User'S Guide: Easycoder Pf4I Bar Code Label Printer

User’s Guide
EasyCoder PF4i
Bar Code Label
Printer
(IPL Version)
User’s Guide
EasyCoder PF4i
Bar Code Label
Printer
(IPL Version)
Intermec Technologies Corporation
Worldwide Headquarters
6001 36th Ave.W.
Everett, WA 98203
U.S.A.
www.intermec.com
The information contained herein is provided solely for the purpose of allowing customers to
operate and service Intermec-manufactured equipment and is not to be released, reproduced, or
used for any other purpose without written permission of Intermec Technologies Corporation.
Information and specifications contained in this document are subject to change without prior
noticed and do not represent a commitment on the part of Intermec Technologies Corporation.
© 2003 - 2008 by Intermec Technologies Corporation. All rights reserved.
The word Intermec, the Intermec logo, Norand, ArciTech, CrossBar, Data Collection Browser,
dcBrowser, Duratherm, EasyCoder, EasyLAN, Enterprise Wireless LAN, EZBuilder,
Fingerprint, i-gistics, INCA (under license), InterDriver, Intermec Printer Network Manager,
IRL, JANUS, LabelShop, Mobile Framework, MobileLAN, Nor*Ware, Pen*Key, Precision Print,
PrintSet, RoutePower, TE 2000, Trakker Antares, UAP, Universal Access Point, and Virtual
Wedge are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Intermec Technologies Corporation.
There are U.S. and foreign patents as well as U.S. and foreign patents pending.
Throughout this manual, trademarked names may be used. Rather than put a trademark (™ or ®)
symbol in every occurrence of a trademarked name, we state that we are using the names only in
an editorial fashion, and to the benefit of the trademark owner, with no intention of
infringement.
Kimdura is a registered trademark of Kimberly Clark.
Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Valeron is a registered trademark of Valéron Strength Films, an ITW Company.
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
ii EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

Document Change Record
This page records changes to this document. The document was
originally released as 1-960586-00.
Version
Number Date Description of Change
934-027-001 02/2008 Updated styles, updated Media Sensitivity
Number information, changed printed size
to 8.5x7”.
-02 02/2004 Revised to support IPL v2.20. Information
on Intermec Readiness Indicator added.
New method for returning to factory default
added. More bar codes supported
-01 10/2003 Revised to support IPL v2.10. Information
about EasyLAN Wireless interface added.
-00 05/ 2003 Supports original IPL version (v2.00).
EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) iii

iv EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)
Contents
Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi

Safety Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
Do not repair or adjust alone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
First aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
Resuscitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
Energized equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
Safety Icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Global Services and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Service Location Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
Who Should Read This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xiv
Related Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xiv
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Description of EasyCoder PF4i Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Safety Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Product Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Front View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Rear View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Media Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Media Supply Roll Post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Media Supply Positions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Print Mechanism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Indicator Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Keyboard Color Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Beeper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Switching On the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) v

Contents
3 Media Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Tear-Off (Straight-Through) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Tear-Off with Quick-Load (Straight Through) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Cut-Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Peel-Off (Self-Strip) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
External Supply (Fan-Fold) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
4 Ribbon Load for Thermal Transfer Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Ribbon Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
5 Setting Up the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Default Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Setup Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Serial Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Baud Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Data Bits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Parity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Stop Bits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Test/Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Testprint. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Data Dump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Memory Reset. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Media Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Paper Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Label Length Dots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Sensitivity (Media Sensitivity Number). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Darkness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Label Rest Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Form Adj Dots X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
vi EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

Contents
Form Adj Dots Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Emulation Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Print Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Cutter (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Label Taken Sensor (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Returning to Factory Default Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
6 Setup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Navigating in Setup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Setup Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Serial Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Network (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Test/Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
7 Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
DTP Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Side Doors and Megatop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Paper Cutter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Integral Liner Takeup Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Media Supply Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
3-inch Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Label Taken Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Thick Media Printhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Interface Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) vii

Contents
8 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Intermec Ready-to-Work Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
9 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Printhead Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
External Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Cleaning the Media Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Printhead Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Media Jams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
10 Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Adjusting for Narrow Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Adjusting Printhead Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Adjusting the Label Stop Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Adjusting the Ribbon Break Shaft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Installing the Quick-Load Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
A Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
B Media Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Media Roll Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Core . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Self-Adhesive Strip (Continuous Stock) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Self-Adhesive Labels (Gap Stock). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
viii EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

Contents
Non-Adhesive Strip (Continuous Stock). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Tickets With Gaps (Gap Stock) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Tickets With Black Mark (Mark Stock) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
C Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
RS-232 Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Protocol For The Default Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Interface Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Optional Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
D Media Sensitivity Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
About the Media Sensitivity Number (MSN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Determining the Current Media Sensitivity Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Changing the Current Media Sensitivity Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Determining the MSN for Intermec-Approved Media and Ribbons . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Determining the MSN for Other Media and Ribbons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Media Sensitivity Numbers for Intermec-Approved Media and Ribbons . . . . . . . . . 124
EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) ix

Contents
x EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

Before You Begin
Before You Begin

This section provides you with safety information, technical
support information, and sources for additional product
information.
Safety Summary
Your safety is extremely important. Read and follow all
warnings and cautions in this document before handling
and operating Intermec equipment. You can be seriously
injured, and equipment and data can be damaged if you do
not follow the safety warnings and cautions.
Do not repair or adjust alone
Do not repair or adjust energized equipment alone under
any circumstances. Someone capable of providing first aid
must always be present for your safety.
First aid
Always obtain first aid or medical attention immediately
after an injury. Never neglect an injury, no matter how
slight it seems.
Resuscitation
Begin resuscitation immediately if someone is injured and
stops breathing. Any delay could result in death. To work
on or near high voltage, you should be familiar with
approved industrial first aid methods.
Energized equipment
Never work on energized equipment unless authorized by a
responsible authority. Energized electrical equipment is
dangerous. Electrical shock from energized equipment can
cause death. If you must perform authorized emergency
work on energized equipment, be sure that you comply
strictly with approved safety regulations.
EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) xi

Before You Begin
Safety Icons
This section explains how to identify and understand the
warnings, cautions, and notes that are in this document.
You may also see icons that tell you when to follow ESD
procedures.
A warning alerts you of an operating procedure, practice,
condition, or statement that must be strictly observed to avoid
death or serious injury to the persons working on the
equipment.
A caution alerts you to an operating procedure, practice,

condition, or statement that must be strictly observed to
prevent equipment damage or destruction, or corruption or
loss of data.
This icon appears at the beginning of any procedure in this

manual that could cause you to touch components (such as
printed circuit boards) that are susceptible to damage from
electrostatic discharge (ESD). When you see this icon, you must
follow standard ESD guidelines to avoid damaging the
equipment you are servicing
Note: Notes either provide extra information about a topic or

contain special instructions for handling a particular condition or
set of circumstances.
Global Services and Support

Warranty Information
To understand the warranty for your Intermec product, visit
the Intermec web site at www.intermec.com and click
Service & Support. The Intermec Global Sales & Service
page appears. From the Service & Support menu, move
your pointer over Support, and then click Warranty.
Disclaimer of warranties: The sample code included in this
document is presented for reference only and does not
necessarily represent complete, tested programs. The code is
xii EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

Before You Begin
provided “as is with all faults.” All warranties are expressly

disclaimed, including the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
Telephone Support
These services are available from Intermec Technologies
Corporation.
In the U.S.A. and Canada

call 1-800-755-5505
Service Description and choose this option
Order Intermec • Place an order. 1 and then choose 2
products • Ask about an existing order.
Order Intermec media Order printer labels and ribbons. 1 and then choose 1
Order spare parts Order spare parts. 1 or 2 and then choose 4
Technical Support Talk to technical support about 2 and then choose 2
your Intermec product.
Service • Get a return authorization 2 and then choose 1
number for authorized service
center repair.
• Request an on-site repair
technician.
Service contracts • Ask about an existing contract. 1 or 2 and then choose 3
• Renew a contract.
• Inquire about repair billing or
other service invoicing
questions.
Outside the U.S.A. and Canada, contact your local

Intermec representative. To search for your local
representative, from the Intermec web site, click About Us
> Contact Us.
Service Location Support

For the most current listing of service locations, on the
Intermec web site, click Support > Returns and Repairs >
Repair Locations.
EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) xiii

Before You Begin
For technical support in South Korea, use the after service

locations listed below:
AWOO Systems
102-1304 SK Ventium
522 Dangjung-dong
Gunpo-si, Gyeonggi-do Korea, South 435-776
Contact: Mr. Sinbum Kang
Telephone: +82-31-436-1191
E-mail: [email protected]
IN Information System PTD LTD
6th Floor
Daegu Venture Center Bldg 95
Shinchun 3 Dong
Donggu, Daegu City, Korea
E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]
Outside the U.S.A. and Canada, contact your local
Intermec representative. To find your local representative,
from the Intermec web site, click Contact.
Who Should Read This Manual
This User’s Guide provides you with information about the
features of the EasyCoder PF4i printer and how to install,
configure, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot it.
Related Documents
The Intermec web site at www.intermec.com contains our
documents (as PDF files) that you can download for free.
1 To download documents
2 Visit the Intermec web site at www.intermec.com.
3 Click Support > Manuals.
4 In the Select a Product field, choose the product that you
want to download documentation for.
To order printed versions of the Intermec manuals, contact
your local Intermec representative or distributor.
xiv EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

1 Introduction
This chapter introduces the EasyCoder PF4i printer and covers

the following topics:
• Description of EasyCoder PF4i printer
• Safety summary
• Product identification
EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) 1

Chapter 1 — Introduction
Description of EasyCoder PF4i Printer

The EasyCoder PF4i printer is a medium-duty direct thermal/
thermal transfer printer with a printhead resolution of 8 dots/
mm (203 dots/inch) and a maximum print width is 104 mm (4
inches).
The EasyCoder PF4i printer offers a large number of useful
features:
• Flash memory SIMMs for firmware, fonts, bar codes, and
application programs
• Built-in Compact Flash memory card adapter for firmware
upgrading
• Built-in RS-232 interface
• Provision for extra interface boards including wired and
wireless EasyLAN connections
• Keyboard and display with backlight for improved user
interface.s
A large number of factory-installed or field-installable options are
available, so the printer can be configured for a wide range of
applications. See Chapter 7, “Options” on page 67 for more
information.
The EasyCoder PF4i printer described in this manual supports
the Intermec Programming Language (IPL) v2.30 or later. The
EasyCoder PF4i printer that supports Intermec Fingerprint is
described in its own User’s Guide.
2 EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

Safety Summary
Intermec assumes no responsibility regarding the CE Directive if
the printer is handled, modified, or installed in any way other
than that described in Intermec’s manuals.
• Read this manual carefully before connecting the printer.
• Moving parts are exposed when the side doors are open, so
ensure that the doors are closed before you operate the printer.
• Do not remove the left-hand cover. Dangerous voltage!
• Do not remove the bottom plate. Dangerous voltage!
• Do not put your fingers inside the print mechanism when the
power is on.
• Place the printer on an even surface which can support its
weight of approximately 7 to 8 kg (15.5 to 17.7 pounds) plus
supplies.
• Do not spray the printer with water. If you are using a hose to
clean the premises in an industrial environment, remove the
printer or protect it carefully from spray and moisture.
• Carefully read the warning text on the envelope before using a
cleaning card.
Product Identification
The machine label is attached to the printer’s rear plate and
contains information on type, model, and serial number as well
as AC voltage. It also contains regulatory agency markings
indicating compliance with or approval by specific agency
regulations, if any.


