2
Printer Mechanism
The printer mechanism comprises a 384 element, thin film head and stepper motor driven transport. Battery voltage and head temperature
compensation is utilised to provide constant print quality across the range of operating conditions.
Paper out:
The printer will automatically detect when the printer paper has run out. The Status indicator will flash repeatedly to denote that the
paper has run out. Use the Mode button to feed through the last few centimetres of paper and fit a new roll as described on page 3.
Head thermal limit:
After extensive printing the print head temperature may rise to an unusable level. If this occurs the Status indicator will flash
twice repeatedly and printing will be suspended until the head temperature returns to normal levels.
Power Supply
Power is supplied to the printer from four alkaline AA cells. The Status indicator will flash three times repeatedly to show that the batteries are
nearly exhausted.
Power consumption
Off
2 µA (Typical)
Standby
10mA
Running -
Min
0.4A
Ave
1.0A
Max
1.5A
Note: The peak current can reach a maximum of 2A.
Charge life
Approx. 6000 lines (18m) of continuous printing
External PSU (optional)
The MCP8850B can be powered from an optional mains PSU. The printer should be switched off when switching from battery to external power
and vice-versa. Contact Martel for further details.
Power On Procedure
Check that the batteries have sufficient charge or that the power adapter is correctly fitted and operational. Open the paper cup lid and ensure that
the roll is present and there are no foreign objects inside the paper cup. Close the lid, ensuring that the paper passes through the paper exit slot.
When the status indicator is off, the printer is off. A brief press of the Mode button turns the printer on, the status indicator will illuminate and the
printer mechanism will reset. A brief press of the Mode button will turn the printer off.
Power On Self Test
The self test procedure will check most of the printer functions, except for the Infra-Red interface, i.e: Printer mechanism, Control circuitry,
Firmware version, Print quality. When the printer is off, press and hold the Mode button for approximately 2 seconds. Release the button, the
printer will power on and print a self-test report.
