ASTRO-MED QLS-2000XE SERIES, Operation & Setup Manual, Page: 43 / 214

QLS-3000/2000 Xe Series 3-7
Intensity Menu
Printhead Intensity
The printhead intensity determines the temperature of the printhead heating
elements. The amount of heat applied to the thermal transfer ribbon
determines the darkness of the print. The amount of heat that is actually
applied to the film by the printhead is determined by two factors:
•
Length of time that power is applied to the printhead
•
Rate at which the media is traveling under the printhead
The print intensity setting determines the first factor and the second is
controlled by the print speed. The printer has 32 discrete heat settings. A
setting of 1 is the coolest setting, resulting in the lightest print. A setting of 32
is the hottest setting, resulting in the darkest print.
The appropriate heat setting will vary depending on the media and ribbons
being used as well as the print speed setting. As a general guideline, the
ribbon types listed below will function best in the following print intensity
ranges:
Wax 1 to 12
Wax/Resin 6 to 20
Resin 16 to 32
In general, lower-quality media that requires more heat to produce a
satisfactory image is less advantageous in terms of speed and performance
than higher-quality media that images easily and quickly at lower
temperatures. If you use media that requires more heat, it is recommended
that you set the print speed to a slower rate.