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Unit 6: Maintenance
S8400 Series Operator Manual
6-10 PN: 9001160B
RIBBON GUIDE ALIGNMENT
If the print ribbon is not spread smoothly over the print head when it makes contact with the media, print voids will
occur at the point of the ribbon fold. Typically, this is the result of the axis of one of the following not being perfectly
parallel with the platen roller: ribbon spindle, print head, or ribbon guide.
The purpose of the adjustable ribbon guide is to compensate for the axis deviations of the other two. By adjusting
the ribbon guide proportionally to the degree of deviation, the ribbon spreads smoothly as it travels from the ribbon
supply spindle, to the guide, and beyond.
Ribbon guide adjustment is a trial and error activity that requires the pause of printing, unlatching of the print head,
adjusting the guide, relatching the print head, and printing once again. Several labels must be printed following
each adjustment to determine if the adjustment was effective.
The ribbon guide is secured to the face of the print assembly by a screw on each end. Before adjusting the guide,
visually inspect that its axis is parallel with that of the print assembly. If not, adjust accordingly, ensure the set
screws are secure, and once again commence printing. By starting in a neutral position, either end may be
adjusted vertically as necessary to remedy the wrinkling problem.
1 Test print a label to ensure the print head is properly balanced and aligned.
2 Disengage the print head latch.
3 Loosen one of the two set screws (1, Figure 6-8) and move the free end of ribbon guide (2) upward or
downward as necessary until the ribbon appears to unwrinkle.
4 Retighten loose set screw (1) while holding ribbon guide (2) in place.
5 Engage print head latch, close cover, and test print a label.
6 Repeat steps 2 through 5 until proper alignment is achieved.
Figure 6-8, Ribbon Guide Alignment
NOTE: Refer to their relative procedures within this manual for guidance on Print
Head Balance and Print Head Alignment.
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1
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