ZT400 Series

Industrial Printer

User Guide

P1066582-07EN Rev A
 Copyright

2023/03/16
ZEBRA and the stylized Zebra head are trademarks of Zebra Technologies Corporation, registered in many
jurisdictions worldwide. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2023 Zebra
Technologies Corporation and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. The software described in this document
is furnished under a license agreement or nondisclosure agreement. The software may be used or copied
only in accordance with the terms of those agreements.
For further information regarding legal and proprietary statements, please go to:
SOFTWARE: zebra.com/linkoslegal.
COPYRIGHTS: zebra.com/copyright.
PATENTS: ip.zebra.com.
WARRANTY: zebra.com/warranty.
END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT: zebra.com/eula.

Terms of Use
Proprietary Statement
This manual contains proprietary information of Zebra Technologies Corporation and its subsidiaries
(“Zebra Technologies”). It is intended solely for the information and use of parties operating and
maintaining the equipment described herein. Such proprietary information may not be used, reproduced,
or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the express, written permission of Zebra
Technologies.

Product Improvements
Continuous improvement of products is a policy of Zebra Technologies. All specifications and designs are
subject to change without notice.

Liability Disclaimer
Zebra Technologies takes steps to ensure that its published Engineering specifications and manuals are
correct; however, errors do occur. Zebra Technologies reserves the right to correct any such errors and
disclaims liability resulting therefrom.

Limitation of Liability
In no event shall Zebra Technologies or anyone else involved in the creation, production, or delivery of the
accompanying product (including hardware and software) be liable for any damages whatsoever (including,
without limitation, consequential damages including loss of business profits, business interruption, or loss
of business information) arising out of the use of, the results of use of, or inability to use such product, even
if Zebra Technologies has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Some jurisdictions do not allow
the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may
not apply to you.
Contents

Introduction....................................................................................................................................................... 7
Printer Options..........................................................................................................................................7
Communication Interfaces.................................................................................................................... 8
Printer Components................................................................................................................................8
Control Panel.......................................................................................................................................... 10
Navigate the Display Screens Using the Keypad..................................................................11

Printer Setup................................................................................................................................................... 15
Select a Location for the Printer....................................................................................................... 15
Ordering Supplies and Accessories.................................................................................................15
Media................................................................................................................................................. 16
Ribbon................................................................................................................................................16
Inspecting the Contents of the Box..................................................................................................17
Connecting the Printer to a Device..................................................................................................18
Connect to a Phone or Tablet................................................................................................... 18
Installing Drivers and Connecting to a Windows-Based Computer................................. 18
Connecting to a Computer Using the Printer’s USB Port..................................................25
Connecting to Your Network through the Printer’s Ethernet Port...................................27
Connecting the Printer to Your Wireless Network.............................................................. 29
Connecting the Printer to a Serial or Parallel Port on Your Computer...........................30
What to Do If You Forget to Install Printer Drivers First......................................................31
Selecting a Print Mode........................................................................................................................34
Loading the Media................................................................................................................................35
Inserting the Media into the Printer.........................................................................................36
Using Tear-Off Mode................................................................................................................... 39

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Using Peel-Off Mode (with or without Liner Take-Up)........................................................42

Using Rewind Mode.....................................................................................................................52
Using Cutter Mode or Delayed Cut Mode.............................................................................59
Loading the Ribbon..............................................................................................................................64
Installing Label Design Software......................................................................................................68
ZebraDesigner System Requirements.................................................................................... 68
Printing a Test Label and Making Adjustments........................................................................... 69

Printer Configuration and Adjustment........................................................................................................ 71

Changing Printer Settings....................................................................................................................71
Changing Printer Settings through the Windows Driver..................................................... 71
Changing Printer Settings through the User Menus........................................................... 73
Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors.................................................................................122
Performing Auto Calibration..................................................................................................... 123
Performing Manual Sensor Calibration..................................................................................123
Adjusting the Printhead Pressure...................................................................................................129

Routine Maintenance...................................................................................................................................134
Cleaning Schedule and Procedures.............................................................................................. 134
Clean the Exterior, the Media Compartment, and the Sensors...................................... 135
Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller............................................................................ 136
Cleaning the Peel Assembly.................................................................................................... 139
Cleaning and Lubricating the Cutter Module...................................................................... 143
Removing Used Ribbon.....................................................................................................................148
Replacing Printer Components........................................................................................................149
Ordering Replacement Parts....................................................................................................150
Recycling Printer Components................................................................................................ 150
Storing the Printer...............................................................................................................................150
Lubrication............................................................................................................................................. 150

Diagnostics and Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................. 151

Printer Diagnostics............................................................................................................................... 151
Evaluating Barcode Quality....................................................................................................... 151

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Power-On Self Test.....................................................................................................................154

PAUSE Self Test...........................................................................................................................154
CANCEL Self-Test........................................................................................................................155
FEED and PAUSE Self Test...................................................................................................... 156
CANCEL and PAUSE Self Test................................................................................................ 157
Sensor Profile................................................................................................................................157
Performing a Communication Diagnostic Test....................................................................159
Loading Defaults or Last-Saved Values................................................................................160
Alerts and Error States...................................................................................................................... 160
Indicator Lights.............................................................................................................................160
Error Messages............................................................................................................................ 163
Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................167
Servicing the Printer........................................................................................................................... 178
Shipping the Printer.................................................................................................................... 179

Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature............................................................................ 180
Items Required for the Exercises................................................................................................... 180
Files for Completing the Exercises..........................................................................................181
USB Host................................................................................................................................................183
Exercise 1: Copy Files to a USB Flash Drive and Perform USB Mirror.......................... 183
Exercise 2: Print a Label Format from a USB Flash Drive................................................184
Exercise 3: Copy Files to/from a USB Flash Drive............................................................. 185
Exercise 4: Enter Data for a Stored File with a USB Keyboard and Print a Label.......186
Print Touch / Near-Field Communication (NFC).......................................................................... 187
Exercise 5: Enter Data for a Stored File with a Device and Print a Label.....................187

Specifications................................................................................................................................................ 189
General Specifications....................................................................................................................... 189
Power Cord Specifications............................................................................................................... 189
Communication Interface Specifications........................................................................................191
Standard Connections.................................................................................................................191
Optional Connections.................................................................................................................193
Wireless Specifications.............................................................................................................. 193

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Printing Specifications........................................................................................................................194
Media Specifications...........................................................................................................................195
Ribbon Specifications.........................................................................................................................196
Compliance Information.....................................................................................................................196

Glossary......................................................................................................................................................... 198

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Introduction
Introduction

Use the information in this section to familiarize yourself with your printer.

Printer Options
Your printer may be upgraded with one of three options depending on your printing needs. For information
about the print modes that can be used with the printer options, see Selecting a Print Mode on page 34.

Tear-Off (Standard) Peel with Liner Take-Up option

Rewind option Cutter option

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 Introduction

Communication Interfaces
Your printer supports a variety of communication interfaces.
The communication interface connectors are shown in Figure 2. A ZebraNet wireless print server option
may also be present on your printer. You may send label formats to the printer through any communication
interface that is available on your printer.
• For detailed information about the types of connections available, see Communication Interface
Specifications on page 191.
• For instructions on when and how to connect your computer to one or more of these communication
interfaces, see Installing Drivers and Connecting to a Windows-Based Computer on page 18.

Figure 1 Location of Communication Interfaces

Parallel port

Internal wired Ethernet print server

Serial port

USB port

Printer Components
The components inside your printer are color-coded. The touch points you will need to handle are colored
gold inside the printers and are highlighted in gold in the illustrations in this guide.
The components inside the media compartment of a standard printer are shown here.

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 Introduction

NOTE: Depending on the printer model and the installed options, your printer may look slightly
different. The components that are labeled are mentioned in procedures throughout this guide.

10

2
3

9
4

8
7
5 6

1 Media door
2 Printhead pressure adjustment toggles
3 Control panel
4 USB host port (may be single or dual)
5 Printhead assembly
6 Printhead-open lever
7 Ribbon take-up spindle (only on printers with the Thermal Transfer option installed)
8 Ribbon supply spindle (only on printers with the Thermal Transfer option installed)
9 Media supply hanger
10 Media supply guide

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 Introduction

Control Panel
The control panel indicates the printer’s current status and allows the user to control basic printer
operation.

1
1 2 3 4 5 (STATUS indicator)
2
(PAUSE indicator)
3
6 (DATA indicator)
4
(SUPPLIES indicator)
5
7
(NETWORK indicator)
8
The above indicators provide information on your printer's status.
9
For the various states of these lights and what they convey, see
Indicator Lights on page 160.
10 6 Display—Shows the printer’s current status and allows
11
the user to navigate the menu system. An optional
color display is available for purchase. Contact your
authorized Zebra reseller for more information.
12
13 7&8 RIGHT-SELECT and LEFT-SELECT buttons—Execute
the commands shown directly above them on the
display.
9 UP ARROW—Used to change parameter values (such
as increase a value) or to scroll through choices.
10 OK—Selects or confirms what is shown on the display.
11 LEFT ARROW—Navigates to the left. Active ONLY
when navigating the menu.
12 RIGHT ARROW—Navigates to the right. Active ONLY
14 15 16 when navigating the menu.
13 DOWN ARROW—Changes the parameter values (such
as decrease a value) or to scroll through choices.
14
PAUSE—Starts or stops printer operation when
pressed.
15 FEED—Prompts the printer to feed one blank label
each time the button is pressed.
16 CANCEL—Cancels label formats when the printer is
paused.
To cancel the next label format that is about to print,
press one time.
To cancel all label formats sent to the printer, press and
hold for two seconds.

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 Introduction

Navigate the Display Screens Using the Keypad

Use the control panel on your printer to navigate the screens, select items shown on the display, and
modify them.
At the Idle Display...

press LEFT SELECT to access the printer’s Home menu.

11
 Introduction

Table 1 Home Menu

At the Home menu, to move To select the highlighted menu Press LEFT SELECT to exit the
from icon to icon, use the icon and enter the menu, press Home menu and return to the
ARROW buttons. OK. Idle Display.
When an icon is selected, its The printer automatically returns
colors are reversed to highlight to the Idle Display after 15
it. seconds of inactivity on the
SETTINGS menu icon Home menu.

SETTINGS menu
icon highlighted

Table 2 User Menus

At any User Menu screen, press LEFT SELECT ▼ and ▲ indicate that a value can be changed. Any
to return to the Home menu. The printer changes that you make are saved immediately.
automatically returns to the Home menu after 15 Press the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to scroll
seconds of inactivity in a user menu. through accepted values.

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 Introduction

Table 2 User Menus (Continued)

A word in the bottom-right corner of the display

To scroll through the items in a user menu, press
indicates an available action.
the LEFT ARROW or RIGHT ARROW.
Press OK or press RIGHT SELECT to perform the
action shown.

Table 3 Menu Shortcuts

To go to the next user menu from a menu shortcut,

press OK, or press RIGHT SELECT, to select GO.

To continue to navigate within the same user

menu, press the LEFT ARROW or RIGHT ARROW.

Idle Display, Home Menu, and User Menus

Use the printer’s control panel display to view the printer’s status and review or change its operating
parameters.
After the printer completes the power-up sequence, it moves to the Idle Display. If a print server is
installed, the printer cycles through its IP address and information configured by the user.

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 Introduction

Figure 2 Idle Display

1 The printer’s current status

2 Information you set through the Idle Display. See Idle Display in Calibration, Diagnostic, and
Other Tools on page 82 for details.

Home menu shortcut

Use the Home menu (see Figure 3 Home Menu—Standard and Optional Color on page 14) to access
the printer’s operating parameters through the eight user menus shown in Changing Printer Settings
through the User Menus on page 73.

Figure 3 Home Menu—Standard and Optional Color

For descriptions of the user menus and menu items that appear in each, see the respective sections under
Changing Printer Settings through the User Menus on page 73.

14
Printer Setup
Printer Setup

This section assists a user with initial setup and operation of the printer.

Select a Location for the Printer

Select a location for the printer that meets these conditions:
• Surface—The surface where the printer will be located must be solid, level, and of sufficient size and
strength to hold the printer.
• Space—The area where the printer will be located must include enough space for ventilation and for
accessing the printer components and connectors. To allow for proper ventilation and cooling, leave
open space on all sides of the printer.

CAUTION: Do not place any padding or cushioning material behind or under the printer
because this restricts air flow and could cause the printer to overheat.
• Power—The printer should be within a short distance of an appropriate power outlet that is easily
accessible.
• Data communication interfaces—The printer must be within range of your WLAN radio (if applicable)
or within an acceptable range for other connectors to reach your data source (usually a computer).
For more information on maximum cable lengths and configuration, see Communication Interface
Specifications on page 191.
• Operating conditions—Your printer is designed to function in a wide range of environmental and
electrical conditions, including a warehouse or factory floor. The following table shows the temperature
and relative humidity requirements for the printer when it is operating.

Table 4 Operating Temperature and Humidity

Mode Temperature Relative Humidity
Thermal Transfer 40° to 104°F (5° to 40°C) 20 to 85% non-condensing
Direct Thermal 32° to 104°F (0° to 40°C)

Ordering Supplies and Accessories

The following things that you will need do NOT come with the printer:
• Communication/network cables (such as serial or wired Ethernet) other than USB

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 Printer Setup

• Media
• Ribbon (if your printer has a thermal transfer option)
For recommended supplies to ensure optimal operation of your printer, go to zebra.com/supplies.

Media
For optimal printing quality and proper printer performance across our product line, Zebra strongly
recommends the use of Zebra Certified Supplies as part of the total solution.
A wide range of paper, polypropylene, polyester, and vinyl stock has been specifically engineered to
enhance the printing capabilities of the printer and to prevent premature printhead wear. To purchase
supplies, go to zebra.com/supplies.
See Selecting a Print Mode on page 34. Also refer to the media specifications for the printer for
minimum label lengths and other important things to consider.
The Glossary on page 198 includes terms associated with media, such as black mark media, gap/notch
media, RFID media, fanfold media, and roll media. Use these terms to help determine which type of media
will suit your needs.

Ribbon
NOTE: This section applies only to printers that have the Thermal Transfer option installed.

Do I need to use ribbon? The media itself determines if you will need to use ribbon.
• Thermal Transfer media—Requires ribbon.
• Direct Thermal media—Does NOT require ribbon.

How can I tell if media is Direct The easiest way to find out is to scratch the surface of the media
Thermal or Thermal Transfer? rapidly with your fingernail. If a black mark appears where you
(See direct thermal on page scratched, the media is Direct Thermal, so you do NOT need ribbon.
200 and thermal transfer on
page 206 for definitions.)
What kind of ribbon can I use? This printer can only use ribbon that is coated on the outside unless
you purchase and install the optional spindle that allows ribbon that
is coated on the inside. Contact your authorized Zebra reseller for
ordering information.

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 Printer Setup

How can I tell which side of the Use one of these two methods to identify the coated side:
ribbon is coated?
• Method 1: Adhesive Test
1. Press a corner of the sticky side of a label to the outer surface
of the ribbon roll.
2. Peel the label off the ribbon.
If ink particles adhere to the label, the outer side of the roll is
coated. Repeat this test with the inner surface if needed to confirm
which side is coated.
• Method 2: Ribbon Scratch Test
1. Unroll a short length of ribbon and place the outer surface
against a piece of paper.
2. Scratch the inner surface of the ribbon with your fingernail.
3. Lift the ribbon and check for marks on the paper.
If the ribbon left a mark, the outer side is coated.

Inspecting the Contents of the Box

Ensure that the printer box contains all the items you need to set it up.

IMPORTANT: Zebra Technologies is not responsible for any damage incurred during the
shipment of the equipment and will not repair this damage under warranty.
1. Verify that a power cable is included in the box with the printer.
Additional items may be included, depending on the options ordered with the printer.
2. If anything is missing, notify your authorized Zebra reseller.
3. Immediately unwrap the printer and inspect for shipping damage.
• Save all packing materials.
• Check all exterior surfaces for damage.
• Raise the media door, and inspect the media compartment for damage to components.
4. If you discover shipping damage upon inspection:
• Immediately notify the shipping company and file a damage report.
• Keep all packaging material for shipping company inspection.
• Notify your authorized Zebra reseller.
5. The printer shipped with several protective items for shipping, including a film of plastic over the
transparent window on the media door. Before operating the printer, remove these protective items.

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 Printer Setup

Connecting the Printer to a Device

After you have set up the printer, you are ready to connect the printer to your device (such as a computer,
phone, or tablet).

Connect to a Phone or Tablet

Download the free Zebra Printer Setup Utility app for your device.
• Android devices
• Apple devices
The applications support the following types of connectivity:
• Bluetooth Classic
• Bluetooth Low Energy (Bluetooth LE)
• Wired/Ethernet
• Wireless
• USB On-The-Go
For the User Guides for these printer setup utilities, go to zebra.com/setup.

Installing Drivers and Connecting to a Windows-Based Computer

To use your printer with a Microsoft Windows-based computer, you must install the correct drivers first.

IMPORTANT: You may connect your printer to your computer using any of the connections that
you have available. However, do not connect any cables from your computer to the printer until
you are instructed to do so. If you connect them at the wrong time, your printer will not install the
correct printer drivers. To recover from incorrect driver installation, see What to Do If You Forget
to Install Printer Drivers First on page 31.

Installing the Drivers

Follow these steps to install the correct drivers.
1. Navigate to zebra.com/drivers.
2. Click Printers.
3. Select your printer model.
4. On the printer product page, click Drivers.
5. Download the appropriate driver for Windows.
The driver executable file (such as zd86423827-certified.exe) is added to your Download folder.

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 Printer Setup

6. Run the executable file and follow the prompts.

When setup is complete, you may select to add all of the drivers to your system (Configure System) or
to add/configure specific printers (see Running the Printer Installation Wizard on page 21).

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 Printer Setup

7. Select Configure System, and then click Finish.

The Printer Installation Wizard installs the drivers.

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 Printer Setup

Running the Printer Installation Wizard

1. On the last screen of the driver installer, leave Run the Printer Installation Wizard checked, and then
click Finish.
The Printer Installation wizard displays.

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 Printer Setup

2. Click Next.

22
 Printer Setup

3. Click Install Printer Driver.

The license agreement displays.

23
 Printer Setup

4. Read and accept the terms of the license agreement, and then click Next.

5. Select the communication option that you want to configure for your printer:
• Network Port—For installing printers with an Ethernet (LAN) or wireless (Wi-Fi) network
connection. Wait for the driver to scan your local network for devices and follow the prompts. If
necessary, set the values as directed in Connecting to Your Network through the Printer’s Ethernet
Port on page 27 or in Connecting the Printer to Your Wireless Network on page 29.
• USB Port—For installing printers connected with the USB cable. Connect the printer to the computer
as shown in Connecting to a Computer Using the Printer’s USB Port on page 25. If the printer is
already connected and powered on, you may need to remove the USB cable and install it again. The
driver will automatically search for the model of the connected printer.
• Bluetooth Port—For installing printers with a Bluetooth connection. See Bluetooth Settings on page
120.
• Other—For installation using another type of cable, such as Parallel (LPT) and Serial (COM). No
additional configuration is necessary.

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 Printer Setup

6. If prompted, select your printer model and resolution.

The model and resolution are on a part number sticker on the printer, usually located below the media
hanger. The information will be in the following format:

Part Number: XXXXXxY – xxxxxxxx

where
XXXXX = the printer model, and Y = the printer resolution (2 = 203 dpi, 3 = 300 dpi, 6 = 600 dpi).
For example, in the part number ZT411x3 – xxxxxxxx, ZT411 indicates that the printer is a ZT411
model, and 3 indicates that the printhead resolution is 300 dpi.

