18 105SL User Guide 6/4/2004 11342L Rev. 8
Printer Setup
Ribbon
Ribbon
Ribbon is a thin film that is coated on one side with wax or wax resin, which is transferred to
the media during the thermal transfer process. The me di a determi nes whether you need to use
ribbon and how wide the rib bon must be.
When to Use Ribbon
Thermal transfer media requires ribbon for printing while direct thermal media does not.
To determin e if ribbon must be used with a parti cular media, perform a media scratch test.
To perform a label scratch test, complete these steps:
1. Scratch the print surface of the media with your fingernail.
2. Did a black mark appear on the media?
Ribbon Width
When ribbon is used, it must be as wide as or wider than the media being used. If the ribbon is
narrower than the media, areas of the printhead are unprotected and subject to premature wear.
Coated Side of Ribbon
Ribbon can be wound with the coated side on the inside or outside (see Figure 14). If you are
unsure which side of a particular roll of ribbon is coated, perform an adhesive test or a ribbon
scratch test to determine which side is coated.
Figure 14 • Ribbon Coated on Outside or Inside
If a black mark... Then...
Does not appear on the media The media is thermal transfer. A ribbon is
required with this type of media.
Appears on the media The media is direct thermal. No ribbon is required
for this type of media, though ribbon may be used
to help protect the prin thead from abrasio n with the
media.
Outside Inside
