Zebra Technologies MD-ZLAN11B 802.11b Compact Flash Radio Module User Manual UMAN RW 004A1

Zebra Technologies Corporation 802.11b Compact Flash Radio Module UMAN RW 004A1

Contents

Revised Manual

UMAN-RW4-004 Rev. A
July, 2005
3
RW 420 User Guide
Contents
Proprietary Statement .................................................. 5
Introduction to the RW 420 .......................................... 9
Unpacking and Inspection ..................................................... 9
Reporting Damage ................................................................ 9
Getting Ready to Print ................................................ 11
Battery .................................................................................. 11
Battery Safety ............................................................................................. 11
Installing the Battery .................................................................................. 11
Charging the Battery .................................................................................. 11
Model LI 72 Single Battery Charger .......................................................... 11
Model UCLI72-4 Quad Charger .................................................................. 12
Charger Safety ........................................................................................ 12
Loading the Media ............................................................... 14
Loading Media in the RW 420 Printer ........................................................ 14
Loading Media From An Internal Supply .................................................. 15
Loading Media From An External Supply ................................................ 16
Operator Controls ................................................................ 18
Control Panel .............................................................................................. 18
Verify the Printer Is Working ................................................ 22
Printing a Configuration Label ................................................................... 22
Connecting the Printer ................................................ 23
Cable Communications ....................................................... 23
Serial (RS232C) ........................................................................................... 23
USB ............................................................................................................ 24
Wireless Communications .................................................. 25
Wireless Communications with Bluetooth® ............................................. 25
Wireless Local Area Network Overview .................................................... 27
Compact Flash (802.11b) Radio Module ................................................... 28
Zebra 802.11b Radio Module .................................................................... 30
Setting Up the Software ...................................................... 32
Card Reader Options ................................................... 33
Magnetic Stripe Reader ....................................................... 33
Smart Card Reader .............................................................. 35
Using the Accessories ................................................. 36
Belt Clip ....................................................................................................... 36
Adjustable Shoulder Strap ......................................................................... 37
Cradle .......................................................................................................... 38
Installing the Printer in the Cradle ......................................................... 38
Removing the Printer from the Cradle .................................................. 40
Preventive Maintenance ............................................. 41
Extending Battery Life ......................................................... 41
Cleaning Instructions ........................................................... 41
Troubleshooting .......................................................... 43
LCD Control Panel Indicators .............................................. 43
Troubleshooting Topics ....................................................... 44
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RW 420 User Guide
Troubleshooting Techniques ............................................... 46
Printing a Configuration Label ................................................................... 46
Performing a Forced Shutdown ................................................................. 46
Communications Diagnostics .................................................................... 46
Calling Technical Support .......................................................................... 47
Specifications .............................................................. 51
Printing Specifications .............................................................................. 51
Memory/Communications Specifications ................................................. 51
Communications Ports ............................................................................... 52
USB ......................................................................................................... 52
RS232 ...................................................................................................... 52
Media Specifications .................................................................................. 54
Font/Bar Code Specifications .................................................................... 55
Physical/Environmental/Electrical Specifications ..................................... 56
RW 420 Accessories .................................................................................. 58
Appendix A ................................................................... 57
Interface Cables .......................................................................................... 57
RS232 Download Cable ............................................................................. 57
USB Cable ................................................................................................... 57
More Interface Cables ............................................................................... 58
Appendix B-Media Supplies ............................................... 59
Appendix C-Maintenance Supplies ....................................... 59
Appendix D ................................................................... 60
Product Support ......................................................................................... 60
Battery Disposal ......................................................................................... 61
Product Disposal ........................................................................................ 61
Appendix E-Web Links ..................................................... 62
ndex .............................................................................. 64
Patent Numbers ........................................................... 65
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RW 420 User Guide
Proprietary Statement
This manual contains proprietary information of Zebra Technologies Corporation. It is
intended solely for the information and use of parties operating and maintaining the equip-
ment described herein. Such proprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or dis-
closed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission
of Zebra Technologies Corporation.
