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Chapter 1 Media Selection
Media Selection
Since there are two print modes of operation, there are two kinds of thermal
media: Direct thermal media
and Thermal transfer media.
Direct thermal media
is paper coated with special chemicals that act as an
accelerator, acceptor dye and binder. During direct thermal mode, the heat
from the thermal printhead contacts the paper and causes a chemical reaction
to take place.
NOTE: Do not attempt to use direct thermal media with ribbon. The printable
surface of direct thermal media is very slick and will fail to advance
ribbon at the proper speed resulting in poor print quality.
Thermal Transfer Media
is paper designed to be used with a transfer ribbon.
Once your specific label requirements are identified, you will need to select
the ribbon and media combination that will satisfy you needs.
NOTE: The term “media” used in this manual refers to all the different kinds
of paper or tag stock that can be used in the printer.
Ribbons
You should use a Genuine Printronix Thermal Ribbon in your printer.
Printronix offers a wide range of thermal transfer media, such as film or
synthetic paper substitutes that are excellent in their ability to transfer an
image (print quality) and in scratch resistance (long storage). Most of these
media options can be die-cut for easy label applications. The wide selection of
media sizes and face stocks have been tested with Printronix ribbons for print
quality and usage. Consult your Genuine Printronix Supplies Catalog or
contact the factory. Further information can be obtained by calling the
Printronix ThermaLine Help Desk at (714) 368-2488 or from the Printronix
Web Page at www.printronix.com.
Emulations
The T4204 has the standard Printronix LinePrinter Plus
®
(LP+) emulation
which provides direct compatibility with Printronix P-series printers. In
addition, the printer has co-resident Printronix IGP
®
/PGL
®
and IGP/VGL
emulations which provide printer system commands for text, barcodes,
graphics, lines, and boxes.