INDEX Getting Started Introduction and Safe Operation

INDEX
Getting Started
Introduction and Safe Operation............................................. 2-3
General Description................................................................ 4-5
Battery Information ................................................................. 6-8
Quick Start with Viper™ LS6 .....................................................9
Ribbon Loading & Selection .....................................................10
Label Loading...........................................................................11
Keyboard ............................................................................ 12-13
Working with the Viper™ LS6
Using the Viper™ LS6 ....................................................... 14-16
Tools for Building Labels
Text Tool .......................................................................17
Serialization Tool ..................................................... 18-19
Symbol Tool...................................................................20
Line Tool .......................................................................22
Box Tool ........................................................................23
Data Tool ................................................................. 24-25
Bar Code Tool.......................................................... 26-27
Date / Time Tool ............................................................28
Setting Up the Viper™ LS6................................................ 29-30
Saving Files …………………………………………………… 31-32
Retrieving Files ……………………..……………………… 33-34
Interfacing to a Computer - ViperLink™ ..………………………..35
Cleaning Instructions ................................................................36
Troubleshooting.................................................................. 37-41
Warranty Information ….. .........................................................42
General Specifications..............................................................43
Replacement Parts and Accessories........................................44
1
™
LS6
Operator’s Manual
Panduit Corp.
1819 Atlanta Highway
Cumming, GA 30040
USA
Attention: Labeling Systems Department
Printers & Software – 866-871-4571
www.panduit.com/eg/ls6
email: [email protected]
LS6-MAN-A
REV. 3 – 12/07/01
INTRODUCTION & SAFE OPERATION
The Viper LS6 Hand-Held Printer is the complete printing solution for
Electricians, Assemblers, Maintenance & Repair, Construction, and Network
Communications Personnel. This versatile on-site, on-demand printer
provides users the ability to save, retrieve, and edit custom or serialized
labels for wire and cable marking, component labeling, network labeling, and
facilities identification.
This manual will guide you step by step through the set-up, operation, and
troubleshooting of the Viper™ LS6 Printer. If you have problems not covered
herein, contact your local Panduit Sales Representative or call Panduit
Technical Support at 888-506-5400, ext 7470.
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
The following general safety practices supplement the specific warnings and
cautions depicted elsewhere in this manual. They are recommended
precautions that must be understood and applied during the operation and
maintenance of this printer.
Do Not Operate In An Explosive Environment
Do not operate the printer in the presence of flammable gases or fumes.
Operation of this printer in such an environment constitutes a definite safety
hazard.
Do Not Operate In Wet Or Damp Areas
Do not operate this printer in wet or damp areas. Operation of the printer in
such an environment constitutes a definite safety hazard.
Do Not Substitute Parts Or Modify Equipment
Because of the danger of introducing additional hazards, do not install
substitute parts or perform an unauthorized modification to the printer or its
accessories. The proper components for service and repair may be obtained
from the Panduit Corporation.
2
INTRODUCTION & SAFE OPERATION
WARNING:
When the printer has been in use for an extended period of time, the
printer motor may become hot. DO NOT touch the printer motor with
bare hands.
Information to USA Users
NOTE: This printer has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of FCC rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
the printer is operated in a commercial environment. This printer generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not used in accordance
with this instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this printer in a residential area is likely to
cause interference in which case the user will be required to correct the
interference at his own expense.
Information to Canadian Users
This digital apparatus does not exceed Class A limits for radio noise
emissions for digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations
of the Canadian Department of Communications.
Le present appareil numerique n’emet pas de bruits radioelectriques
depassant les limites applicables aux appareils numeriques de la class A
prescrites dans le Reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le
ministere des Communications du Canada.
It is possible that infrequent electrical phenomena (static discharge, power
line fluctuations) may cause printer function to be temporarily interrupted. In
this case, the printer will usually reset itself. In extreme cases, the user should
remove then re-apply power (battery pack and/or AC Adapter).
Printer Power Supply
The Viper LS6 is supplied with a NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) battery. This
battery is re-chargeable. The life expectancy of the NiMH battery is
approximately 500 charge/discharge cycles. After the NiMH has surpassed its
useful life, it must be disposed of properly. DO NOT PLACE THE SPENT
NiMH BATTERY IN AN UNAPPROVED TRASH RECEPTACLE. All NiMH
batteries should be disposed of according to local rules and regulations. It is
strongly recommended that the NiMH battery be re-cycled per local rules and
regulations.
3
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Cutter Knob
LCD Display
RS232 Serial
Port
Label Door
Ribbon
Door
AC Adapter Plug
PCMCIA Slot
(Future)
4
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Print Technology
The Viper LS6 prints labels using thermal transfer printing technology. The
print head melts ink contained on a thin web of material, allowing the ink to
transfer to the label material. The print head operates at 203 dots per inch.
Smart Label Roll – See page 11
The Viper LS6 label supplies are wound on a label cartridge that is plugged
into a socket in the printer. The label cartridge is read by the printer operating
system. The operating system AUTOMATICALLY selects the appropriate
printer settings. Also, the operating system will keep track of the number of
labels used from each roll and report the remaining labels to the user unless
labels are manually removed.
Ribbon Cartridge – See page 10
The ribbon material which contains the thermal transfer ink is housed in a
plastic housing to keep it clean, and to allow for easy installation and
replacement.
Battery Pack – See pages 6-6
A 12 volt battery powers the Viper LS6. The battery is a rechargeable NiMH
(Nickel-Metal Hydride) type which offers longer life than an equivalently sized
Ni-Cad (Nickel-Cadmium) battery. Also, NiMH batteries are more
environmentally friendly than Ni-Cad, resulting in less stringent recycling
requirements.
AC Adapter / Battery Charger – See page 6-6
An AC Adapter is included for powering the Viper LS6. The AC adapter is
compatible with international power systems (100 – 240 VAC). The Viper
LS6 includes an internal overnight battery charging circuit. The AC Adapter is
used to power the charging circuit. This circuit is intended to charge a
completely discharged battery pack in less than 15 hours. Contact the factory
for the availability of a fast battery charging accessory.