Product Improvements
Since continuous product improvement is a policy of Zebra Technologies Corporation, all
specifications and signs are subject to change without notice.
FCC Compliance Statement
Class B digital device. Tested to comply with FCC standards for home or office use.
WARNING: Exposure to Radio Frequency radiation. To conform to FCC RF exposure re-
quirements this device shall be used in accordance with the operating conditions and in-
structions listed in this manual. Note that there are several radio options available with this
printer. Additional regulatory information is contained in later sections devoted to each
radio individually.
NOTE: This unit was tested with shielded cables on the peripheral devices. Shielded
cables must be used with the unit to insure compliance.
Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by Zebra Technologies Cor-
poration could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
Canadian Compliance Statement
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme á la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
“IC:” before the equipment certification number signifies that the Industry Canada techni-
cal specifications were met. It does not guarantee that the certified product will operate to
the user’s satisfaction.
Agency Approvals and Regulatory Information
• Design certified by CSA • IP54 Certified
• FCC part 15 • Canadian STD RSS-210
• NOM/NYCE (Mexico) • EN60950: 2000 Safety Standard
• C-Tick (Australia) • EN55022:1998 Class B European
Electromagnetic Radiation Standard
Liability Disclaimer
Inasmuch as every effort has been made to supply accurate information in this manual,
Zebra Technologies Corporation is not liable for any erroneous information or omissions.
Zebra Technologies Corporation reserves the right to correct any such errors and disclaims
liability resulting therefrom.
No Liability for Consequential Damage
In no event shall Zebra Technologies Corporation or anyone else involved in the creation,
production, or delivery of the accompanying product (including hardware and software)
be liable for any damages whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of
business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or other pecuniary
loss) arising out of the use of or the results of use of or inability to use such product, even
if Zebra Technologies Corporation has been advised of the possibility of such damages.
Because some states do not allow the exclusion of liability for consequential or incidental
damages, the above limitation may not apply to you.
Copyrights
The copyrights in this manual and the label print engine described therein are owned by
Zebra Technologies Corporation. Unauthorized reproduction of this manual or the software
in the label print engine may result in imprisonment of up to one year and fines of up to
$10,000 (17 U.S.C.506). Copyright violators may be subject to civil liability.
This product may contain ZPL®, ZPL II®, and ZebraLinktm programs; Element Energy Equal-
izer® Circuit; E3®; and AGFA fonts. Software © ZIH Corp. All rights reserved worldwide.
ZebraLink and all product names and numbers are trademarks, and Zebra, the Zebra logo,
ZPL, ZPL II, Element Energy Equalizer Circuit, and E3 Circuit are registered trademarks of
ZIH Corp. All rights reserved worldwide.
Monotype®, Intellifont® and UFST® are trademarks of Monotype Imaging, Inc. registered in
the United States Patent and Trademark Office and may be registered in certain jurisdic-
tions.
continued
6
RW 420 User Guide
AndyTM , CG PalacioTM, CG Century SchoolbookTM, CG TriumvirateTM, CG TimesTM, Monotype
KaiTM, Monotype MinchoTM and Monotype SungTM are trademarks of Monotype Imaging,
Inc. and may be registered in some jurisdictions.
HY Gothic HangulTM is a trademark of Hanyang Systems, Inc.
AngsanaTM is a trademark of Unity Progress Company (UPC) Limited.
Andale®, Arial®, Book Antiqua®, Corsiva®, Gill Sans®, Sorts® and Times New Roman® are
trademarks of The Monotype Corporation registered in the United States Patent and Trade-
mark Office and may be registered in certain jurisdictions.
Century Gothic™, Bookman Old StyleTM and Century SchoolbookTM are trademarks of The
Monotype Corporation and may be registered in certain jurisdictions.
HGPGothicB is a trademark of the Ricoh company, Ltd. and may be registered in some ju-
risdictions.