2 Installation
This chapter explains how to install the EasyCoder PF4i printer

and also describes the printer’s various parts in detail. It covers the
following topics:
• Parts on the printer’s front
• Parts on the printer’s rear plate
• Parts in the media compartment
• Parts in the print mechanism
• Connecting to the printer
• Using the controls and understanding the indicators
• Switching on the printer

Chapter 2 — Installation
Front View
At the front of the printer are the display window, the indicator
lamps, and the keyboard. These features allow the operator to
control and set up the printer manually. Printed labels, tickets, or
tags are presented at the front of the print mechanism. Refer to
Chapter 7, “Options” on page 67, for information on possible
optional devices that can be fitted on the printer’s front.
Indicator lamps
Display window
Keyboard
Feed/Pause button
Print mechanism
Front View of Printer

Rear View
The rear plate contains the On/Off switch, the AC power cord
socket, and various interface connectors and slots.
Provision for EasyLAN

ethernet connection
(option)
Memory card slot

(ﬁrmware upgrading only)
Provivion for IEEE 1284

parallel interface board
On/Oﬀ switch
AC power cord socket
RS-232 serial interface
Machine label
Rear View of Printer

Media Compartment
The media compartment is covered by a long side door that
completely encloses the print mechanism and media
compartment, or a short side door that only covers the print
mechanism and gives easy access to the media stock. The door is
held by a magnetic lock. It can be opened 180° to provide full
access to the media compartment.
Media supply
roll post with
Thermal transfer mechanism edge guide
Print mechanism
Optional integral
liner takeup with
Long side door guide shaft
Media Compartment
The media can be supplied from a rotating hub or from an

external supply of fan-folded media behind the printer. There is
also an optional rotating media supply hub. For more
information, see Chapter 7, “Options” on page 67.

Media Supply Roll Post

The EasyCoder PF4i uses a media supply roll post that can be
fitted in three different positions inside the media compartment.
The position depends on the type of side door (long or short) and
whether or not the printer is fitted with an integral liner takeup.
Alternatively, an external media supply (for example a box of fan-
folded tickets) behind the printer can be used. A rotating media
supply hub is also available as an option, see Chapter 7,
“Options” on page 67.
To move the post to a different slot; remove the screw, twist the
post a quarter of a turn, and pull it out.
To fit the post; rotate it a quarter of a turn, insert it into the
appropriate slot in the center section (see next page), and twist
back so the lips engage the cutouts in the sides of the slot. Move
it up (large core) or down (small core) as far as it goes and secure
it with the screw.
The media supply roll post fits both 38-40 mm (1.5 inches) and
76 mm (3.0 inches) cores since it can be moved vertically in the
slot in the center section. The bottom position is intended for
small cores and the top position is for large cores. The post is
locked by a straight-slot screw and has a moveable edge guide to
fit various media widths.
m
76 mes)
c h
(3 in
E
COR
m
40 m
38 - nches)
i
(1.5
Note: Make sure to adjust the position of the post according to

the size of the media roll core. When the post is fitted in the top
position, the head of the screw will interfere with small (38 mm/
1.5 inches) cores, causing media misalignment.

Media Supply Positions

There are four sets of slots and threaded holes in the printer’s
center section for the media supply roll post or rotating hub
(optional). These slots allow the largest possible roll size to fit,
given the limitations of any liner takeup unit and/or the full
enclosure provided by the long side door or Megatop. The
positions are indicated by numbers engraved in the center
section. The printer can also use an external media supply located
behind the printer, unless it has an optional 8-inch Megatop
•Position 1: The media compartment is fully enclosed by a long
side door, regardless of the existence of any integral liner takeup
unit. Maximum roll size is 152 mm (6 inches).
•Position 2: The short side door only encloses the print
mechanism and does not have an integral liner takeup unit.
Maximum roll size is 203 mm (8.00 inches).
•Position 3L: The short side door and an integral liner takeup
unit. This position is also used with the optional 8-inch
Megatop. For more information, see Chapter 7, “Options” on
page 67. Maximum roll size is 213 mm (8.38 inches).
•Position 4 is not used.
3
Position 3
2
1 Position 2
4
Position 1
Position 4
(not used)
Media Supply Positions

Print Mechanism
The print mechanism features a high-performance thermal
printhead with quick-mount fittings to facilitate replacement.
The thermal transfer ribbon mechanism is omitted in dedicated
direct thermal printing models.
Ribbon supply hub
Ribbon rewind hub
Thermal
printhead
Pressure arm
Tear bar
Platen roller
Label stop sensor

position adjustment
(bottom sensor hidden) Printhead lift lever
Print mechanism

Connections
Before you can use the serial interface, you may need to set up the
communication parameters, such as baud rate, parity, etc. as
described in Chapter 5, “Setting Up the Printer” on page 49.
Several types of optional interface and network boards are
available. For more information, see Chapter 7, “Options” on
page 67. Refer to Chapter 5, “Setting Up the Printer” on
page 49, Chapter 6 “Setup Mode” on page 61, and Appendix C,
“Interfaces” on page 117 for connection and setup instructions.
To connect the printer to power
1 Place the printer on a level surface, near an AC outlet. You
should be able to easily access the printer to load media and to
remove the printout.
2 Check and ensure that the printer is switched off.
3 Connect the power cord from the socket on the rear plate to
an electrical outlet (90 to 265 VAC).
To connect the printer to a computer
• The Easycoder PF4i Compact Industrial is fitted with one 9-
pin D-style subminiature (DB9) socket for the RS-232 serial
interface port. For more information, see Appendix C,
“Interfaces” on page 117.

Controls and Indicators

The EasyCoder PF4i has several ways of communicating directly
with its operator: three colored indicator lamps, a display
window, a membrane-switch keyboard with 7 keys, a large Feed/
Pause button on the printer’s front, and a beeper.
Indicator Lamps
The indicators are colored LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and are
used for the following purposes:
• Power (solid green) indicates that the power is on.
• Status (solid green) indicates that the printer is ready for use.
• Status (flashing green) indicates that the printer is
communicating.
• Status (solid red) indicates an error condition. For more
information, see Chapter 8, “Troubleshooting” on page 73.
• Intermec Ready-to-Work Indicator
This blue light is part of an exclusive monitoring system from
Intermec. The Intermec Ready-To-Work Indicator helps users
quickly determine the readiness of the Intermec device. It has
three different states: On, Blinking, and Off. When off, the
device is not ready to operate. When blinking, the device may
be initializing, waiting for external resources, or in need of
user attention. When on, the device is ready for use as part of
a solution. For more information, see Chapter 8,
“Troubleshooting” on page 73.

Display
The display window contains an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
with background illumination and two lines of text, each with 16
characters. It shows a message when certain errors occur and
guides the operator through upgrading, startup, and setup. The
following errors are reported:
Error Messages and Conditions
Message Displayed Error Condition
PAUSE Empty/Paused
PAPER OUT Out of media
RIBBON OUT Out of ribbon
PRINT HEAD UP/PRESS Printhead lifted
FEED
OPEN&SHUT CUTTER Cutter error
RIBBON FITTED Ribbon fitted
PAPER FAULT Paper fault
Keyboard
The keyboard is of the membrane-switch type and has seven keys,
plus one large “Feed/Pause” button. Some keys have hard-coded
functions in Startup and Setup modes.
Feed/Pause button Feeds a page or pauses a print job. Also can
repeat last printed label.
Enter Setup Mode. For more information, see
Chapter 6, “Setup Mode” on page 61.
Display error message and communication

channel information.
Scroll between types of information after

pressing the Information key. Possible error
messages and information on active
communications channels are shown in a loop.

Keyboard Color Code

Yellow: Operation of the printer (operator level)
Green: Setup or service (site or service technician level)
White: Data input to printer (operator or technician level)
Beeper
The beeper acknowledges that a key has been pressed. Optionally,
an audible alarm can be enabled using an IPL command that will
start beeping at paper out and ribbon out and continue until the
start of reload.
Switching On the Printer

Before switching on the printer, make the necessary connections,
and check that the printhead is engaged.
Switch on the power using the On/Off switch on the rear plate.
The “Power” control lamp on the front panel lights up when the
power is on. Wait for a few moments while the printer loads the
program and runs some self-diagnostic tests.
After a short time, the printer is initialized. The progress of the

initialization is indicated by an increasing number of colons on
the lower line in the display.
When the initialization is completed, a label is fed out. The

following message, which is the IPL version number, appears in
the Display Window, indicating that the printer is ready for
operation.


3 Media Load
This chapter explains how to load the printer with various kinds
of continuous, gap, or mark stock for the following modes of
operation:
• Tear-Off (straight-through)
• Tear-Off with Quick Load (straight through)
• Cut-Off (requires optional cutter)
• Peel-Off (self-adhesive strip), requires optional integral self-
strip unit with liner takeup
• External Supply (fan-folded stock)

Chapter 3 — Media Load
Tear-Off (Straight-Through)
The EasyCoder PF4i printer can print on labels, tickets, tags, and
continuous stock in various forms. This section describes the case
when the media is torn off manually against the printer’s tear bar.
This method is also known as “straight-through printing.”
Tear-off can be used for:
• Non-adhesive continuous stock
• Self-adhesive continuous stock with liner
• Self-adhesive labels with liner (gap or continuous stock)
• Tickets with gaps (gap stock), with or without perforations
• Tickets with black marks (mark stock), with or without
perforations
An optional label taken sensor can hold the printing of the next
copy in the batch until the present copy has been removed. For
more information, see “Label Taken Sensor” on page 71.
To load media for tear-off operation:
1 Open the side door.

2 Turn the printhead lift lever clockwise to raise the printhead.
3 Remove any empty core from the media supply hub.
2
1
4
bw
fw

4 Fit a new roll of media onto the media supply hub and adjust
the edge guide so that the roll becomes flush with the center
section.
2
1
4
bw
fw
5 Route the media underneath the slack absorber and forward

towards the print mechanism. The slack absorber can be
rotated for better access and then snap-locked in open
position.Route the media through the print unit and push it
inwards as far as it will go.