Label Cutter
A manually operated label cutter is included. The Viper LS6 will
automatically place the printed label in the proper position for cutting.
Carrying Case
A custom carrying case to protect and transport the printer and accessories.
PC Upgrade Kit – See page 34
An upgrade kit consisting of a cable for connection to a personal computer
(PC) and a CD containing the operating system in several languages (contact
factory for availability of languages), and an application program ViperLink .
ViperLink is used to connect the PC and the Viper LS6.
5
BATTERY INFORMATION
A 12 volt NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) battery comes with the Viper LS6
printer PARTIALLY CHARGED with a recommended 15 HOURS OF
CHARGING PRIOR TO USE. Charging of the Viper LS6 battery should be
accomplished ONLY with Panduit Model LS6 AC Adapter/Battery Chargers
(Part No. LS6-ACS, supplied with printer).
NOTE: The Battery (LS6-BP) should only be removed for replacement or
for replacement of the Lithium Battery. Charging of the battery occurs
while the battery (LS6-BP) is INSIDE the printer.
Charging the Battery
1. Connect AC Adapter
2. Ensure Printer is in On position
3. From the Home Screen Press Quik-Key [B]
4. Battery status of voltage will display
5. At prompt select [Y]es to setup for Charging
6. Insert AC Adapter into connection on the side of the Printer. Press Any
key to continue.
7. Press
to end charging. A battery with a usable charge should read
between 12.5 –15 Volts.
•
•
Completely charge the battery pack before use. The operating system
reports the battery voltage and charge status.
Completely drain the battery pack before charging. The operating system
will warn the user on power up and power down of low battery conditions.
Consult you local guidelines for instructions on proper disposal of spent
battery packs.
6
BATTERY INFORMATION
Battery Removal
1. Remove battery door by using a coin to depress the tab.
2. Remove battery by unplugging and lifting out of battery compartment.
3. Re-install the battery by reversing steps 1 and 2 ensuring that the battery
is firmly plugged into the plug connection on the printer.
Battery
Door
Battery
Adjustable
Strap
Battery
Compartment
Lithium Battery
The ViperTM LS6 uses a Lithium coin-cell battery to preserve the printer
settings and stored files when the main battery pack is removed and the AC
Adapter is not plugged in.
Do not leave the main battery pack out for extended
periods of time, as this will drain the Lithium cell.
Do not remove the Lithium cell as this may result in
a loss of all stored settings and files.
If the printer does not preserve the printer settings and files when both the
battery pack and the AC Adapter are disconnected, then the Lithium cell
should be replaced using the procedure below.
7
BATTERY INFORMATION
Replacing the Lithium Cell
1. Plug-in the AC Adapter to preserve the stored settings and files during the
battery replacement.
2. Remove the main battery pack to gain access to the lithium cell.
3. Peel away the lithium cell warning label to expose the lithium cell in a
plastic holder. Save the warning label.
4. With your finger, firmly push on the circular plastic tab holding the cell in
place to slightly eject the lithium cell from the holder.
5. Noting the polarity markings on the cell, remove the cell and replace it
with a Panasonic CR2032 or equivalent. The cell should snap in-place
when properly installed. This common cell can be found at most office
and computer supply stores.
6. Replace Warning Label over Lithium Battery.
7. Replace the battery pack.
8
QUICK START WITH THE Viper™ LS6
1. Plug in the AC adapter.
2. Install a ribbon cartridge. See Section-Ribbon Cartridge Installation
page 9. NOTE: No ribbon required for Thermal Paper
3. Install a label cartridge – See Section – Label Loading (Page 11) OR
install included thermal paper sample cartridge (1” wide practice media).
4. Turn ON the printer. Press
. If low battery message, select [N] to
continue. The following screen will appear:
5. Press [D] for Demonstration. Press
at any time to exit.
6. Read Demonstration screens to understand printer operation.
7. Press the
8. Select the
button. The following tool selection screen will appear:
Icon or press [T] to select a Text Tool.
9. Type in up to 4 lines of up to 16 characters. Example: “PANDUIT”
10. When complete, press the
11. Press the
key to return to the HOME Screen.
key to print your label.
9
RIBBON LOADING & SELECTION
Ribbon
Lock Knob
Ribbon
Cartridge
Ribbon
Door
The Viper™ LS6 uses a cartridge based ribbon (wax or resin) to form legends
on labels. The ribbon is loaded into the printer by the following steps:
Printer must be turned OFF.
1. Open ribbon door on side of printer by pushing on arrow.
2. Rotate ribbon lock knob into open (unlocked) position [Counter
clockwise].
3. Remove slack from ribbon by winding left roller.
4. Insert the ribbon cartridge, the web of the ribbon should slide freely
between the rubber roller and the print head.
5. Turn printer ON
.
6. Rotate ribbon lock knob into closed (locked) position –[Clockwise].
7. Close ribbon door on side of printer.
key to align the ribbon, by advancing forward an inch
8. Press the
or two. If the label is not installed, you may need to press any key to
stop the feed.
Viper™ LS6 label media ribbon compatibility chart
Label Material
Vinyl, Self-Laminating
Heat Shrink
Vinyl Tape
Vinyl Cloth
Polyester, Clear
Polyester, White
Polyolefin
Non-Adhesive Polyester
Paper
LS6-RWBLK – Black Wax
LS6-RRWHT – White Resin
Ribbon Required
LS6-RWBLK
LS6-RWBLK
LS6-RRBLK
LS6-RWBLK
LS6-RRBLK or LS6-RRWHT
LS6-RRBLK
LS6-RRBLK
LS6-RRBLK
NONE
LS6-RRBLK – Black Resin
10
LABEL LOADING
Label Door
Label Roll
Label Roll
Socket
Label
Feed
Path
Mandrel
Width Guide
(Push Down to
Adjust)
Cutter Knob
(Pull Forward for
Cutting)
Each roll of labels or tape used in the Viper LS6 is uniquely identified by the
mandrel holding the labels. This allows the operating system to set the printer
for optimum usage of each label. Also, the operating system keeps track of
the remaining labels on each roll. Use the steps 1-5 to load each label roll.