Connecting to a Computer Using the Printer’s USB Port

1. After you install the drivers, remove the label that covers the USB port.

2. Connect the USB cord to the USB port on your printer.

3. Connect the other end of the USB cord to your computer.

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 Printer Setup

4. Plug the A/C power cord into the A/C power connector on the back of the printer.

5. Plug the A/C power cord into an appropriate power outlet.

6. Turn on (I) the printer.

As the printer boots up, your computer completes the driver installation and recognizes your printer.
If you did not install the drivers first, see What to Do If You Forget to Install Printer Drivers First on page
31.

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 Printer Setup

Connecting to Your Network through the Printer’s Ethernet Port

To use a wired print server (Ethernet) connection, you may need to configure the printer to communicate
with your Local Area Network (LAN).
For additional information about Zebra print servers, refer to the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print Server
User Guide. To download the latest version of this guide, go to zebra.com/manuals.
1. After you install the drivers (Installing the Drivers on page 18), connect the printer to an Ethernet
cable that is connected to your network.

2. Plug the A/C power cord into the A/C power connector on the back of the printer.

27
 Printer Setup

3. Plug the A/C power cord into an appropriate power outlet.

4. Turn on (I) the printer.

The printer attempts to communicate with your network. If it is successful, it fills in your LAN's gateway
and subnet values and gets an IP address.

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 Printer Setup

5. Check the display to see if an IP address was assigned to the printer. See IP Address in Network
Settings on page 96 for ways to view the IP address.

If the printer’s IP address is... Then...

0.0.0.0 The NETWORK light is off or displays steady red. (See Indicator
or Lights on page 160 for more information.)
Configure the following printer settings. Contact your network
000.000.000.000 administrator for the proper values for your network.
a. Check the Ethernet connector on the back of the printer.
If no light is on or blinking, the Ethernet connection is not
active. Check that both ends of the cord are plugged in
correctly and that the network port that you are plugging
into is active. When this issue is resolved, the printer should
connect automatically.
b. If necessary, configure the following printer settings to set
a static IP address and then reset the network. Contact
your network administrator for the proper values for your
network.
• Network Settings > IP Protocol > Wired IP Protocol—
Change the value from ALL to PERMANENT.
• Network Settings > Gateway > Wired Gateway—Match
the gateway value of your LAN.
• Network Settings > Subnet Mask > Wired Subnet Mask—
Match the subnet value of your LAN.
• Network Settings > IP address > Wired IP Address—
Assign a unique IP address to the printer.

any other value The connection was successful. The NETWORK light displays
steady green or yellow, depending on the network. (See
Indicator Lights on page 160 for more information.)

6. Reset the network (see Reset Network) to allow changes to the network settings to take effect.

Connecting the Printer to Your Wireless Network

If you wish to use the printer’s optional wireless print server, you may need to configure the printer to
communicate with your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) through the wireless print server.
For additional information about Zebra print servers, refer to the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print Server
User Guide. To download the latest version of this guide, go to zebra.com/manuals.
1. Install the drivers as instructed in Installing Drivers and Connecting to a Windows-Based Computer on
page 18.
2. If necessary, specify the ESSID value that matches the value used by your wireless router. Check with
your network administrator for the ESSID value to use. See ESSID in Network Settings for ways to
change the value.

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 Printer Setup

3. If necessary, configure the following printer settings. Contact your network administrator for the proper
values for your network.
• Network Settings > WLAN Gateway—Match the gateway value of your LAN.
• Network Settings > WLAN Subnet—Match the subnet value of your LAN.
4. Reset the network. See Reset Network in Network Settings.
5. If the printer still does not connect, consider setting a static IP address by configuring the following
additional settings, and then reset the network again. Contact your network administrator for the proper
values for your network.
• Network Settings > WLAN IP Protocol—Change the value from ALL to PERMANENT.
• Network Settings > IP Address > WLAN IP Address—Assign a unique IP address to the printer.

Connecting the Printer to a Serial or Parallel Port on Your Computer

1. Connect the cable to the appropriate port on your printer.

2. Connect the other end of the cord to the appropriate port on your computer.

30
 Printer Setup

3. Plug the female end of the A/C power cord into the A/C power connector on the back of the printer.

4. Plug the male end of the A/C power cord into an appropriate power outlet.

5. Turn printer power ON and after the printer boots up, if necessary, adjust the printer’s port settings to
match those of your computer. For details on the settings, see Network Settings on page 96.
This completes the serial or parallel port connections.

What to Do If You Forget to Install Printer Drivers First

If you plug in your Zebra printer before installing the drivers, the printer displays as an Unspecified device.
1. Follow the instructions in Installing Drivers and Connecting to a Windows-Based Computer on page
18 to download and install the drivers.
2. From the Windows menu, open the Control Panel.
3. Click Devices and Printers.
In this example, the MZ320 is an incorrectly installed Zebra printer.

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 Printer Setup

4. Right-click on the device, and select Properties.

The properties for the device display.

5. Click the Hardware tab.

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 Printer Setup

6. Select the Zebra printer in the Device Functions list, and then click Properties.
The properties display.

7. Click Change settings and then click the Driver tab.

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 Printer Setup

8. Click Update Driver.

9. Click Browse my computer for driver software.

10. Click Browse... and navigate to the Downloads folder.
11. Click OK to select the folder.

12. Click Next.

The device is updated with the correct drivers.

Selecting a Print Mode

Use a label collection method that matches the media being used and the printer options available using
the table and figures included in this section.
The media path is the same for roll and fanfold media.

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 Printer Setup

1. Press LEFT SELECT to access the printer's Home menu.

2. Press OK to select the SETTINGS menu.
3. Use the LEFT ARROW or RIGHT ARROW to navigate to Print Mode.
4. Select a print mode that is compatible with the options available on your printer.
For information on the options, see Printer Options on page 7.

Print Mode Required Description

Printer Option
Tear Off Can be used with any The printer prints label formats as it receives them. The
printer option and printer operator can tear off the printed labels when the
most media types. printer stops.
Peel Off Peel, Liner Take-Up, The printer peels the label from the backing during
or Rewind option printing and then pauses until the label is removed. The
empty backing may be allowed to exit the front of the
printer, or it may be wound onto the liner take-up spindle
or rewind spindle.
Rewind Rewind option The printer prints without pausing between labels. The
media is wound onto a core after printing. The rewind
plate is used to keep the labels from separating from the
backing.
Cutter Cutter option The printer cuts between labels after each one is printed.
Delayed Cut Cutter option The printer waits for a delayed cut ZPL command (~JK)
before it cuts the last printed label.
Applicator Applicator port The printer prints when it receives a signal from the
connection applicator. Authorized Service Technicians should
required. This mode refer to the Advanced User Information section of the
is for use with a Maintenance Manual for additional information about the
machine that applies applicator interface.
labels.

NOTE: Linerless Peel, Linerless Rewind, Linerless Tear, Linerless Cut, and Linerless
Delayed Cut are options reserved for future use.

See Also
Settings
Media

Loading the Media

Use the instructions in this section for loading roll or fanfold media in the appropriate label collection
method for your needs.

IMPORTANT: You are not required to turn off the printer power when working near an open
printhead, but Zebra recommends it as a precaution. If you turn off the power, you will lose all
temporary settings, such as label formats, and you must reload them before you resume printing.

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 Printer Setup

NOTE: The media path is the same for roll and fanfold media.

Inserting the Media into the Printer

1. Raise the media door.

2. Remove and discard any tags or labels that are torn or dirty or that are held by adhesives or tape.

3. Pull out the media supply guide as far as it goes.

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 Printer Setup

4. Insert roll or fanfold media into the printer. The media loading path is the same for both roll and fanfold
media, so this is the only step that will be different.

Type of media Instructions

Roll media Place the roll of media on the media supply hanger. Push the roll as far back as
it will go.

Fanfold media Fanfold media can be stored behind or under the printer.
Depending on where the media is stored, feed the media either from behind or
through the bottom access slot, then drape it over the media supply hanger.
Rear feed

Bottom feed

5. Which collection method are you using? (See Selecting a Print Mode on page 34.)

If using... Then...

Tear Off Continue with Using Tear-Off

Mode on page 39.

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 Printer Setup

If using... Then...

Peel Off (with or without liner take-up) Continue with Using Peel-Off
Mode (with or without Liner
Take-Up) on page 42.

Rewind Continue with Using Rewind

Mode on page 52.

Cutter or Delayed Cut Continue with Using Cutter

Mode or Delayed Cut Mode on
page 59.

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 Printer Setup

If using... Then...

Using Tear-Off Mode

1. If you have not already done so, follow the instructions in the section Inserting the Media into the
Printer on page 36.
2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

39
 Printer Setup

3. Slide the media guide all the way out.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.
4. From the media hanger (1), feed the media under the dancer assembly (2), through the media sensor
(3), and under the printhead assembly (4). Slide the media back until it touches the inside back wall of
the media sensor.

4 3 2 1

40
 Printer Setup

5. Slide in the media guide until it just touches the edge of the media.

6. Does the media that you are using require ribbon for printing? If you are not sure, see Ribbon on page
16.

If using... Then...
Direct Thermal media (no ribbon needed) Proceed to the next step.
Thermal Transfer media (ribbon needed) If you have not already done so, load ribbon in
the printer. See Loading the Ribbon on page
64. Then proceed to the next step.

7. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

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 Printer Setup

8. Close the media door.

9. If you have not already done so, set the printer to TEAR OFF mode. See Selecting a Print Mode on
page 34.
10.
Press PAUSE ( ) to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.
11. For best results, calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122.
12. Verify that your printer is able to print a configuration label by holding both the FEED and CANCEL
keys for 2 seconds.

Using Peel-Off Mode (with or without Liner Take-Up)

1. If you have not already done so, follow the instructions in the section Inserting the Media into the
Printer on page 36.

42
 Printer Setup

2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

3. Slide the media guide all the way out.

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 Printer Setup

4. Push down the peel-off mechanism release lever to open the peel assembly.

CAUTION: HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

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 Printer Setup

5. From the media hanger (1), feed the media under the dancer assembly (2), through the media sensor
(3), and under the printhead assembly (4). Slide the media back until it touches the inside back wall of
the media sensor.

4 3 2 1

6. Extend approximately 18 in. (500 mm) of media out of the printer. Remove and discard the labels from
this exposed media, leaving just the liner.

45
 Printer Setup

7. Feed the liner behind the peel assembly. Make sure that the end of the liner falls outside of the
printer.

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 Printer Setup

8. Complete this step only if you want to use Peel-Off mode with Liner Take-Up. Your printer must have
the Liner Take-Up option or the Rewind option installed. Follow the instructions for your printer option.
(If you are not using Liner Take-Up, skip this step and proceed to next step.)

Rewind Option Liner Take-Up Option

a. For both the Rewind option and the Liner Take-Up options: Thread the liner into the slot below
the peel assembly.

b. Feed the liner under the media alignment roller. b. Slide the liner into the slot in the
liner take-up spindle.

47
 Printer Setup

Rewind Option Liner Take-Up Option

c. Loosen the thumbscrew on the rewind media guide. c. Push the liner back until it touches
the back plate of the liner take-up
spindle assembly.

d. Slide the rewind media guide all the way out, and then d. Wrap the liner around the liner
fold it down. take-up spindle and turn the spindle
counterclockwise to tighten the liner.

For the Liner Take-Up option, loading

of the liner is complete. Continue on
to the next step.
e. Slide an empty core onto the rewind spindle.

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 Printer Setup

Rewind Option Liner Take-Up Option

f. Wrap the liner around the core as shown, and then turn
the rewind spindle to tighten the media.
Ensure that the edge of the media is flush against the
backplate of the rewind spindle.

g. Fold up the rewind media guide, and then slide it in until

it touches the liner.

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 Printer Setup

Rewind Option Liner Take-Up Option

h. Tighten the thumbscrew on the rewind media guide.

Loading of the liner is complete. Continue with the next

step.

9. Close the peel assembly using the peel-off mechanism release lever.

10. Slide in the media guide until it just touches the edge of the media.

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 Printer Setup

11. Does the media that you are using require ribbon for printing? If you are not sure, see Ribbon on page
16.

If using... Then...
Direct Thermal media (no ribbon needed) Proceed to the next step.
Thermal Transfer media (ribbon needed) If you have not already done so, load ribbon in
the printer. See Loading the Ribbon on page
64. Then proceed to the next step.

12. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

13. Close the media door.

14. If you have not already done do, set the printer to the appropriate print mode. (See Selecting a Print
Mode on page 34.)
15. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.
16. For optimal results, calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page
122.

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 Printer Setup

17. Verify that your printer is able to print a configuration label by holding both the FEED and CANCEL
keys for 2 seconds.

Using Rewind Mode

1. If you have not already done so, follow the instructions in Inserting the Media into the Printer on page
36.
2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

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 Printer Setup

3. Slide the media guide all the way out.

CAUTION: HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

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 Printer Setup

4. From the media hanger (1), feed the media under the dancer assembly (2), through the media sensor
(3), and under the printhead assembly (4). Slide the media back until it touches the inside back wall of
the media sensor.

4 3 2 1

5. Extend the media approximately 18 in. (500 mm) out of the printer.

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 Printer Setup

6. Feed the media over the peel assembly.

7. Thread the media into the slot below the peel assembly.

8. Feed the media under the media alignment roller.

9. Loosen the thumbscrew on the rewind media guide.

55
 Printer Setup

10. Slide the rewind media guide all the way out, and then fold it down.

11. Slide an empty core onto the rewind spindle.

12. Wrap the media around the core as shown and turn the rewind spindle to tighten the media. Ensure
that the edge of the media is flush against the backplate of the rewind spindle.

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 Printer Setup

13. Fold up the rewind media guide, and then slide it in until it touches the media.

14. Tighten the thumbscrew on the rewind media guide.

15. Slide in the media guide until it just touches the edge of the media.

16. Does the media that you are using require ribbon for printing? If you are not sure, see Ribbon on page
16.

If using… Then…
Direct Thermal media (no ribbon needed) Continue with the next step.

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 Printer Setup

If using… Then…
Thermal Transfer media (ribbon needed) If you have not already done so, load ribbon in
the printer (see Loading the Ribbon on page
64), then continue with the next step.

17. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

18. Close the media door.

19. If you have not already done so, set the printer to REWIND mode. See Selecting a Print Mode on page
34.
20. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.
21. For optimal results, calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page
122.
22. Verify that your printer is able to print a configuration label by holding both the FEED and CANCEL
keys for 2 seconds.

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 Printer Setup

Using Cutter Mode or Delayed Cut Mode

1. If you have not already done so, follow the instructions in Inserting the Media into the Printer on page
36.
2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

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 Printer Setup

3. Slide the media guide all the way out.

CAUTION: HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

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 Printer Setup

4. From the media hanger (1), feed the media under the dancer assembly (2), through the media sensor
(3), and under the printhead assembly (4). Slide the media back until it touches the inside back wall of
the media sensor.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. Do NOT touch or rub the blade with your fingers.

4 3 2 1

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 Printer Setup

5. Feed the media through the cutter.

6. Slide in the media guide until it just touches the edge of the media.

7. Does the media that you are using require ribbon for printing? If you are not sure, see Ribbon on page
16.

If using… Then…
Direct Thermal media (no Continue with the next step.
ribbon needed)

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 Printer Setup

If using… Then…
Thermal Transfer media (ribbon If you have not already done so, load ribbon in the printer. (See
needed) Loading the Ribbon on page 64.) Then continue with the next
step.

8. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

9. Close the media door.

10. If you have not already done so, set the printer to CUTTER mode. See Selecting a Print Mode on page
34.
11.
Press PAUSE ( ) to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.
12. For optimal results, calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page
122.
13. Verify that your printer is able to print a configuration label by holding both the FEED and CANCEL
keys for 2 seconds.

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 Printer Setup

Loading the Ribbon

This section applies only to printers that have the Thermal Transfer option installed. Ribbon is used only
with thermal transfer labels. For direct thermal labels, do not load ribbon in the printer.

IMPORTANT: You are not required to turn off the printer power when working near an open
printhead, but Zebra recommends it as a precaution. If you turn off the power, you will lose all
temporary settings, such as label formats, and you must reload them before you resume printing.
Use ribbon that is wider than the media to protect the printhead from wear. Ribbon must be coated on the
outside for use in a standard printer. For more information, see 'What Kind of Ribbon Can I Use?' in Ribbon
on page 16.
1. Raise the media door.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

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 Printer Setup

2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever.

3. Place the roll of ribbon on the ribbon supply spindle with the loose end of the ribbon unrolling as
shown. Push the roll back as far as it will go.

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 Printer Setup

4. Bring the ribbon under the printhead assembly and around its left side, as shown.

5. With the ribbon tracking as far back as it can under the printhead assembly, wrap the ribbon around the
ribbon take-up spindle. Rotate the spindle several turns in the direction shown to tighten and align the
ribbon.

6. Is media already loaded in the printer?

If... Then...
No Load media in the printer. (See Loading the Media on page 35.)

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 Printer Setup

If... Then...
Yes a. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

b. Close the media door.

c. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.

His completes the ribbon (and media) loading.

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 Printer Setup

Installing Label Design Software

Select and install the software that you will use to create label formats for your printer.
One option is ZebraDesigner, which you can download from zebra.com/zebradesigner. You can choose to
use ZebraDesigner Essentials for free or purchase ZebraDesigner Professional for a more robust toolset.

Figure 4 Sample ZebraDesigner Essentials Screen

ZebraDesigner System Requirements

System requirements for the ZebraDesigner label-format design application are listed below:
• 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 10 desktop editions, Windows 11 desktop editions, Windows Server 2016,
Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022 operating systems.
• CPU: Intel or compatible x86 family processor
• Memory: 2 GB or more RAM
• Hard drive: 1 GB of available disk space
• Microsoft.NET Framework Version 4.7.2
• Display: 1366 × 768 or higher resolution monitor
• ZDesigner printer drivers

NOTE: Remote Desktop Services and Virtual Machines are not supported.

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 Printer Setup

Printing a Test Label and Making Adjustments

After you have loaded media, loaded ribbon (if using Thermal Transfer mode), installed the printer driver,
and connected your printer to your computer, use the directions in this section to print a test label. Printing
this label allows you to see if your connection is working and if you need to adjust any of the printer
settings.
1. Turn- printer power off (O).
2. Press and hold CANCEL while turning on (I) the printer. Hold CANCEL until the first control panel
light turns off.
The printer prints a printer configuration label and then a network configuration label as shown in these
examples.

Figure 5 Sample Printer Configuration Label Figure 6 Sample Network Configuration

Label

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 Printer Setup

3. Did the label print, and was it of acceptable print quality?

If... Then...
The label printed and Your printer is ready for printing. See Installing Label Design Software on
the print quality is page 68.
acceptable
The label did not print a. Close the Tools window and make sure that you selected the correct
printer driver before you click Open Printer Tools. Try printing the label
again.
b. If the label still did not print, check the connections between the printer
and your computer or the printer and your network.
c. If necessary, modify the printer's settings to make them match the
settings of your computer or network. See Network Settings on page
96.

The label prints, but See Printing Issues on page 167 for troubleshooting instructions.
with poor quality or
other issues

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Printer Configuration and
Adjustment
Printer Configuration and Adjustment

This section assists you with configuration of and adjustments to the printer.

Changing Printer Settings

This section presents the printer settings that you can change and identifies tools for changing them.
These tools include the following:
• The Windows driver installed previously. (See Changing Printer Settings through the Windows Driver on
page 71 for more information.)
• The printer’s user menus (See Changing Printer Settings through the User Menus on page 73 for
more information.)
• Zebra Printer Setup Utilities:
• Windows computers
• Android devices
• Apple devices
• ZPL and Set/Get/Do (SGD) commands (See the Zebra Programming Guide for more information.)
• The printer’s web pages when the printer has an active wired or wireless print server connection (See
the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print Servers User Guide for more information.)

