AMT Datasouth Performax - Manual (Page 126)

Appendix E: Ribbon Life Monitor Feature
This feature provides the ability to control the usage level of the ribbon and helps prevent
inadvertent usage past its functional life. The printer displays a “Check” or “Replace” message on
the keypad at user designated limits. If the ribbon reaches the end of it's life, the printer will stop
printing and indicate the ribbon must be replaced.
By adjusting the check and replace limits, the operator can be prompted to replace the ribbon at a
usage level best suited for that specific application. This feature may also be used for monitoring
ribbon wear before starting a long unattended print job.
The Ribbon Life Monitor feature counts all dots printed on the ribbon regardless of print mode
(graphics, barcodes, NLQ ... ). The percent of total ribbon life is then calculated. This percent usage
may be checked by entering setup mode and selecting the “Ribbon xx% Used” feature located in
the G3 Printer Control Group.
G3 Printer Ctrl
Ribbon xx% Used
Each time the Rear Access cover is opened and then closed, the display will then question if the
ribbon has been replaced. If the response is YES, and the Setup key is pressed, this feature is reset
to zero percent used. If the response is NO, and the On Line key is pressed, printing operation win
resume.
This feature may be adjusted like any other feature in the Setup mode. Normally the Ribbon Usage
feature is not adjusted in Setup mode unless a partially used ribbon is installed. In this case the
percent usage should be estimated and the features set accordingly.
The user definable Check, Replace, and Ribbon Life features are found in the G8 System Ctrl
feature group. For more information on these features, refer to Appendix D.
Ribbon Monitor Operation Check Ribbon
As the printer operates, the Ribbon Life Monitor maintains a running total of the number of dots
which have been printed since the feature was last reset. The ribbon usage value is determined by
dividing the total number of dots printed by the ribbon life limit. When the ribbon usage value
exceeds the “Check Ribbon” value, the printer will continue printing and will flash the following
message on the keypad display:
< Check Ribbon >
Ribbon xx% Used
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