1.
2.
3.
4.
. Plug the Label Roll into
Ensure that the printer is in the OFF position
the socket as shown above until it is firmly seated.
Insert end of label into the label guide path (see yellow arrows). This requires
positioning the label width guide to the proper width. If the width guide is not
locked into a width notch, label recognition failure may occur.
Labels should be inserted into the label path until resistance is met – approx. ½”
(requires ribbon knob to be in locked position).
Turn the printer ON. Press the
key to position the label for printing.
5. You are now ready!
11
KEYBOARD
Delete
Key
Setup /
Escape Key
Tools
Key
Label
or
Ribbon
Feed
Key
Power
On / Off
Space
Key
Directional
Arrows
Print Key
Shift
Key
Enter Key
12
KEYBOARD
KEY / SYMBOL
POWER
COMMON FUNCTIONS
Turns the printer ON,
the printer OFF.
then
turns
SETUP/
ESCAPE
Activates the Setup Menu for printer
functionality, escape key to back out of
menus .
DELETE
Deletes tools or characters.
TOOLS
Used for selecting Text, Serial, Symbol,
Line, Box, Data, Barcode, and Date/Time
tools.
FEED
Advances labels in printer,
then
reverses feed. Also, functions as the HELP
key.
UP
ARROW
Moves cursor, or tool up, one option or line
at a time.
DOWN
ARROW
Moves cursor, or tool down, one option or
line at a time.
RIGHT
ARROW
Moves cursor, or tool right, one option or
line at a time.
LEFT
ARROW
Moves cursor, or tool left, one option or
character at a time.
PRINTING
Activates printing of label(s),
For multiple Copies of labels
To print the current page.
SPACE
Inserts a blank character.
ENTER
Completes a selection or moves cursor to
next line.
SHIFT
Access alternate functions or characters.
to access characters on the keypad graphic overlay (not shown).
to access lower case alpha characters.
clears all tools or text on the page.
clears all pages.
13
USING THE Viper ™ LS6
The Home Screen
The Home Screen is where the user creates or builds his label. Available
tools are text, serialization, bar code, symbol, line, box, time/date, and Data.
See the tools for building labels below. The Home Screen consists of the
following elements:
Label Preview
The left side of the screen is where the user builds the label by placing tools
in the desired position on the label. Up to 8 tools can be placed on each page
of a label. Up to 8 pages can be defined for each label.
Tool Preview
The right side of the screen shows the contents of the selected tool, and
commonly used key functions.
Label Boundary
The 4 corner symbols on the left side of the screen indicate the boundaries of
the label.
Tool Boundary
A tool is represented by a rectangle. The size of the rectangle indicates the
relative size of the tool to the label size or label print on area.
Tool Tops
The line in the tool rectangle is the tool top, indicating the orientation of the
tool on the label.
Tool Icon
The symbol within the tool rectangle indicates the type of tool.
- For a Text Tool
- For a Serialization Tool
- For a Symbol Tool
- For a Line Tool
- For a Box Tool
- For a Data Tool
- For a Barcode Tool
- For a Date/Time Tool
14
USING THE Viper ™ LS6
Key Mode Indicator
The key mode indicator is located in the lower left corner. The key mode is
indicated as follows:
• Blank for Normal - The character on the key will be selected when
pressed.
• Open Square for Alternate - The next key stroke will select the overlay
character for the key, or the alternate function associated with the key.
• Filled Square for Shift - The next key stroke will select lower/upper case
for an alphabetic character, or select the shift function associated with the
key.
Page Indicator
The row of 8 page indicators are located at the bottom of the screen. The
filled page indicator is the page selected for preview. A line appears in a page
indicator if at least one tool is present on that page.
Text Case Indicator
The current default for the text case is indicated at the lower right corner of
the label preview area.
• Blank indicates upper case
• A filled square indicates lower case
POWER Key
To turn ON the Viper ™ LS6, press and hold the
key until a beep is
heard or until activity is seen on the display. To turn the Viper™ LS6 off,
press and release the
key, then press and hold the
key until a beep
is heard, or until the power down message appears. This method of power
control reduces the chance of accidentally turning off the printer.
SETUP Key
Press and release the
key to activate the setup screens. The
key
also functions as an ESCAPE key to end a function and return to the previous
function.
DEL Key
The
key is used to delete characters or tools. Deleting a tool from a label
removes the tool and places it in a temporary storage location. If desired, the
tool can be restored by ‘pasting’.
15
USING THE Viper ™ LS6
TOOL Key
The
key is used to activate the tool selection function. The Viper™ LS6
provides 8 tools for building labels and wire markers; text ,
serialization - , line - , symbol - , box - , data - , bar code - ,
date/time - . Up to 8 tools can be placed on a page of a label.
FEED Key
The
key is used to manually advance the label or ribbon material during
loading, or to reposition the label when desired. It also serves to activate the
HELP topic for the currently active function.
PRINT Key
The
key signals the operating system to process and print the currently
active label. Note that a print job can be terminated by pressing and holding
any key.
SHIFT Key
The
key is used to select characters from the keypad and graphic
overlay, and to activate Quik-key™ functions. Press and release the key to
sequence through the three key modes – Normal, Alternate, Shift.
ARROW Key
The
keys are used to move the selected tool or to move the
cursor when editing text.
Quik-Key ™ Fast Label Formatting system
Commonly used functions can be quickly activated by using Quik-Keys™,
which are 1, 2, or 3 key combinations. Quik-Key™ definitions can be
reviewed by pushing the [Q] at the Home screen.
16
TEXT TOOL
The Text Tool is used to add up to 4 lines of 16 characters each (maximum)
to a label. The following are the steps for building a Text Tool.
Step 1:
Press
from the home screen .
Step 2:
from the Tools buttons using the arrow keys, then
Select
or by selecting Quik-KeyTM [T].
Step 3:
Enter alphanumeric characters onto the four (4) lines provided.