Changing Printer Settings through the Windows Driver

1. From the Windows Start Menu, go to Printers & Scanners.
2. Click your printer in the list of available printers, and then click Manage.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

3. Click Printing Preferences.

The ZDesigner window for your printer displays.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Changing Printer Settings through the User Menus

The following are the user menus and the items that appear in each.

NOTE: The * next to a menu name indicates that the item is a shortcut that takes you to the next
user menu.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Settings

Table 5 SETTINGS Menu

Setting Description
Print Darkness Set the darkness to the lowest setting that provides good print quality. If you set
the darkness too high, the label image may print unclearly, bar codes may not scan
correctly, the ribbon may burn through, or the printhead may wear prematurely.
If desired, use Evaluating Barcode Quality on page 151 to determine the optimal
darkness setting.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

Accepted values: 0.0 – 30.0

Related ZPL command(s): ^MD, ~SD
SGD command used: print.tone
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > General Setup >
Darkness
Print Speed Select the speed for printing a label (given in inches per second). Slower print
speeds typically yield better print quality.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

Accepted values: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Related ZPL command(s): ^PR

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 5 SETTINGS Menu (Continued)

Setting Description
SGD command used: media.speed

Media Type Select the type of media that you are using.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

Accepted values: • CONTINUOUS

• GAP/NOTCH
• MARK
If you select CONTINUOUS, you must include a label
length in your label format (^LL if you are using ZPL). If
you select GAP/NOTCH or MARK for various non-
continuous media, the printer feeds media to calculate
the label length.
Related ZPL command(s): ^MN
SGD command used: ezpl.media_type
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Media Setup >
Media Type
Print Method Specify if the printer is to use Direct Thermal mode (no ribbon) or Thermal Transfer
mode (using thermal transfer media and ribbon).

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 5 SETTINGS Menu (Continued)

Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

Accepted values: • THERMAL TRANS—uses ribbon and thermal

transfer media
• DIRECT THERMAL—uses direct thermal media and
no ribbon

Related ZPL command(s): ^MT

SGD command used: ezpl.print_method
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Media Setup >
Print Method
Tear-Off If necessary, adjust the position of the media over the tear-off bar after printing.
(position)
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 5 SETTINGS Menu (Continued)

Setting Description
Accepted values: –120 to 120
• Higher numbers move the media out (the tear
line moves closer to the leading edge of the next
label).
• Lower numbers move the media in (the tear line
moves closer to the edge of the label just printed).

1 Media direction
2 Factory-set tear line location at position
000

Related ZPL command(s): ~TA

SGD command used: ezpl.tear_off
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > General Setup >
Tear Off
Print Width Specify the width of the labels being used, in dots. The default value is the
maximum width for the printer, based on the printhead’s DPI value.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 5 SETTINGS Menu (Continued)

Setting Description
Accepted values:
NOTE: Setting the width too narrow can
result in portions of a label format not being
printed on the media. Setting the width too
wide wastes formatting memory and can
cause the printer to print off of the label and
onto the platen roller. This setting can affect
the horizontal position of the label format if
the image was inverted using the ^POI ZPL II
command.
ZT410 203 dpi = 0002 to 832
ZT410 300 dpi = 0002 to 1248
ZT410 600 dpi = 0002 to 2496
ZT420 203 dpi = 0002 to 1344
ZT420 300 dpi = 0002 to 1984
Related ZPL command(s): ^PW
SGD command used: ezpl.print_width
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Media Setup >
Print Width
Print Mode Select a print mode that is compatible with your printer options.
For information about how the print mode selections work with different printer
options, see Selecting a Print Mode on page 34.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

Accepted values: • TEAR OFF

• CUTTER
• PEEL (use this value for peel-off or liner take-up
printing)
• REWIND

Related ZPL command(s): ^MM

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 5 SETTINGS Menu (Continued)

Setting Description
SGD command used: media.printmode
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > General Setup >
Print Mode
Left Position (for If necessary, shift the print position horizontally on the label. Positive numbers move
labels) the left edge of the image toward the center of the label by the number of dots
selected, while negative numbers move the left edge of the image toward the left
edge of the label.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

Accepted values: –9999 to 9999

Related ZPL command(s): ^LS
SGD command used: zpl.left_position
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Advanced Setup
> Left Position
Reprint Mode When reprint mode is enabled, you can reprint the last label printed by pressing
DOWN ARROW on the printer’s control panel.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

Accepted values: • ON
• OFF

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 5 SETTINGS Menu (Continued)

Setting Description
Related ZPL command(s): ^JZ
SGD command used: ezpl.reprint_mode
Maximum Label Set the maximum label length.
Length
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 5 SETTINGS Menu (Continued)

Setting Description
Accepted values: 0 to the maximum label length supported by the
printer

IMPORTANT: Specify a value that is at least

1.0 in. (25.4 mm) greater than the actual
label length plus the interlabel gap. If you
set the value to one that is smaller than
the label length, the printer assumes that
continuous media is loaded, and the printer
cannot calibrate.
For example, if the label length is 6.0 in.
(152 mm) including the interlabel gap, set the
parameter for at least 7.0 in. (178 mm).

1 Label length (including interlabel gap)

2 Interlabel gap
3 Set the maximum label length to
approximately this value

Related ZPL command(s): ^ML

SGD command used: ezpl.label_length_max
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Media Setup >
Maximum Length

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Calibration, Diagnostic, and Other Tools

Table 6 TOOLS Menu

Tools Setting Description
Print Information Print the specified information on one or more labels.
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

Main Menu > NETWORK

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description

Main Menu > SENSORS

Accepted values: • SETTINGS—prints the printer configuration label.

• NETWORK—prints the settings for any print server
that is installed.
• FORMATS—prints the available formats stored
in the printer’s RAM, Flash memory, or optional
memory card.
• IMAGES—prints the available images stored in the
printer’s RAM, Flash memory, or optional memory
card.
• FONTS—prints the available fonts in the printer,
including standard printer fonts plus any optional
fonts. Fonts may be stored in RAM or Flash
memory.
• BARCODES—prints the available bar codes in the
printer. Bar codes may be stored in RAM or Flash
memory.
• ALL—prints the previous six labels.
• SENSOR PROFILE—shows the sensor settings
compared to actual sensor readings. To interpret
the results, see Sensor Profile on page 157.

Related ZPL command(s): SETTINGS: ~WC

NETWORK: ~WL
SENSOR PROFILE: ~JG
Others: ^WD

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
Control panel key(s): SETTINGS and NETWORK: Do one of the following:
• Hold CANCEL during printer power-up.
• Hold FEED + CANCEL for 2 seconds when the
printer is in the Ready state.
SENSOR PROFILE: Hold FEED + CANCEL during
printer power-up.
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Print Listings on Label
LCD Contrast Change the contrast on the printer’s display. (Does not display on the color screen
option.)
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

Accepted values: 3 to 15
SGD command used: display.contrast
Idle Display Select the information shown on the printer’s display when the printer is idle.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

Accepted values: • FW VERSION

• IP ADDRESS
• MM/DD/YY 24 HR
• MM/DD/YY 12 HR
• DD/MM/YY 24 HR
• DD/MM/YY 12 HR

SGD command used: device.idle_display_format

Power-Up Action Set the action for the printer to take during the power-up sequence.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

Accepted values: • CALIBRATE—adjusts sensor levels and thresholds,

determines the label length, and feeds the media
to the next web.
• FEED—feeds the labels to the first registration
point.
• LENGTH—determines the label length using
current sensor values, and feeds the media to the
next web.
• NO MOTION—tells the printer not to move the
media. You must manually ensure that the web is
positioned correctly, or press FEED to position the
next web.
• SHORT CAL—sets the media and web thresholds
without adjusting sensor gain, determines the label
length, and feeds the media to the next web.

Related ZPL command(s): ^MF

SGD command used: ezpl.power_up_action
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Calibration

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
Head-Close Set the action for the printer to take when you close the printhead.
Action
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

Accepted values: • CALIBRATE—adjusts sensor levels and thresholds,

determines the label length, and feeds the media
to the next web.
• FEED—feeds the labels to the first registration
point.
• LENGTH—determines the label length using
current sensor values, and feeds the media to the
next web.
• NO MOTION—tells the printer not to move the
media. You must manually ensure that the web is
positioned correctly, or press FEED to position the
next web.
• SHORT CAL—sets the media and web thresholds
without adjusting sensor gain, determines the label
length, and feeds the media to the next web.

Related ZPL command(s): ^MF

SGD command used: ezpl.head_close_action
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Calibration
Head-Open Light Set the brightness of the light that turns on when the printhead is open.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

Accepted values: • HIGH

• MEDIUM
• LOW
• OFF

SGD command used: device.light.head_open_brightness

Cover-Open Light Set the brightness of the light that turns on when the media door is open.
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS
Accepted values:

• HIGH
• MEDIUM
• LOW
• OFF

SGD command used: device.light.cover_open_brightness

Load Defaults Restore specific printer, print server, and network settings back to the factory
defaults. Use care when loading defaults because you will need to reload all
settings that you changed manually.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

Main Menu > TOOLS

Accepted values: • FACTORY—Restores all printer settings other than

the network settings back to the factory defaults.
Use care when loading defaults because you
will need to reload all settings that you changed
manually.
• NETWORK—Reinitializes the printer’s wired or
wireless print server. With a wireless print server,
the printer also re-associates with your wireless
network.
• LAST SAVED—Loads settings from the last
permanent save.

Related ZPL command(s): FACTORY: ^JUF

NETWORK: ^JUN
LAST SAVED: ^JUR

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Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
Control panel key(s): FACTORY: Hold FEED + PAUSE during printer power-
up to reset the printer parameters to factory values.
NETWORK: Hold CANCEL + PAUSE during printer
power-up to reset the network parameters to factory
values.
LAST SAVED: N/A
Printer web page: FACTORY:View and Modify Printer Settings >
Restore Default Configuration
NETWORK: Print Server Settings > Reset Print Server
LAST SAVED: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Restore Saved Configuration
Media and Calibrate the printer to adjust the sensitivity of the media and ribbon sensors.
Ribbon Sensor For complete instructions on how to perform a calibration procedure, see
Calibration Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122.
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

Main Menu > SENSORS

Related ZPL command(s): ~JC

SGD command used: ezpl.manual_calibration
Control panel key(s): Hold PAUSE + CANCEL for 2 seconds to initiate
calibration.
Printer web page: The calibration procedure cannot be initiated through
the web pages. See the following web page for
settings that are set during sensor calibration:
View and Modify Printer Settings > Calibration

IMPORTANT:
Do NOT change these settings unless you
are told to do so by Zebra Technical Support
or by an authorized service technician.

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Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
Communication Use this diagnostics tool to cause the printer to output the hexadecimal values for
Diagnostics all data received by the printer.
Mode For more information, see Performing a Communication Diagnostic Test on page
159.
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

Accepted values: • DISABLED

• ENABLED

Related ZPL command(s): ~JD to enable, ~JE to disable

SGD command used: device.diagnostic_print
Control panel key(s): Hold PAUSE + FEED for 2 seconds when the printer is
in the Ready state.
Enable ZBI Zebra Basic Interpreter (ZBI 2.0) is a programming option that may be purchased for
your printer. If you would like to purchase this option, contact your Zebra reseller for
more information.
User menu item:
Main Menu > TOOLS

SGD command used: zbi.key (identifies if the ZBI 2.0 option is enabled or
disabled on the printer)

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Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
Run a ZBI If you have ZBI installed, you may choose to run a ZBI program that you have
Program downloaded to your printer.
User menu item: *
Main Menu > TOOLS
* This menu item appears
only if ZBI is enabled on
your printer and no ZBI
program is running.

If ZBI programs exist on your printer, they are listed. If

no program exists, NONE is listed.
If you wish to run a ZBI program that you have
downloaded to your printer:
Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select a file
from this menu. Press RIGHT SELECT to select RUN.
If no program exists, the RUN option does not perform
an action.
Related ZPL command(s): ^JI, ~JI
SGD command used: zbi.control.run
Printer web page: Directory Listing
Stop a ZBI If your printer is running a ZBI program, you may stop that program.
Program
User menu item: *
Main Menu > TOOLS
* This menu item appears
only if ZBI is enabled on
your printer and no ZBI
program is running.

If ZBI programs are running, the printer lists them.

If you wish to stop a program:
Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select the
file from this menu. Press RIGHT SELECT to select
STOP.

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Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
Related ZPL command(s): ~JQ
SGD command used: zbi.control.terminate
Printer web page: Directory Listing
Print from a USB Select files to print from a USB Flash drive.
Flash Drive
User menu item: *
Main Menu > TOOLS
* This menu item appears
only if a USB Flash drive is
inserted into the USB host
port on the printer.

1. Insert a USB flash drive into the printer’s USB host

port. The printer lists available files. SELECT ALL
is available to print all available files on the USB
Flash drive.
2. Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select a
file from this menu.
3. Press RIGHT SELECT to select PRINT.

SGD command used: usb.host.read_list

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Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
Copy Files from a Select files to copy to the printer from a USB Flash drive.
USB Flash Drive
User menu item: *
Main Menu > TOOLS
* This menu item appears
only if a USB Flash drive is
inserted into the USB host
port on the printer.

1. Insert a USB flash drive into the printer’s USB host

port. The printer lists available files. SELECT ALL is
available to copy all available files on the USB flash
drive.
2. Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select a
file from this menu.
3. Press RIGHT SELECT to select STORE.

SGD command used: usb.host.read_list

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Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
Store Files on a Select files from the printer to store on a USB flash drive.
USB Flash Drive
User menu item: *
Main Menu > TOOLS
* This menu item appears
only if a USB Flash drive is
inserted into the USB host
port on the printer.

1. Insert a USB flash drive into the printer’s USB host

port. The printer lists available files. SELECT ALL
is available to copy all available files on the USB
Flash drive.
2. Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select a
file from this menu.
3. Press RIGHT SELECT to select STORE.

SGD command used: usb.host.read_list

Print Station (Fill Use this menu item to fill in variable fields in a label format and print the label
in a Form or Print using a Human Input Device (HID), such as a USB keyboard or barcode scanner. A
a Label Format suitable label format must be stored on the E: drive of the printer to use this option.
from the Display) When the printer finds an HID plugged into the printer’s USB host port, it uses this
user menu to prompt you to select a form on the printer’s E: drive. After you have
been prompted to fill in each variable ^FN field on the form, you can specify the
desired quantity of labels to print.
For more information about using the ^FN command or the SGD commands related
to this feature, refer to the Zebra Programming Guide. You can download a copy of
the manual from zebra.com/manuals.

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Table 6 TOOLS Menu (Continued)

Tools Setting Description
User menu item: *
Main Menu > TOOLS
* This menu item appears
only if a USB Flash drive is
inserted into the USB host
port on the printer.

1. Insert a USB flash drive into the printer’s USB host

port. The printer lists available files.
2. Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select a
file from this menu.
3. Press RIGHT SELECT to select SELECT. The
printer accesses the file and prompts for the
information in the ^FN fields in the file.
4. Use your keyboard or barcode scanner to
enter the requested information. When using
a keyboard, press <ENTER> after entering the
appropriate information in the field. When all ^FN
fields have been filled, the printer prompts for the
number of labels to print.
5. Specify the desired number of labels. The
specified number of labels is printed with your data
in the appropriate fields.

SGD command used: usb.host.keyboard_input (must be set to ON)

usb.host.template_list usb.host.fn_field_list
usb.host.fn_field_data
usb.host.fn_last_field
usb.host.template_print_amount

Network Settings

Table 7 NETWORK Menu

Network Setting Description
Active Print Only one print server (wired or wireless) can be installed at a time. Therefore, the
Server print server installed is the active print server.

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Table 7 NETWORK Menu (Continued)

Network Setting Description
User menu item: *
Main Menu > NETWORK
* This menu item cannot be
modified from the control
panel.

Primary Print Only one network (wired or wireless) can be connected to at any given time.
Server Therefore, the network configured is the primary network.
User menu item: *
Main Menu > NETWORK
* This menu item cannot be
modified from the control
panel.

Primary TCP/IP View the Ethernet TCP port number, over which labels and commands can be sent
Port for processing.
User menu item: *
Main Menu > NETWORK
* This menu item cannot be
modified from the control
panel.

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Table 7 NETWORK Menu (Continued)

Network Setting Description
Alternate TCP/IP View the alternate Ethernet TCP port number, over which labels and commands can
Port be sent for processing.
User menu item: *
Main Menu > NETWORK
* This menu item cannot be
modified from the control
panel.

IP Address View and, if necessary, change the printer’s IP address.

To save changes to this setting, set IP Address (listed in this table) to PERMANENT,
and then reset the print server. See Reset Network in this table.
User menu item:
Main Menu > NETWORK

Accepted values: 000 to 255 for each field

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Table 7 NETWORK Menu (Continued)

Network Setting Description
Related ZPL command(s): ^ND
SGD command used: Wired: internal_wired.ip.addr
Wireless: ip.addr, wlan.ip.addr
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Network Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings
Subnet Mask View and, if necessary, change the subnet mask.
To save changes to this setting, set IP Protocol (listed in this table) to PERMANENT,
and then reset the print server. See Reset Network (listed in this table).
User menu item:
Main Menu > NETWORK

Accepted values: 000 to 255 for each field

Related ZPL command(s): ^ND
SGD command used: Wired: internal_wired.ip.netmask
Wireless: wlan.ip.netmask
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Network Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings
Gateway View and, if necessary, change the default gateway.
To save changes to this setting, set IP Protocol (listed in this table) to PERMANENT,
and then reset the print server. See Reset Network (listed in this table).

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Table 7 NETWORK Menu (Continued)

Network Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > NETWORK

Accepted values: 000 to 255 for each field

Related ZPL command(s): ^ND
SGD command used: Wired: internal_wired.ip.gateway
Wireless: wlan.ip.gateway
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Network Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings
IP Protocol This parameter tells if the user (permanent) or the server (dynamic) selects the
IP address. When a dynamic option is chosen, this parameter tells the method(s) by
which the wired or wireless print server receives the IP address from the server.

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Table 7 NETWORK Menu (Continued)

Network Setting Description
User menu item:
ain Menu > NETWORK

Accepted values: • ALL

• GLEANING ONLY
• RARP
• BOOTP
• DHCP
• DHCP & BOOTP
• PERMANENT

Related ZPL command(s): ^ND

SGD command used: Wired: internal_wired.ip.protocol
Wireless: wlan.ip.protocol
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Network Communications Setup > TCP/IP Settings
MAC Address View the Media Access Control (MAC) address of the print server that is installed in
the printer (wired or wireless).

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Table 7 NETWORK Menu (Continued)

Network Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > NETWORK

SGD command used: Wired: internal_wired.mac_addr

Wireless: wlan.mac_addr
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Network Communications Setup > Wireless Setup
ESSID The Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) is an identifier for your wireless
network. This setting, which cannot be modified from the control panel, gives the
ESSID for the current wireless configuration.
User menu item:
Main Menu > NETWORK

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Table 7 NETWORK Menu (Continued)

Network Setting Description
Accepted values: 32-character alphanumeric string (default 125)
SGD command used: wlan.essid
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings >
Network Communications Setup > Wireless Setup
Channel View the wireless channel being used when the wireless network is active and
authenticated.
User menu item:
Main Menu > NETWORK

SGD command used: wlan.channel

Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
Communications Setup > Wireless Setup
Signal View the wireless signal strength when the wireless network is active and
authenticated.
User menu item:
Main Menu > NETWORK

SGD command used: wlan.signal_strength

Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Network
Communications Setup > Wireless Setup

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Table 7 NETWORK Menu (Continued)

Network Setting Description
Reset Network This option resets the wired or wireless print server. You must reset the print server
to allow any changes to the network settings to take effect.
User menu item:
Main Menu > NETWORK

Related ZPL command(s): ~WR

SGD command used: device.reset
Printer web page: Print Server Settings > Factory Print Server Settings

RFID Settings

Table 8 RFID Menu

RFID Setting Description
RFID Country View the RFID country code.
Code
NOTE: A prompt for the country code appears only on some printers the
first time that they are powered up, depending on the world region to
which the printers were shipped. Select the appropriate country to access
the printer’s RFID features.
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID

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Table 8 RFID Menu (Continued)

RFID Setting Description
SGD command used: rfid.country_code
RFID Status Display the status of the RFID subsystem of the printer.
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID

Related ZPL command(s): ^HL or ~HL

SGD command used: rfid.error.response
RFID Tag Initiate tag calibration for RFID media. (Not the same as media and ribbon
Calibration calibration.)
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID

Related ZPL command(s): ^HR

SGD command used: rfid.tag.calibrate
Read RFID Data Read and return the specified tag data from the RFID tag located over the RFID
antenna. No printer movement occurs while tag data is being read. The printhead
can be open or closed.