UniversTM is a trademark of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, which may be registered in
certain jurisdictions, exclusively licensed through Linotype Library GmbH, a wholly owned
subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG.
Futura® is a trademark of Bauer Types SA registered in the United States Patent and Trade-
mark Office and may be registered in some jurisdictions.
TrueType® is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc. registered in the United States Patent and
Trademark Office and may be registered in certan jurisdictions.
All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.
©2005 ZIH Corp.
8
RW 420 User Guide
Figure 1: RW 420 Overview
1. Platen Roller
2. Bar Sensor
3. Media Support Disks
4. Printhead
5. Latch Release Button
6. Magnetic Stripe Reader
(MSR) Slot
7. Communications
Port Door
8. “D” Rings
9. Control Panel
10. Smart Card Slot
11. Gap Sensor
12. Bottom Media Feed Slot
(external media models only)
13. Media Cover
14. Belt Clip
15. Communications Port
16. Battery
17. Docking Connector Cove
18. Battery Charging Receptacle
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
13
10
15
14
16
18
12
8
17
12
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RW 420 User Guide
Introduction to the RW 420
Thank you for choosing our Zebra RW 420 Mobile Printer. It
is one of a series of rugged printers that are sure to become
productive and efficient additions to your workplace thanks to
their innovative design. Because the RW 420 is made by Zebra
Technologies, you’re assured of world-class support for all of
your bar code printers, software, and supplies.
• This User’s Guide gives you the information you’ll need to
operate and maintain your RW 420 printer.
• The RW 420 uses the CPCL programming language. To
create and print receipts and labels using the CPCL lan-
guage, refer to our Label Vista™ label creation program
or the Mobile Printing Systems CPCL Programming
Manual which are both available on our Web site at:
http://www.zebra.com .
• The RW 420 includes interpreters for the ZPL II® program-
ming language (up to Version 30.8.4) and the EPL pro-
gramming language. Manuals for the ZPL and EPL label
design programming languages are also available on our
Web site. Refer to Appendix “E” of this manual for more
information on accessing and downloading manuals and
other user information.
Unpacking and Inspection
Inspect the printer for possible shipping damage:
• Check all exterior surfaces for damage.
• Open the media cover (refer to “Loading the Media” in
the Getting Ready to Print section) and inspect the media
compartment for damage.
In case return shipping is required, save the carton and all
packing material.
Reporting Damage
If you discover shipping damage:
• Immediately notify and file a damage report with the ship-
ping company. Zebra Technologies Corporation is not re-
sponsible for any damage incurred during shipment of
the printer and will not cover the repair of this damage
under its warranty policy.
• Keep the carton and all packing material for inspection.
• Notify your authorized Zebra re-seller.
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RW 420 User Guide
Figure 2: Installing the Battery
Figure 3: Single Charger
Rotate Belt Clip out of
the way.
Insert this end of the
Battery Pack into the
printer
Rock the Battery Pack into
the Printer until the latch
clicks into place.
LI72 Charger
Charger Jack
For best
results,
remove
the
Battery
Pack while
charging.
11
RW 420 User Guide
Getting Ready to Print
Battery
Battery Safety
The Battery Packs used on Zebra Mobile Printers contain a
great deal of energy and can cause personal injury or start a
fire if used improperly or carelessly. Please observe the fol-
lowing safety practices:
Avoid accidental short circuiting of any battery. Allowing battery
terminals to contact conductive material will create a short circuit
which could cause burns and other injuries or could start a fire.
Batteries can explode or catch fire if improperly charged or
exposed to high temperatures or fire.
Do not disassemble, crush or expose batteries to water.
CAUTION: Use of any charger not approved specifically by Zebra for use
with its batteries could cause damage to the battery pack or the printer
and will void the warranty.
Installing the Battery
NOTE: Batteries are shipped uncharged. Remove protective shrink-wrap and labels
from new battery packs prior to use.
1. Rotate the Belt Clip to allow access to the Battery com-
partment.