Step 4:
Press
when complete or
for text options.
For editing text and associated strokes, see KEYBOARD section page 13
TEXT OPTIONS
[S]ize – Size text from 6 point to 192 point
S[t]yle – Text styles available:
[N]ormal
[U]nderline
[R]everse – Reverses text to appear white on black.
[J]ustify – Text justification:
[C]enter
[L]eft
[R]ight
[O]rient – Define text orientation (angle of characters):
[0] 0 deg
[1] 90 deg
[2] 180 deg
[3] 270 deg
TEXT TOOL HELP
Help can be accessed at any time while in the Text Tool by pressing
.
Note: If Text Tool is chosen and no characters are entered, the printer default
is to set up a blank tool on the screen.
17
SERIALIZATION TOOL
The Serialization Tool is used to automatically number labels sequentially
either with numeric or alphanumeric characters. Up to four (4) serializations
can be defined for one text string and serializations can be printed as text or
as a bar code. The Serialization Tool is used in the following progression of
steps in building labels:
Step 1: Press
from the home screen.
Step 2: Select
from the Tools buttons using the
Arrow keys, then
, or selecting Quik-Key™ [S].
Step 3: Prompt Screen 1 Lists the following Options:
[A]lpha – Alphanumeric serialization
Num[1] – Single digit numeric serialization
Num[2] – Two digit numeric serialization
Num[3] – Three digit numeric serialization
Select by using Quik-key™ [bracketed] key or
.
Step 4: Prompt Screen 2 – Prefix Text
Allows user to define text string to appear before
serialization. Eight (8) characters allowed. Press
continue.
to
Step 5: Prompt Screen 3 – Start of serialization
User defines start value for serialization. Press
continue.
to
Step 6: Prompt Screen 4 – End of serialization
User defines end value for serialization, alpha or numeric.
Press
to continue.
Step 7: Prompt Screen 5 – Increment
User defines incrementing value of serialization.
Example; 1, 2, 3. Press
18
to continue.
SERIALIZATION TOOL
Step 8: Prompt Screen 6 – Next serialization / Options
Press [N] for next serialization or
to complete and return
to HOME screen. Viper™ allows up to four (4) serializations
per line per tool.
Press [O] for Options – Included options are:
a) Span
[L]ine – Places serialization on the next line of the
same label.
[P]age – Places serialization on the next page of the
eight available pages.
La[b]el – Places serialization on the next
label.
b) Serialize as
[T]ext – Print the serialization as text.
[B]ar Code – Print the serialization as a bar
code, using the default bar code settings.
c) Text Options [S]ize, S[t]yle, [J]ustify, [O]rient – See
Text Tool Page 17
SERIAL TOOL HELP
Help can be accessed at any time while in the Serial Tool by pressing
.
Note: If Serial Tool is chosen and no characters are entered, the printer
default is to set up a blank tool on the screen.
19
SYMBOL TOOL
The Symbol Tool is most used for building facility identification markers using
continuous tape. Symbols can also be used on any other labels but their size
will be restricted by the physical size of the labels. The Symbol Tool is used in
the following progression of steps in building labels:
Step 1: Press
from the home screen.
Step 2: Select
from the Tools buttons using the
Arrow keys and
Step 3: Use the Arrow keys
, or selecting Quik-Key™ [Y].
to select the desired symbol
or [N] [Symbol #]
to select the symbol by number. The Viper ™
LS6 has more than 35 symbols available. The right side of the screen
will display a preview of the symbol. See below for a summary of
symbols.
Step 4: Select [S] to change the size of the symbol – Options include:
[1] Small - .25” tall, [2] Medium - .5” Tall, [3] Large -.75” Tall
[4] Xlarge – 1.0” tall [5] Huge – 1.5” tall
Step 5: Press ENTER to select the symbol and return to the home screen or
press
to return to Home Screen.
Step 6: Adjust Placement of tool on screen with
.
NOTE: Additional symbols may be added in the future.
SYMBOL TOOL HELP
Help can be accessed at any time while in the Symbol Tool by pressing
.
Note: If Symbol Tool is chosen and no symbol is selected, the printer will
select the default symbol [DATA – No. 1] and setup on the screen.
20
SYMBOL TOOL
Available Symbols and their assigned library number are listed below:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
21
LINE TOOL
The Line Tool is used to display a solid line either horizontally or vertically on
the label. The line can be ¼, ½ or the full length (or width) of the label. The
following are steps to building a Line Tool:
Step 1: Press
Step 2: Select
from the home screen.
from the Tools buttons using the
Arrow keys and
, or selecting Quik-Key™ [L].
Step 3: Prompt Screen 1 – Line
User Defines type of line to be displayed.
[V] – Vertical
[H] – Horizontal
Step 4: Prompt Screen 2 – Size
User defines line to be quarter, half, or full length.
[Q] – ¼ length/width
[H] – ½ length/width
[F] – Full length/width
Step 5: Press
to return to Home Screen.
LINE TOOL HELP
Help can be accessed at any time while in the Line Tool by pressing
.
Note: If Line Tool is chosen and no selection made, the printer default is to set
up a blank tool on the screen.
22
BOX TOOL
The Box Tool is used to display a box on the label. The box can be ¼, ½, or
full length (or width) of the label. The box can be a frame only, filled, clear, or
reverse. Reverse will invert (white on black) the text or symbols contained
within the borders of the box. The following are steps to building a Box Tool:
Step 1: Press
from the home screen .
Step 2: Select
from the Tools buttons using the
Arrow keys and
, or selecting Quik-Key™ [B].
Step 3: Prompt Screen 1 – Box Style
User defines type of box to be displayed.
[B]ox – Displays box of size specified.
[F]ill – Displays filled box.
[R]everse – Invert objects within the box
boundaries.
[C]lr – Clears objects within the box boundaries.
Step 4: Prompt Screen 2 – Horizontal Size
User defines whether box will be half or full length.
[Q]tr – ¼ size.
[H]alf – ½ size.
[F]ull – Full size.
