MF Digital Spectrum 2 Thermal (Rev: 03/05/01) - Manual (Page 24)

Spectrum2 Printer Operator’s Guide
Document Revision: 100102
23
CD Label Printing
For those new to the Spectrum2 CD printer, MediaFORM recommends experimenting
with a single CD and using a label design that only covers part of the CD (for example a
vertical bar). This allows repeated prints on the CD (by rotating the CD) and observing
changes made by adjusting the printer driver and label software settings.
Many printing issues can be resolved with adjustment of strobe setting, media type, or
graphics. For printing questions please contact your Spectrum2 dealer, and save the label
file in question for review.
Guidelines for successful CD label printing
1) Use of appropriate CD-R media for the thermal transfer printing
• Silver media works best with a black ribbon
• White thermal transfer type media with a smooth surface works best with color
ribbon
• White inkjet type media with a rough surface will not provide good results
2) Use of appropriate strobe setting (which controls the darkness or lightness of the
label) for the type of CD-R media and label design.
• Spectrum2 printer driver software's "Auto" strobe setting should work with most
media
• If label is too light try increasing the strobe setting in increments of 5 until label
has best appearance. If printing does not improve, try another brand of CD-R
media.
• If label is too dark or light try decreasing or increasing the strobe setting in
increments of 5 until label has best appearance. If printing does not improve try
another brand of CD-R media. Typical strobe settings: Silver media 15, and
white coated media 18
3) Use of appropriate text or graphics that are within the range of printer capabilities,
labels that print best include:
• Text only, line art, and clip art
• Mixed text and graphics
• Photos with limited range of colors
• Spot colors
4) Labels that may not print properly are:
• Large single color or revered out text or graphics
• Photos with wide range of color gradient