Brady PAM 3000 - Manual (Page 12)

Printer-Applicator-System PAM 3000 12
Print Media
PAM 3000 can be operated in direct thermal as well as thermal transfer mode.
For direct thermal mode, only use print material with a thermal-reactive coating.
The print image is transferred by heating the material at the printhead, causing a reaction on
the surface of the paper and, consequently, darkening the material.
In thermal transfer mode, not only standard paper labels are needed but also the thermal
transfer ribbon with a color surface. The printout is created by heating the transfer ribbon,
causing a transfer of color particles onto the label.
PAM 3000 allows to regulate the heat level and also the print speed. Thus, the printer offers a
wide range of opportunities for usage.
PAM 3000 is able to print on labels with a maximum supply roll diameter of 200 mm and a
core diameter of 76 mm.
The ability of label edge recognition, which guarantees the precise position of the printer
output, is accomplished by a photocell. This sensor is controlled by the processor of the
PAM 3000 and ensures recognition for different sorts of material. There is no need for additio-
nal electronic adjustment.
On the following pages, you will find detailed information and specifications concerning
suitable materials.
Print Media for Direct Thermal Printing
The print material must correspond to several important specifications, in order to ensure high
quality printing, and to avoid damage to the printhead or early wear.
Using labels which we have tested and which we recommend to our customers, will guarantee
a gentle treatment of the printhead. If you want to use material by another supplier, please
note the following requirements regarding the condition of thermal printer paper :
• To avoid damage to the printhead, the surface coating must cover the thermal-reactive
layer. If the coating is too thin, this may cause a 'pitting' effect on the printhead, i.e. very
small explosions during the chemical reaction of the thermal coating quickly resulting in
damage to the printhead.
• The surface of the labels should be very smooth to avoid a 'sandpaper' effect on the
printhead.
• Always choose material which can be printed on with the lowest possible heat level. The
greater the heat level, the shorter the life of the printhead. Moreover, with highest heat
levels the phases of heating up and cooling down extend. This may have a negative effect
on the print quality, especially if a high print speed is required.
Print Media for Thermal Transfer Printing
In thermal transfer mode, a wide range of different label materials may be used. (e.g. normal
paper, tag stock, a variety of synthetic material such as polyester foil, etc.)
NOTICE !
The print quality greatly depends on the right combination of label material and
transfer ribbon. The surface of the labels determines which ribbon material may be
used. Unsuitable ribbons may cause an extremely poor print image.