Repeat for vertical size.
Step 5: Press
to return to Home Screen.
EXAMPLE OF REVERSE BOX TOOL:
WARNING
BOX TOOL HELP
Help can be accessed at any time while in the Box Tool by pressing
.
Note: If the Box Tool is chosen and no selections made, the printer default is
to set up a blank tool on the screen.
23
DATA TOOL
The Data Tool is used to link a list of label legends to a label. The
Data Tool also defines how to place the label legends on the label. The list
can consist of up to 100 legends, where each legend can be up to 4 lines of
up to 16 characters. The list can be created on the printer, or created on a
PC then downloaded to the printer using the ViperLinkTM software (See page
34). Using a Data Tool, the user need only define 1 label that could print up
to 100 labels.
The Data Tool can also be defined to prompt the user for legend
when the label is printing. This feature allows the user to reserve space on
the label for data that will be entered at a later time.
Step 1: Press
from the home screen .
Step 2: Select
from the Tools buttons using the Arrow keys and
, or
selecting Quik-Key™ [D].
Step 3: Prompt Screen 1 – Data Input
User defines method of data input:
[K]ey – User will be prompted to enter data during printing.
[F]ile – Data is pulled from a file in memory.
[L]ist – Data is pulled from an internal data list built by user.
See Step 8
Press
to continue.
Step 4: Prompt Screen 2 – # of Lines 1-4
Defines how many lines (up to 4) the data tool will accept.
Press
to continue.
Step 5: Prompt Screen 3 – # of Characters 1-16:
Defines how many characters (up to 16) the data tool will
to continue.
accept. Press
Step 6: Prompt Screen 4 – Span
[L]ine – The tool will place each legend on lines of
the same label.
[P]age – The tool will place each legend on pages
of the 8 pages available.
La[b]el – The tool will place each legend on a
different label.
Press
to continue.
24
DATA TOOL
Step 7: Prompt Screen 5 – Tool Name
Allows user to give a descriptive name to the tool. Default is
to continue.
“No Name”. Press
Step 8: Prompt Screen 6 – Data List
[E]dit – Allows user to create or revise the internal data list.
Press
to continue.
Step 9: Prompt Screen 7 – Data Tool Text Options – Press [O] to Edit.
See TEXT TOOL Section Page 17
Step 10:
Press
or
to return to Home menu.
DATA TOOL HELP
Help can be accessed at any time while in the Data Tool by pressing
.
Note: If the Data Tool is chosen and no selections are made, the printer
default is to set up a blank tool on the screen.
25
BAR CODE TOOL
The Bar Code Tool can be used for bin labeling or component identification
and can be used in combination with other tools for effective identification of
property or components. The Bar Code Tool can be printed with and without a
checksum or human readable text. The Bar Code Tool can receive data from
the serial port, from the keypad when the Bar Code Tool is created, or from
the keypad when the label is printed (Note- printer prompts user after printing
engaged). The following steps are for building Bar Code Tools:
Step 1: Press
from the home screen .
Step 2: Select
from the Tools buttons using the
Arrow keys and
or selecting Quik-Key™ [C].
Step 3: Prompt Screen 1 – Input Method
The printer automatically defaults to Fixed Text that the user will enter at
prompt screen 2. Selecting [I] to change the input mode yields:
[T]ext – Allows user to type in the bar code data (up to 16 characters)
[K]ey – Operating system will prompt the user to type in the bar
code data after printing is engaged (up to 16 characters)
[S]erial – Operating system will read the bar code data from the serial
port (up to 16 characters) via a computer or a bar code
scanner (not included).
Step 4: Prompt Screen 2 – Text Input
User inputs desired characters (up to 16)
Step 5: Prompt Screen 3 – Options –
Selecting
will honor default settings (see below) and complete the tool.
Selecting [O] at this screen will allow change to the bar code default
parameters. The default bar code parameters are determined by the settings
in the [SETUP] menu and noted below:
[S]elect – Choose bar code symbology
[H]uman Readable – [Y]es [N]o
(See Note below)
Checksum - – [Y]es [N]o
(See Note below)
Narrow Bar – [1] .010” , [2] .015” [3] .020”
Name – A descriptive name for the tool.
Text [O]ptions – See TEXT TOOL Page 17.
Note:
Human Readable – Prints alpha/numeric characters of barcode below the
barcode.
Checksum – Unique Check Digit used in barcode scanner technology to
verify proper read by scanner device.
26
BAR CODE TOOL
SERIALIZED BAR CODES
For serialized bar codes, please see the Section entitled “Serial Tool”. A
serialization is first built and then the options are set to print as a Bar Code.
BAR CODE HELP
Help can be accessed at any time while in the Bar Code Tool by pressing
.
Note: If the Bar Code Tool is chosen and no characters are entered, the
printer default is to set up a blank tool on the screen.
27
DATE/TIME TOOL
The Date/Time Tool allows the user to apply a time stamp to labels. The time
and date applied to the label will be defined per the internal clock of the
Viper™ LS6. Please see section Setting up the Viper™ LS6 page 29.
Setting Time, Date, Alarm on the LS6
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Press
Select [P]rinter
Select Ti[m]e
Select [T]ime, [D]ate, or [A]larm
Enter appropriate information (See Note).
6. Press
to accept.
to return to the HOME Screen
7. Press
Note: Press [A] or [P] to toggle between a.m. and p.m. for time.
Using the Date/Time Tool
Step 1: Press
from the Home screen .
Step 2: Select
from the Tools buttons using the
Arrow keys and
or selecting Quik-Key™ [M].
Step 3: Prompt Screen 1 – Time or Date
[T]ime – Setup as a Time Tool.
[D]ate – Setup as a Date Tool
Step 4: Prompt Screen 2 – Text or Current Time/Date
[T]ext – Allows fixed text (up to 16 characters) to be entered.
[N]ow – The tool will use the current time/date settings when the label
is printed.
Step 5: Prompt Screen 3 – Text [O]ptions
See TEXT Tool Page 17 for text options available.
