Sensor Threshold Level
The CL Series printers determine the location of the leading edge of the label by
measuring the difference between light levels when it sees either a label edge or a
black “EYE” mark. This adjustment allows you to manually set the threshold voltage
level, between the maximum and minimum light levels. DIP switch DSW2-2 selects
the sensor type. If DSW2-2 is in the OFF position, the setting will be for a See-Thru
(or Gap) sensor and the LCD will display “GAP” on the top line along with the
current setting. If DSW2-2 is in the ON position, the LCD will display “EYE” on the
top line with its current setting. If the value entered for the bottom line setting is
“0.0V”, then the printer will automatically calculate the setting when the first label is
fed after the printer is powered on or the head is closed. There are some instances
where the automatically calculated value must be adjusted to ensure reliable label
feeding, such as when the backing opacity or the reflectance of the EYE mark varies
significantly within a roll of labels or between label rolls. In these instances the value
should be set using the following procedures.
GAP - When setting the “gap” threshold, the voltage shown on the top line of the
display must be measured with nothing but the backing in the sensor and then again
with a label still attached to the backing. The formula to be used for setting the
threshold is:
(High Voltage Level + Low Voltage Level) x 0.5 = Start Value
1. Insert a label still attached to the backing into the sensor (see page 3-5 for location
of the sensors) and, if adjusting a CL608 or CL612, close the Label Hold-Down.
Record the voltage shown on the top line of the LCD panel. This line should have
the message “GAP” on the top line (DIP switch DSW2-2 = OFF). Make sure the
label is all the way under the sensor.
2. Strip the label from the backing and insert the backing strip under the sensor and
close the Label Lid. Record the voltage shown on the top line of the LCD panel.
The voltage ranges measured should be within the following ranges:
Backing with Label Label Backing Only
2.0V to 3.5V Less than 1.0V
If the measured values are outside this range, you may have trouble in finding a value
that will work properly under all conditions. If this is the case, a higher quality
label may be needed to get adequate performance.
3. Calculate the starting point voltage using the formula.
4. Use the LINE key to step the counter to the desired setting. The display will
increment one step for each time the LINE key is pressed. If the LINE key is held
pressed for more than two seconds, it will automatically go into the fast scroll
mode. The reading will advance to a setting of 4.9 (the maximum voltage) after
which it will automatically wrap and start at “0.0” again. If a value of “0.0” is set,
GAP (X.XV)
INPUT (X.
XV)
Section 2. Installation and Configuration
Page 2-329001035 Rev. ESATOCL SeriesPrinters