6 This diagram shows the path the media will take through the
printer.
7 Turn the printhead lift lever counter-clockwise to the “closed”

position to engage the printhead.
8 Adjust the position of the green edge guides so that the media
is guided with a minimum of play.

9 Close the side door.
10 Press the Feed/Pause key to advance the media and adjust the
media feed.

11 Tear off the media by grabbing the outer edge and pulling
downwards.
Tear-Off with Quick-Load (Straight Through)

In addition to the media load procedure for tear-off (straight-
through) operation described earlier in this chapter, the
EasyCoder PF4i can optionally be fitted with a set of Quick-Load
guides that makes media load much easier and quicker, especially
if the printer has a short side door. See Chapter 10,
“Adjustments” on page 97 for installation instructions.
Quick-Load cannot be combined with peel-off (self-strip)
operation.
An optional label taken sensor can hold the printing of the next
copy in the batch until the present copy has been removed, see
“Label Taken Sensor” on page 71.

To load media for Tear-Off with Quick-Load operation

1 Remove any empty core from the media supply roll post.
2 Fit a new roll of media on the supplypost and adjust the edge
guide so the roll becomes fl ush with the center section.

3 If necessary, adjust the outer Quick-Load guide to fi t the

width of the media.
4 Insert the media between the guides and feed it forward until
the media reaches the platen roller and cannot be inserted any
further.
5 Keep pushing the media forward while pressing the Feed/

Pause button.

6 To tear off the media, grab the outer edge and pull
downwards.
Cut-Off
continuous stock in various forms. This section describes the case
when the media is to be cut off by an automatic paper cutter
(optional).
Cut-off can be used for:
• Non-adhesive continuous stock
• Self-adhesive labels with liner (cut only liner between labels)
The cutter is designed to cut through paper-based media with a
thickness between 60 and 175 μm, which roughly corresponds to
a paper weight of 60 to 175 grams/m2 (basis weight 40 to 120
lb.). The cutter should not be used to cut through labels because
the adhesive will stick to the shears, which can damage the cutter.
The optional label taken sensor cannot be used with the cutter.
The paper cutter can be used with both a standard edge guide or
Quick-Load guides and with any type of side door. In this
chapter, a printer with a standard edge guide and a long side door
is illustrated.

To load media for cut-off operation

1 Switch off the power. Open the cutter and the side door.

3
2
1
4
bw
fw
4 Fit a new roll of media on the supply post and adjust the edge
guide so the roll becomes flush with the center section.
2
1
4
bw
fw

5 Route the media through the print mechanism and cutter.

Then push it towards the center section as far as it will go.
6 This diagram shows the media path.
7 Turn the printhead lift lever counterclockwise to engage the

printhead.

8 Adjust the position of the green edge guide so the media is

guided with a minimum of play.

10 Close the cutter while pulling on the media.
11 An optional tray can be attached to the cutter to collect the

cut off labels, tickets, or tags.
12 Press the Feed/Pause button on the cutter to advance the

media and adjust the media feed.

Peel-Off (Self-Strip)
continuous stock in various forms.
This section describes the case when self-adhesive labels are
separated from the liner immediately after printing, which
requires an optional internal liner takeup unit. For more
information, see “Integral Liner Takeup Kit” on page 70. This is
also known as “Self-strip” operation.
Peel-off can only be used for self-adhesive labels with liner.
An optional label-taken sensor can hold the printing of the next
label in a batch until the present label has been removed. For
more information, see “Label Taken Sensor” on page 71.
Note: Peel-off operation sets high demands on the media for
proper label stiffness, release characteristics of the adhesive and
liner, resistance against electrostatic charge, and so on. If these
specific requirements are not met, the labels will not dispense
properly. Consult your media supplier or test the media to make
sure it is suitable for your application.
To load media for peel-off operation:


3 Pull out the handle to collapse the takeup hub and then
remove any remaining liner.

2
1
4
bw
fw
5 Fit a new roll of media onto the media supply post and adjust
the edge guides so that the label roll becomes flush with the
center section.
2
1
4
bw
fw

6 Pull out approximately 50 cm (20 inches) of labels and

remove the labels from the liner. Route the liner through the
print mechanism and push it inwards.
7 Route the liner around the tear bar and liner drive roller and
back under the print mechanism and guide shaft.

8 Insert the start of the liner under the lip of the takeup hub
and then rotate the hub counterclockwise a few turns to wind
up some of the liner.
9 This diagram shows the path the media and liner will take
through the printer.
10 Turn the printhead lift lever counterclockwise to engage the

printhead.

11 Adjust the position of the green edge guides so that the media
is guided with a minimum of play.

13 Press the Feed/Pause key to advance the media and adjust the
media feed.
External Supply (Fan-Fold)

This section describes the setup when an external media supply is
used such as a stack of fan-folded tickets. External supply can be
used with tear-off (straight-through) printing, and preferably
using the Quick Load guides.
External supply can be used with either ths short or long side
doors and there is no need to remove the media supply post.
When using an external media supply, take care to protect the
media from dust, dirt, and other foreign particles that can impair
the printout quality or cause unnecessary wear to the printhead.
Depending on brand and quality, all direct thermal media are
more or less sensitive to heat, direct sunlight, moisture, oil,
plasticizers, fat, and other substances. Protect the media
accordingly.

This diagram shows the media path from an external supply. If

using the standard edge guide (as opposed to Quick-Load
guides), turn it to vertical position.


4 Ribbon Load for Thermal
Transfer Printing
This chapter explains how to load the printer with ribbon for
thermal transfer printing.

Chapter 4 — Ribbon Load for Thermal Transfer Printing
Ribbon Load
continuous stock using either direct thermal printing on special
heat-sensitive media or thermal transfer printing using a special
ink-coated ribbon.Most transfer ribbons do not smear at room
temperature.
Thermal transfer printing makes it possible to use a wide range of
receiving face materials and gives a durable printout less
vulnerable to fat, chemicals, heat, or sunlight than direct thermal
printing. Make sure to select a type of ribbon that matches the
type of receiving face material and set up the printer
appropriately.
The EasyCoder PF4i printer can use transfer ribbon rolls wound
with the ink-coated side facing either outward or inward.
Illustrations in this manual show the ink-coated side facing
inward.
Ribbon is usually loaded in connection with media
replenishment, but loaded media is not shown in the illustrations
in this chapter in order to give a clearer view of the ribbon path.
For media load instructions, see Chapter 3, “Media Load” on
page 17.
To load ribbon for thermal transfer operation:

3 If you are reloading, remove any used ribbon and empty

ribbon core.

4 Slide the ribbon roll onto the supply hub so the ink-coated
side faces down when the ribbon is routed through the print
mechanism.
5 Route the ribbon through the print mechanism and pull out
approximately 20 cm (8 inches) of ribbon.

6 Without releasing the ribbon, turn the printhead lift lever

counterclockwise to engage the printhead and lock the
ribbon.
7 Slide the empty cardboard core onto the ribbon rewind hub
so the ribbon is wound up when the hub rotates counter-
clockwise.

8 Turn the printhead lift lever clockwise to raise the printhead

and release the ribbon.
9 Manually advance the ribbon until all of the transparent

leader has passed the printhead and the ribbon becomes tight.

10 Turn the printhead lift knob counterclockwise to engage the

printhead.


5 Setting Up the Printer
This chapter describes the various parameters that are used

during Setup mode or in the various application programs to
configure the printer for the user’s specific requirements. It covers
the following topics:
• Description
• Default setup
• Setup parameters for communication, test/service, media, and
configuration.
For more information on Setup Mode, see Chapter 6, “Setup
Mode” on page 61.

Chapter 5 — Setting Up the Printer
Description
Setup defines the printer’s serial communication, test and service
operations, and specifies which types of media and ribbon are
loaded in the printer. If the printer’s default setup does not meet
your requirements, follow the instructions in “Setup Mode” on
page 61 to change the setup.
Default Setup
This list does not include options.
Ser-Com
Baud rate 9600 bps
Data bits 8 bits
Parity None
Stop bits 1 bit
Protocol XON/XOFF
Test/Service
Testprint Not Applicable
Data dump No
Memory reset Not Applicable
Media
Media type Gap
Paper type DT
Label length dots 1200 dots
Sensitivity 420
Darkness 0%
Label rest point 0 dots
Form adj dots X 0 dots
Form adj dots Y 0 dots
Configuration
Power up emulation None
Print speed 4 in/sec
Cutter Not installed (optional)
Label taken sensor Not installed (optional)

Setup Parameters
Serial Communication
The serial communication parameters control the
communication between the printer and the connected computer
or other devices on the serial port.
Note: The serial communication parameters have no effect on
parallel or EasyLAN communications.
Make sure the printer’s communication parameters match the

parameters set up on the connected device and vice versa. If the
printer and host setups do not match, the response from the
printer to host will be garbled.
Baud Rate
The baud rate is the transmission speed in bits per second. There
are 8 options:
• 1200
• 2400
• 4800
• 9600 (default)
• 19200
• 38400
• 57600
• 115200
Data Bits
Data bits specifies the number of bits that will define a character.
• 7 Characters ASCII 000 to 127 decimal
• 8 Characters ASCII 000 to 255 decimal (default)
Parity
The parity decides how the firmware will check for transmission
errors. There are four options: None (default), Even, Odd, and
Space.