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Table 8 RFID Menu (Continued)

RFID Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID

To read and display the information stored on an RFID

tag:
1. Position the RFID label with its transponder over
the RFID antenna.
2. Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select
the type of information that you want read and
displayed.
3. Press RIGHT SELECT to select READ. The results
of the test are shown on the display.

Accepted values: • epc—reads the first 128 bits of EPC data

• tid information—reads the first 32 bits of the TID
(Tag ID)
• password status—reads the tag’s access and kill
passwords
• protocol bits—reads the protocol bits from the EPC
memory banks and converts that value to the EPC
size.
• memory bank sizes—reads the EPC, TID and user
memory banks sizes

Related ZPL command(s): ^RF

SGD command used: rfid.tag.read.content and rfid.tag.read.execute
RFID Test During the RFID test, the printer attempts to read and write to a transponder. No
printer movement occurs with this test.

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Table 8 RFID Menu (Continued)

RFID Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID
* This menu item appears
only if a wired or wireless
print server is installed in
your printer.

To test an RFID label:

1. Position the RFID label with its transponder over
the RFID antenna array.
2. Press RIGHT SELECT to select START. The results
of the test are shown on the display.

Accepted values: • quick—performs a read EPC test and a write EPC

test (using random data)
• read—performs a read EPC test
• write—performs a write EPC test (using random
data)

SGD commands used: rfid.tag.test.content and rfid.tag.test.execute

Programming If the desired programming position (read/write position) is not achieved through
Position RFID tag calibration, a value may be specified. See the RFID Programming Guide 3
(available from zebra.com/manuals) for more information.

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Table 8 RFID Menu (Continued)

RFID Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID

Accepted values: • F0 to Fxxx (where xxx is the label length in

millimeters or 999, whichever is less)—The printer
feeds the label forward for the specified distance
and then begins programming.
• B0 to B30—The printer backfeeds the label for the
specified distance and then begins programming.
To account for the backfeed, allow empty media
liner to extend out of the front of the printer when
using a backward programming position.

Related ZPL command(s): ^RS

SGD command used: rfid.position.program
rinter web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > RFID Setup >
PROGRAM POSITION
RFID Antenna If the desired antenna is not achieved through RFID tag calibration, a value may be
Element specified.

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Table 8 RFID Menu (Continued)

RFID Setting Description
User menu item:
* This menu item appears Main Menu > RFID
only if a wired or wireless
print server is installed in
your printer.

Accepted values: • A1, A2, A3, A4

• B1, B2, B3, B4
• C1, C2, C3, C4
• D1, D2, D3, D4
• E1, E2, E3, E4

Related ZPL command(s): ^RW

SGD command used: rfid.reader_1.antenna_port
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > RFID Setup >
RFID ANTENNA
RFID Read Power If the desired read power is not achieved through RFID tag calibration, a value may
be specified.
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID

Accepted values: 0 to 30
Related ZPL command(s): ^RW

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Table 8 RFID Menu (Continued)

RFID Setting Description
SGD command used: rfid.reader_1.power.read
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > RFID Setup >
RFID READ PWR
RFID Write Power If the desired write power is not achieved through RFID tag calibration, a value may
be specified.
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID

Accepted values: 0 to 30
Related ZPL command(s): ^RW
SGD command used: rfid.reader_1.power.write
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > RFID Setup >
RFID WRITE PWR
RFID Valid Resets the RFID valid label counter to zero.
Counter
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID

Related ZPL command(s): ~RO

SGD command used: odometer.rfid.valid_resettable

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Table 8 RFID Menu (Continued)

RFID Setting Description
RFID Void Resets the RFID void label counter to zero.
Counter
User menu item:
Main Menu > RFID

Related ZPL command(s): ~RO

SGD command used: odometer.rfid.void_resettable

Language Settings

Table 9 LANGUAGE Menu

Language Description
Setting
Language If necessary, change the language that the printer displays.
This change affects the words shown on the following:
• the Home menu
• the user menus
• error messages
• the printer configuration label, the network configuration label, and other labels
that you can select to print through the user menus

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Table 9 LANGUAGE Menu (Continued)

Language Description
Setting
User menu item:
Main Menu > SETTINGS

Main Menu > LANGUAGE

NOTE: The selections for this parameter are

displayed in the actual languages to make it
easier for you to find one that you are able
to read.
Accepted values: ENGLISH, SPANISH, FRENCH, GERMAN, ITALIAN,
NORWEGIAN, PORTUGUESE, SWEDISH, DANISH,
SPANISH 2, DUTCH, FINNISH, CZECH, JAPANESE,
KOREAN, ROMANIAN, RUSSIAN, POLISH, SIMPLIFIED
CHINESE, TRADITIONAL CHINESE
Related ZPL command(s): ^KL
SGD command used: display.language
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > General Setup >
Language
Command The format command prefix is a two-digit hex value used as a parameter place
Character marker in ZPL/ZPL II format instructions. The printer looks for this hex character to
indicate the start of a ZPL/ZPL II format instruction.
Set the format command character to match what is used in your label formats.

IMPORTANT: You cannot use the same hex value for the format command
prefix, control character, and delimiter characters. The printer must see
different characters to work properly. If you are setting the value through
the control panel, the printer will skip any value that is already in use.

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Table 9 LANGUAGE Menu (Continued)

Language Description
Setting
User menu item:
Main Menu > LANGUAGE

Accepted values: 00 to FF
Related ZPL command(s): ^CC or ~CC
SGD command used: zpl.caret
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > ZPL Control
Control Character The printer looks for this two-digit hex character to indicate the start of a ZPL/ZPL
II control instruction. Set the control prefix character to match what is used in your
label formats.
User menu item:
Main Menu > LANGUAGE

Accepted values: 00 to FF
Related ZPL command(s): ^CT or ~CT
SGD command used: zpl.control_character
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > ZPL Control
Delimiter Set the Delimiter Character Value
Character The delimiter character is a two-digit hex value used as a parameter place marker in
ZPL/ZPL II format instructions.
Set the delimiter character to match what is used in your label formats.

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Table 9 LANGUAGE Menu (Continued)

Language Description
Setting
User menu item:
Main Menu > LANGUAGE

Accepted values: 00 to FF
Related ZPL command(s): ^CD or ~CD
SGD command used: zpl.delimiter
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > ZPL Control
ZPL Mode Select the mode that matches what is used in your label formats.
This printer accepts label formats written in either ZPL or ZPL II, eliminating the need
to rewrite any ZPL formats that already exist. The printer remains in the selected
mode until it is changed in one of the ways listed here.
User menu item:
Main Menu > LANGUAGE

Accepted values: • ZPL II

• ZPL

Related ZPL command(s): ^SZ

SGD command used: zpl.zpl_mode
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > ZPL Control

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Sensor Settings

Table 10 SENSORS Menu

Sensor Setting Description
Sensor Type Select the media sensor that is appropriate for the media that you are using. The
reflective sensor can be used with all media types. The transmissive sensor should
be used only for simple gap media.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SENSORS

Accepted values: • TRANSMISSIVE

• REFLECTIVE

Related ZPL command(s): ^JS

SGD command used: device.sensor_select
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Media Setup
Label Sensor Set the sensitivity of the label sensor.

IMPORTANT: This value is set during sensor calibration. Do NOT change

this setting unless you are told to do so by Zebra Technical Support or by
an authorized service technician.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SENSORS

Accepted values: 0 – 255

SGD command used: ezpl.label_sensor

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Table 10 SENSORS Menu (Continued)

Sensor Setting Description
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Calibration
Take Label Set the intensity of the take label LED.

IMPORTANT: This value is set during sensor calibration. Do NOT change

this setting unless you are told to do so by Zebra Technical Support or by
an authorized service technician.
User menu item:
Main Menu > SENSORS

Accepted values: 0 – 255

SGD command used: ezpl.take_label
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Calibration

Port Settings

Table 11 PORTS Menu

Port Setting Description
Baud Rate Select the baud value that matches the one being used by the host computer.

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Table 11 PORTS Menu (Continued)

Port Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > PORTS

Accepted values: • 115200

• 57600
• 38400
• 28800
• 19200
• 14400
• 9600
• 4800

Related ZPL command(s): ^SC

SGD command used: comm.baud
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Serial
Communications Setup
Data Bits Select the data bits value that matches the one being used by the host computer.
User menu item:
Main Menu > PORTS

Accepted values: 7 or 8

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Table 11 PORTS Menu (Continued)

Port Setting Description
Related ZPL command(s): ^SC
SGD command used: comm.data_bits
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Serial
Communications Setup
Parity Select the parity value that matches the one being used by the host computer.
User menu item:
Main Menu > PORTS

Accepted values: • NONE

• EVEN
• ODD

Related ZPL command(s): ^SC

SGD command used: comm.parity
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Serial
Communications Setup
Host Handshake Select the handshake protocol that matches the one being used by the host
computer.

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Table 11 PORTS Menu (Continued)

Port Setting Description
User menu item:
Main Menu > PORTS

Accepted values: • XON/XOFF

• RTS/CTS
• DSR/DTR

Related ZPL command(s): ^SC

SGD command used: comm.handshake
Printer web page: View and Modify Printer Settings > Serial
Communications Setup
Wireless Markup View the WML version. This value cannot be changed.
Language (WML)
Version User menu item:
Main Menu > PORTS

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Bluetooth Settings

Table 12 BLUETOOTH Menu

Bluetooth Description
Setting
Bluetooth Displays the printer’s Bluetooth Device Address
Address
User menu item:
Main Menu > BLUETOOTH

SGD command used: bluetooth.address

Connection Displays the Bluetooth connection pair printer’s device type—Peripheral (typical) or
Device Type Central.
User menu item:
Main Menu > BLUETOOTH

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Table 12 BLUETOOTH Menu (Continued)

Bluetooth Description
Setting
Bluetooth Select if the printer is “Discoverable” for Bluetooth device pairing.
Discovery
User menu item:
Main Menu > BLUETOOTH

Accepted values: • ON—enables Bluetooth discoverable mode

• OFF—disables Bluetooth discoverable mode

SGD command used: bluetooth.discoverable

Connection Displays the Bluetooth connection status to its paired device (Yes or No).
Status to Paired
Device User menu item:
Main Menu > BLUETOOTH

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Table 12 BLUETOOTH Menu (Continued)

Bluetooth Description
Setting
Bluetooth Displays the Bluetooth operational specification level.
Specification
Version User menu item:
Main Menu > BLUETOOTH

SGD command used: bluetooth.radio_version

Minimum Security Displays the printer’s Bluetooth minimum level of applied security.
Level
User menu item:
Main Menu > BLUETOOTH

Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors

Use the procedure in this section to calibrate the printer, which adjusts the sensitivity of the media and
ribbon sensors. Calibration assures proper alignment of the image being printed and the optimal print
quality.
Perform calibration in the following situations:
• You switched to a different size or type of ribbon or media.

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• The printer experiences any of the following issues:

• skipping labels
• the printed image is wandering/drifting side-to-side or up-down
• ribbon is not being detected when it is installed or when it runs out
• non-continuous labels are being treated as continuous

Performing Auto Calibration

You can set the printer to perform an auto calibration or a short calibration using the POWER UP ACTION
or HEAD CLOSE ACTION parameters.
• CALIBRATE—adjusts sensor levels and thresholds, determines the label length, and feeds the media to
the next web.
• SHORT CAL—sets the media and web thresholds without adjusting sensor gain, determines the label
length, and feeds the media to the next web.
See Power-Up Action or Head-Close Action in Calibration, Diagnostic, and Other Tools on page 82.

Performing Manual Sensor Calibration

IMPORTANT: Follow the calibration procedure exactly as presented. All of the steps must be
performed even if only one of the sensors requires adjustment. You may press and hold CANCEL
at any step in this procedure to cancel the process.
For issues that may be resolved by sensor calibration, see Printing Issues on page 167.
For a summary of the options for initiating calibration, see Media and Ribbon Sensor Calibration in
Calibration, Diagnostic, and Other Tools on page 82.
1. With the printer in the Ready state, initiate media and ribbon calibration in one of these ways:
• Press and hold PAUSE + CANCEL for 2 seconds.
• Send the ezpl.manual_calibration SGD command to the printer. See the Zebra Programming Guide
for more information about this command.
• Navigate to the following menu item on the control panel display. This item is located under the
TOOLS menu and the SENSORS menu. See Idle Display, Home Menu, and User Menus on page

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13 for information about using the control panel and accessing the menus. See the User Guide for
information about using the control panel and accessing the menus.

Press RIGHT SELECT to select START.

The printer does the following:
• The STATUS light and SUPPLIES light flash yellow once.
• The PAUSE light blinks yellow.
• The control panel displays:

2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

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3. Extend the media approximately 8 in. (203 mm) out of the printer.

4. Remove the exposed labels so that only the liner remains.

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5. Pull the media into the printer so that only the backing is between the media sensors.

6. Remove the ribbon (if used).

7. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

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8. Press PAUSE to begin the media calibration process.

• The PAUSE light turns off.
• The SUPPLIES light flashes.
• The control panel displays:

When the process is complete:

• The SUPPLIES light stops flashing.
• The PAUSE light flashes yellow.
• The control panel displays:

9. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

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10. Pull the media forward until a label is positioned under the media sensors.

11. Reload the ribbon (if used). See Loading the Ribbon on page 64.
12. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

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13. Close the media door.

14. Press PAUSE to enable printing.

15. Press FEED to test if calibration was successful.
If one label feeds correctly each time, the printer is properly calibrated.

Adjusting the Printhead Pressure

You may need to adjust printhead pressure if:
• printing is too light on one side
• you use thick media
• if the media drifts from side to side during printing
Use the inside and outside printhead pressure adjustment dials to set the printhead pressure. Set
the pressure to the lowest level necessary to achieve good print quality. The setting marks on these
dials range from 1 to 4.

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Figure 7 Printhead Pressure Adjustment Dials

1
2

Begin with the pressure settings for your printer model and media width as specified in the following table,
and make adjustments to the inside dial (1) and the outside dial (2) as necessary.

Table 13 Pressure Setting Starting Points

Printer Media Width Inside Dial Setting Outside Dial Setting
ZT410 1 in. (25 mm) 4 1

2 in. (51 mm) 3 1

3 in. (76 mm) 2.5 1.5

≥ 3.5 in. (89 mm) 2 2

ZT420 2 in. (51 mm) 4 1

3 in. (76 mm) 3.5 1

4 in. (102 mm) 3 2

≥ 5 in. (127 mm) 2.5 2.5

If necessary, adjust the printhead pressure adjustment dials as follows:

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If the media... Then...

Requires higher pressure Increase both dials one position.
to print well

Prints too lightly on the Increase the inside dial setting one position.
left side of the label.

Prints too lightly on the Increase the outside dial setting one position.
right side of the label.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

If the media... Then...

Shifts left while printing Increase the outside dial setting one position.

OR
Decrease the inside dial setting one position.

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 Printer Configuration and Adjustment

If the media... Then...

Shifts right while printing Increase the inside dial setting one position.

OR
Decrease the outside dial setting one position.

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Routine Maintenance

This section provides routine cleaning and maintenance procedures.

Cleaning Schedule and Procedures

Routine preventive maintenance is a crucial part of normal printer operation. By taking good care of your
printer, you can minimize potential problems and achieve/maintain the desired print quality standards.
Over time, the movement of media or ribbon across the printhead wears through the protective ceramic
coating, exposing and eventually damaging the print elements (dots). To avoid abrasion:
• Clean the printhead frequently.
• Minimize printhead pressure and burn temperature (darkness) settings by optimizing the balance
between the two.
• When using Thermal Transfer mode, ensure that the ribbon is either as wide or wider than the media.
This is to avoid exposing printhead elements to the more abrasive label material.

IMPORTANT: Zebra is not responsible for damage caused by the use of cleaning fluids on this
printer.
Specific cleaning procedures are included in this section. Follow the recommended cleaning schedule
listed in the table below.

NOTE: These recommended cleaning intervals are intended as guidelines only. You may have to
clean more often depending on your specific application and the media you use for printing.

Table 14 Recommended Cleaning Schedule

Area Method Interval
Printhead Solvent* Direct Thermal Mode: After every roll of media
(or 500 feet of fanfold media).
Platen roller Solvent*
Thermal Transfer Mode: After every roll of
Media sensors Air blow ribbon.
Ribbon sensor Air blow
Media path Solvent*
Ribbon path Solvent*
Pinch roller (part of Peel-Off option) Solvent*

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Table 14 Recommended Cleaning Schedule (Continued)

Area Method Interval
Cutter If cutting continuous, Solvent* After every roll of media (or more often,
module pressure-sensitive media depending upon your application and media).
If cutting tag stock or Solvent* and After every two or three rolls of media.
label liner material air blow
Tear-off/peel-off bar Solvent* Once a month.
Take-label sensor Air blow Once every six months.

NOTE:
* Zebra recommends using the Preventive Maintenance Kit (p/n 47362 or p/n 105950-035 -
multipack). In place of the Preventive Maintenance Kit, you may use a lint-free cloth dipped in
99.7% isopropyl alcohol.
For 600 dpi printers, use Save-a-Printhead cleaning film. This specially-coated material
removes contamination buildup without damaging the printhead. Call your authorized reseller
or distributor for more information.

Clean the Exterior, the Media Compartment, and the Sensors

Over time, dust, grime, and other debris may build up on the outside and inside of your printer, particularly
in a harsh operating environment.

Clean the Printer Exterior

You may clean the exterior surfaces of the printer with a lint-free cloth and a small amount of a mild
detergent, if necessary. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaning agents or solvents.

IMPORTANT: Zebra is not responsible for damage caused by the use of cleaning fluids on this
printer.

Cleaning the Media Compartment and Sensors

1. Brush, air blow, or vacuum any accumulated paper lint and dust away from the media and ribbon paths.

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 Routine Maintenance

2. Brush, air blow, or vacuum any accumulated paper lint and dust away from the sensors.

2 3
1 Take-label sensor
2 Ribbon sensor
3 Media sensor

Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller

Inconsistent print quality, such as voids in the barcode or graphics, may indicate a dirty printhead. For the
recommended cleaning schedule, see Cleaning Schedule and Procedures on page 134.

IMPORTANT:
While you are not required to turn off printer power when working near an open printhead, Zebra
recommends it as a precaution.
If you turn off power, you will lose all temporary settings, such as label formats, and you must
reload them before you resume printing.

CAUTION—ESD: Before touching the printhead assembly, discharge any built-up static electricity
by touching the metal printer frame or by using an anti-static wrist-strap and mat.

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 Routine Maintenance

1. Raise the media door.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.
2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

3. Remove the ribbon (if used) and the media.

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4. Using the swab from a Zebra Preventive Maintenance Kit, wipe along the brown strip on the printhead
assembly from end to end. In place of the Preventive Maintenance Kit, you may use a clean swab
dipped in 99.7% isopropyl alcohol. Allow the solvent to evaporate.