2. Insert the battery into the printer as shown in Figure 2,
3. Rock the Battery into the printer as shown until it locks in
place.
When the battery is first installed, the Control Panel indica-
tors may briefly turn on and then go off, indicating the battery
is not fully charged (see “Charging the Battery” below and
“Operator Controls.”)
Charging the Battery
Model LI 72 Single Battery Charger
Refer to Figure 3. Your battery charger may look slightly dif-
ferent from the one illustrated.
1. Plug the Charger into the appropriate A.C. wall receptacle.
Then insert the charge cable into the battery charger jack.
2. The charger LED will indicate the status of the charger as
follows:
• A steady light indicates the battery is undergoing a fast
charge.
• A slow blinking light indicates the charger is in trickle
mode. The battery is ready for use.
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RW 420 User Guide
• A rapidly blinking light indicates a problem with the bat-
tery. The battery may have an internal short, or its charge
monitoring circuitry may be malfunctioning. The battery
should not be used any further.
Note: While the LI 72 Charger allows Battery Packs to be charged
when installed in the printer, best results are obtained with the battery
removed.
Do not attempt to print while charging batteries with the LI 72 charger.
Attempting to print while charging can result in improperly charged
batteries.
Model UCLI72-4 Quad Charger
Charger Safety
Use care in locating the Quad Charger. Do not place it in locations
where liquids or metallic objects may be dropped into the charging
bays. Do not block the ventilating slots on the top and bottom covers.
Ensure that the Charger is plugged into a power source which won’t
accidently be turned off if you will be charging batteries overnight.
The UCLI72-4 Quad Charger is designed to charge up to four
RW Series battery packs simultaneously. Batteries must be
removed from the printer to be charged in the Quad Charger.
1. Ensure that the charger has been installed properly per
the Quad Charger instruction manual. Ensure that the power
indicator on the front panel is on.
2. Remove any protective shrink-wrap and labels from all
battery packs prior to use. Plug a battery pack into any one
of the four charging bays as shown in Figure 4, noting the ori-
entation of the battery pack. Slide the battery pack into the
charging bay until it stops. Then rock the battery pack back
until it snaps into place. The amber indicator directly under
the battery being charged will turn on if the battery is properly
inserted.
The indicators under the battery will allow you to monitor
the charging process per the table below:
Battery Status Indicators
Amber LED Green LED Battery Status
On Off Charging
On Flashing 80% charged (O.K. to use)
Off On Completely Charged
Flashing Off Fault
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RW 420 User Guide
Note: A fault condition is caused by a problem with the battery.
The charger may indicate a fault because the battery is too hot or cold
to charge reliably. Try to charge the battery again when it returns to the
room’s ambient temperature. If the Amber indicator starts flashing on
the second attempt, the battery should be discarded.
Quad Charger Cycle Times for RW 420
Battery Status Time
Battery 80% Charged 2.5 Hrs
Battery Fully Charged 5 Hrs.
NOTE: These times are for completely discharged batteries.
Partially discharged Battery Packs will take less time to
reach their charged state. Battery Packs which have reached
80% of their charge capacity may be used, however, it is rec-
ommended that you allow the batteries to reach a full charge
to maintain maximum battery life.
The UCLI72-4 Quad Charger’s safety features will stop
charging a battery after six hours regardless of its charge
state.
Fault
Fast Charge
Fault
Fast Charge
Fault
Fast Charge
Ready
Power
Full Charge
Ready
Full Charge
Ready
Full Charge
Full Charge
Fault
Fast Charge
Ready
Figure 4: UCLI72-4 Quad Charger
Amber
Indicator
Green
Indicator
2. Rock Battery Pack into
place
1. Slide Battery Pack into Charger
Bay
Power Indicator
Power
Charger Bay
14
RW 420 User Guide
Loading the Media
The RW 420 printer is designed to print either continuous
(journal) media or label stock.