Stop Bits
The number of stop bits specifies how many bits will define the
end of a character. There are two options: 1 (default), 2.
Protocol
XON/XOFF (default)
In the XON/XOFF protocol, data flow control is achieved by
using XON (DC1) and XOFF (DC3) characters. Message blocks
are not required to be bracketed by the Start of Text (STX) and
End of Text (ETX) characters. However, at power up or after a
reset all characters except ENQ or VT will be ignored until an
STX is detected. The message length in this protocol is
unrestricted. That is, the printer processes information as it is
being downloaded and stops when there is no more information.
XON/XOFF protocol conforms to generally accepted industry
standards. No end-of-message response is sent to the host other
than XOFF. An XON will be sent on power up.
Since DC1 and DC3 are used for data flow control, the printer
status characters are different than those of the Standard
Protocol. If the host ignores the printer’s XOFF, the printer will
resend an XOFF after receiving every 15 characters from the host.
Condition Character
Buffer already full GS
Printhead raised US
Ribbon fault US
No label stock EM
Buffer now full DC4
Printhead hot SI
Label at strip pin FS
Label skipping DC2
Printing DC2

Intermec Standard Protocol

The Intermec Printer Standard Protocol is a half-duplex protocol.
All data transmissions to the printer consist of status inquiry
(ENQ), status dump (VT), or message blocks. Each message
block starts with the Start of Text (STX) character and ends with
the End of Text (ETX) character. Each message block must be
255 characters or less, including the STX and ETX characters.
The printer responds to each status inquiry or message block
with the printer status. The host should check the printer status
before downloading a message block to the printer. ENQ causes
the printer to transmit its highest priority status, while VT
instructs the printer to transmit all status that applies in the order
of their priority. The possible printer status, in descending
priority, is:
Condition Character
Buffer already full GS
Printhead raised US
Ribbon fault US
No label stock EM
Buffer now full DC3
Printhead hot SI
Label at strip pin FS
Label skipping DC1
Ready DC1
Printing DC1
Test/Service
Testprint
This part of the Setup Mode allows you to print various types of
test labels. Go to the desired option and press Enter. The printer
will start printing the test label or labels. Press the Feed/Pause
button to hold the printing temporarily. To resume printing,
press the Feed/Pause button again. The following options are
available:

Configuration
Choose software (SW), hardware (HW), or network.
The Software Configuration Label contains:
• Current configuration parameters stored in the printer’s
memory
• Defined pages
• Defined formats
• Defined graphics
• Defined fonts
• Any installed printer options
The Hardware Configuration Label contains:
• Printer memory information
• Printer mileage
• Printhead settings
• Firmware checksum, program, and version number
The Network Configuration Label contains:
• WINS Name
• MAC Address
• IP Selection
• IP Address
• Netmask
• Default Router
• Name Server
• Mail Server
• Primary WINS Server
• Secondary WINS Server
• Network Statistics

Format Label
The Format Label contains a single format that you can use to
evaluate the print quality of a particular format. This option
prints labels for all the formats stored in the printer’s memory.
Page Label
The Page Label tests the ability of the printer to receive and print
single or multiple pages of label data that is sent from the host.
This option prints labels for all the pages stored in the printer’s
memory.
UDC Label
The UDC Label tests the ability of the printer to receive and
print single or multiple user-defined characters (bitmap graphics)
that are sent from the host. This option prints labels for all the
UDCs stored in the printer’s memory.
Font Label
The Font Label contains all the characters in a single font. This
option prints labels for all the user-defined fonts (UDF) stored in
the printer’s memory.
Data Dump
If data dump is enabled by selecting the “Yes” option, the printer
prints all data and protocol characters received on the serial port.
An ASCII and hexadecimal representation of each character is
printed.
Memory Reset
There are two options. The memory will be reset to factory
default as soon as an option has been selected and <Enter> is
pressed. Select between “All”, which resets the entire memory,
and “Configuration”, which just resets the configuration part of
the memory.
Media
The media parameters tell the firmware the characteristics of the
media that will be used so that the printout will be positioned
correctly for the best possible quality.

Media Type
The Media Type parameters control how the label stop sensor
(LSS) and the media feed work. There are three media type
options:
• Gap is used for adhesive labels mounted on liner (backing
paper) or continuous paper stock with detection slots. This is
the default.
• Mark is used for labels, tickets, or strip provided with black
marks at the back.
• Continuous is used for continuous stock without any
detection slots or black marks.
Paper Type
The Paper Type parameters control how the transfer ribbon
mechanism and the ribbon sensor work. There are two paper
type options:
• DT (Direct Thermal) is used for heat-sensitive media without
any need for a thermal transfer ribbon. This is the default.
• TTR (Thermal Transfer) is used for non heat-sensitive
receiving face materials in combination with a thermal
transfer ribbon.
Label Length Dots
The Label Length setup specifies the length in dots of each copy
along the media feed direction (X-coordinate). This is used for
“label-out” detection. A selection of values is presented as a loop.
Select the value that is closest to the actual length. Default is
1200 dots.
Sensitivity (Media Sensitivity Number)
This setup parameter specifies the characteristics of the direct
thermal media or combination of receiving face material and
thermal transfer ribbon, so the printer’s firmware can optimize
the heating of the printhead and the print speed. The media
sensitivity number can be changed using PrintSet, third-party
software, or an IPL command (<SI>gn[,m]). See Appendix D,
“Media Sensitivity Number” on page 121 for more information
regarding the media sensitivity number.

Darkness
Use this parameter to make minor adjustments of the blackness
in the printout, for example to adapt the printer to variations in
quality between different batches of the same media. The value
can be set within the range -10% to +10% where -10 is the
lightest and 10 is the darkest. Default value is 0.
Label Rest Point
Specifies where labels stop for removal. Use this for peel-off (self-
strip) applications. The valid range is -30 (furthest back) to 30
(furthest forward). Default is 0. Also available as an IPL
command (<SI>fn).
Form Adj Dots X
Specifies where the X-position of the origin should be placed on
the label. The valid range is -30 (closest to the leading edge) to 30
(furthest from the leading edge). Default is 0.
Form Adj Dots Y
Specifies where the Y-position of the origin should be placed on
the label. The valid range is -30 (closest to the center section) to
30 (furthest from the center section). Default is 0.
Configuration
Emulation Mode
The emulation mode lets you print bar code labels that were
originally designed on an 86XX printer in multiples of 10 or 15
mil. When the printer is working in emulation mode, not all IPL
commands are supported. For a complete list of commands
available during emulation mode, see the latest version of the IPL
Programming Reference Manual (P/N 066396-xxx).
To exit emulation mode, select emulation “None”. This is the
default.
Print Speed
You can select the print speed from 4 in/sec (100 mm/sec) to 8in/
sec (200 mm/sec) with an interval of 1 in/sec. The higher the
print speed, the more wear on the printhead, so do not use a
higher print speed than necessary. Some direct thermal media or
ribbon/media combinations may not allow the highest
alternatives without the printout quality being adversely affected.

Cutter (optional)
By default, “Not Installed” is displayed. If a cutter is installed,
you must manually indicate that condition to the firmware by
selecting either “Enable” or “Disable.” Once you have done that,
you can also use IPL commands to enable or disable the cutter:
<STX>R<ETX> enter print/configuration mode
<STX>c0<ETX> Disable cutter
<STX>c1<ETX> Enable cutter
Label Taken Sensor (optional)
To make the printer work in self-strip mode, which means it
waits for a label to be removed before the next label is printed, the
self-strip mode must be enabled. This can also be done by
executing the following commands:
<STX>R<ETX> enter print/configuration mode
<STX><SI>t0<ETX>Disable self-strip
<STX><SI>t1<ETX> Enable self-strip
If the label taken sensor does not work properly, the sensitivity
can be calibrated using Setup Mode. Select “LTS Calibration”
and follow the instructions in the display. Make sure that no
direct sunlight or interior lighting interferes with the label taken
sensor.
Returning to Factory Default Setup

There are three ways to return to the factory default setup of the
printer:
• Insert a special CompactFlash memory card and restart the
printer.
• Use the Memory Reset option in the Test/Service part of the
Setup Mode.
• Use the printer’s built-in keyboard.

To return to factory default setup using the keyboard

1 Lift the printhead.
2 Switch on the power to the printer and press the <i> key and
wait until the printer beeps.
3 Swiftly press the following keys.
4 The following message will be displayed:
5 Within 10 seconds, press Enter to reset the printer to factory

default. The parameters will be reset and the printer will
continue the normal startup.
If you press or wait until the 10 seconds time-out

has passed, the normal startup process will continue without
any reset being performed.
Note: Resetting to the factory default will reset all files used to
store settings, but it does not affect settings that were already
loaded before the files were removed. This means that, for
example, EasyLAN Wireless settings (SSID, keys, etc.) retain
their values until the next reboot. To reload all settings, reset the
printer to the factory defaults and then reboot it.


6 Setup Mode
This chapter describes how to navigate Setup Mode and provides

overviews of Setup Mode.

Chapter 6 — Setup Mode
Navigating in Setup Mode

Enter the Setup Mode by pressing the Setup key on the printer’s
front panel. Text in the display guide you through the setup
procedure. Use the printer’s keyboard to navigate menus,
acknowledge displayed values, or select or enter new values.
Move one step back on the same level.
Move up one level without changing the setting.
Move forward on the same level.
Move down one level.
Acknowledge and move to next menu.
Exit Setup Mode. Can be used anywhere in Setup Mode.
Setup Mode is organized as an endless loop with a number of

sub-categories. At startup, the firmware determines if an
EasyLAN interface board is installed in the printer. If so, the
Network setup menus are shown in the Setup Mode.
The diagram below shows the options in the main loop. Detailed
overviews are shown on the following pages.

Setup Modes
All diagrams assume Intermec Fingerprint Language (IPL)
version 2.30 or later. Dotted boxes and lines indicate options.
Thick boxes indicate default options. Values inside brackets
indicate default settings.
Serial Communications
SETUP: Continued on
SER-COM the next page
SER-COM: SER-COM: SER-COM: SER-COM: SER-COM:

BAUDRATE DATA BITS PARITY STOP BITS PROTOCOL
BAUDRATE: DATA BITS: PARITY: STOP BITS: PROTOCOL:

9600
BAUDRATE; 8 CHAR LENGTH NONE
PARITY: 1 STOP BITS: XON/XOFF
ENQ/ACK:
19200
BAUDRATE; 7 EVEN
PARITY: 2 STANDARD
38400
BAUDRATE; ODD
PARITY: Scroll forward Scroll forward
57500
BAUDRATE; SPACE
115200
BAUDRATE; Scroll back Scroll back
1200
BAUDRATE; Scroll forward
2400
BAUDRATE; Scroll back
4800
Scroll forward
Scroll back
Network (Optional)
SETUP:
NETWORK These menus will only be displayed when an optional EasyLAN interface board is installed.
NETWORK: NETWORK: NETWORK: NETWORK: NETWORK: NETWORK:

IP SELECTION IP ADDRESS NETMASK DEFAULT ROUTER NAMESERVER MAC ADDRESS
IP SELECTION: IP ADDRESS: NETMASK: DEFAULT ROUTER: NAMESERVER: MAC ADDRESS:

DHCP+BOOTP
PARITY: 0.0.0.0 0.0.0.0 0.0.0.0 0.0.0.0 nnnnnnnnnnnn
MANUAL
PARITY: Read-only Read-only Read-only Read-only Read-only
DHCP
PARITY:
BOOTP

Test/Service
Continued from SETUP: Continued on
the previous page TEST/SERVICE the next page
TEST/SERVICE:
TESTPRINT
TESTPRINT: TESTPRINT: TESTPRINT: TESTPRINT:

CONFIG TEST LABELS FORMAT PAGE
CONFIG: TEST LABELS: FORMAT: PAGE:

SW
CONFIG: PITCH
TEST LABELS: ALL ALL
HW
CONFIG: PRINT QUALITY
NETWORK
ALL: ALL:
Scroll forward Scroll forward PRINT FORMATS PRINT PAGES
Scroll back Scroll back
TESTPRINT: TESTPRINT:
UDC FONT
UDC:
ALL
ALL:
PRINT UDC
TEST/SERVICE: TEST/SERVICE: TEST/SERVICE:

DATA DUMP MEMORY RESET LSS TEST
DATA DUMP: MEMORY RESET: LSS TEST:

NO
CONFIG: ALL
CONFIG: LSS AUTO
YES CONFIGURATION
Scroll forward Scroll forward LSS AUTO:

Media
Continued from SETUP: Continued on
the previous page MEDIA the next page
MEDIA : MEDIA : MEDIA : MEDIA : MEDIA :

MEDIA TYPE PAPER TYPE LBL LENGTH DOTS SENSITIVITY DARKNESS
MEDIA TYPE: PAPER TYPE: LBL LENGTH DOTS: SENSITIVITY: DARKNESS:

GAP
CONFIG: DT
CONFIG: 1200 420 0
MARK
CONFIG: TTR 100/200/400/800/ 120/130/140/160/170/ 0/1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/
CONTINUOUS Scroll forward 1200/1600/2000/ 180/222/226/236/238/ 9/10/-10/-9/-8/-7/
Scroll forward Scroll back 2500/3000/3600/ 366/369/420/440/450/ -6/-5/-4/-3/-2/-1
Scroll back 4200/4800 460/470/480/513/527/
533/563/565/567/623/
Scroll forward 627/633/647/673/677/ Scroll forward
Scroll back 687/720/854/864 Scroll back
Scroll forward
Scroll back
MEDIA : MEDIA : MEDIA : MEDIA : MEDIA :

LBL REST POINT FORM ADJ DOTS X FORM ADJ DOTS Y RIBBON LOW PAPER LOW
LBL REST POINT: FORM ADJ DOTS X: FORM ADJ DOTS Y: RIBBON LOW: PAPER LOW:
0 0 0 0 0
0/2/4/6/8/10/15/20/25/ 0/2/4/6/8/10/15/20/25/ 0/2/4/6/8/10/15/20/25/ 0/5/10/15/20/25/30/35/ 0/10/20/30/40/50/60/70/
30/-30/-25/-20/-15/-10/ 30/-30/-25/-20/-15/-10/ 30/-30/-25/-20/-15/-10/ 40/45/50/55/60/65/70/ 80/90/100/110/120/130/
-8/-6/-4/-2 -8/-6/-4/-2 -8/-6/-4/-2 75/80 140/150
Scroll forward Scroll forward Scroll forward Scroll forward Scroll forward
Scroll back Scroll back Scroll back Scroll back Scroll back
Configuration
Continued from SETUP: Return to
the previous page CONFIGURATION the start of
the loop
CONFIGURATION: CONFIGURATION: CONFIGURATION: CONFIGURATION:
PWRUP EMULATION PRINT SPEED CUTTER LTS CALIBRATION
PWRUP EMULATION: PRINT SPEED: CUTTER: LTS CALIBRATION:

NONE
CONFIG: 4PRINT
IN/SECSPPED: NOT INSTALLED
CONFIG: PRESS <ENTER>
86XX-10MIL
CONFIG: 5PRINT
IN/SECSPPED: ENABLE
CONFIG: Labels are fed out
86XX-15MIL 6PRINT
IN/SECSPPED: DISABLE
7PRINT
IN/SECSPPED: REMOVE LABEL AND
Scroll forward Scroll forward PRESS ENTER
8PRINT
IN/SECSPPED:
9PRINT
IN/SECSPPED: <Enter>
10 IN/SEC
PRINT SPPED:
11 IN/SEC
PRINT SPPED: SENSITIVITY 9
12 IN/SEC OUT OF 8-14
Read only,
Scroll forward press<Enter>
Scroll back


7 Options
This chapter describes the options available for the EasyCoder

PF4i printer. The options can be factory installed, field-installed
by an authorized service technician, or in some cases installed by
the operator.

Chapter 7 — Options
Overview
The EasyCoder PF4i printer provides a high degree of flexibility
because it has a modular design. By adding options to the basic
printer, the EasyCoder PF4i printer can be adapted for a variety
of applications. Some options should be installed by an
authorized service technician or are only available as factory-
installed options.
Covers
Printhead spring
Interface board
(various types)
Media supply
Label taken sensor roll post
1.5inch rotating
supply hub
Paper cutter
3-inch adapter
Short side door
Liner takeup
and guide shaft
Cutter tray Quick-Load

guides (included)
Long side door

Long side door Transfer ribbon
with 8-in. Megatop mechanism
Thick media
printhead
DTP Model
In the dedicated direct thermal printing (DTP) model, the
thermal transfer ribbon mechanism is omitted. The printer’s
default setup changes to direct thermal printing and setup
parameters for thermal transfer printing are not displayed.

Side Doors and Megatop

The EasyCoder PF4i comes with either a short side door, which
only covers the print mechanism or with one of two types of long
side doors, which enclose the entire media compartment. The
standard long side door has a fl at top and a slot for external
media supply. The 8-inch Megatop version has a hinged
transparent canopy that encloses a media roll with a diameter of
up to 213 mm (8.38 inches). The long side door is generally
illustrated throughout this manual, but pictures of the short side
door can be found at the start of this chapter and in Chapter 3,
“Media Load” on page 17.
Paper Cutter
The paper cutter is available both as a factory-installed option
and as a operator-installable kit. The optional paper cutter is
designed to cut off continuous feed paper-based stock or liner
between labels. Maximum thickness for normal paper-based
materials is 175 μm (˜175 grams/m2). The cut-off tags, tickets,
or labels can be collected in an optional tray.
The paper cutter increases the printer’s total weight by
approximately 1.0 kg (2.2 pounds) and its length by 28 mm (1.1
inches).
The paper cutter is intended to cut through continuous non-
adhesive paper-based media or through the liner between labels.
It must not cut through any adhesive, which would stick to the
cutting parts and rapidly render the cutter inoperable and
possibly also cause damage to the electric motor. If you cut
through adhesive, you may have to clean the cutting parts. Tilt
the cutter unit down and wipe it using a piece of tissue moistened
with isopropyl alcohol.
For media load instructions, see “Cut-Off ” on page 26.
The cutting edge will rotate when the power is switched on

and when the printer is re-booted. Always keep the cutter in
closed position during operation. Switch off the power or
disconnect the cutter before cleaning. Keep your fingers away
from cutting edges!

Note: The cutter must be enabled during Configuration in Setup

Mode. For more information, see “Cutter” on page 50 and
“Paper Cutter” on page 69.
Integral Liner Takeup Kit

The integral liner takeup unit is an optional device for peel-off
(self-strip) operation, which means the labels are separated from a
liner (backing paper) after printing and the liner is wound up on
an internal hub. The unit also includes a guide shaft. Peel-off
operation cannot be combined with Quick-Load guides.
This is a factory-installed option only and is used to separate
labels from the liner and wind up the spent liner inside the
printer’s media compartment. Labels, tickets, tags, etc. can be
wound up inside the media compartment after printing by fitting
a special guide to the front of the print unit.
The kit consists of a stepper motor that drives the liner drive
roller in the print unit (fitted as standard) and a takeup hub in
the media compartment. A guide shaft is fitted to the center
section immediately behind the slack absorber. A guide plate is
fitted at the rear of the media compartment and can be used to
replace the standard tear bar on the print unit for batch takeup
operation.
Operation and media load are described in Chapter 3,“Media
Load” on page 17.
Media Supply Hub

The rotating media supply hub is designed to fit media roll cores
with an internal diameter of 38-40 mm (1.5 inch). The hub can
be fitted in the same positions as the supply roll post, see Chapter
2. Being factory installed, the position of the media supply hub is
not intended to be changed by the operator.
3-inch Adapter
The 3-inch/76 mm adapter is included in the package and makes
it possible to use media rolls with 3 inch/76 mm inner diameter
cardboard cores.

The adapter is pressed onto the media supply hub and held in
place by a screw. When fitting the adapters, make sure that the
screw hits a rounded plastic surface, not a metal leaf spring. Not
used with a media supply roll post.
Label Taken Sensor

The Label Taken Sensor (LTS) is a photoelectric sensor fitted to
the center section inside the front door. It allows the printer’s
firmware to detect if the latest printed label, ticket, or tag has
been removed before printing another copy.
The label taken sensor is usually factory-fitted, but is also
available as a kit for installation by an authorized service
technician. It cannot be fitted in combination with a paper
cutter.
Thick Media Printhead

In addition to the standard printhead, which is designed for a
maximum media thickness of 175 μm (7 mils) there is an
optional printhead for thick media (170 to 220μm/6.6 to 8.7
mils). The printhead can easily be replaced or exchanged by the
operator as described in Chapter 9, “Maintenance” on page 81.
Interface Boards
A number of interface boards are available for use with the
EasyCoder PF4i printer. The interface boards are either factory-
fitted or can easily be fitted by an authorized service technician.
The EasyCoder PF4i printer can accommodate one EasyLAN
interface board plus one other interface board.
EasyLAN boards:
• EasyLAN Ethernet interface
• EasyLAN Wireless interface
Other communication boards:
• Parallel Interface Board (IEEE 1284)


8 Troubleshooting
This chapter describes how the Intermec Ready-to-Work

Indicator and other indicators work. It also lists various possible
cases of inferior printout quality, describes possible causes, and
suggests remedies.