5. While manually rotating the platen roller, clean it thoroughly with the swab. Allow the solvent to
evaporate.

6. Reload the ribbon (if used) and the media. For instructions, see Loading the Ribbon on page 64 or
Loading the Media on page 35.

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 Routine Maintenance

7. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

8. Close the media door.

The printer is ready to operate.

9. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.

NOTE: If performing this procedure does not improve print quality, try cleaning the printhead
with Save-A-Printhead cleaning film. This specially coated material removes contamination
buildup without damaging the printhead. Call your authorized Zebra reseller for more
information.

Cleaning the Peel Assembly

The peel assembly, which is part of the Peel-Off and Liner Take-Up options, consists of several spring-
loaded rollers to ensure the proper roller pressure. Clean the pinch roller and tear-off/peel-off bar if
adhesive buildup begins to affect peel performance.

CAUTION: Do NOT use your left hand to assist in closing the Peel assembly. The top edge of the
Peel roller/assembly could pinch your fingers.

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 Routine Maintenance

If adhesive buildup affects peel-off performance, complete these steps:

1. Raise the media door.

2. Open the printhead assembly by rotating the printhead-open lever upward.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow
the printhead to cool.

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3. Push down the peel-off mechanism release lever to open the peel assembly.

4. Remove any media liner to expose the pinch roller.

5. While manually rotating the pinch roller, clean it thoroughly with the swab from the Preventive
Maintenance Kit (part number 47362). In place of the Preventive Maintenance Kit, you may use a clean
swab dipped in 99.7% isopropyl alcohol. Allow the solvent to evaporate.

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6. While manually rotating the platen roller, clean it thoroughly with the swab. Allow the solvent to
evaporate.

7. Use the swab to remove excess adhesive from the tear-off/peel-off bar. Allow the solvent to
evaporate.

IMPORTANT: Apply minimum force when cleaning the tear-off/peel-off bar. Excessive force
can cause the tear-off/peel-off bar to bend, which could have a negative effect on peel
performance.
8. Reload the media through the peel mechanism. For instructions, see Using Peel-Off Mode (with or
without Liner Take-Up) on page 42.
9. Close the peel assembly using the peel-off mechanism release lever.

CAUTION: Use the peel release lever and your right hand to close the peel assembly. Do
not use your left hand to assist in closing. The top edge of the peel roller/assembly could
pinch your fingers.

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 Routine Maintenance

10. Rotate the printhead-open lever downward until it locks the printhead in place.

11. Close the media door.

The printer is ready to operate.

12. Press PAUSE to exit pause mode and enable printing.
The printer may perform a label calibration or feed a label, depending on your settings.

Cleaning and Lubricating the Cutter Module

If the cutter is not cutting the labels cleanly or if it jams with labels, clean the cutter blades. After cleaning
the blades, apply lubrication to them to help extend the life of your cutter module.

CAUTION—ELECTRIC SHOCK: Turn off the printer (O) and disconnect it from the power source
before performing the following procedure.
1. Turn off (O) the printer and disconnect the AC power cord.

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2. Raise the media door.

3. Remove media that is loaded through the cutter module.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch or rub the blade with your fingers.

4. Loosen and remove the thumbscrew and lock washer on the cutter shield.

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5. Remove the cutter shield.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch or rub the blade with your fingers.

6. If necessary, rotate the cutter motor thumbscrew to fully expose the V-shaped cutter blade (1).

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7. Using the swab from the Preventive Maintenance Kit (part number 47362), wipe along the upper
cutting surface and the cutter blade. In place of the Preventive Maintenance Kit , you may use a clean
swab dipped in 99.7% isopropyl alcohol. Allow the solvent to evaporate.

8. When the solvent has evaporated, soak a clean swab in a general-purpose, higher-viscosity silicone or
PTFE oil lubricant.

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 Routine Maintenance

9. Apply an even layer along all exposed surfaces of both cutter blades. Remove any excess oil so that
none of it comes in contact with the printhead or platen roller.

CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. For operator safety, replace the cutter shield.

10. Replace the cutter shield.

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11. Secure the cutter shield with the thumbscrew and lock washer that you removed earlier.

12. Close the media door.

13. Plug the printer into its power source, and then turn on (I) the printer.
The cutter blade returns to its operating position.
14. If the cutter continues to perform unsatisfactorily, contact an authorized service technician for
assistance.

Removing Used Ribbon

At minimum, remove used ribbon from the ribbon take-up spindle each time you change the roll of ribbon.
With ribbon that is half or less the width of the printhead, remove used ribbon each time you load a new
roll of media. This ensures that uneven pressure on the ribbon take-up spindle does not interfere with the
ribbon release bars on the spindle.
1. Has the ribbon run out?

If the ribbon... Then

Ran out Continue with the next step in this procedure.

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If the ribbon... Then

Did not run out Cut or break the ribbon before the ribbon take-up spindle.

CAUTION—PRODUCT DAMAGE: Do not cut the ribbon directly on

the ribbon take-up spindle. Doing so may damage the spindle.

2. While holding the ribbon take-up spindle, turn the ribbon release knob to the left until it stops.

The ribbon release bars pivot down, easing the spindle’s grip on the used ribbon.
3. After the ribbon release bars have pivoted down, if possible, turn the ribbon take-up spindle one full
turn to the right to help loosen the ribbon on the spindle.
4. Slide the used ribbon off the ribbon take-up spindle and discard.

Replacing Printer Components

Some printer components, such as the printhead and platen roller, may wear out over time and can be
replaced easily. Regular cleaning may extend the life of some of these components.
See Cleaning Schedule and Procedures on page 134 for the recommended cleaning intervals.

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 Routine Maintenance

Ordering Replacement Parts

Zebra printers are designed to work only with genuine Zebra printheads, thus maximizing safety and print
quality. Contact your authorized Zebra reseller for part ordering information.

Recycling Printer Components

The majority of this printer’s components are recyclable. The printer’s main logic
board may include a battery that you should dispose of properly.
Do not dispose of any printer components in unsorted municipal waste. Please
dispose of the battery according to your local regulations, and recycle the other
printer components according to your local standards. For more information, see
zebra.com/environment.

Storing the Printer

If you are not placing the printer into immediate operation, repackage it using the original packing
materials. You may store the printer under the following conditions:
• Temperature: –40°F to 140°F (–40°C to 60°C)
• Relative humidity: 5% to 85% non-condensing

Lubrication
The only lubrication needed for this printer is for the cutter module.
Follow the instructions in Cleaning and Lubricating the Cutter Module on page 143.

CAUTION—PRODUCT DAMAGE: Do not lubricate any other parts of the printer. Some
commercially available lubricants will damage the finish and the mechanical parts if used on this
printer.

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Diagnostics and
Troubleshooting
Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

This section provides diagnostic tests and other information that may help you to optimize printing or to
troubleshoot issues with your printer.
Videos and additional online information designed to assist you are available here on zebra.com:
• ZT410
• ZT420

Printer Diagnostics
Self tests and other diagnostics provide specific information about the condition of the printer. The self
tests produce sample printouts and provide specific information that helps determine the operating
conditions for the printer.

IMPORTANT: Use full-width media when performing self tests. If your media is not wide enough,
the test labels may print on the platen roller. To prevent this from happening, check the print
width, and ensure that the width is correct for the media that you are using.
Each self test is enabled by pressing a specific control panel key or combination of keys while turning on
(I) the printer power. Keep the key(s) pressed until the first indicator light turns off. The selected self test
automatically starts at the end of the Power-On Self Test. (See Power-On Self Test on page 154.)

NOTE: When performing these self tests:

• Do NOT send data to the printer from the host (computer or handheld device).
• When canceling a self test prior to its actual completion, always reset the printer by turning
printer power off (O) and then on (l).
• Be aware that, if your media is shorter than the label to be printed, the test label will continue
printing on the next label.

Evaluating Barcode Quality

Different types of media may require different darkness settings. This section contains a simple but
effective method for determining the ideal darkness for printing barcodes that are within specifications.
During the FEED self test, labels are printed at different darkness settings at two different print speeds.
The relative darkness and the print speed are printed on each label. The barcodes on these labels may be
ANSI-graded to check print quality.
During this test, one set of labels is printed at 2 ips, and another set is printed at 6 ips. The darkness
value starts at three settings lower than the printer’s current darkness value (relative darkness of –3) and

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increase until the darkness is three settings higher than the current darkness value (relative darkness of
+3).
1. Print a configuration label to show the printer’s current settings. (See CANCEL Self-Test on page 155.)
2. Turn off (O) the printer.
3. Press and hold FEED while turning on (I) the printer. Hold FEED until the first control panel light turns
off.
The printer prints a series of labels at various speeds and at darkness settings higher and lower than
the darkness value shown on the configuration label.

Figure 8 FEED Test Label

4. Inspect these test labels and determine which one has the optimal print quality for your application. If
you have a barcode verifier, use it to measure bars/spaces and calculate the print contrast. If you do not

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have a barcode verifier, use your eyes or the system scanner to choose the optimal darkness setting
based on the labels printed in this self test.

Figure 9 Evaluating Barcode Quality

Appearance Description
Too dark labels Fairly obvious. These may be readable but are not “in-spec.”
• The normal barcode bars increase in size.
• The openings in small alphanumeric characters may fill in with ink.
• Rotated barcode bars and spaces run together.

Slightly dark Not as obvious as the too-dark labels.

labels
• The normal barcode will be “in-spec.”
• Small alphanumeric characters will be bold, and may appear slightly filled in.
• The rotated barcode spaces are small when compared to the “in-spec” code,
possibly making the code unreadable.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Appearance Description
In-spec labels Whether or not a label is “in-spec” can only be confirmed by a verifier, but they
typically exhibit some visible characteristics.
• The normal barcode will have complete, even bars along with clear, distinct
spaces.
• The rotated barcode will have complete, even bars along with clear, distinct
spaces. Although it may not look as good as a slightly dark barcode, the
barcode will be “in-spec.”
• In both normal and rotated styles, small alphanumeric characters will look
complete.

Slightly light In some cases, these are preferred to slightly dark ones for “in-spec” barcodes.
labels
• Both normal and rotated barcodes will be “in-spec,” but small alphanumeric
characters may not be complete.

Too light labels These are obvious.

• Both normal and rotated barcodes have incomplete bars and spaces.
• Small alphanumeric characters are unreadable.

5. Note the relative darkness value and the print speed printed on the best test label.
6. Add or subtract the relative darkness value from the darkness value specified on the configuration
label. The resulting numeric value is the optimal darkness value for that specific label/ribbon
combination and print speed.
7. If necessary, change the darkness value to the darkness value on the selected test label.
8. If necessary, change the print speed to the same speed as on the selected test label.

Power-On Self Test

A Power-On Self Test (POST) is performed each time the printer is turned on (l). During this test, the control
panel lights (LEDs) turn on and off to ensure proper operation. At the end of this self test, only the STATUS
LED remains lit. When the Power-On Self Test is complete, the media is advanced to the proper position.
• Turn on (I) the printer.
The POWER LED illuminates. The other control panel LEDs and the LCD monitor the progress and
indicate the results of the individual tests. All messages during the POST display in English; however, if
the test fails, the resulting messages cycle through the international languages as well.

PAUSE Self Test

This self test can be used to provide the test labels required when making adjustments to the printer’s
mechanical assemblies or to determine if any printhead elements are not working.
The following shows a sample printout.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Figure 10 PAUSE Test Label

1234567890123456789012345678901234567890123456789012345678901234567

1. Turn off (O) the printer.

2. Press and hold PAUSE while turning on (I) the printer. Hold PAUSE until the first control panel light turns
off.
The initial self test prints 15 labels at the printer’s slowest speed, and then automatically pauses the
printer. Each time PAUSE is pressed, an additional 15 labels print.
While the printer is paused:
• Pressing CANCEL alters the self test. Each time PAUSE is pressed, 15 labels print at 152 mm (6 in.)
per second.
• Pressing CANCEL again alters the self test a second time. Each time PAUSE is pressed, 50 labels
print at the printer’s slowest speed.
• Pressing CANCEL again alters the self test a third time. Each time PAUSE is pressed, 50 labels print
at 152 mm (6 in.) per second.
• Pressing CANCEL again alters the self test a fourth time. Each time PAUSE is pressed, 15 labels print
at the printer’s maximum speed.
3. To exit this self test at any time, press and hold CANCEL.

CANCEL Self-Test
The CANCEL self test prints a printer configuration label and a network configuration label.
1. Turn off (O) the printer.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

2. Press and hold CANCEL while turning on (I) the printer. Hold CANCEL until the first control panel light
turns off.
The printer prints a printer configuration label and then a network configuration label as shown in these
examples.

Figure 11 Sample Printer Configuration Label Figure 12 Sample Network Configuration Label

FEED and PAUSE Self Test

Performing this self test resets the printer configuration to the factory default values. Perform a sensor
calibration after this self test.

1. Turn off (O) the printer.

2. Press and hold FEED + PAUSE while turning on (I) the printer.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

3. Hold FEED + PAUSE until the first control panel light turns off.
The printer configuration is reset to the factory default values. No labels print at the end of this test.
To perform the sensor calibration required after this self test. see Calibrating the Ribbon and Media
Sensors on page 122.

CANCEL and PAUSE Self Test

Performing this self test resets the network configuration to the factory default values.
1. Turn off (O) the printer.
2. Press and hold CANCEL + PAUSE while turning on (I) the printer.
3. Hold CANCEL + PAUSE until the first control panel light turns off.
The printer’s network configuration is reset to the factory default values. No labels print at the end of
this test.

Sensor Profile
Use the sensor profile image (which will extend across several actual labels or tags) to troubleshoot the
following situations:
With the printer in the Ready state, print a sensor profile in one of these ways:
• The printer experiences difficulty in determining gaps (web) between labels.
• The printer incorrectly identifies preprinted areas on a label as gaps (web).
• The printer cannot detect ribbon.

Using the buttons on the 1. Turn off (O) the printer.

control panel
2. Press and hold FEED + CANCEL while turning on (I) the printer.
3. Hold FEED + CANCEL until the first control panel light turns off.

Using ZPL Send the ~JG command to the printer. See the Zebra Programming Guide
for more information about this command.
Using the control panel 1. On the control panel display, navigate to the following item under the
display SENSORS menu. See Idle Display, Home Menu, and User Menus on
page 13 for information about using the control panel and accessing
the menus.

2. Press RIGHT SELECT to select PRINT.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Compare your results to the examples shown in this section. If the sensitivity of the sensors must be
adjusted, calibrate the printer (see Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122).

Ribbon Sensor Profile

The line labeled RIBBON (1) on the sensor profile indicates the ribbon sensor readings. The ribbon sensor
threshold setting is indicated by OUT (2). If the ribbon readings are below the threshold value, the printer
does not acknowledge that ribbon is loaded.

Figure 13 Sensor Profile (Ribbon Section)

Media Sensor Profile

The line labeled MEDIA (1) on the sensor profile indicates the media sensor readings. The media sensor
threshold settings is indicated by WEB (2). The media out threshold is indicated by OUT (3). The upward
or downward spikes (4) indicate divisions between labels (the web, notch, or black mark), and the lines
between the spikes (5) indicate where labels are located.
If you compare the sensor profile printout to a length of your media, the spikes should be the same
distance apart as the gaps on the media. If the distances are not the same, the printer may be having
difficulty determining where the gaps are located.

Figure 14 Media Sensor Profile (Gap/Notch Media)

100
OUT3 80
4 4 60
WEB2
40
5 5 MEDIA 201

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Figure 15 Media Sensor Profile (Black Mark Media)

Performing a Communication Diagnostic Test

The communication diagnostics test is a troubleshooting tool for checking the connectivity between the
printer and the host computer.
When the printer is in diagnostics mode, it prints all data received from the host computer as straight ASCII
characters with the hex values below the ASCII text. The printer prints all characters received, including
control codes such as CR (carriage return). Here is an example of a typical test label from this test.

Figure 16 Communications Diagnostics Test Label

53

NOTE: The test label prints upside-down.

To use communications diagnostics mode, complete these steps:

1. Set the print width equal to or less than the label width being used for the test. See Print Width in
Settings on page 74 for more information.
2. Set the DIAGNOSTICS MODE option to ENABLED. For methods, see Communication Diagnostic Mode
in Calibration, Diagnostic, and Other Tools on page 82.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

3. Check the test label for error codes. For any errors, check that your communication parameters are
correct.
• FE indicates a framing error.
• OE indicates an overrun error.
• PE indicates a parity error.
• NE indicates noise.
4. Turn printer power off (O) and then back on (I) to exit this self test and return to normal operation.

Loading Defaults or Last-Saved Values

Restoring the printer to default factory values can help if things are not working as expected.
The Load Defaults action can be initiated from the Tools menu. See Load Defaults in Calibration,
Diagnostic, and Other Tools on page 82.

IMPORTANT: Use care when loading defaults because you will need to reload all settings that
you changed manually, after the reset.

Alerts and Error States

This section helps you interpret your printer's indicator light states and display messages. It also lists
recommendations on how to address errors.
Troubleshooting information for your printer is also available on zebra.com:
• ZT410
• ZT420

Indicator Lights
The indicator lights on the control panel show the current status of the printer

Table 15 Status of Printer As Shown by Indicator Lights

Indicator Lights What they indicate
The printer is ready.

STATUS light steady green (other lights

steady yellow for 2 seconds during printer
power-up).
The printer is paused.

PAUSE light steady yellow.

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Table 15 Status of Printer As Shown by Indicator Lights (Continued)

Indicator Lights What they indicate
The media supply is out. The printer needs attention
and cannot continue without user intervention.

STATUS light steady red.

SUPPLIES light steady red.
The ribbon supply is out. The printer needs attention
and cannot continue without user intervention.

STATUS light steady red.

SUPPLIES light flashing red.
The printer is in Direct Thermal mode, which does
not require ribbon; however, ribbon is installed in the
printer.
STATUS light steady yellow.
SUPPLIES light flashing yellow.
The printhead is open. The printer needs attention and
cannot continue without user intervention.

STATUS light steady red.

PAUSE light steady yellow.
The printhead is over temperature.

CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead

STATUS light steady yellow. may be hot and could cause severe burns.
Allow the printhead to cool.
Indicates one of the following:
• The printhead is under temperature.

STATUS light flashing yellow. CAUTION: This display message can

be incorrect. The printhead may be hot
and could cause severe burns. Allow the
printhead to cool.
• The main logic board (MLB) or power supply is over
temperature.

The printhead was replaced with one that is not a

genuine Zebra printhead. Install a genuine Zebra
printhead to continue.
STATUS light steady red.
PAUSE light steady red.
DATA light steady red.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Table 15 Status of Printer As Shown by Indicator Lights (Continued)

Indicator Lights What they indicate
The printer is unable to read the dpi setting of the
printhead.

STATUS light flashing red.

Printers with a ZebraNet wired Ethernet option
No Ethernet link is available.

NETWORK light off.

A 100 Base-T link was found.

NETWORK light steady green.

A 10 Base-T link was found.

NETWORK light steady yellow.

An Ethernet error condition exists. The printer is not
connected to your network.

NETWORK light steady red.

Printers with a ZebraNet wireless option
A radio was found during power-up. The printer is
attempting to associate with the network.

NETWORK light off.

The light flashes red while the printer
associates with the network.
The light then flashes yellow while the printer
is authenticating with the network.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Table 15 Status of Printer As Shown by Indicator Lights (Continued)

Indicator Lights What they indicate
The radio is associated with your network and
authenticated, and the WLAN signal is strong.

NETWORK light steady green.

The radio is associated with your network and
authenticated, but the WLAN signal is weak.

