first form has finished being
assessed. Therefore, the reprint operation will need to
reprint more than just the form with the error.
If the printer has to reprint the same form five times in a row, the
print job stops completely and behaves the same as in Stop mode.

51
Chapter 2 Bar Code Failures

Error Messages
The validator can detect a number of errors. When one of these
occurs, the validator alerts the printer to perform the currently
selected error action (see page 50) and shows the appropriate
error message on the printer display. The possible error messages
and their meanings are explained below.

Bar Code Improper Data Format

The bar code is not properly encoded. For example, a check sum is
incorrect, a required number of characters is not met, or required
terminator characters are not included. In almost all cases, this
problem is caused by incorrect form or host application design.

Bar Code Quiet Zone Too Small

The blank zone surrounding the bar code is not big enough to meet
the minimum requirement. This can typically occur in forms where
bar codes are placed too close to other elements, the bar code is
too close to an edge of the media, or the media’s position is
shifting. The minimum quiet zone on each end of the barcode is ten
times the minimum element width or .25 inches, whichever is
greater.

Contrast Too Low/Check Media

The contrast between bars and spaces is not sufficient. This can be
caused by too little heat in the thermal transfer or by use of colored
media or ribbons.

52
 Error Messages

Poor Scanning/Check Media

The validator detected gross inconsistencies within the height of
the bar code. These types of failures are likely attributed to large
blemishes within the bar code, such as wrinkles.

Poor Scanning/Inspect Head

The validator detected unexpected dark spots in spaces or light
spots in bars. Generally, this is an indication of a poor ribbon/media
combination, a burned pixel, or a print head that needs cleaning.

Poor Scanning/Check Heat & Head

The difference between wide and narrow elements is too close for
the validator to reliably discern. Generally, this indicates an
improperly set heat/speed/pressure combination or the loss of the
heating element.

Unscannable Code/Check Media

An expected bar code is missing or was printed so badly the
validator cannot detect it.

Checksum Failure
The barcode data fails the checksum check or is missing the
checksum digit.

53
Chapter 2 Maintenance

Maintenance
WARNING Using controls, making adjustments, or performing
procedures other than those specified herein may result in
hazardous radiation exposure.

WARNING Class 2 laser light. Do not stare into the laser beam or a
reflected image of the laser beam.
As a self-contained unit, the data validator requires very little
maintenance.
Every so often, the glass should be cleaned to maintain scanning
integrity. Use a household glass cleaner and a dry, lint-free cloth to
clean the glass.
If the problem with the printer is not fixed by one of these
troubleshooting methods, call your authorized service
representative or the Printronix Customer Solutions Center.

Troubleshooting
If you are having problems with the validation process, consult
Table 6 for a list of problems and possible solutions.

Table 6. Troubleshooting

Problem Solution

The validator laser does not come 1. Make sure the power cord is plugged into
on. the validator. See “Installation” on page 14.
2. Make sure the validator has not been
disabled through the printer configuration
menu. See “Enabling And Disabling The
Validator” on page 31.
3. Call your service representative if the
problem persists.

54
 Error Messages

Table 6. Troubleshooting (continued)

Problem Solution

The validator laser beam does not 1. Make sure that the validator is located at the
cover the entire width of the right notch. Refer to Figure 3 on page 15 for
labels being printed. details on notch location.
2. After locating the right notch, use "Beam
Shift" to move the beam horizontally to
cover the entire width of the labels.

Printing 3-mil or 5-mil The validator does not recognize x-dimensions

x-dimension width bar codes as small as 3-mil or 5-mil. If you have to print bar
constantly causes error codes this size, disable the validator to prevent
messages. error reports. See “Enabling And Disabling The
Validator” on page 31.

The printed labels look clean, but The validator glass may be dirty, distorting the
the validator is still reporting an report results. Power down the printer and
error message. validator. Clean the glass using a household
glass cleaner and a dry, lint-free cloth.

The “Calibration” indicator on the Calibrate the validator. See “Calibration” on

validator is flashing and/or the page 23.
printer display indicates that the
validator is out of calibration.

The error message “Ambient The validator is in an area of the room with
light/Validator failure” excessive ambient light. See “Ambient Light
appears on the printer display. Fault” on page 48.
The validator reports a quiet zone The printer does not recognize a bar code with
violation when printing bar codes an x-dimension greater than 40 mils. If you have
with an x-dimension greater than to print bar code this size, disable the validator
40 mils. to prevent error reports. See “Enabling And
Disabling The Validator” on page 31.