Chapter 8 — Troubleshooting
Intermec Ready-to-Work Indicator

The readiness of the printer, individually or as a part of a
solution, is indicated by the blue Intermec Ready-to-Work
Indicator (RTW).
If the RTW blinks or is switched off, the printer is not ready.
Further information can be obtained in the display window by
pressing the i key. In case of several errors or similar conditions
occurring simultaneously, only the most significant error is
displayed. Once this error has been cleared, next remaining error
is displayed.
Provided the printer is connected to a network, all conditions
that prevents printing are reported to the Easy ADC Console.
The Easy ADC Console is a PC-based software which allows a
supervisor to monitor all connected devices that have an
Intermec Ready-to-Work Indicator, including handheld
computers, access points, and printers.
Displayed Error Messages and LED Indicators
RTW Displayed Error
Error/Event Status Message Comment
Operational On Not an error.
Out of paper Blink PAPER OUT
Out of transfer ribbon Blink RIBBON OUT
Transfer ribbon is Blink RIBBON
installed FITTED
Head lifted Blink PRINTHEAD UP
Cutter error 1 Blink OPEN&SHUT
CUTTER
CUTTER
CUTTER
Lss too high Blink PAPER FAULT
Lss too low Blink PAPER FAULT
Testfeed not done Blink PAPER FAULT
Press feed not done Blink PRESS FEED

Displayed Error Messages and LED Indicators (continued)

RTW Displayed Error
Error/Event Status Message Comment
Pause mode entered Blink PAUSED
Setup mode entered Blink Including
interactive
setup.
IP link error Blink See notes 1, 2,
and 3 below.
IP configuration error Blink See notes 1, 3,
and 4 below.
Printhead not found Off NO
PRINTHEAD
Rebooted Off
Initializing Off Appears at
startup until
printer is
operational.
Printer crash Off See notes 3
and 5 below.
Printer turned off Off
Maintenance Off Appears when
upgrading.
Power supply over Off PSU OVER
temperature TEMP
Printhead hot Off PRINTHEAD See note 6
HOT below.
Note 1: This is only applicable for printers equipped with an

EasyLAN interface.
Note 2: A printer that is equipped with an EasyLAN interface,
but is not connected to a network, will have a blinking RTW. To
avoid this, set “IP SELECTION” to “MANUAL” and “IP
ADDRESS” to “0.0.0.0”. This will indicate that the lack of
network connection is not an error.
Note 3: No trap can be sent when this error/event occurs.
Note 4: This error indicates that the printer has not received an
IP address. It is only applicable for printers with IP
SELECTION set to DHCP and/or BOOTP.
Note 5: At most, but not all, printer crashes, the console is reset.
This will make the RTW go off.
Note 6: If the printhead temperature rises above 100°C (212°F),
an error occurs and the printing will be paused until the
printhead has cooled off. Meanwhile, the printer is able to receive
commands and data until the buffer is filled. The printing is
automatically resumed when the printhead temperature has
reached 85°C (185°F).
Troubleshooting
Overall Weak Printout

Possible Cause Remedy Reference
Wrong media grade Change parameter Chapter 5,
Appendix D
Contrast value too low Change parameter Chapter 5
Printhead pressure too low Adjust pressure Chapter 10
Worn printhead Replace printhead Chapter 9
Wrong printhead voltage Replace CPU board Call Service
Printout Weaker On One Side

Uneven printhead pressure Adjust arm alignment Chapter 10
Weak Spots
Foreign particles on media Clean or replace Chapters 4 & 5
Media/ribbon don’t match Change to Chapter 5
matching media
Poor media or ribbon quality Select a better Appendix D
brand of media/
ribbon
Worn printhead Replace printhead Chapter 9
Worn platen roller Replace rollers Call Service

Overall Dark Printout

Appendix D
Contrast value too high Change parameter Chapter 5
Printhead pressure too high Adjust Chapter 10
Wrong printhead voltage Replace CPU board Call Service
Excessive Bleeding
Appendix D
Contrast value too high Change parameter Chapter 5
Printhead pressure too high Adjust pressure Chapter 10
Faulty energy control Replace CPU board Call Service
Dark Lines Along Media Path

Foreign objects on printhead Clean printhead Chapter 9
White Vertical Lines

Printhead dirty Clean printhead Chapter 9
Missing printhead Replace printhead Chapter 9
Large Part Of Dot Line Missing

Failing printhead Replace printhead Chapter 10
Failing strobe signal Check CPU board Call Service

Printout Missing Along Inner Edge

Bad media alignment Adjust media alignment Chapter 3
Using small core with supply Move post to lower Chapter 2
post in upper position. position
X-start parameter value too low Increase value Chapter 5
Transfer Ribbon Breaks

Ribbon not fitted correctly Reload ribbon correctly Chapter 4
Wrong media grade Change parameter, then Chapter 5,
clean printhead Chapter 9
Bad energy control Adjust Call Service
Transfer Ribbon Wrinkles

Faulty ribbon break shaft adjustment Adjust shaft. Chapter 10
Incorrect edge guide adjustment Adjust edge guide Chapter 3
Printhead pressure too strong Adjust pressure Chapter 10
No Thermal Transfer Printout

Ink-coated side of ribbon is not facing Reload ribbon Chapter 4
media
Media Feed Not Working Properly

Changed media characteristics Press the Print button Chapter 3
Wrong label rest dots parameter Check/change Chapter 5
Wrong Media Type parameter Check/change Chapter 5
Wrong LSS position Check/change Chapter 10

Media Feed Not Working Properly (continued)

Dirty sensors Clean sensors Chapter 9
Faulty sensors Replace sensors Call Service
Compressed Text Or Bar Code

Too high print speed for large media Reduce print speed Chapter 5
roll


9 Maintenance
This chapter describes how the operator can maintain the printer.
Regular maintenance is important for the printout quality and
for the life of the printhead. The chapter covers the following
topics:
• Printhead cleaning
• External cleaning
• Cleaning the label stop sensor
• Printhead replacement
• Media jams
When cleaning or replacing the printhead, take ample

precautions to avoid electrostatic discharges.

Chapter 9 — Maintenance
Printhead Cleaning
Cleaning the printhead on a regular basis is important for the life
of the printhead and for the printout quality. You should clean
the printhead each time you replace the media. This section
describes how to clean the printhead using cleaning cards. If
additional cleaning is required, for example removing adhesive
residue from the platen roller or tear bar, use a cotton swab
moistened with isopropyl alcohol.
Isopropyl alcohol [(CH-3)2CHOH; CAS 67-63-0] is a highly

flammable, moderately toxic, and mildly irritating substance.
To clean the printhead


2 Turn the printhead lift lever counterclockwise to raise the

printhead.
3 Remove any media and transfer ribbon.

4 Open the cleaning card envelope and pull out the cleaning
card. Read the warning text.
5 Insert most of the cleaning card under the printhead (1).

Engage the printhead (2).

6 Pull out the cleaning card (1) and raise the printhead (2).
7 Wait for approximately 30 seconds to allow the cleaning fluid

to dissolve the residue.

8 Insert most of the cleaning card under the printhead again

(1). Engage the printhead (2).
9 Pull out the cleaning card. If necessary, repeat the process with
a fresh cleaning card.

10 Allow the cleaned parts to dry completely before loading any

media or ribbon.
External Cleaning
To clean the exterior of the printer
1 Always remove the power cord before cleaning!

2 Wipe external surfaces with a soft cloth slightly moistened

with water or a mild detergent.
3 Never spray the printer. Protect it from water when cleaning

the premises.
4 Never use any sharp tools for removing stuck labels. The
printhead and rollers are delicate.

Cleaning the Media Guides

The label stop sensor, which controls the media feed, is partially
enclosed by two plastic guides. Light passes through slots
between the upper and lower part of the sensor. If these areas are
not clean, stuck labels or other objects may block the light beam
and the label stop sensor will not function.
If the printer starts to feed out labels in an unexpected way,
remove the guides as described below and check for anything
blocking the beam of light, such as dust, stuck labels, or adhesive
residue. If necessary, clean the guides using a cleaning card or a
soft cloth soaked with isopropyl alcohol. Do not use any other
type of chemicals.

To clean the Media Guides

1 Pull the upper guide straight out. (Upper part of print unit
omitted for better view.)

2 Press the snap-lock, lift the outer end of the lower guide and
pull it out.
3 Check for anything blocking the beam of light, such as dust,

stuck labels, or adhesive residue. If necessary, clean the guides
using a cleaning card or a soft cloth soaked with isopropyl
alcohol. Do not use any other type of chemical.

4 After cleaning, reassemble in reverse order.

Printhead Replacement
The printhead is subject to wear both from the direct thermal
media or transfer ribbon and from the rapid heating and cooling
process during printing. This means that the printhead will
require periodic replacement.
Time between printhead replacements depends on the print
images, the type of direct thermal media or ribbon in use, the
amount of energy to the printhead, the print speed, the ambient
temperature, and several other factors.
While replacing the printhead, the power must be off. The

firmware will not detect the new printhead resistance and
density until the printer has been restarted.
To replace the printhead


2 Turn the printhead lift lever counter-clockwise to raise the

printhead.
3 Remove any media and transfer ribbon.

4 Pull the printhead bracket away from the magnet in the

pressure arm.
5 Disconnect the hooked printhead bracket fingers from the

shaft and pull out the printhead as far as the cables allow.

6 Disconnect the cables from the printhead. Note the snap-lock

on the inner connector. Pull on the connectors, not on the
cables.
7 Connect the two cables to the replacement printhead.

8 Fit the hooks of the printhead bracket fingers onto the

headlift shaft. Make sure that the cables do not prevent the
bracket fingers from being properly seated.
9 Close the printhead so the magnet engages the printhead

bracket.
10 Load a new supply of media and ribbon as described earlier in

this manual.

Media Jams
Should a media jam occur in the print mechanism, proceed this
way to clear it.
To clear a media jam
1 Always switch off the power before starting to clear the
jammed media.
2 Raise the printhead and pull out the media.
3 If the media has been wound up on or has stuck to the platen
roller, carefully remove it by hand without using any sharp
tools that can damage the delicate platen roller or printhead.
Avoid rotating the platen roller.
If you must pull away the media by force causing the

platen roller to rotate, it is very important that the power
has been off for a minute or more. If not, the electronics
can be damaged beyond repair.
4 Cut off any damaged or wrinkled part.

5 Check if there is any adhesive somewhere in the print
mechanism. If there is, remove it using a cleaning card or a
cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
Isopropyl alcohol [(CH-3)2CHOH; CAS 67-63-0] is a

highly flammable, moderately toxic, and mildly irritating
substance.
6 Reload the media as described in Chapter 3.

7 Switch on the power.
8 Readjust the media feed by raising and closing the printhead
and then pressing the Feed/Pause key.

10 Adjustments
This chapter describes how the operator can adjust the printer.
The chapter covers the following topics:
• Narrow media adjustment
• Label stop sensor adjustment
• Printhead pressure adjustment
• Ribbon Break shaft adjustment
• Quick-Load guides installation

Chapter 10 — Adjustments
Adjusting for Narrow Media

The printer is factory-adjusted for full size media width. When
using narrower media, adjust the pressure arm so it remains
centered on the media and applies pressure evenly.
A poorly adjusted pressure arm may be detected by a weaker
printout on either side of the media path.
Screw
Center of media
Pressure arm
A dedicated direct thermal EasyCode PF4i Printer
To adjust the pressure arm for narrow media

1 Remove the ribbon, if any.
2 Loosen the knob that holds the pressure arm.

3 Move the arm inwards or outwards until the arrow on the tip
of the arm becomes centered on the media stock. Push at the
part where the knob is situated, not at the tip. If the arm is
hard to move, lift the printhead and pull the printhead
bracket free from the magnet in the arm.
4 Lock the arm in the new, centered position by tightening the
knob.
5 Re-adjust the edge guides.
6 Reload the ribbon, if any.
Adjusting Printhead Pressure

The pressure of the thermal printhead against the ribbon or
direct thermal media is factory adjusted. However, the use of
thicker or thinner media than normal could require the printhead
pressure to be readjusted.
Using a straight-slot screwdriver, turn the adjustment screw
clockwise for more pressure (+) or counterclockwise for less
pressure (-). Print a few labels, preferably Test labels, and check
the printout. For help printing test labels, see “Testprint” on
page 53. Increased pressure generally gives a darker printout and
vice versa. Repeat until the desired result is obtained.
Do not use a higher printhead pressure than necessary.

