AMT Datasouth 4000 - Manual (Page 67)

User's Guide 67
User Detected Errors
The following issues may be detected by the user but are not reported by the printer.
Vertical streaks in the print
This could indicate a dirty or faulty print head. Clean the print head first. Verify the media does not
have excessive paper fibers or dust. Verify there are no nicks or burrs anywhere in the paper path such as
a scratched rail. If no other source of streaks can be found replace the print head.
Vertical gaps in the print
This could indicate a dirty or faulty print head. First clean the print head. Verify the width dial on the
side of the mechanism is set properly (counterclockwise for narrow, clockwise for wider media). Verify
the ribbon is not wrinkling. Verify darkness feature is set high enough. Manually add force to the print
head bracket in the area of the streaks. If the streaks go away the print head itself is not the cause.
Ribbon bunches and does not take up smoothly
The ribbon may be routed UNDER the media sensor bracket. Make sure the ribbon is above this black
plastic bracket. Adjust the metal ribbon guide plate mounted to front of print head. Loosen screws in
this plate and adjust so ribbon remains even on both sides.
Media peels off on metal rails
Thoroughly clean rails to remove adhesive. Media MUST be face out type feeding off top of roll and
router OVER back media rail and UNDER front media rail exactly as shown in media loaded section.
Poor print out quality
# Verify type of media and ribbon (if used) are compatible.
# Verify ribbon is not being used with direct thermal media.
# Lower print speed and adjust print darkness.
# Verify print head is clean.
# Verify platen roller is clean.
# Verify width adjustment dial on side of mechanism set properly: a) loosen two screws on dial
b) move counter clockwise for narrow media c) clockwise for wider medial d) Re-tighten two
screws on dial.
# Verify media and ribbon are both loaded exactly as described in media and ribbon loading
sections.
# Replace print head if print out is streaked or missing and all of above does not resolve.