55
Chapter 2 Troubleshooting

Table 6. Troubleshooting (continued)

Problem Solution

The printed bar codes are There are a number of factors which could be
causing error conditions. causing validation errors:
• Make sure the validator is enabled.
• Scanner Beam is not properly aligned with
two notches on the tear bar of the printer.
Follow the validator alignment section to
ensure the proper alignment of the beam.
• Validator and printer are not properly
communicating. Follow the Barcode Demo
section to ensure the proper operation of the
validator without using a host to send file.
• Bar code width. The validator can recognize
x-dimensions as narrow as 6.6-mil for
300 dpi printers, and 10 mil for 200 dpi
printers. The validator cannot recognize
x-dimensions smaller than 6.6 mil or larger
than 40 mil.
• Bar code size. A minimum height of 1/8 inch
is required for validation.

• Bar code spacing.The validator requires a

minimum distance of 1/2 inch or 20 times
the minimum element width, whichever is
greater, between bar codes.
• Printer speed. See “Print Speed Limits” on
page 44 for more information.
• Be sure the bar code is not printing on the
extreme edges of the label.
• Check the number of bar codes being
validated concurrently. The validator can
track the performance of up to four bar
codes at one time.

56
 Index

A Contrast Too Low/Check Media error

message, 52
ambient light, 48
D
Ambient Light Fault, 48
auto detect bar codes, 36, 49 demand printing, 47
Auto Report, 32 disabling validator, 21, 31
Average BWD command, 35 E
B
enabling validator, 22, 31
bad bar codes, 49 error action, 50
bar code failure, 49 Overstrike Mode, 51
Bar Code Improper Data Format error Retry Form, 51
message, 52 Stop Mode, 50
Bar Code Quiet Zone Too Small error error messages
code, 52 Ambient light/Validator failure, 48
bar codes supported, 11 Bar Code Improper Data Format, 52
bar width deviation, 35, 41 Bar Code Quiet Zone Too Small, 52
Beam Shift command, 43 Contrast Too Low/Check Media, 52
BWD, 35 Poor Scanning/Check Heat & Head, 53
C Poor Scanning/Check Media, 53
Poor Scanning/Inspect Head, 53
calibration Unscannable Code/Check Media, 53
setting, 23 Validator needs calibration, 48
warning, 48 external device reporting, 33
Calibration Warning, 48
F
Checksum Failure, 53
Clear Data command, 33 firmware revision, 38
clear validator data, 33 form correlation, 46
configuring, 31 form parameters, 36
Full Report, 34

57
 Index

F/W Revision command, 38 print speed limits, 44

G printing reports, 32
PrintNet Plus reporting, 33
Good Barcodes command, 35
Q
Good Forms command, 35
I quiet zone, 37
R
installing the validator, 14
L reports, 31
external device, 33
Last BWD command, 35 resetting data, 33
M selecting type, 34
requesting reports, 32
maintenance, 54
resetting data, 33
missing bar code, 49
Retry Form, 51
N
S
Number of Codes command, 36
Scanner Setting, 42
number of codes on a form, 36
setting Auto Report, 32
O Short Report, 34
Overstrike Forms command, 35 Skip Labels command, 38
Overstrike Mode, 51 speed limits, 44
P statistics
Average BWD, 35
panel, 27 good barcodes, 35
parameters, 11 good forms, 35
peel off mode, 48 Last BWD, 35
Percent Decode, 40 overstrike forms, 35
Poor Scanning/Check Heat & Head error Stop Mode, 50
message, 53 symbol contrast, 36
Poor Scanning/Check Media error Symbol Contrast command, 37
message, 53
Poor Scanning/Inspect Head error
message, 53

58
 Index

T
Telemetry Path, 33
troubleshooting, 54
U
Unscannable Code/Check Media error
message, 53
V
Validation Mode, 34
validator
bar code failure, 49
calibration, 23, 48
configuration, 31
disabling, 21, 31
enabling, 22, 31
error action, 50
failure, 48
installation, 14
maintenance, 54
options, 36, 40
panel, 27
parameters, 11
reporting, 31
statistics, 35
Validator Funct. command, 21, 31
Validator Report command, 32

59
 Index

60
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