Unnecessary pressure may increase the wear of the printhead
and shorten its life.

To return to the factory setting, tighten the screw (+) as far as it

goes and then loosen it (-) four full turns. Test with a piece of
media under the printhead. You should be able to pull it out
without more than just a little resistance.
Adjustment screw
Printhead Pressure Adjustment Screw

Adjusting the Label Stop Sensor

The label stop sensor (LSS) is a photoelectric sensor that controls
the printer’s media feed by detecting gaps between labels or slots
or black marks in continuous stock, depending on the printer’s
setup in regard of media type. The LSS should be aligned with
the gaps, slots, or black marks. If using irregularly shaped labels,
align the LSS with the front tips of the labels.
The LSS can be moved laterally between 5 fi xed positions. There
is one part of the sensor on top of the upper media guide and
another part underneath the lower guide. These must be adjusted
individually to the same position. Using a small screwdriver, push
them inwards as far as they go and then pull them out one at the
time while counting the clicks from the snap-locks. A hole in the
bottom plate facilitates adjustment of the lower sensor package.
The various detection points of the sensor in relation to the inner
edge of the media are as follows:
One click out 3 mm / 0.118 inch
Two clicks out 8 mm / 0.315 inch
Three clicks out 12 mm / 0.472 inch
Four clicks out 16 mm / 0.639 inch
Five clicks out 20 mm / 0.787 inch
One diode +
One sensor
Upper part of LSS
Lower part of LSS

One diode +
One sensor
Print mechanism
Label Stop Sensor Parts and Location

Adjusting the Ribbon Break Shaft

If ribbon wrinkling occurs, you may need to adjust the alignment
of the front ribbon break shaft so that it runs parallel to the
printhead and the ribbon supply and rewind hubs. The
adjustment is done using a straightslot screw that is located
immediately behind the front ribbon break shaft.
Before readjusting the break shaft, make sure that there is no

other cause for the wrinkling of the ribbon. (See Chapter 8,
“Troubleshooting” on page 73.)
• If the ribbon tends to slide outwards, turn the screw carefully

clockwise (forwards) to move the outer end of the break shaft
forward.
• If the ribbon tends to slide inwards, turn the screw carefully
counterclockwise (backwards) to move the outer end of the
break shaft backward.
Adjustment screw
Ribbon break shaft
Ribbon Break Shaft Adjustment Screw

Installing the Quick-Load Guides

The Quick-Load guides may, depending on model, be factory-
installed or be enclosed in the box for optional installation by the
user. They replace the standard edge guide.
There are two types of Quick-Load Guide. The narrow type is
used with media that is 40-114.3 mm (1.57-4.5 inches) wide,
and the wide type is used for media between 80 and 114.3 mm
(3.15-4.5 inches). The inner guide should be fitted flush to the
center section, whereas the outer of the guide is adjustable for
various media widths.
The Quick-Load guides facilitate media load from behind the
print mechanism and help guiding the media when using an
external supply. Refer to Chapter 3, “Tear-Off with Quick-Load
(Straight Through)” on page 23 for loading instructions.
Quick-Load guides cannot be used for peel-off operation. The
standard ring-shaped edge guide is used when you want to load
the media from the side rather than from behind and is also used
for peel-off operation.
To install the Quick-Load Guides
1 Lift up the upper media guide and pull out the green edge
guide. Do not discard the edge guide.

2 Press the wide or narrow Quick-Load guides onto the shaft as

illustrated, making sure that the notches fit the rail at the rear
of the lower media guide.

A Technical Data
This appendix lists the technical data for the printer. Please note
that Intermec reserves the right to change this information
without prior notice and that this information does not represent
a commitment on the part of Intermec.

Chapter A — Technical Data
Printing
Print Technique Direct Thermal and Thermal
Transfer
Printhead Resolution 8 dots/mm (203 dpi)
Print Speed (variable) 100 to 200 mm/sec ( ± 4 to 8 in./
sec.)
Print Width (max) 104 mm (4.095 in.) or 832 dots
Print Length (max) 32767 dots = 409.5 cm
(161.25 in.) See Note 1
Media Width (min/max) 25 to 114.3mm (1 to 4.5 in.)
Standard Edge Guides
Media Width (min/max) 40/80 to 114.3 mm
Quick-Load Guides (1.57/3.15 to 4.5 inches)
Media Roll Diameter (max) 213 mm (8.38 in.)
Media Roll Core Diameter 38 to 40 mm (1.5 in.)
Ribbon Width (min/max) 55 to 110 mm (2.17 to 4.33 in.)
Ribbon Roll Diameter (outer), 65 mm (2.56 in.) with 240-300 m
max. (787-985 feet) of ribbon, depending
on ribbon thickness.
Ribbon Roll Core Diameter 25 mm (1.00 inches)
(inner)
Print Directions 4
Modes of Operation
Tear-Off (Straight-through) Yes
Cut-Off Option With cutter installed
Peel-Off (Self-strip) Option With rewinder installed
Firmware
Operating System IPL v2.20
Smooth Fonts 13 scalable + 21 simulated bitmap
Built-in bar code symbologies 38

Physical Measurements
Dimensions (W × L × H) 244 x 397 x 178 mm
With long side door (9.61 x 15.63 x 7.00 inches)
With paper cutter installed (9.96 x17.60 x 7.00 inches)
With 8-inch Megatop installed (9.61 x 18.54 x 8.86 inches
Weight (excluding media) 7 to 8 kg (15.5 to 17.7 pounds)
Ambient Operating Temperature +5°C to +40°C (+41°F to +104°F)
Humidity 20 to 80% non-condensing
Electronics
Microprocessor 32 bit RISC
On-board Flash SIMMs 2 sockets for 4MB or 8MB each
Standard 1x 4MB
On-board SDRAM SIMM 1 socket for 8MB or 16MB
Standard 8MB
Power Supply
AC Voltage 90 to 265 VAC, 45 to 65 Hz
PFC Regulation IEC 61000-3-2
Power Consumption Minimum 15W; Peak 300W
Sensors
Label Gap/Black Mark/Out of Media Yes
Five fixed positions.
Printhead Lifted Yes
Ribbon End/Ribbon Low Yes
Thermal transfer model only.
Controls
Indicator Lamps 3
Display 2 × 16 character LCD with background light

Controls
Keyboard 7 keys membrane-switch type
Feed/Pause button 1
Beeper Yes
Data Interfaces
Serial 1 × RS-232
Connection for Optional 1+1 1 for EasyLAN, 1 for
Interface Boards EEEE 1284
Memory Card Adapter 1 Firmware upgrade only.
Accessories and Options

Thick Media Printhead 170-220 μm (6.6 to 8.7 mm)
Integral Self-strip Unit with Liner For peel-off operation
Takeup
Rotating Media Supply Hub Replaces supply post
3-inch Adapter for Media Supply Hub
Cutter
Short Side Door See Note 2
Long Side Door See Note 2
Long Side Door with 8-inch Megatop See Note 2
Label Taken Sensor Option
RS-232 Cable Option
Parallel Interface Cable
Parallel Interface Board Option IEEE 1284
EasyLAN Ethernet Interface
EasyLAN Wireless Interface
CompactFlash Cards 8MB - 1 GB
Note 1: The maximum print length is also restricted by the

amount of free SDRAM memory.
Note 2: Depending on model, the printer may be delivered with
one of three types of doors.

B Media Specifications
This appendix specifies the physical measures for various types of

media.

Chapter B — Media Specifications
Media Roll Size
Core
Diameter (A), standard: 38-40 mm (1.5 inches), with adapter:
76.2 mm (3 inches)
Width: Must not protrude outside the media.
The media must be wound up on the core in such a way that the
printer can pull the end free.
Media
Diameter:
• Position 1 152 mm / 6.00 inches
Maximum: 114.3 mm / 4.50 inches
Minimum (standard): 25 mm /1.00 inches
Minimum (Quick-Load): 40 mm / 1.57 inches

The recommended media thickness is 175μm (7 mils) with the

standard printhead or 220μm (8.7 mils) with the special thick
media printhead. If thicker media is used, print quality may be
reduced. Media stiffness must be balanced against thickness to
maintain print quality. Media rolls to be loaded inside the printer
should be wound with the printable side facing outwards.
The media supply must not be exposed to dust, sand, or grit. Any
hard particles, however small, can damage the printhead.
Media
Self-Adhesive Strip (Continuous Stock)
(a) External Media Width
(including liner)
Maximum: 114.3 mm (4.5
inches)
Minimum (standard): 25 mm
(1.00 inches)
Minimum (narrow Quick-
Load): 40 mm (1.57 inches)
Minimum (wide Quick-Load):
SELF-ADHESIVE 80 mm (3.15 inches)
STRIP
(b) Liner Width
The liner must not extend more
than a total of 1.6 mm (0.06
inch) past the edge of the face
material and should protrude
equally on both sides.
(c) Internal Media Width (excluding backing)

Maximum: 112.7 mm (4.43 inches)
Minimum: 23.8 mm (0.94 inches)
Media Type Setup: Continuous Stock

Self-Adhesive Labels (Gap Stock)

a (a) External Media Width
(including liner)
Maximum: 114.3 mm (4.5
inches)
c Minimum (standard): 25 mm
(1.00 inches)
Minimum (narrow Quick-
Load): 40 mm (1.57 inches)
Minimum (wide Quick-Load):
d 80 mm (3.15 inches)
(b) Liner Width
e The liner must not extend
more than a total of 1.6 mm
SELF-ADHESIVE (0.06 inches) past the edge of
LABELS the face material and should
protrude equally on both sides.
(c) Internal Media Width
(excluding backing)
b b
Minimum: 23.8 mm (0.94
inches
FEED Maximum: 112.7 mm (2.30
DIRECTION inches)
(d) Label Length

Minimum: 8 mm (0.32 inches)
Maximum: 6,143 mm (241 inches), provided that there is a
sufficient amount of free SDRAM memory
Under ideal circumstances, a minimum label length of 4 mm

(0.16 inches) could be used. It requires that the sum of the label
length (d) and the label gap (e) is larger than 7 mm (0.28 inches),
that batch printing is used, and that no pull back of the media is
performed. Intermec does not guarantee that such short labels
will work; it is up to the user to test it.

