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UBI EasyCoder 501 – Technical Manual
In principle, the thermal transfer method allows printing to be
applied on almost any receiving face material that can be fed
through the printer. In reality, a combination of the characteristics
of the transfer ribbon and the face material (paper, plastic, vinyl etc.)
decides the readability and the durability of the printout. For
example, a coarse surface will give a less readable printout for high-
density bar codes. Smooth but slippery surfaces, like vinyl or glossy
paper, may produce a highly readable but less durable printout,
which may require a primer coating.
A general rule, which applies to all thermal printers regardless of
brand, is that “ladder-style” bar codes set higher demands on both
transfer ribbon and receiving face material.
UBI offers three families of transfer ribbons optimized for different
purposes:
GP
General Purpose transfer ribbon allows high speed printing
and gives a good printout, but is somewhat sensitive to
smearing, especially on smooth surfaces. It may be the best
choice for coarse surfaces, like Vellum paper.
HP
High Performance transfer ribbon allows high speed print-
ing and gives a highly readable and defined printout on most
face materials with smooth surfaces. It has a good “smear
resistance” and is most suitable for intricate logotypes and
images on Matt Coated/Transfer Supreme face materials.
HR
High Resistance transfer ribbon gives an extremely durable
printout, which is resistant to most chemical agents and high
temperatures. However, this transfer ribbon sets high de-
mands on the receiving face material, which must be very
smooth, especially for the printing of ladder-style bar codes.
The use of HR ribbons requires the print speed and the energy
supplied by the printhead to be controlled with great accuracy
according to the receiving face material. Custom-made setup
options adapted for special application can also be created.
Consult your UBI distributor.
There are numerous paper brands and other face materials, which
can be used. Many offers a higher printout quality, but at the
expense of a higher price. Others may be cheaper, but less suited for
high-density printing. The overall economy and required printout
quality, print speed, durability and other characteristics should
result in a combination between transfer ribbon and face material
which gives the best result for each application. Consult your UBI
distributor.
TRANSFER RIBBON AND RECEIVING FACE MATERIAL
General Information
Receiving Face Materials
Transfer Ribbon Types