Loading Media in the RW 420 Printer
1. Open the printer: Refer to Figure 5.
• Press the latch release button on the side of the printer as
shown at “1” below. The media cover will open automati-
cally
• Rotate the Media Cover back completely as shown at “2”,
exposing the media compartment and the adjustable me-
dia supports.
Figure 5: Opening the Printer
Media Support
Disks
Media Compartment
15
RW 420 User Guide
Loading Media From An Internal Supply
• Refer to Figure 6. Pull the media supports apart, insert the
roll of media between them, and let the media supports
close. Ensure that the media pulls off the core in the di-
rection shown in Figure 6. The supports will adjust them-
selves to the width of the media, and the roll of media
should be able to spin freely on the supports.
Figure 6: Loading Media from an Internal Supply
Media Roll
Note direction media
pulls off the roll.
Pull Media Supports apart.
16
RW 420 User Guide
Loading Media From An External Supply
Refer to Figure 7. The RW 420 configured with the
External Media option has a loading slot in the rear of
the media compartment allowing you to use standard 4
in. (101.6 mm) wide fanfold media from an external sup-
ply. The external supply must be designed such that it
does not exert excessive drag as media is fed through the
printer, which could result in distorted printing.
Zebra offers a series of vehicle cradles for the RW 420
(p/ns AK17463-003 and AK17463-004) which incorporate
provisions for installation of an external media supply bin.
• Pull the media supports apart, insert a Media Spacer
(Zebra part number BA16625-1) between them, and let
the media supports close. Insert the media from the ex-
ternal supply through the rear feed slot, between the me-
dia guides and up through the media compartment as
shown. Make sure the side of the media you will be print-
ing on faces the printhead.
Figure 7: Loading Media from an External Supply
Media Spacer
p/n BA16625-1
Feed media through
bottom feed slot
Printing surface of
media must face the
printhead
17
RW 420 User Guide
4. Close the Media Cover: Refer to Figure 8.
• Pull the media out of the printer as shown at “1.”
• Close the media cover as shown at “2”, ensuring that it
latches securely into place.
• Turn the printer on or press the Feed button if the
printer is already on.
The printer will advance a short strip of media and will
then be ready for printing.
Figure 8: Closing the Media Cover
Press Media Cover
firmly when closing
to ensure it latches
in place.
Pull Media out of
the Printer
18
RW 420 User Guide
Operator Controls
Control Panel
The control panel has buttons for the power on/off and me-
dia feed functions and a display for providing information re-
garding printer functions. Two keys provide easy navigation
and selection of menu options affecting many printer func-
tions.
The “Scroll” button allows scrolling through the various op-
tions and settings. The “Select” button allows selection of the
option or function displayed on the screen.
The top of the screen has a row of status icons which indi-
cate the state of various printer functions:
Indicates a Bluetooth connection is established. A flash-
ing icon indicates data transmission. This icon is function-
al only with RW 420 printers with a Bluetooth wireless op-
tion installed.
Indicates that the printer is associated with a wireless
Local Area Network (LAN) using an 802.11b compliant ra-
dio. This icon is functional only with RW 420 printers with
a WLAN wireless option installed.
A flashing icon indicates low battery status. You
should suspend any printing operations and recharge or
replace the Battery Pack as soon as is convenient.
A flashing icon indicates that the media cover is open or
not properly latched.
A flashing icon indicates that a file is being downloaded
to the printer.
A flashing icon indicates that the printer does not detect
any media. This could indicate an out of media condition,
or improperly loaded media.
In addition to the status icons, the LCD on the control pan-
el can display many of the printer’s settings and functions as
text. Applications can be written to allow the user to view and
/or modify these settings using the scroll and select keys on
the display. Refer to the “LCD Functions Table” on the follow-
ing pages for the full set of printer features that can be dis-
played.
19
RW 420 User Guide
Zebra RW 420
Signal:0%
Battery (ok)
Latch: ok Rdr MENU
Zebra RW 420
Signal:0%
Battery (ok)
Latch: ok Rdr MENU
The LCD has a backlighting option which allows viewing of
the screen in a dark environment, or provides better contrast
in a very bright environment. Use of the display backlight will
decrease the time the printer will run between charges. Refer
to the section “Extending Battery Life” for more information.
