In the first of our printer problems series, our service engineers would like to discuss common printer problems and how they can be resolved.

Die Cut Labels Feed Without Calibrating

When labels feed without calibrating it means that they labels are being fed through the printer but the print isn’t in line with the print template. There are four causes of this.

The first could be that the label sensor is dirty or obstructed meaning the printer cannot tell that the calibration is off. To resolve this, the sensor would need to be cleaned with a soft stemmed Q-tip dipped in a solution made up of 95% isopropyl alcohol or with compressed air.

The second cause could be that the printer is set to continuous mode. A quick adjustment of the setting to switch it back to label mode should resolve this.

The third cause could be that the label is less than the minimum length for the printer model you are working with. The setting would need to be adjusted to a two-up format for the printer to recognise the break in label.

The fourth cause could be that the label is not properly aligned with the gap between the die cut labels. The corrective action would be to align the sensor properly.

Ribbon spillage is when the ribbon and labels are not advancing through the printer at the same rate. This can be caused by four problems. The first could be that the rewind tension is too low. Increase the tension slowly until you either it is at the highest setting or the spillage problem resolves. On the other end of that spectrum, the problem could be that the unwind tension is too high. Similar to the above unwind the tension slowly to see if this is the problem.

If either of them issues does not resolve the issue, the problem could be that the ribbon is sticking to the printhead. To resolve this we would recommend cleaning the printhead as stated above.

Finally, if none of the above solves this issue, the problem could lie with the label surface you are using. It could be that the surface is too slick for the ribbon. The only way to resolve this would be to test different ribbon grades in the hopes of finding one compatible with your label. If this doesn’t work it may be worth changing the face material of your label from a gloss to a matte.

If the problem you are experiencing with your printer is not on this list don’t worry as we will be back with more printer problems and resolutions.

If you are experiencing any of the above common printer problems and would like some help resolving them please do not hesitate to contact our service department here.

ADC Barcode is involved in the supply of  barcode scanners, barcode label printers, barcode verifiers and label applicators. We also provide custom software, EPOS systems & hardware, RFID and wireless networking technology amongst other professional services. Get in touch now and obtain more information.