Print
The fine adjustment for Print Darkness is the PRINT potentiometer on the operator
panel. It provides a continuous range of adjustment, allowing you to make precise
changes. Use a small cross-point screwdriver, turning clockwise for darker print and
counterclockwise for lighter print. See Section 3:Configuration for instructions on
performing potentiometer adjustments
NOTE: The PRINT potentiometer adjustment will affect the darkness in all of the
command code speed ranges, i.e. if the PRINT potentiometer is adjusted for lighter
print, the darkness will be lighter in all speed ranges selected by the command code.
Print Speed
The other method of controlling print quality is by controlling the speed at which the
label is printed. This adjustment is made only on an individual label basis using either
the Print Speed command code or the LCD display panel. For more details on this
command, see Section 5: Programming. Changing the print speed allows the user to
control the amount of time allowed for print element cooling before the media is
stepped to the next print position. It is especially critical when printing “ladder” bar
codes (bar codes printed with the bars parallel to the print line). When printing a
“ladder” bar code, it is important to allow the head to cool sufficiently before stepping
to the next position. If it does not have sufficient time to cool, the bar will be
“smeared” on the trailing edge.
The Print Speed can be set using the LCD panel or with the Print Speed command
code. The software command will override the any setting entered using the LCD
panel.
CLEANING THE PRINT HEAD, PLATEN AND ROLLERS CL608e and CL612e
Supplies needed: SATO SA070 Cleaning Kit
Cleaning the Print Head
1. Turn the printer off and remove the power cable.
2. Open the Label Access door.
3. Open the Print Head Assembly by pushing the Head Latch toward the rear
of the printer. The Print Head Assembly is spring-loaded and will
automatically open as soon as the Head Latch is disengaged. Remove the
ribbon.
4. Apply SATO Thermal Print Head Cleaner to a cotton swab.
5. The Print Head faces downward along the front edge of the assembly. Pass the
end of the dampened swab along the entire width of the Print Head (you may
need to move the ribbon out of the way to do this).
5. Check for any black coloring or adhesive on the swab after cleaning.
6. Repeat if necessary until the swab is clean after it is passed over the head.
Page 4-2 9001074 Preliminary SATO CL Series “e” Printers
Section 4: Cleaning and Maintenance