Note: If the Date/Time Tool is chosen and no characters are entered, the
printer default is to set up a blank tool on the screen.
28
SETTING UP THE VIPER™ LS6
Activate the setup screens by pressing the
key.
The setup screens allow the user to set the default operating parameters for
the printer, and the initial settings for the tools.
Working in the Setup Screens:
•
•
Use the
. keys to move the highlighter to the desired topic.
OR….
Type in the Quik-key™ [bracketed] to select the desired topic or Press
•
Use the
key to back out of a topic.
•
Use the
topic.
key to view the Help text associated with a topic or sub-
The following topics and sub-topics are available:
Options
Text Rotation
Text Size
Text Style
Text Position
Text Characters
Tool Rotation
Tool Horizontal Position
Tool Vertical Position
File
Bar Codes
Human Readable Text
Checksum
X Dimension
Input Mode
Help
Clear Memory
Folder
File Name
File Type
File Info
Save a File
Recall a File
Delete a File
Show Tool Tops
Show Tool Icons
Help Index
Demonstration
29
SETTING UP THE VIPER™ LS6
Mode
Printer
Component
Wire Marker
Terminal
Tape
Strip
Notches
Automatic Power Down
Contrast
Peel or Cut Position
Sound Effects
Feed Control
Low Battery Setting
Print Quality Setting
Set Time, Date, and Alarm
Utility
Label
Battery Charging
Games
Calculator
Language
PC Mode
Emulate
Printer Status
Sensor Sensitivity
Left Margin
Right Margin
Top Margin
Bottom Margin
Line Spacing
Heat Setting
Label Width
Label Length
Printable Length
Label Cut Distance
Examples:
Mode:
Options:
30
SAVING FILES
The Viper™ LS6 has the ability to save and retrieve label files and data files.
The operating system uses a portion of memory for a label work area, and
another portion to store the internal data list. The user creates a label in the
label work area. Saving a label file (filename.LS6) stores the contents of the
label work area in to the permanent file storage area of the internal memory.
The user creates or edits the data list in the data list work area. Saving a data
file (filename.DAT) stores the contents of the data list work area into the
permanent file storage area of the internal memory. Retrieving a file places a
copy of a permanently stored file into the appropriate work area.
The file storage area contains 16 folders. Each folder can store up to 16
files. Each file must be given a unique name of up to 8 characters. The
folders allow files to be grouped by name, job, label type, or by some other
scheme.
Saving or retrieving files is completed through the SETUP menu as follows:
Saving a Label
1. Ensure the printer is in On position
2. After label definition has been completed, press
menu
to show SETUP
3. Select [F]ile – Activates folder selection prompt:
to scroll Folders
The screen depicts the folder number and folder name. The default
settings for the printer are numeric names for folders 0-15. Step 4
allows the user to change the name of the folder to a relevant title for
label storage identification.
4. Press [N]ame or
to accept the indicated folder. Choosing [N]ame
allows the user to enter in up to 8 characters to identify the folder where
you wish to store the label. The LS6 is configured with 16 file folders
numbered from 0 to 15 which can remain numbered or named with an 8
digit alphanumeric/numeric character.
31
SAVING FILES
5. Press
after completion of folder name which will activate the file
naming prompt screen
to scroll Files
Select [N]ame to name the label file that has been defined. Use up to 8
characters are allowed for the name.
6. Select [T]ype to select the file type. (Label.LS6) or (Data.DAT).
7. Press
to accept.
8. Press [S]ave to save the file
9. Press either
to exit file storage or [I]nfo or [C]lear All
10. Pressing [I]nfo will prompt the following screen.
[P]rotect – Toggles between [Yes/No] to define file as Read Only.
[L]ocked – Toggles between [Yes/No] to protect file from deletion.
Warning – Pressing [C]lear All will result in loss of Printer
Memory (Label Files) and is irreversible!
11. Pressing [C]lear All will prompt the user to Format the Printer Memory.
32
RETRIEVING FILES
Retrieving a Label File
1. Press
to show SETUP menu
2. Select [F]ile – Activates folder selection prompt:
to scroll Folders
3. Select the folder where the label file is located. Press
4. Select the label file. Press
to Accept
to scroll Files
5. Press [L]oad to retrieve the file
NOTE: The LS6 will not allow file loading unless the correct
label part is installed in the printer.
6. Press either
All
to exit file storage to HOME Screen or [I]nfo or [C]lear
33
RETRIEVING FILES
7. Pressing [I]nfo will prompt the following screen.
[P]rotect – Toggles between [Yes/No] to define file as Read Only.
[L]ocked – Toggles between [Yes/No] to protect file from deletion.
Warning – Pressing [C]lear All will result in loss of
Printer Memory (Label Files) and is irreversible!
8. Pressing [C]lear All will prompt the user to Format the Printer Memory.
34
INTERFACING TO A COMPUTER
The Viper™ LS6 can be connected to a personal computer (PC) using the
Viper™ LS6 Upgrade Kit (Part No. LS6-PCKIT). The kit contains the
operating system in multiple languages and the ViperLink software
program as well as a serial cable for connecting the Viper™ LS6 to your
personal computer (PC).
See the ViperLink CD (LS6-CD) for installation of the ViperLink software
onto the Personal Computer. Follow the installation wizard to install the
software on your computer. Use the serial cable (Enclosed in LS6-PCKIT) to
connect the Personal Computer (9 Pin Serial Port) to the LS6 (RS232 Port)
Upgrades to the Viper™ LS6 Internal operating system can be downloaded
from the Panduit Internet website. The web address is:
www.panduit.com/eg/ls6
The website also has other pertinent information related to the LS6. It will be
required for the user to download a operating system upgrade via the Panduit
website to his personal computer then use the ViperLink™ software to
upload the revised operating system to the LS6 Printer.