Figure 10: LCD Control Panel
Power Button
Press to turn unit on. Press again to turn
unit off
Feed Button
Press to advance the media one
blank label or a software determined
length of journal media.
Scroll Button
Press to scroll through the
menu choices on the LCD.
Select Button
Press to select a menu choice
on the LCD.
LCD
See LCD Functions Table for an overview of menu options
NOTE: LCD options are under specific application control.
Not all options may be available In your printer’s applica-
tion.
Printer Status Icons
Indicates the status of several
printer functions
20
RW 420 User Guide
Extended LCD Functions
Function Default setting Scroll & Select Options
Sensor Type Bar • Bar
• Gap
Baud Rate 19200 • 9600
• 19200
• 32400
• 57600
• 115200
Data Bits 8 • 7
• 8
Parity N (none) • E (Even)
• N (None)
• O (Odd)
LCD Contrast 8 • Increase (15max.)
• Increase (15 max.)
No-activity Timeout1 120 sec. • Decrease (0 min.)
• Increase (120 max.)
• OFF
• ON (The 4 text lines
of display will be
Flip Screen OFF flipped 180 ° when the
printer is in the Cradle
Location of icons will
remain unchanged.
• 1 – Low
Audio Volume 3 • 2 – Medium
• 3 - High
Media Type Journal • Label
• Journal
LCD Backlight1 Momentary On • Momentary On w/
time delay
• Off
Factory Reset No • No
(Resets all to • Yes
factory set values)
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RW 420 User Guide
Display Functions Not Accessible from the Keypad4
Function Default setting Scroll & Select Options
WLAN ID2 Factory Set N/A
Value
Tear-off 00 • Increase (max. = +10)
Position (Top of Form) • Decrease (min. = -120
• All protocols ON
Network & RF Settings • Protocols ON or OFF
individually
Bridge Mode off • OFF
• ON
DTR/VBUS-Power Off OFF • ON
• OFF
Present-at 000 • Increase (max.= +120)
• Decrease (min. = 000
Displays current
Bluetooth parameters n/a Bluetooth operating
parameters
Displays current
802.11b WLAN parameters n/a 802.11b operating
parameters
Media Type Journal • Journal
• Label
Smart Card or • Off
MSR Card Off • Display “RDR”
Reader Status3
NOTES:
1. LCD Backlight turns on when any key other than FEED is pressed
2. Can be adjusted from the factory default using a PC running Zebra’s Label Vista label creation program
and a data cable link to the printer.
3. Card reader status is under application control, and is not user selectable.
4. The parameters listed above will appear on the display but can only be set using a PC running Zebra’s
Label Vista label creation program and a data cable link to the printer.
22
RW 420 User Guide
Verify the Printer Is Working
Before you connect the printer to your computer or portable
data terminal, make sure that the printer is in proper working
order. You can do this by printing a configuration label using
the “two key reset” method. If you can’t get this label to print,
refer to “Troubleshooting.”
Printing a Configuration Label
1. Turn the printer off. Load the media compartment with
journal media (media with no black bars printed on the
back)
2. Press and hold the Feed Button.
3. Press and release the Power button and keep the Feed
button pressed. When printing starts, release the Feed
button.
The unit will print a line of interlocking “x” characters to
ensure all elements of the printhead are working, print out the
version of software loaded in the printer and then print two re-
ports.
The first report indicates model, ROM version, serial num-
ber, baud rate, etc. The second report prints out more de-
tailed information on the printer’s configuration and parameter
settings. If no second report appears, there is no application
loaded. (See the Troubleshooting Section for a sample print-
out and a further discussion on how to use the configuration
label as a diagnostic tool.)