NETWORK light flashing green.

A WLAN error condition exists. The printer is not
connected to your network.

NETWORK light steady red.

Error Messages
The printer's control panel displays messages when there is an error. See Error Message Lookup on page
164 for information that will help you interpret and troubleshoot an error.

QuickHelp Pages
Most error messages will include the option to view a QuickHelp page. The lower right-hand corner of the
message displays QR.
To access a QuickHelp page from an error message:
1. Press RIGHT SELECT to select QR.
The printer displays a QuickHelp page specific to that error message. This page includes a QR code,
such as this.

2. Scan the QR code with a smartphone.

Your phone accesses either a video specific to that error message or the Zebra support page for your
printer.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Error Message Lookup

Review the display or indicator lights, review the possible causes, and implement a recommended solution.
Display/Indicator Lights Possible Cause Recommended Solution
The printhead is not Close the printhead completely.
HEAD OPEN fully closed.
CLOSE HEAD
The printhead open Call a service technician to
sensor is not working replace the sensor.
STATUS light steady red
properly.
PAUSE light steady yellow
The media is not loaded Load media correctly.
MEDIA OUT or is loaded incorrectly.
LOAD MEDIA
Misaligned media Check the position of the media
sensor. sensor.
STATUS light steady red
SUPPLIES light steady red The printer is set for Install the proper media type,
non-continuous media, or reset printer for the current
but continuous media is media type.
loaded. Calibrate the printer.
See Calibrating the Ribbon and
Media Sensors on page 122.
Ribbon is loaded, but Ribbon is not required with direct
WARNING the printer is set for thermal media. If you are using
RIBBON IN direct thermal mode. direct thermal media, remove the
ribbon. This error message will
STATUS light steady yellow not affect printing.
SUPPLIES light flashing yellow If you are using thermal transfer
media, which requires ribbon, set
the printer for Thermal Transfer
mode. See Print Method in
Settings.
In thermal transfer Load ribbon correctly. See
ALERT mode: Loading the Ribbon on page
RIBBON OUT 64.Calibrate the printer. See
• ribbon is not loaded Calibrating the Ribbon and
Media Sensors on page 122.
STATUS light steady red • ribbon is loaded
incorrectly
SUPPLIES light flashing yellow
• the ribbon sensor is
not detecting ribbon
• media is blocking
the ribbon sensor

164
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Display/Indicator Lights Possible Cause Recommended Solution

In Thermal Transfer Print a sensor profile (see Print
mode, the printer did Information in Settings on page
not detect the ribbon 74). The ribbon out threshold (2)
even though it is loaded is likely too high, above the line
correctly. that indicates where the ribbon
is detected (1).

Calibrate the printer (see

Calibrating the Ribbon and
Media Sensors on page 122) or
load printer defaults (see Load
Defaults in Tools Settings).
If you are using direct Set the printer for Direct Thermal
thermal media, the mode. See Print Method in
printer is waiting for Settings.
ribbon to be loaded
because it is incorrectly
set for Thermal Transfer
mode.
The printhead was Install a genuine Zebra
PH NOT AUTHENTICATED replaced with one that printhead.
REPLACE PRINT HEAD is not a genuine Zebra
printhead.
STATUS light steady red
PAUSE light steady red
DATA light steady red

165
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Display/Indicator Lights Possible Cause Recommended Solution

The printhead is over
PRINT HEAD OVERTEMP CAUTION—HOT
temperature.
PRINTING HALTED SURFACE: The
printhead may be
hot and could cause
STATUS light steady yellow
severe burns. Allow the
printhead to cool.
Allow the printer to cool. Printing
automatically resumes when
the printhead elements cool
to an acceptable operating
temperature.
If this error persists, consider
changing where the printer is
located or using a slower print
speed.

HEAD COLD CAUTION: An improperly connected printhead

PRINTING HALTED data or power cable can cause these error
messages.

THERMISTOR CAUTION—HOT SURFACE: The printhead may

REPLACE PRINTHEAD be hot and could cause severe burns. Allow the
printhead to cool.
STATUS light steady yellow The printhead data Call a service technician to hook
The printer shows one of the messages cable is not properly up the printhead properly.
show here or it cycles between them. connected.
The printhead has a Call a service technician to
faulty thermistor. replace the printhead.

HEAD COLD CAUTION: An improperly connected printhead

PRINTING HALTED data or power cable can cause this error
message. The printhead may be hot enough to
cause severe burns. Allow the printhead to cool.
STATUS light flashing yellow
The printhead Continue printing while the
temperature is printhead reaches the correct
approaching its lower operating temperature. If the
operating limit. error remains, the environment
may be too cold for proper
printing. Relocate the printer to a
warmer area.
The printhead data Call a service technician to hook
cable is not properly up the printhead properly.
connected.
The printhead has a Call a service technician to
faulty thermistor. replace the printhead.

166
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Display/Indicator Lights Possible Cause Recommended Solution

CUT ERROR CAUTION: The cutter blade is sharp. Do not touch

or rub the blade with your fingers.
The cutter blade is in Turn off printer power and
STATUS light steady red the media path. unplug the printer. Inspect the
PAUSE light steady yellow cutter module for debris and
clean as needed following the
cleaning instructions in Cleaning
and Lubricating the Cutter
Module on page 143.
The USB host port is To use the USB device, select
disabled, and a USB YES, or send the following SGD
device was plugged command to the printer:
into the port. ! U1 setvar
"usb.host.lock_out" "on"
There is not enough Free up some of the printer’s
OUT OF MEMORY memory to perform the memory by adjusting the label
STORING GRAPHIC function specified on format or printer parameters.
the second line of the One way to free up memory is
error message. to adjust the print width to the
OUT OF MEMORY actual width of the label instead
STORING FORMAT of leaving the print width set to
the default. See Print Width in
Settings.
OUT OF MEMORY
STORING BITMAP Ensure that the data is not
directed to a device that is not
installed or is unavailable.
HEAD COLD
PRINTING FONT If the problem persists, call a
service technician.

Troubleshooting
Use this information to troubleshoot issues with the printer.

Printing Issues
This table identifies possible issues with printing or print quality, the possible causes, and the
recommended solutions.
For videos and additional online information designed to assist you, see these pages on zebra.com:
• ZT410
• ZT420

167
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

General print quality The printer is set at the For optimal print quality, set the print speed to
issues incorrect print speed. the lowest possible setting for your application
via control panel, the driver, or the software.
You may want to perform the Evaluating
Barcode Quality on page 151 to determine
the optimal settings for your printer.
See Print Speed in Settings for how to change
the print speed.
You are using an incorrect Switch to a different type of media or ribbon
combination of labels and to try to find a compatible combination. If
necessary, consult your authorized Zebra
ribbon for your application. reseller or distributor for information and
advice.
The printer is set at an For optimal print quality, set the darkness
incorrect darkness level. to the lowest possible setting for your
application. You may want to perform the
Evaluating Barcode Quality on page 151 to
determine the ideal darkness setting.
See Print Darkness in Settings for how to
change the darkness setting.
The printhead is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller on
page 136.
Incorrect or uneven printhead Set the printhead pressure to the minimum
pressure. needed for good print quality. See Adjusting
the Printhead Pressure on page 129.
Loss of printing The platen roller is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
registration on labels. Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller on
Excessive vertical page 136.
drift in top-of-form
registration. Media guides are positioned Ensure that the media guides are properly
improperly. positioned. See Loading the Media on page
35.
The media type is set Set the printer for the correct media type (gap/
incorrectly. notch, continuous, or mark).
The media is loaded Load media correctly. See Loading the Media
incorrectly. on page 35.
Long tracks of Print element damaged. Call a service technician.
missing print on
several labels Wrinkled ribbon. See wrinkled ribbon causes and solutions in
Ribbon Issues on page 170.
Fine, angular gray Wrinkled ribbon. See wrinkled ribbon causes and solutions in
lines on blank labels Ribbon Issues on page 170.

168
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

Printing too light or The media or ribbon is not Replace supplies with those recommended
too dark over the designed for high-speed for high-speed operation. Procure the
entire label operation. recommended supplies from zebra.com/
supplies.
You are using an incorrect Switch to a different type of media or ribbon
combination of media and to try to find a compatible combination. If
necessary, consult your authorized Zebra
ribbon for your application. reseller or distributor for information and
advice.
You are using ribbon with Direct thermal media does not require ribbon.
direct thermal media. To determine if you are using direct thermal
media, perform the label scratch test. See
'How can I tell which side of the ribbon is
coated?' inRibbon on page 16.
Incorrect or uneven printhead Set the printhead pressure to the minimum
pressure. needed for good print quality. See Adjusting
the Printhead Pressure on page 129.
Printing too light or ncorrect or uneven printhead Adjust the printhead pressure as needed for
too dark on one side pressure. good print quality. See Adjusting the Printhead
Pressure on page 129.
of the label
Smudge marks on The media or ribbon is not Replace supplies with those recommended for
labels designed for high-speed high-speed operation.
operation.
Misregistration/skips The printer is not calibrated. Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
labels Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122.
Improper label format. Check your label format and correct it as
necessary.
Misregistration and The platen roller is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
misprint of one to Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller on
three labels page 136.
Media does not meet Use media that meets specifications. See
specifications. Media Specifications on page 195.
Vertical drift in The printer is out of Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
top-of-form position calibration. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122.
The platen roller is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
Cleaning the Printhead and Platen Roller on
page 136.
Vertical image or The printer is using Set the printer for the correct media type
label drift non-continuous labels but (gap/notch, continuous, or mark) and calibrate
is configured in continuous the printer, if necessary (see Calibrating the
mode. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122).
The media sensor is calibrated Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
improperly. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122.

169
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

The platen roller is dirty. Clean the printhead and platen roller. See
Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors on
page 122.
Improper printhead pressure Adjust the printhead pressure to ensure
settings (toggles). proper functionality. See Adjusting the
Printhead Pressure on page 129.
The media or ribbon is loaded Ensure that the media and ribbon are loaded
incorrectly. correctly. See Loading the Ribbon on page 64
and Loading the Media on page 35.
Incompatible media. You must use media that meets the printer
specifications. Ensure that the inter-label gaps
or notches are 2 to 4 mm and consistently
placed (see Media Specifications on page
195).
The bar code printed The bar code is not within Check the quality of the printed bar codes.
on a label does not specifications because the See Evaluating Barcode Quality on page
scan. print is too light or too dark. 151. Adjust the darkness or print speed
settings as necessary.
There is not enough blank Leave at least 1/8 in. (3.2 mm) between the bar
space around the bar code. code and other printed areas on the label and
between the bar code and the edge of the
label.
Auto Calibrate failed. The media or ribbon is loaded Ensure that the media and ribbon are loaded
incorrectly. correctly. See Loading the Ribbon on page 64
and Loading the Media on page 35.
The sensors could not detect Calibrate the printer. See Media Specifications
the media or ribbon. on page 195.
The sensors are dirty or Ensure that the sensors are clean and properly
positioned improperly. positioned.
The media type is set Set the printer for the correct media type (gap/
incorrectly. notch, continuous, or mark).

Ribbon Issues
Use this information to assess problems that may occur with ribbon, the possible causes, and the
recommended solutions.

Problem Possible Cause Recommended Solution

Broken or melted Darkness setting too high. Reduce the darkness setting. See Print
ribbon Darkness in Settings for information on
changing the darkness setting. Clean the
printhead thoroughly. See Cleaning the
Printhead and Platen Roller on page 136.

170
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Recommended Solution

The ribbon is coated on the Replace the ribbon with one coated on the
wrong side and cannot be correct side. For more information, see 'What
used in this printer. Kind of Ribbon Can I Use" in Ribbon on page
16.
Wrinkled ribbon Ribbon was loaded Load the ribbon correctly. See Loading the
incorrectly. Ribbon on page 64.
Incorrect burn temperature. For optimal print quality, set the darkness
to the lowest possible setting for your
application. You may want to assess barcode
quality (see Evaluating Barcode Quality on
page 151) to determine the ideal darkness
setting.
See Print Darkness in Settings for information
on changing the darkness setting.
Incorrect or uneven printhead Set the printhead pressure to the minimum
pressure. needed for good print quality. See Adjusting
the Printhead Pressure on page 129.
Media not feeding properly; Make sure that media is snug by adjusting the
“walking” from side to side. media guide, or call a service technician.
The printhead or platen roller Call a service technician.
may be installed incorrectly.
The printer does The printer may have been Make sure that ribbon is loaded correctly so
not detect when the calibrated without ribbon or that it can be detected by the ribbon sensor.
ribbon runs out. without the ribbon loaded Under the printhead, the ribbon should track
properly all the way back, near the printer’s firewall.
In thermal transfer See Loading the Ribbon on page 64
mode, the printer
did not detect the Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
ribbon even though it Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122.
is loaded correctly.
The printer indicates The printer was not calibrated Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
that ribbon is out, for the label and ribbon being Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122.
even though ribbon is used.
loaded correctly.

RFID Issues

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

Printer Stops at RFID Inlay

171
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

The printer stops at The printer calibrated the 1. Select FEED for the Media Power Up and
the RFID inlay. label length only to the RFID Head Close parameters as appropriate.
inlay instead of to the inter- See Power-Up Action or Head-Close Action
label gap. in Calibration, Diagnostic, and Other Tools
on page 82.
2. Manually calibrate the printer. See
Calibrating the Ribbon and Media Sensors
on page 122.

Voided Labels
When RFID is The printer is not calibrated Manually calibrate the printer. See Performing
enabled, the printer for the media being used. Manual Sensor Calibration on page 123.
voids every label.
You are using an RFID label These printers support only Gen 2 RFID
with a tag type that is not labels. For more information, refer to RFID
supported by your printer. Programming Guide 3, or contact an
authorized Zebra RFID reseller.
The printer is unable to 1. Turn off (O) the printer.
communicate with the RFID
reader. 2. Wait 10 seconds.
3. Turn on (I) the printer.
4. If the problem persists, you may have a
bad RFID reader or a loose connection
between the RFID reader and the
printer. Contact Technical Support or an
authorized Zebra RFID service technician
for assistance.

Radio frequency (RF) Do one or more of the following as necessary:

interference from another RF
• Move the printer away from fixed RFID
source.
readers or other RF sources.
• Make sure that the media door is closed at
all times during RFID programming.

The settings are incorrect in The software settings override the printer
your label designer software. settings. Make sure that the software and
printer settings match.

172
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

You are using an incorrect Do one or more of the following as necessary:
programming position,
• Check the RFID programming position
particularly if the tags being
or the program position setting in your
used are within printer
label designer software. If the position is
specifications.
incorrect, change the setting.
• Restore the RFID programming position
back to the default value.
For more information, refer to RFID
Programming Guide 3. For transponder
placement details, go to zebra.com/
transponders.
You are sending RFID ZPL Check your label formats. For more
or SGD commands that are information, refer to RFID Programming Guide
incorrect. 3.
Low yields. Too many The RFID labels are not Make sure that the labels meet transponder
RFID tags per roll are within specifications for the placement specifications for your printer.
voided. printer, which means that See zebra.com/transponders for transponder
the transponder is not in an placement information.
area that can be programmed For more information, refer to RFID
consistently. Programming Guide 3, or contact an
authorized Zebra RFID reseller.
Incorrect read and write Change the RFID read and write power levels.
power levels. For instructions, refer to RFID Programming
Guide 3.
Radio frequency (RF) Do one or more of the following as necessary:
interference from another RF
• Move the printer away from fixed RFID
source.
readers.
• Make sure that the media door is closed at
all times during RFID programming.

The printer is using outdated Go to zebra.com/firmware for updated

printer firmware and reader firmware.
firmware versions.
Other RFID Issues

173
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

RFID parameters do The printer was powered off Wait at least 10 seconds after turning the
not appear in Setup (O) and then back on (I) too printer power off before turning it back on.
mode, and RFID quickly for the RFID reader to
1. Turn off (O) the printer.
information does not initialize properly.
appear on the printer 2. Wait 10 seconds.
configuration label.
3. Turn on (I) the printer.
The printer does not
void RFID labels that 4. Check for the RFID parameters in Setup
are not programmed mode or for RFID information on a new
correctly. configuration label.

An incorrect version of printer 1. Verify that the correct firmware version

firmware was loaded on the is loaded on your printer. For more
printer. information, refer to RFID Programming
Guide 3.
2. Download the correct printer firmware if
necessary.
3. If the problem persists, contact Technical
Support.

The printer is unable to 1. Turn off (O) the printer.

communicate with the RFID
subsystem. 2. Wait 10 seconds.
3. Turn on (I) the printer.
4. If the problem persists, you may have a
bad RFID reader or a loose connection
between the RFID reader and the printer.
Contact Technical Support or an authorized
service technician for assistance.

The DATA light The download was not 1. Turn off (O) the printer.
flashes indefinitely successful. For optimal results,
after you attempt to cycle power on the printer 2. Wait 10 seconds.
download printer or before downloading any 3. Turn on (I) the printer.
reader firmware. firmware.
4. Attempt to download the firmware again.
5. If the problem persists, contact Technical
Support.

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 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Communication Problems
Use this information to identify communication problems, the possible causes, and the recommended
solutions.
Problem Possible Cause Recommended Solution
A label format was sent The communication Check the printer driver or software
to the printer but was not parameters are incorrect. communications settings (if applicable).
recognized. The DATA
light does not flash. If you are using serial communication, check
the serial port settings. See Port Settings on
page 116.
If you are using serial communication, make
sure that you are using a null modem cable
or a null modem adapter.
Check the printer’s handshake protocol
setting. The setting used must match the one
being used by the host computer. See Port
Settings on page 116.
If a printer driver is used, check the driver
communication settings for your connection.
Reinstall the printer driver. See Installing the
Drivers on page 18.
A label format was sent to The serial communication Ensure that the flow control settings match.
the printer. Several labels settings are incorrect.
print, then the printer Check the communication cable length. See
skips, misplaces, misses, General Specifications on page 189 for
or distorts the image on requirements.
the label. Check the printer driver or software
communications settings (if applicable).
A label format was sent The prefix and delimiter Verify the prefix and delimiter characters.
to the printer but was not characters set in the See Control Character and Delimiter
recognized. The DATA printer do not match the Character in Language Settings.
light flashes but no printing ones in the label format.
occurs.
Incorrect data is being sent Check the communication settings on the
to the printer. computer. Ensure that they match the printer
settings.
If the problem continues, check the label
format.

Miscellaneous Issues
Use this information to identify miscellaneous issues with the printer, the possible causes, and the
recommended solutions.
For videos and additional online information designed to assist you, see these pages on zebra.com:
• ZT410
• ZT420

175
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

Issues with the Display
The control panel The language parameter was 1. On the control panel display, scroll through
display shows a changed through the control the language selections under this menu
language that I panel or a firmware command. option.
cannot read
2. Press OK to access the items in this menu.
3. Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to
scroll through the language selections.
4. Select the language that you want to
display.

The display is missing The display may need Call a service technician.
characters or parts of replacing.
characters
Printer Parameters Are Not Set As Expected
Changes in Some parameters are set 1. Check the parameters and change or reset
parameter settings incorrectly. if necessary.
did not take effect.
2. Turn printer power off (O) and then on (I).
OR
Some parameters A firmware setting or Check your label formats or the settings of the
changed command prevented software that you use to send formats to the
unexpectedly. the ability to change the printer.
parameter. If necessary, refer to the Programming Guide
A command in a label format for ZPL, ZBI, Set-Get-Do, Mirror, and WML or
changed the parameter back call a service technician. A copy of the manual
to the previous setting. is available at zebra.com/manuals.