The ViperLink™ software program allows the user to
•
•
•
•
•
Upgrade the operating system
Copy files from the Viper™ LS6 to the PC
Copy files from the PC to the Viper™ LS6
Create / Edit a DATA File
Retrieve Printer Status Information
The LS6 must first be in PC Mode before attempting the above items. To
engage PC mode on the LS6:
Step 1: With the printer ON and at the HOME screen, press
Step 2: Press [U] for Utility
Step 3: Then press [P] for PC Mode. You are now ready to perform tasks
between your PC and the LS6.
NOTE: The Screen of the LS6 will go blank and flicker when upgrading
Operating system.
35
CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
Cleaning the Print Head and Drive Roller
The print head should be cleaned regularly, and more often in harsh
environments. The drive roller should be cleaned whenever foreign matter,
such as dust or adhesive, is present.
1. Turn off power to printer.
2. Open the ribbon lock knob.
3. Remove any label media from print path and remove label cartridge from
printer.
4. Remove the ribbon.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Power the printer on
.
Position ribbon lock knob in locked position.
Extend width guide to greatest width.
Insert cleaning card (Part No.LS6-CLN) until resistance is met.
9. Press
to feed cleaning card completely through printer.
10. Flip cleaning card over and repeat steps 8 & 9 as necessary.
11. If there are large deposits on the drive rollers, soak cotton swab in
Isopropyl Alcohol (Rubbing Alcohol) and remove deposits from rubber
roller with sweeping motion.
Caution: LS6-CLN (Cleaning Card) Contains Alcohol,
Keep away from flames.
36
TROUBLESHOOTING
This section helps identify printer conditions and problems that can often be
solved by the user. If you are unable to correct the problem contact Panduit
Technical Service at 866-871-4571.
SYMPTOM
POWER
Printer does not
power up properly,
and LCD does not
come on.
PRINTING
Not printing.
ACTION
•
To turn printer ON, depress the power button.
•
Make sure the battery pack is fully charged.
Charge a drained battery pack for a minimum of
15 hours with LS6-ACS.
•
Plug in AC Adapter. Ensure power cord is firmly
seated into adapter.
•
Make sure battery pack plug is connected to
printer plug in battery compartment
•
Battery pack is worn out or damaged. Try a new
charged battery pack. (LS6-BP).
•
Make sure printer:
1. Is turned ON
2. Has ribbon cartridge properly loaded
3. Ribbon cartridge locked in place
4. Label mandrel seated properly
5. Labels positioned in feed mechanism correctly
Remove ribbon cartridge and clean print
mechanism with provided cleaning card.
Tool too large for label print on area. Adjust size
of tool or text font size within tool to fit on label.
Ribbon knob not locked. Rotate ribbon knob into
locked position.
•
Too Big!
•
Media is not
advancing properly
in the printer.
•
•
•
Label jam in printer. Label is caught in print
mechanism.
To clear jam:
1. Turn printer power OFF.
2. Open label door.
3. Detach any printed labels w/cutter.
4. Open ribbon lock knob.
5. Remove unprinted labels from the printer.
37
TROUBLESHOOTING
SYMPTOM
PRINTING
Printed image is
full, but grayish or
“translucent”.
ACTION
Continued
6. Carefully remove any labels caught in the
printer.
•
Ensure that labels are properly positioned in label
path and that width guides are in contact with both
sides of the label.
•
End of label roll reached. Detach end of label roll
from core.
Print head energy setting is too high. Reduce
energy setting.
•
•
Voids in printed
image: areas where
there is no print.
Repetitive voids in
image.
•
Ribbon and media are incompatible. Test
alternative ribbon or media.
Dust on label. Remove dust with compressed air.
Place static tinsel across label unwind.
•
Tag or label surface is inconsistent (including
color flood coating). Choose face sheet or flood
coating inks specifically designed for thermal
transfer.
•
Ribbon and media are incompatible. Test
alternative ribbon or media.
•
Print head elements or “dots” are dirty or
obstructed. Clean print head with pre-saturated
cleaning card (LS6-CLN) or soft-stemmed swab
and isopropyl alcohol.
•
Print head elements or “dots” are burned out.
Replace print head.
Print head elements or “dots” are dirty or
obstructed. Clean print head with pre-saturated
cleaning card (LS6-CLN), or soft-stemmed swab
and isopropyl alcohol.
•
•
Print head elements or “dots” are burned out or
worn down. Replace print head.
38
TROUBLESHOOTING
SYMPTOM
PRINTING
Streaks or “dead
spots” in printed
image.
Not printing any
image (or barely
any image).
Printer stalls or will
not print.
ACTION
•
Ribbon is wrinkled. See ribbon wrinkling.
•
Poor coating quality on tag or label surface.
Contact media supplier for assistance.
•
Clean print head with pre-saturated cleaning card
(LS6-CLN), or soft-stemmed swab and isopropyl
alcohol.
Ribbon and media are incompatible. Test
alternative ribbon or media. Alternative ribbons
are wax or resin.
Ribbon or media is not loaded properly. Reload
ribbon and media, making sure both pass under
respective sensors.
•
•
•
Ribbon or media sensors are dirty or obstructed.
Clean sensors with soft-stemmed swabs and
isopropyl alcohol or compressed air.
RIBBON
Ribbon is not
advancing properly.
•
Ribbon wrinkling.
•
Ribbon is not loaded correctly. Load ribbon
properly at side of printer and ensure knob is in
lock position.
Ribbon not loaded correctly. Remove ribbon, reinsert and lock.
•
Printer doesn’t stop
when out of ribbon.
Ribbon breaking.
Ribbon not wound tightly prior to installation.
Remove ribbon, wind take-up until slack
disappears, re-insert ribbon and lock in position.
Ribbon sensor is dirty or obstructed. Clean sensor
with soft-stemmed swab and isopropyl alcohol or
compressed air.
• Ribbon cartridge empty. Replace ribbon
cartridge.
39
TROUBLESHOOTING
SYMPTOM
LABELS
Labels not
registering
ACTION
•
•
•
Die-cut labels
continue to feed
without
“calibrating”.
BAR CODES
Character does not
display on screen
when key is
depressed.
Poor edge
definition (bar
codes and
alphanumerics).
Bar codes
smearing (bar code
edges “bleeding” or
“feathering”.
