Intermec EasyCoder 501 E – Installation & Operation Ed. 1
101
Chapter 10 Options
Ribbon Save
Device
Working Principles
The Ribbon Save Device is a factory-installed option only. The
purpose of the ribbon save is to avoid unnecessary spending of
thermal transfer ribbon when feeding out blank labels, or large blank
part of printed labels, thereby reducing the cost of thermal transfer
printing and increasing the time between ribbon reloads.
The Ribbon Save Device works automatically, but can be turned
off if so desired (see “Ribbon Save Control” below). When the
fi rmware determines that no printing is to be performed within the
next 20 mm (0.8 inches) or more of media feed, the printhead is
lifted by a motor and the transfer ribbon is stopped. Obviously, the
platen roller can no longer feed out the media due to the lack of
counter pressure, but the rear drive roller, driven by the same belt
as the platen roller, will push the media forward. A spring-loaded
pressing roller produces counter-pressure.
Shortly before printing is to be resumed, the printhead is lowered,
and the transfer ribbon starts running again.
Load
Drive Roller
Pressing Roller