(e) Label Gap

Recommended: 3.0 mm (0.12 inches)
The Label Stop Sensor must be able to detect the extreme front
edges of the labels. For more information, see “Adjusting the
Label Stop Sensor” on page 101.
Media Type Setup: Gap Stock
Non-Adhesive Strip (Continuous Stock)
(a) Media Width
Minimum (standard): 25 mm (1.00
inches)
Minimum (narrow Quick-Load): 40
mm (1.57 inches)
Minimum (wide Quick-Load): 80
mm (3.15 inches)
NON-ADHESIVE
STRIP
Media Type Setup: Continuous Stock

Tickets With Gaps (Gap Stock)

a (a) Media Width
inches)
mm (1.57 inches)
b mm (3.15 inches)
c
e (b) Copy Length
d Minimum: 8 mm (0.32 inches)
Maximum: 6,143 mm (241 inches)
provided there is a sufficient amount
of free SDRAM memory
TICKETS & TAGS

Under ideal circumstances, a
minimum label length of 4 mm (0.16
inches) could be used. It requires the
sum of the label length (d) and the
label gap (e) to be larger than 7 mm
(0.28 inches), that batch printing is
used, and that no pull-back of the
FEED media is performed. Intermec does
DIRECTION not guarantee that such short labels
will work; it is up to the user to test it.
(c) LSS Detection Position: Five positions, see “Label Taken

Sensor” on page 71.
(d) Detection Length
The length of the detection slit (excluding corner radii) must be a
minimum of 2.5 mm (0.10 inches) to either side (right or left) of
the label stop sensor detection position.
(e) Detection Height
Recommended: 1.6 mm (0.06 inches)

Media Type Setup: Gap Stock

Note: Handle perforated media carefully to avoid rips or breaks along
the perforations. Broken or ripped perforations, particularly at the
edges, may cause the media to break or misfeed during printing.
Tickets With Black Mark (Mark Stock)

Note: Preprint that may interfere with the detection of the black mark
should be avoided.
Note: The black mark should be non-reflective carbon black on a
whitish background.
(a) Media Width

a
inches)
c b mm (1.57 inches)
e mm (3.15 inches)
d f (b) Ticket Length
Maximum: 6,143 mm (241 inches),
TICKETS provided there is a sufficient amount
WITH MARKS
of free SDRAM memory
(c) LSS Detection Position: Five
positions, see “Label Taken Sensor”
on page 71.
(d) Black Mark Width
The detectable width of the black
mark should be at least 5.0 mm (0.2
FEED
inches) on either side of the LSS
DIRECTION detection point.
(e) Black Mark Length

Common: 12.5 mm (0.5 inches)

(f ) Black Mark Y-Position

The black mark should be as close to the front edge of the ticket
as possible, either on the top or on the back of the media.
Media Type Setup: Mark Stock
Note: Handle perforated media carefully to avoid rips or breaks along
the perforations. Broken or ripped perforations, particularly at the
edges, may cause the media to break or misfeed during printing.

C Interfaces
This appendix describes the interface connectors found on the

printer’s rear plate. It covers the following topics:
• RS-232 interface
• Optional interfaces

Chapter C — Interfaces
RS-232 Interface
Protocol For The Default Setup
To change the interface settings, see Chapter 5, “Setting Up the
Printer” on page 49
Baud rate: 9600
Character length: 8 bits
Parity: None
Stop bits: 1
RTS/CTS: Disabled
ENQ/ACK: Disabled
XON/XOFF: Disabled (both ways)
New Line: CR/LF
RS-232
SIgnals On Printer’s Serial Port
DB-9 Signal Meaning
1 External +5V DC*
2 TXD Transmit data
3 RXD Receive data
4 DSR Data set ready
5 GND Ground
6 DTR Data terminal ready
7 CTS Clear to send
8 RTS Request to send
9 --- Not Used

* The external +5V is limited to 500 mA and is automatically

switched off at overload.
Interface Cable
Computer end: Depends on computer model
Printer end: DB-9 plug
Optional Interfaces
The printer can optionally be fitted with an IEEE 1284 Parallel
Interface Board at the right-hand side of the printer’s rear plate.
The printer can also be fitted with one of the following EasyLAN
interface boards for connection to a Local Area Network (LAN).
• EasyLAN Ethernet Interface
• EasyLAN Wireless Interface
IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface Board
Parallel interface connector
EasyLAN Ethernet Interface

RJ-45 EasyLAN connector

EasyLAN Wireless Interface
EasyLAN antenna

D Media Sensitivity Number
This appendix describes how to determine the correct Media

Sensitivity Number (MSN) for various types of direct thermal
media or thermal transfer ribbon. It also includes instructions on
how to determine the printer’s current media sensitivity setting
and how to adjust it.

Chapter D — Media Sensitivity Number
About the Media Sensitivity Number (MSN)

The media sensitivity number (MSN) specifies the amount of
heat the printhead needs to image a label. The amount of heat
required is unique due to different chemistries and
manufacturing processes. Setting the media sensitivity correctly
optimizes both print quality and print speed.
Intermec has determined MSNs that produce the highest possible
print quality for Intermec media and ribbon combinations on
Intermec printers.
Determining the Current Media Sensitivity Setting

You can use Setup mode to print out a configuration label that
includes the printer’s current media sensitivity setting. For
instructions, see “Test/Service” on page 64.
By default, the MSN for direct thermal media is 420 and 567 for
thermal transfer media.
Changing the Current Media Sensitivity Setting

Use the Setup Mode, PrintSet, third-party software, or the
Intermec printer language (IPL) command set to change the
printer’s media sensitivity number. The following example sets
the MSN to 567 using the IPL command set.
To set the sensitivity rating
1 Find the three-digit sensitivity rating.
2 At the DOS prompt, type the following command and press
Enter:
MODE COM1 96,E,7,1,N
3 Type the following command lines and press Enter:
COPY CON COM1
<STX><SI>g1,567<ETX>^Z

Determining the MSN for Intermec-Approved Media and

Ribbons
To determine an exact media sensitivity number, obtain the part
number of your media and/or ribbon and call 1-800-755-5505,
press 1 and then 1. The part number may be printed on the
outside of the box carton.
Both the thermal transfer media and ribbon have a sensitivity
number. To determine the MSN, combine the digits. Note that
“combine” does not mean “add”.
Sensitivity
Media or Ribbon Number Description
Thermal transfer media 56* The asterisk for the third
digit is reserved to
identify the ribbon’s
sensitivity number.
Thermal transfer ribbon 5*7 The asterisk for the
second digit is reserved to
identify the media’s
sensitivity number.
567 Optimum sensitivity
number.
Determining the MSN for Other Media and Ribbons

If you are not using Intermec-approved media and ribbon, you
can still achieve good print quality by setting an approximate
media sensitivity number.
If your media is not listed in the table below, but a similar media
is, use the approximate sensitivity level listed in the first column
to achieve acceptable print quality. For example: 800, 700, 100.
If you cannot determine an approximate sensitivity level, start
with the highest setting (800 for thermal transfer and 700 for
direct thermal) and work your way down until you achieve
acceptable print quality. You can also use PrintSet’s Print Quality
Wizard to help achieve acceptable print quality.

Media Sensitivity Numbers for Intermec-Approved Media

and Ribbons
MSNs for popular Intermec-approved media and ribbons.
Direct Thermal Media Sensitivity Settings
Sensitivity Level MSN Direct Thermal Media
400 Series Medium Sensitivity 480 Duratherm Lightning IR Tag
470 Duratherm Lightning-2
460 European IR
450 Duratherm Lightning IR
440 Thermal Eco Label
430 Duratherm Synthetic
100 Series Low Sensitivity 180 Duratherm II, Duratherm III, Duratherm II Tag
170 Thermal Top Board
160 Duratherm II Tag
140 Thermal Top Label
120 Thermal Eco Board
Thermal Transfer Media and Ribbon Sensitivity Settings

Sensitivity Level MSN Media (Ribbon Stock)
800 Series High Sensitivity (Paper) 864 TTR Uncoated (GP02)
600 Series Medium Sensitivity 687 8-mil Synthetic Tag (TMX2200), Duratran II
(Synthetic) Matte Polyester (TMX2200), Valeron Tag
(TMX2200)
677 Syntran (TMX2200)
673 Syntran (TMX1500)
633 TTR Polyethylene Label (HP05)
627 Kimdura (TMX2200)
623 Kimdura (TMX1500)
500 Series Medium Sensitivity 567 Duratran II Labels (TMX2200)
(Paper)
527 Duratran II Tag 5 (TMX2200)
513 TTR Coated Label (GP02)
300 Series Low Sensitivity 366 Duratran II Gloss (TMX3202)
(Synthetic)

Worldwide Headquarters
6001 36th Avenue West
Everett, Washington 98203
U.S.A.
tel 425.348.2600
fax 425.355.9551
www.intermec.com
EasyCoder PF4i Bar Code Label Printer
*934-027-001*
P/N 934-027-001

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User’s Guide

ii EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) iii

Before You Begin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi

Description of EasyCoder PF4i Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Switching On the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) v

Tear-Off with Quick-Load (Straight Through) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

External Supply (Fan-Fold) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

4 Ribbon Load for Thermal Transfer Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

5 Setting Up the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

vi EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

Form Adj Dots Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Returning to Factory Default Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Navigating in Setup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Side Doors and Megatop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Integral Liner Takeup Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Media Supply Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Label Taken Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Thick Media Printhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) vii

Intermec Ready-to-Work Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Cleaning the Media Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Adjusting for Narrow Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Adjusting Printhead Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Adjusting the Label Stop Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Adjusting the Ribbon Break Shaft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Installing the Quick-Load Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

A Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

B Media Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Media Roll Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

viii EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

Non-Adhesive Strip (Continuous Stock). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

RS-232 Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Optional Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

D Media Sensitivity Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

About the Media Sensitivity Number (MSN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Determining the Current Media Sensitivity Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Changing the Current Media Sensitivity Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Determining the MSN for Intermec-Approved Media and Ribbons . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Determining the MSN for Other Media and Ribbons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Media Sensitivity Numbers for Intermec-Approved Media and Ribbons . . . . . . . . . 124

EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) ix

x EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

Before You Begin

EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) xi

A caution alerts you to an operating procedure, practice,

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Note: Notes either provide extra information about a topic or

Global Services and Support

xii EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)

provided “as is with all faults.” All warranties are expressly

In the U.S.A. and Canada

Outside the U.S.A. and Canada, contact your local

Service Location Support

EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version) xiii

For technical support in South Korea, use the after service

xiv EasyCoder PF4i User’s Guide (IPL Version)