Bars in bar codes
are too wide or too
narrow resulting in
a poor scan grade.
•
Make sure that label mandrel is firmly seated in
socket
Width guide loose. Make sure the width guide is
properly placed and fixed in place. Per specific
label.
Printer not reset for new label format. Turn printer
OFF, then ON again. Printer will re-calibrate for
new label.
Label sensor is dirty or obstructed. Clean sensor
with soft-stemmed swab and isopropyl alcohol or
compressed air.
•
Printer is set in “no notches” mode. Change
setting to “notches” mode in label software.
•
Key is stuck. Make sure no keys are stuck in the
depressed position.
•
Print speed is too high. Reduce print speed.
Ribbon and media are incompatible. Test
alternative ribbon or media.
•
Print head energy setting is too high. Reduce
energy setting until bar edges are clean.
•
Print speed is too high. Reduce print speed.
•
Rotated (“ladder” style) bar code is being used.
Change label design to include only normal
(“picket fence” style) bar codes.
Print speed is too high. Reduce print speed.
•
•
•
Print head energy setting it too high/too low.
Adjust to optimize average bar growth (visually or
with verifier).
Overburn (too much ribbon transfer). Reduce print
head energy setting or use a ribbon with lower
sensitivity (refers to ribbons requiring more energy).
40
TROUBLESHOOTING
SYMPTOM
BAR CODES
ACTION
Continued
• Bars too thick. Reduce print head energy setting.
Insufficient print
contrast: Bars are
not dark enough,
spaces are not light
enough.
OTHER
Printer Locked Up
•
Print head energy setting is too low. Increase
print head energy setting.
Continued
With printer OFF, Press and hold [R] and
to
RESET the printer.
Note: Saved Label files will NOT be lost during reset.
41
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Our products are warranted to be free from defects in material and
workmanship at the time of sale but our obligation under this warranty is
limited to the replacement of any product proved to be defective within 6
months (for product) or 90 days (for printers) from the date of delivery. Printer
warranty is void if Panduit printers are modified, altered or misused in any
way. Use of Panduit printers with any product other than the specified Panduit
products for which the printer was designed, constitutes misuse. Before using,
user shall determine the suitability of the product for his intended use and
user assumes all risk and liability whatsoever in connection therewith.
This warranty is made in lieu of and excludes all other warranties, expressed
or implied. THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR USE ARE SPECIFICALLY EXCLUDED.
Neither seller nor manufacturer shall be liable for any other injury, loss or
damage, whether direct or consequential, arising out of the use of, or the
inability to use the product.
The information contained in this literature is based on our experience to date
and is believed to be reliable. It is intended as a guide for use by persons
having technical skill at their own discretion and risk. We do not guarantee
favorable results or assume any liability in connection with its use.
Dimensions contained herein are for reference purposes only. For specific
dimensional requirements consult the factory. This publication is not to be
taken as a license to operate under, or a recommendation to infringe any
existing patents. This supersedes and voids all previous literature, etc.
42
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Print Method:
Effective Print Width:
Print Length:
Print Resolution:
Print Speed:
Feed Speed:
Label Width:
Media Length:
Media Types:
Materials:
Thermal transfer or direct thermal
1.89” (48 mm)
20.0” (maximum label length)
203 dpi (horizontally and vertically)
Up to 1 ips
Up to 2 ips
0.24” to 2.0”
3” diameter label roll (internal)
Die cut or continuous tapes
Vinyl self-laminating, flattened heat shrink,
vinyl cloth, polyester, continuous tape, vinyl,
non-adhesive polyester, paper.
Media Cutting:
Manually operated cutter
Ribbons:
Replaceable cartridges, wax or resin
Keypad:
49 color coded keys with overlay
Display:
128 x 64 dots graphic LCD
LCD Contrast Control: Adjustable via keypad
Operating System:
Panduit proprietary – user upgradeable.
User Memory:
128 Kbytes of RAM available for label storage.
Memory Card:
Future - PCMCIA Type I and Type II memory cards.
Serial Port:
RS-232 Serial Interface for PC hook-up or
bar code scanner.
Battery Pack:
12 VDC, 1200 mAh rechargeable NiMH
(Nickel-Metal Hydride) battery pack.
(Battery life – approx. 1500 TWS-2V labels)
AC Adapter:
Universal Input (100 - 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz) with
IEC-320-C14 input connector
(accepts international cord sets).
Regulated DC Output 12 VDC, 0 to 1.2 Amp.
Powers the printer’s internal battery charger.
Charging time 15 hours.
Sound Effects:
Audio speaker included
Oper. Temp/Hum:
41-104° F (5-40 °C),
0 - 90% relative humidity (non-condensing)
Stor. Temp/Hum:
-40-140° F (-40-60 °C),
0 - 90% relative humidity (non-condensing)
Compliance:
FCC Part 15 Class A, European Community EMC
and Low Voltage Directives regarding safety,
emissions, and immunity.
Size
Height: 6.2” (157.5 mm)
Width: 4.9” (124.5mm)
Length: 13.8” (350.5 mm)
Weight
4.1 lbs. (1.86 kg) - includes battery pack
43
REPLACEMENT PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
DESCRIPTION
Wax Ribbon – Black
Resin Ribbon – Black
Resin Ribbon – White
Hybrid Ribbon – Black (Future)
Battery Pack
LS6 ViperLink™ Software w/
Computer Connection Cable
LS6 AC Adapter/Battery Charger
Carrying Case
Cutter Assembly
Cleaning Card (kit – 5 Cards)
Operator’s Manual
Quickstart Card
Exercise Card
PART NUMBER
LS6-RWBLK
LS6-RRBLK
LS6-RRWHT
LS6-RHBLK
LS6-BP
LS6-PCKIT
LS6-ACS
LS6-CASE
LS6-CUTTER
LS6-CLN
LS6-MAN-*
LS6-QS
LS6-EX
* Insert Language code as applicable:
A - English, D - German, E - Spanish, F- French, I – Italian, J – Japanese,
P- Portugese
44