If the problem persists, there Call a service technician.

may be a problem with the
main logic board.
The USB Host Port Is Not Acknowledging a USB Device
The printer is not The printer currently supports Use a USB drive that is 1 TB or smaller.
acknowledging a USB drives only up to 1 TB in
USB device or is not size.
reading the files on
a USB device that is The USB device may require If your USB device requires external power,
plugged into the USB its own external power. make sure that it is plugged into a working
host port. power supply.

IP Address Changing

176
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

My printer reassigns a The settings for your network If the printer changing IP addresses causes
new IP address to the are causing the network to issues for you, follow these steps to assign it a
print server after the reassign a new IP address. static IP address:
printer has been off
1. Find out what values need to be assigned
for a while.
to the IP address, subnet mask, and
gateway for your print server (wired,
wireless, or both).
2. Change the appropriate IP protocol value
to PERMANENT.
3. Change the values for the IP address,
subnet mask, and gateway for the
appropriate print server to what you want
them to remain.
4. Reset the network by navigating to Menu >
Connections > Networks > Reset Network
and then press OK to save the changes.

Cannot Connect through Wired or Wireless Connections

I manually entered a The printer’s network must Reset the network by navigating toMenu >
wireless IP address, be reset after values are Connections > Networks > Reset Network
subnet, and gateway changed. and then press OK to save the changes.
on my printer, but
it won’t connect to An ESSID value has not been 1. For a wireless connection, specify the
my wired or wireless specified. ESSID value that matches the value used
network. by your wireless router using the following
Set/Get/Do command:
! U1 setvar "wlan.essid" "value"
where "value" is the ESSID (sometimes
called a network SSID) for your router. You
can look on the back of your router for a
sticker with the router’s default information.

NOTE: If the information has

been changed from the default,
check with your network
administrator for the ESSID value
to use.
2. If the printer still does not connect,
reset the network by touching Menu >
Connections > Networks > Reset Network
and then touching the checkmark to save
the changes, and then power-cycle the
printer.

177
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution

The ESSID or other value was 1. Print a network configuration label and
not specified correctly. verify that your values are correct.
2. Make corrections as necessary.
3. Reset the network by accessing Menu >
Connections > Networks > Reset Network
and then pressing OK to save the changes.

Calibration Issues
Auto Calibrate failed. The media or ribbon is loaded Ensure that the media and ribbon are loaded
incorrectly. correctly. See Loading the Ribbon on page 64
and Loading the Media on page 35.
The sensors could not detect Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
the media or ribbon. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122.
The sensors are dirty or Ensure that the sensors are clean and properly
positioned improperly. positioned.
The media type is set Set the printer for the correct media type (gap/
incorrectly. notch, continuous, or mark).
Non-continuous The printer was not calibrated Calibrate the printer. See Calibrating the
labels are being for the media being used. Ribbon and Media Sensors on page 122.
treated as continuous
labels. The printer is configured for Set the printer for the correct media type (gap/
continuous media. notch, continuous, or mark).
Printer Locks Up
All indicator lights Internal electronic or firmware Power cycle the printer.
are on, nothing is on failure. If the problem persists, call a service
the display, and the technician.
printer locks up.
The printer locks up Main logic board failure.
while booting up.

Servicing the Printer

If you have a problem using the printer, contact your facility's technical or systems support. If there is
a problem with the printer, they will contact the Zebra Global Customer Support Center at zebra.com/
support.
Gather the following information before contacting Zebra Global Customer Support:
• Serial number of the unit
• Model number or product name
• Firmware version number
Zebra responds to calls by e-mail, telephone, or fax within the time limits set forth in service agreements.
If your problem cannot be solved by Zebra Global Customer Support, you may need to return your
equipment for servicing and will be given specific directions.

178
 Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

If you purchased your product from a Zebra business partner, please contact that business partner for
support.

Shipping the Printer

If you must ship the printer:
1. Turn off (O) the printer, and disconnect all cables.
2. Remove any media, ribbon, or loose objects from the printer interior.
3. Close the printhead.
4. Carefully pack the printer into the original container or a suitable alternate container to avoid damage
during transit.
A shipping container can be purchased from Zebra if the original packaging has been lost or destroyed.

IMPORTANT: Zebra is not responsible for any damages incurred during shipment if an
approved shipping container is not used. Shipping the units improperly can possibly void the
warranty.

179
Using a USB Host Port and
the Print Touch Feature
Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

The exercises presented here will help you learn how to use a USB host port and the printer’s Print Touch
feature with an Android™-based NFC-enabled device (such as a smartphone or a tablet).
Some SGD commands are listed as part of these exercises for advanced users.

Items Required for the Exercises

To perform the exercises in this document, you will need:
• a USB Flash drive that is up to 1 Terabyte (1 TB)

NOTE: The printer will not recognize drives larger than 1 TB.

• a USB keyboard
• the various files listed in Files for Completing the Exercises on page 181
• the free Zebra Utilities app for your smartphone (search for Zebra Technologies in the Google Play
store)

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

Files for Completing the Exercises

Most of the files you need to complete the exercises in these section are available on zebra.com in the
form of a .ZIP file located here. Copy these files to your computer before you begin the exercises. Where
possible, the contents of the files are shown. Contents of files that include coded content—which cannot
be viewed either as text or as an image—are not included.

File 1: ZEBRA.BMP

File 2: SAMPLELABEL.TXT
This simple label format prints the Zebra logo and a line of text at the end of the mirroring exercise.

^XA
^FO100,75^XGE:zebra.bmp^FS
^FO100,475^A0N,50,50^FDMirror from USB Completed^FS
^XZ

File 3: LOGO.ZPL

File 4: USBSTOREDFILE.ZPL
This label format prints an image and text. This file will be stored on the USB memory device at the root
level so that it can be printed.

CT~~CD,~CC^~CT~
^XA~TA012~JSN^LT0^LH0,0^JMA^PR4,4~SD15^LRN^CI0^XZ
~DG000.GRF,07680,024,,[image data]
^XA
^LS0
^SL0
^BY3,3,91^FT35,250^BCN,,Y,N^FC%,{,#^FD%d/%m/%Y^FS
^FT608,325^XG000.GRF,1,1^FS
^FT26,75^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed from a format stored^FS
^FT26,125^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDon a USB Flash Memory drive. ^FS
^BY3,3,90^FT33,425^BCN,,Y,N
^FD>:Zebra Technologies^FS
^PQ1,0,1,Y^XZ
^XA^ID000.GRF^FS^XZ

File 5: VLS_BONKGRF.ZPL
This file is included in the .ZIP file located here.

File 6: VLS_EIFFEL.ZPL
This file is included in the .ZIP file located here.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

File 7: KEYBOARDINPUT.ZPL
This label format, used for the USB keyboard input exercise, does the following:
• creates a barcode with the current date, based on your Real-Time Clock (RTC) setting
• prints the Zebra logo graphic
• prints fixed text
• ^FN prompts you to enter your name, and the printer prints what you entered

^XA
^CI28
^BY2,3,91^FT38,184^BCN,,Y,N^FC%,{,#^FD%d/%m/%Y^FS
^FO385,75^XGE:zebra.bmp^FS
^FT40,70^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed using a keyboard input. ^FS
^FT35,260^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed by:^FS
^FT33,319^A0N,28,28^FN1"Enter Name"^FS
^XZ

File 8: SMARTDEVINPUT.ZPL
This is the same label format as the previous label, only with different text printing. This format is used for
the smart device input exercise.

^XA
^CI28
^BY2,3,91^FT38,184^BCN,,Y,N^FC%,{,#^FD%d/%m/%Y^FS
^FO385,75^XGE:zebra.bmp^FS
^FT40,70^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed using a smart device input.
^FS
^FT35,260^A0N,28,28^FH\^FDThis label was printed by:^FS
^FT33,319^A0N,28,28^FN1"Enter Name"^FS
^XZ

File 9: Firmware File

You may want to download a firmware file for your printer and copy it to your computer for use during the
exercises. You may omit doing this if you wish.
You can download the latest firmware file from zebra.com/firmware.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

USB Host
Your printer may be equipped with one or two USB host ports on the front panel. A USB host port allows
you to connect USB devices—such as a keyboard, scanner, or USB Flash drive—to the printer. The
exercises in this section will teach you how to perform USB mirror, how to transfer files to and from the
printer, and how to provide information for which you are prompted and then print a label using that
information.

IMPORTANT: When using a USB host port, files should be named only with 1 to 16 alphanumeric
characters (A, a, B, b, C, c, ..., 0, 1, 2, 3, ...). Do not use Asian characters, Cyrillic characters, or
accented characters in file names.

NOTE: Some functions may not work properly if there are underscores in a file name. Use
periods instead.

Exercise 1: Copy Files to a USB Flash Drive and Perform USB Mirror
1. On your USB Flash Drive, create the following:

• a folder called Zebra

• in that folder, three subfolders:
• appl
• commands
• files
2. In the /appl folder, place a copy of the latest firmware for your printer.
3. In the /files folder, place the following file:
File 1: ZEBRA.BMP on page 181
4. In the /commands folder, place the following files:
• File 2: SAMPLELABEL.TXT on page 181
• File 3: LOGO.ZPL on page 181
5. Insert the USB Flash drive into a USB host port on the front of your printer.
6. Observe the control panel and wait.
The following should happen:
• If the firmware on the USB Flash drive is different than what is on the printer, the firmware
downloads to the printer. The printer then restarts and prints a printer configuration label. (If there

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

is no firmware on the USB Flash drive or if the firmware version is the same, the printer skips this
action.)
• The printer downloads the files in the /files folder and briefly shows the names of the files that
are downloading on the display.
• The printer executes any files in the /commands folder.
• The printer restarts and then displays this message: MIRROR PROCESSING FINISHED
7. Remove the USB Flash drive from the printer.

Advance User Information

See the Zebra Programming Guide for more information about these commands.
To enable/disable mirroring: ! U1 setvar "usb.mirror.enable" "value"
Values: "on" or "off"
To enable/disable automatic ! U1 setvar "usb.mirror.auto" "value"
mirroring that occurs when a USB Values: "on" or "off"
Flash drive is inserted into the
USB host port:
To specify the number of times ! U1 setvar "usb.mirror.error_retry" "value"
that the mirror operation will be Values: 0 to 65535
repeated if it fails:
To change the path to the ! U1 setvar "usb.mirror.appl_path" "new_path"
location on the USB device from Default: "zebra/appl"
which mirror files are retrieved:
To change the path to the ! U1 setvar "usb.host.lock_out" "value"
location on the printer from which Default: "zebra"
mirror files are retrieved:
To enable/disable the ability to ! U1 setvar "usb.host.lock_out" "value"
use the USB port: Values: "on" or "off"

Exercise 2: Print a Label Format from a USB Flash Drive

The Print USB File option allows you to print files from a USB mass storage device, such as a USB Flash
drive. Only printable files (.ZPL and .XML) may be printed from the USB mass storage device, and the files
must be located at the root level, not in a directory.
1. Copy the following files to your USB Flash drive:
• File 4: USBSTOREDFILE.ZPL on page 181
• File 5: VLS_BONKGRF.ZPL on page 181
• File 6: VLS_EIFFEL.ZPL on page 181
2. Insert the USB Flash drive into a USB host port on the front of your printer.
3. On the printer’s control panel, press LEFT SELECT (below the home icon) to access the printer’s Home
Menu ( ).
4.
Use the ARROW buttons to scroll to the Tools menu. ( ).

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

5. Press OK.
6. Use the ARROW buttons to scroll to PRINT USB FILE.

The printer loads any executable files and processes them. The available files are listed. SELECT ALL is
available to print all files on the USB Flash drive.
7. If necessary, use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select USBSTOREDFILE.zpl.
8. PressRIGHT SELECT to select PRINT.
The label prints.

Exercise 3: Copy Files to/from a USB Flash Drive

The Copy USB File option allows you to copy files from a USB mass storage device to the printer’s Flash
memory E: drive.
1. Copy the following files to the root directory of your USB Flash drive.
• File 7: KEYBOARDINPUT.ZPL on page 182
• File 8: SMARTDEVINPUT.ZPL on page 182

NOTE: Do not put these files into a subfolder.

2. Insert the USB Flash drive into a USB host port on the front of your printer.
3. On the printer’s control panel, press LEFT SELECT to access the printer’s Home Menu ( ).
4.
Use the ARROW buttons to scroll to the Tools menu. (
5. Press OK.
6. Use the ARROW buttons to scroll to COPY USB FILE TO E:.

The printer loads any executable files and processes them. The available files are listed. SELECT ALL
is available to copy all of the available files from the USB Flash drive.
7. If necessary, use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select the file STOREFMT.ZPL.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

8. Press the RIGHT SELECT button to select STORE.

The printer stores the file in E: memory. File names of the stored files are converted to uppercase.
9. Press the RIGHT SELECT button to select the file STOREFMTM1.ZPL.
10. Press the RIGHT SELECT button to select STORE.
The printer stores the file in E: memory.
11. Remove the USB Flash drive from the USB host port.
You can now copy these files from the printer to a USB Flash drive using the user menu item STORE E:
FILE TO USB.

The option SELECT ALL is available to store all the available files from the printer to the USB Flash drive.
Any .ZPL file that is copied will be post-processed so that the contents of the file will be suitable to be
sent to a printer for normal execution.

Exercise 4: Enter Data for a Stored File with a USB Keyboard and Print a Label
The Print Station feature allows you to use a USB Human Interface Device (HID), such as a keyboard or a
barcode scanner, to enter ^FN field data into a *.ZPL template file.
1. After performing Exercise 3: Copy Files to/from a USB Flash Drive on page 185, plug a USB keyboard
into a USB host port.
2.
Use the ARROW buttons to scroll to the Tools menu ( ).
3. Press OK.
4. Use the ARROW buttons to scroll to PRINT STATION.

The printer loads any executable files and processes them. The available files are listed.
5. If necessary, use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to select the file KEYBOARDINPUT.ZPL.
6. Press the RIGHT SELECT button to choose SELECT.
The printer accesses the file and prompts you for the information in the ^FN fields in the file. In this
case, it prompts you for your name.

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

7. Type your name on the keyboard, and then press <ENTER>.

The printer prompts for the number of labels to print.
8. Specify the desired quantity of labels, then press <ENTER> again.
The specified number of labels is printed, with your name in the appropriate fields.

Print Touch / Near-Field Communication (NFC)

The Zebra Print Touch feature allows you to touch an Android™-based, NFC-enabled device (such as a
smart phone or tablet) to the printer’s NFC logo to pair the device to the printer. This capability allows you
to use your device to provide information for which you are prompted and then print a label using that
information.

IMPORTANT: Some devices may not support NFC communication with the printer until you alter
their settings. If you encounter difficulties, consult your service provider or your smart device
manufacturer for more information.

Figure 17 NFC Logo Location

Exercise 5: Enter Data for a Stored File with a Device and Print a Label
The steps in this exercise may vary somewhat based on:
• your device (phone or tablet)
• your service provider
• whether you already have the free Zebra Utilities app installed on your device

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 Using a USB Host Port and the Print Touch Feature

Refer to the Zebra Bluetooth User Guide for specific instructions for configuring your printer to use a
Bluetooth interface. A copy of this manual is available at zebra.com/manuals.
1. Copy the SMARTDEVINPUT.ZPL file to your device.
2. If you do not have the Zebra Utilities app installed on your device, go to the app store for your device,
search for the Zebra Setup Utilities app, and install it.
3.
If your phone supports NFC, pair your device with the printer by holding the device next to the NFC
icon on the printer. Otherwise, pair using the Bluetooth settings on your device.

a) If necessary, access the Bluetooth information about your printer using your device. For instructions,
refer to the manufacturer’s documentation for your device.
b) If necessary, select the Zebra printer’s serial number to pair it with the device.
c) After your device has been detected by the printer, the printer may prompt you to accept or reject
the pairing. If necessary, tap ACCEPT. Some devices will pair with the printer without this prompt.

The printer and your device are paired.

4. Start the Zebra Utilities app on your device.

The Zebra Utilities main menu displays.

5. Tap Available Files.
The smart device gets data from the printer and displays it.

NOTE: This retrieval process may take a minute or more to complete.

6. Scroll through the formats shown and select SMARTDEVINPUT.ZPL.

Based on the ^FN field in the label format, the device prompts you for your name.
7. Enter your name at the prompt.
8. Change the quantity of labels to print, if desired.
9. Tap Send to Printer to print the label.

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Specifications
Specifications

This section lists general printer specifications, printing specifications, ribbon specifications, and media
specifications.

General Specifications
ZT410 ZT420
Height (base printer model) 12.8 in.(325 mm) 12.8 in. (325 mm)
Width 10.7 in. (272 mm) 13.2 in. (335 mm)
Depth 19.7 in. (500 mm) 19.7 in. (500 mm)
Weight 36 lb (16 kg) 40 lb (18 kg)
Electrical 110–240 VAC, 50-60 Hz 110–240 VAC, 50-60 Hz
Power Printing PAUSE 118.7 W 220.0 W
consumption test at slowest
(reference only) speed
Energy Star <7 W <7 W
sleep power
Fuses 5A 5A
Temperature Operating Thermal Transfer: 41°F to 104°F (5° to 40°C)
Direct Thermal: 32°F to 104°F (0° to 40°C)
Storage –40°F to 140°F (–40° to 60°C)
Relative Operating 20% to 85%, non-condensing
Humidity
Storage 5% to 85%, non-condensing

Power Cord Specifications

Depending on how your printer was ordered, a power cord may or may not be included. If one is not
included, or if the one that is included is not suitable for your requirements, consider the following
information.

CAUTION—PRODUCT DAMAGE: For personnel and equipment safety, always use an approved
three-conductor power cord specific to the region or country intended for installation. This cord

189
 Specifications

must use an IEC 320 female connector and the appropriate region-specific, three-conductor
grounded plug configuration.

Figure 18 Power Cord Specifications

1 AC power plug for your country—This should bear the certification mark of at least one of the
known international safety organizations (see Figure 19 International Safety Organization
Certification Symbols on page 190). The chassis ground (earth) must be connected to ensure
safety and reduce electromagnetic interference.
2 3-conductor HAR cable or other cable approved for your country.
3 IEC 320 connector—This should bear the certification mark of at least one of the known
international safety organizations (see Figure 19 International Safety Organization Certification
Symbols on page 190).
4 Length ≤ 3 m (9.8 ft). Rating 10 Amp, 250 VAC.

Figure 19 International Safety Organization Certification Symbols

190
 Specifications

Communication Interface Specifications

See Communication Interfaces on page 8 for a list of physical interfaces that your printer supports.

NOTE: You must supply all data cables for your application. The use of cable strain relief clamps
is recommended.
Ethernet cables do not require shielding, but all other data cables must be fully shielded and fitted with
metal or metalized connector shells. Unshielded data cables may increase radiated emissions above the
regulated limits.
To minimize electrical noise pickup in the cable:
• Keep data cables as short as possible.
• Do not bundle the data cables tightly with the power cords.
• Do not tie the data cables to power wire conduits.

Standard Connections
The ZT410/ZT420 printers support a variety of standard connections.

Bluetooth
• Bluetooth Classic + Low Energy (LE)standard with all printers that do not have the ac wireless print
server option)
• 2.4GHz
• FHSS (BDR/EDR), DSSS (Bluetooth LE)
• RF power 9.22 dBm (EIRP)
• FHSS (BDR/EDR), DSSS (Bluetooth LE)
• RF power 9.22 dBm (EIRP)
• Bluetooth 4.1 + Low Energy (LE) (part of the 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless print server option)
• 2.4GHz
• FHSS (BDR/EDR), GFSK (Bluetooth Low Energy)
• RF power 9.22 dBm (EIRP)

Limitations and requirements Many mobile devices can communicate with the printer within a 3 m ( 10
ft.) radius of the printer.
Connections and Refer to the Zebra Bluetooth User Guide for specific instructions for
configuration configuring your printer to use a Bluetooth interface. This manual is
available at zebra.com/manuals.

USB Host Port (single or dual)

Limitations and requirements You can only plug one device into each USB host port. You cannot use
an additional device by plugging it into a USB port on another device,
nor can you use an adaptor to split a USB host port on the printer to
accept more than one device at a time.

191
 Specifications

Connections and No additional configuration is necessary.

configuration

USB 1.1 Data Interface

Limitations and requirements Maximum cable length of 16.4 ft. (5 m).

Connections and No additional configuration is necessary.
configuration

Zebra PrintTouch/Near Field Communication (NFC)

Limitations and requirements NFC communication must be initiated by touching your device to the
appropriate location on the printer.
Connections and Some devices may not support NFC communication with the printer
configuration until you alter their settings.

Wired 10/100 Ethernet Print Server (Internal)

This standard ZebraNet Ethernet option stores network configuration information in the printer. An optional
Ethernet connection stores configuration information on a removable print server board, which can be
shared between printers.
Limitations and requirements • The printer must be configured to use your LAN.
• A second wired print server can be installed in the bottom option
slot.

Connections and Refer to the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print Servers User Guide
configuration for configuration instructions. This manual is available at zebra.com/
manuals.

RS-232/C Serial Data Interface

Specifications • 2400 to 115000 baud

• parity, bits/character
• 7 or 8 data bit
• XON-XOFF, RTS/CTS, or DTR/DSR handshake protocol required
• 750mA at 5 V from pins 1 and 9

Limitations and requirements • You must use a null-modem cable to connect to the printer or a null-
modem adapter if using a standard modem cable.
• Maximum cable length of 15.24 m (50 ft).
• You may need to change printer parameters to match the host
computer.

Connections and The baud rate, number of data and stop bits, the parity, and the XON/
configuration XOFF or DTR control must match those of the host computer.

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 Specifications

Optional Connections
The ZT410/ZT420 printers support these connectivity options.

Wireless Print Server

An 802.11 a/b/g/n and an 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac version are available. The 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac version includes
Bluetooth 4.1.

Specifications See Wireless Specifications on page 193 for details.

Limitations and requirements • Can print to the printer from any computer on your Wireless Local
Area Network (WLAN).
• Can communicate with the printer through the printer’s web pages.
• The printer must be configured to use your WLAN.
• Can be installed only in the top option slot.

Connections and Refer to the ZebraNet Wired and Wireless Print Servers User Guide
configuration for configuration instructions. A copy of this manual is available at
zebra.com/manuals.

IEEE 1284 Bidirectional Parallel data interface

Limitations and requirements • Maximum cable length of 10 ft, (3 m).

• Recommended cable length of 6 ft. (1.83 m).
• No printer parameter changes required to match the host computer.
• Can be installed in either the top or bottom option slot.
• An IEEE 1284 cable is required.

Connections and No additional configuration is necessary.

configuration

Applicator Interface

Requirements Must have a DB15F connector.

Wireless Specifications

Antenna Information

Type • Patch; Gain = 3.66dBi @ 2.4GHz; Gain = 3.19dBi @ 5GHz; Impedance

= 50 ohms
• Omni directional antenna gain 3dBi @ 2.4GHz; 5dBi @ 5GHz
• PCBA antenna gain = –30dBi @ 900MHz

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 Specifications

WLAN Specifications

802.11 b • 2.4 GHz

• DSSS (DBPSK, DQPSK, and CCK)
• RF power 17.77 dBm (EIRP)

802.11 g • 2.4 GHz

• OFDM (16-QAM and 64-QAM with BPSK, and QPSK)
• RF power 18.61 dBm (EIRP)

802.11 n • 2.4 GHz

• OFDM (16-QAM and 64-QAM with BPSK, and QPSK)
• RF power 18.62 dBm (EIRP)

802.11 a/n • 5.15-5.25 GHz, 5.25-5.35 GHz, 5.47-5.725 GHz

• OFDM (16-QAM and 64-QAM with BPSK and QPSK)
• RF power 17.89 dBm (EIRP)

802.11 ac • 5.15-5.25 GHz, 5.25-5.35 GHz, 5.47-5.725 GHz

• OFDM (16-QAM and 64-QAM with BPSK and QPSK)
• RF power 13.39 dBm (EIRP)

Printing Specifications
Model ZT410 ZT420
Print resolution 203 dpi (dots/in.)/8 dots/mm 203 dpi (dots/in.)/8 dots/mm
300 dpi/12 dots/mm 300 dpi/12 dots/mm
600 dpi/24 dots/mm N/A
Maximum print width 203 dpi 4.09 in. (104 mm) 6.6 in. (168 mm)
300 dpi 4.09 in. (104 mm) 6.6 in. (168 mm)
600 dpi 4.09 in. (104 mm) N/A
Programmable 203 dpi 2.4 in. to 14 in. (61 mm to 356 2.4 in. to 12 in. (61 mm to 305
constant print mm) per second in 1-in. (25.4 mm) per second in 1-in. (25.4
speeds mm) increments mm) increments
300 dpi 2.4 in. to 10 in. (61 mm to 254 2.4 in. to 10 in. (61 mm to 203
mm) per second in 1-in. (25.4 mm) per second in 1-in. (25.4
mm) increments mm) increments
600 dpi 1.5 in. to 4 in. (38 mm to 102 mm) N/A
per second in 1-in. (25.4 mm)
increments
Dot size (nominal) 203 dpi 0.0049 in. x 0.0049 in. (0.125 0.0049 in. x 0.0049 in. (0.125
(width x length) mm x 0.125 mm) mm x 0.125 mm)

194
 Specifications

Model ZT410 ZT420

300 dpi 0.0033 in. x 0.0039 in. (0.084 0.0033 in. x 0.0039 in. (0.084
mm x 0.099 mm) mm x 0.099 mm)
600 dpi 0.0016 in. x 0.0016 in. (0.042 mm N/A
x 0.042 mm)
First dot location 203 dpi 0.14 in. ±0.05 in. (3.5 mm ±1.25 0.10 in. ±0.035 in. (2.5 mm
(measured from the mm) ±0.9mm)
inside edge of the
media) 300 dpi 0.08 in. ±0.05 in. (2.1 mm ±1.25 0.10 in. ±0.035 in. (2.5 mm
mm) ±0.9mm)
600 dpi 0.08 in. ±0.05 in. (2.1 mm ±1.25 N/A
mm)
Bar code modulus (X) dimension
Picket fence 203 dpi 4.9 mil to 49 mil 5 mil to 50 mil
(nonrotated)
orientation 300 dpi 3.3 mil to 33 mil 3.3 mil to 33 mil
600 dpi 1.6 mil to 16 mil N/A
Ladder (rotated) 203 dpi 4.9 mil to 49 mil 5 mil to 50 mil
orientation
300 dpi 3.9 mil to 39 mil 3.9 mil to 39 mil
600 dpi 1.6 mil to 16 mil N/A
Vertical registration all print ±1.0 mm ±1.0 mm
speeds
and dpi

Media Specifications
Model ZT410 ZT420
Label length Minimum Non-RFID
Tear-off 0.5 in. (12.7 mm) 0.5 in. (12.7 mm)
Peel-off 0.5 in (12.7 mm) 0.5 in (12.7 mm)
Rewind 0.5 in. (12.7 mm) 0.5 in. (12.7 mm)
Cutter 1.0 in. (25.4 mm) 1.0 in. (25.4 mm)
RFID Varies for each transponder type
Maximum 203 dpi or 300 39 in. (991 mm) 39 in. (991 mm)
dpi
600 dpi 20 in. (508 mm) N/A
Maximum continuous 203 dpi 157 in. (3988 mm) 102 in. (2590 mm)
media print length
300 dpi 73 in. (1854 mm) 45 in. (1143 mm)
600 dpi 39 in. (991 mm) N/A
Label width Minimum Non-RFID 1.0 in. (25.4 mm) 2 in. (51 mm)
RFID Varies for each transponder type
Maximum Tear/Cutter 4.5 in. (114 mm) 7.0 in. (178 mm)

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 Specifications

Model ZT410 ZT420

Peel/Rewind 4.25 in. (108 mm) 6.75 in. (171 mm)
Total thickness (includes Minimum 0.0023 in. (0.058 mm) 0.0023 in. (0.058 mm)
liner, if any)
Maximum 0.010 in. (0.25 mm)
Maximum roll outside diameter 8 in. (203 mm) on a 3-in. (76-mm) inside diameter core
Inter-label gap Minimum 0.079 in. (2 mm)
Preferred 0.118 in. (3 mm)
Maximum 0.157 in. (4 mm)
Ticket/tag notch size (width x length) 0.25 in. x 0.12 in. (6 mm x 3 mm)
Hole diameter 0.125 in. (3.18 mm)
Notch or hole position Minimum 0.15 in. (3.8 mm)
(centered from inner
media edge) Maximum 2.25 in. (57 mm) 3.5 in. (90 mm)
Density, in Optical Density Units (ODU) (black > 1.0 ODU
mark)
Maximum media density ≤ 0.5 ODU
Transmissive media sensor (fixed position) 7/16 in. (11 mm) from inside edge

Ribbon Specifications
Standard printers use ribbon that is coated on the outside. An optional ribbon spindle is available to use
ribbon that is coated on the inside. Contact your authorized Zebra reseller for ordering information.

ZT410 ZT421
Ribbon width MINIMUM* 2 in.** (51 mm**) 2 in.** (51 mm**)
Ribbon width MAXIMUM 4.33 in. (110 mm) 6.85 in. (174 mm)
Ribbon length MAXIUMUM 1476 ft (450 m)
Ribbon core inside diameter 1 in. (25 mm)
Ribbon roll outside diameter MAXIMUM 3.2 in. (81.3 mm)

NOTE:
* Zebra recommends using ribbon that is at least as wide as the media to protect the printhead
from wear.
** Depending on your application, you may be able to use ribbon narrower than 2 in. (51 mm),
as long as the ribbon is wider than the media being used. To use a narrower ribbon, test the
ribbon’s performance with your media to assure that you get the desired results

Compliance Information
FCC Compliance Statement
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

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 Specifications

2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement (for printers with RFID encoders)

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This
equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator and your
body.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

Canadian DOC Compliance Statement

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

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Glossary
Glossary

alphanumeric
Indicating letters, numerals, and characters such as punctuation marks.

backfeed
When the printer pulls the media and ribbon (if used) backward into the printer so that the beginning of
the label to be printed is properly positioned behind the printhead. Backfeed occurs when operating the
printer in Tear-Off and Applicator modes.

barcode
A code by which alphanumeric characters can be represented by a series of adjacent stripes of different
widths. Many different code schemes exist, such as the universal product code (UPC) or Code 39.

black mark media

Media with registration marks found on the underside of the print media that act as start-of-label indications
for the printer. The reflective media sensor is the generally-selected option for use with black mark media.
Contrast this with continuous media on page 199 or gap/notch media on page 201.

calibration (of a printer)

A process in which the printer determines some basic information needed to print accurately with a
particular media and ribbon combination. To do this, the printer feeds some media and ribbon (if used)
and senses whether to use the direct thermal or thermal transfer print method, along with (if using non-
continuous media) the length of individual labels or tags.

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 Glossary

collection method
Select a media collection method that is compatible with your printer options. Selections include tear-off,
peel-off, cutter, and rewind. The basic media and ribbon loading instructions are the same for all collection
methods with some additional steps necessary for using any media collection options.

configuration
The printer configuration is a group of operating parameters specific to the printer application. Some
parameters are user selectable, while others are dependent on the installed options and mode of
operation. Parameters may be switch selectable, control panel programmable, or downloaded as ZPL II
commands. A configuration label listing all the current printer parameters may be printed for reference.

continuous media
Label or tag-stock media that does not have gaps, holes, notches, or black marks to indicate label
separations. The media is one long piece of material wound into a roll. This allows the image to be printed
anywhere on the label. Sometimes a cutter is used to cut apart individual labels or receipts.

A transmissive (gap) sensor is typically used for the printer to detect when the media runs out.
Contrast this with black mark media on page 198 or gap/notch media on page 201.

core diameter
The inside diameter of the cardboard core at the center of a roll of media or ribbon.

diagnostics
Information about which printer functions are not working that is used for troubleshooting printer problems.

die-cut media
A type of label stock that has individual labels stuck to a media liner. The labels may be lined up against
each other or separated by a small distance. Typically the material surrounding the labels has been
removed. (See non-continuous media on page 203.)

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 Glossary

direct thermal
A printing method in which the printhead presses directly against the media. Heating the printhead
elements causes a discoloration of the heat-sensitive coating on the media. By selectively heating the
printhead elements as the media moves past, an image is printed onto the media. No ribbon is used with
this printing method.
Contrast this with thermal transfer on page 206.

direct thermal media

Media that is coated with a substance that reacts to the application of direct heat from the printhead to
produce an image.

fanfold media

Non-continuous media that comes folded in a rectangular stack and folded in a zigzag pattern. Fanfold
media is either gap-notch media or black mark media, meaning it uses black marks or notches to track
media format positioning.
Fanfold media can have the same label separations as non-continuous roll media. The separations fall
either on or near the folds.
Contrast this with roll media on page 205.

firmware
This is the term used to specify the printer's operating program. This program is downloaded to the printer
from a host computer and stored in flash memory. Each time the printer power is turned on, this operating
program starts. This program controls when to feed the media forward or backward and when to print a
dot on the label stock.

FLASH memory
Non-volatile memory that maintains the stored information intact when power is off. This memory area is
used to store the printer's operating program. Can also be used to store optional printer fonts, graphic
formats, and complete label formats.

font
A complete set of alphanumeric characters in one style of type. Examples include CG Times™, CG
Triumvirate Bold Condensed™.

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 Glossary

gap/notch media
Media that contains a separation, notch, or hole, indicating where one label/printed format ends and the
next begins.

Contrast this with black mark media on page 198 or continuous media on page 199.

ips (inches-per-second)
The speed at which the label or tag is printed. Many Zebra printers can print from 1 ips to 14 ips.

label
An adhesive-backed piece of paper, plastic, or other material on which information is printed. A non-
continuous label has a defined length, as opposed to a continuous label or a receipt which can have a
varying length.

label backing (liner)

The material on which labels are affixed during manufacture and which is discarded or recycled.

label type
The printer recognizes the following label types.
Continuous

Gap/Notch

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 Glossary

Mark

LED (light emitting diode)

Indicators of specific printer status conditions. Each LED is either off, on, or blinking depending on the
feature being monitored.

linerless media
Linerless media does not use backing to keep the layers of labels on a roll from sticking to one another.
It is wound like a roll of tape, with the sticky side of one layer in contact with the non-sticky surface of the
one below it. Individual labels may be separated by perforations, or they can be cut apart. Because there is
no liner, more labels can potentially fit on a roll, cutting down the need to change media as often. Linerless
media is considered an environmentally-friendly option because no backing is wasted, and the cost per
label can be considerably less than that of standard labels.

LCD (liquid crystal display)

A backlit display that provides the user with either operating status during normal operation or option
menus when configuring the printer to a specific application.

mark media
See black mark media on page 198.

media
Material onto which data is printed by the printer. Types of media include: tag stock, die-cut labels,
continuous labels (with and without media liner), non-continuous media, fanfold media, and roll media.

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 Glossary

media sensor
This sensor is located behind the printhead to detect the presence of media and, for non-continuous
media, the position of the web, hole, or notch used to indicate the start of each label.

media supply hangar

The stationary arm that supports the media roll.

non-continuous media
Media that contains an indication of where one label/printed format ends and the next one begins. Types
of non-continuous media include gap-notch media and black mark media. (Contrast this with continuous
media.)
Non-continuous roll media usually comes in the form of labels with an adhesive backing on a liner. Tags (or
tickets) are separated by perforations.
Individual labels or tags are tracked and position-controlled using one of these methods:
• Web media separates labels by gaps, holes, or notches.

• Black mark media uses pre-printed black marks on the back side of the media to indicate label
separations.

• Perforated media has holes—to allow the labels or tags to be separated from each other easily—along
with position-control marks, notches, or label gaps.

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 Glossary

non-volatile memory
Electronic memory that retains data even when the power to the printer is turned off.

notched media
A type of tag stock containing a cutout area that can be sensed as a start-of-label indicator by the printer.
This is typically a heavier, cardboard-like material that is either cut or torn away from the next tag. See gap/
notch media on page 201.

peel-off mode
A mode of operation in which the printer peels a printed label away from the backing and allows the user
to remove it before another label is printed. Printing pauses until the label is removed.

perforated media

Media with perforations that allow the labels or tags to be separated from each other easily. The media
may also have black marks or other separations between labels or tags.

print speed
The speed at which printing occurs. For thermal transfer printers, this speed is expressed in terms of inches
per second (ips).

print type
The print type specifies whether the type of media being used requires ribbon to print. Thermal
transfer media requires ribbon while direct thermal media does not.

printhead wear
The degradation of the surface of the printhead and/or the print elements over time. Heat and abrasion
can cause printhead wear. Therefore, to maximize the life of the printhead, use the lowest print darkness
setting (sometimes called burn temperature or head temperature) and the lowest printhead pressure
necessary to produce good print quality. In the thermal transfer printing method, use ribbon that is as wide
or wider than the media to protect the printhead from the rough media surface.

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 Glossary

Radio frequency identification (RFID) "smart" media

Each RFID label has an RFID transponder (sometimes called an "inlay"), made of a chip and an antenna,
embedded between the label and the liner. The shape of the transponder varies by manufacturer and is
visible through the label. All "smart" labels have memory that can be read, and many have memory that can
be encoded.
RFID media can be used in a printer that is equipped with an RFID reader/encoder. RFID labels are made
from the same materials and adhesives as non-RFID labels.

receipt
A receipt is a variable length printout. One example of a receipt is in retail stores, where each purchased
item occupies a separate line on the printout. Therefore, the more items purchased, the longer the receipt.

registration
Alignment of printing with respect to the top (vertical) or sides (horizontal) of a label or tag.

ribbon
Ribbon is a thin film that is coated on one side with wax, resin, or wax resin (usually called ink), which
is transferred to the media during the thermal transfer process. Ink is transferred onto the media when
heated by the small elements within the printhead.
Ribbon is only used with the thermal transfer print method. Direct thermal media does not use ribbon.
When ribbon is used, it must be as wide as or wider than the media being used. If the ribbon is narrower
than the media, areas of the printhead are unprotected and subject to premature wear. Zebra ribbons have
a coating on the back that protects the printhead from wear.

ribbon wrinkle
A wrinkling of the ribbon caused by improper alignment or improper printhead pressure. This wrinkle can
cause voids in the print and/or the used ribbon to rewind unevenly. This condition should be corrected by
performing adjustment procedures.

roll media
Media that comes supplied rolled onto a core (usually cardboard). It can be continuous (no separations
between labels)

205
 Glossary

or non-continuous (some type of separation between labels).

Contrast this with fanfold media on page 200.

supplies
A general term for media and ribbon.

symbology
The term generally used when referring to a barcode.

tag stock
A type of media having no adhesive backing but featuring a hole or notch by which the tag can be hung
on something. Tags are usually made of cardboard or other durable material and are typically perforated
between tags. Tag stock can come on rolls or in a fanfold stack. (See gap/notch media on page 201.)

tear-off mode
A mode of operation in which the user tears the label or tag stock away from the remaining media by hand.

thermal transfer
A printing method in which the printhead presses an ink or resin coated ribbon against the media. Heating
the printhead elements causes the ink or resin to transfer onto the media. By selectively heating the
printhead elements as the media and ribbon move past, an image is printed onto the media.
Contrast this with direct thermal on page 200.

void
A space on which printing should have occurred, but did not due to an error condition such as wrinkled
ribbon or faulty print elements. A void can cause a printed barcode symbol to be read incorrectly or not at
all.

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