23
RW 420 User Guide
Connecting the Printer
The printer must establish communications with a host ter-
minal which sends the data to be printed. Communications
occur in three basic ways:
• By a cable between the printer and its host terminal using
either RS232C or USB protocols.
• By means of a Bluetooth short-range radio frequency link.
• By means of a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) per
802.11b specifications.
While the RW 420 can be equipped with both a Bluetooth radio and a 802.11b radio
they cannot be operated concurrently.
Cable Communications
Figure 11: Communications Port
Serial (RS232C)
CAUTION. The power should be turned off before connecting or
disconnecting the communications cable.
All RW 420 printers can communicate by cable; the specific
cable supplied with your printer will vary with the host termi-
nal. The 10- pin modular connector on your communications
cable plugs into the serial (RS232C) communications port on
the side of the printer. Plug the connector into the RS232C
port and ensure the locking device has clicked into position.
Then press the Locking Plug into the opening around the con-
nector, aligning its locking features with the cutouts on the RW
420 case. Turn the Locking Plug clockwise one-quarter turn to
secure it in place.
The other end of the cable must be plugged into the host
terminal as shown in Figure 12, or to a serial port on a com-
USB Port
RS232 Port
Align Locking Plug
features with these
cutouts.
Rotate clockwise
to lock the cable
in place; coun-
terclockwise to
unlock the cable.
24
RW 420 User Guide
puter as shown in Figure 13. Communications between the
terminal and the printer are controlled by the applications run-
ning on the terminal and the printer.
USB
RW 420 Printers also can communicate by cable via the USB
protocol. The USB port is a USB Mini-AB type connector lo-
cated directly above the 10- pin modular connector used for
RS232C communications. (Refer to Figure 11)
The RW 420 is configured with the USB Open HCI interface
driver allowing it to communicate with Windows® based de-
vices. (USB drivers are included in the Zebra Universal Driver
Figure 12: Communications to a Terminal
Figure 13: Communications to a PC
Communications
Cable
Part number varies. Refer to
Appendix A
Printer Communications
Port
RS232
Communications Cable
Refer to Appendix A for part
number
USB
Communications
Cable
Refer to Appendix A for
part number
25
RW 420 User Guide
Wireless Communications
Wireless Communications with Bluetooth®
The following section only applies when the ZBR3 Bluetooth Radio (FCC ID: I28MD-BTC2TY2) is
installed in a RW 420. The antenna used for this transmitter must not be co-located or must not operate in
conjunction with any other antenna.
“Bluetooth” is a worldwide standard for the exchange of
data between two devices via radio frequencies. Bluetooth
radios are relatively low powered to help prevent interfer-
ence with other devices running at similar radio frequencies.
This limits the range of a Bluetooth device to about 10 meters
(about 32 feet).
Both the printer and the device it communicates with must
follow the Bluetooth standard.
Bluetooth Networking Overview
Bluetooth software is always running in the background,
ready to respond to connection requests. One device (known
as the master or the client) must request a connection with an-
other. The second device (the slave or the server) then accepts
or rejects the connection. A Bluetooth enabled RW 420 print-
er will normally act as a slave creating a miniature network
with the terminal sometimes referred to as a “piconet.”
For the most part, communications using Bluetooth are initi-
ated and processed without any operator intervention.
Each Bluetooth enabled RW 420 printer has a unique
Bluetooth Device Address (BDA) loaded into its radio module
when manufactured.
which can be downloaded from www.zebra.com/drivers.) Other
terminals or communications devices may require the installa-
tion of special drivers to use the USB connection. Consult the
factory for further details.
continued
26
RW 420 User Guide
Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation
The radiated output power of this internal Bluetooth radio is far below
the FCC radio frequency exposure limits. Nevertheless, this Bluetooth
radio must be used in such a manner that the antenna is 2.5 cm. or
further from the human body.
The radio and antenna are mounted internally in this printer such that
when the printer is worn with the back of the printer against the body
and the front of the printer (where paper exits) away from the body,
then the 2.5 cm distance between the antenna and the users body will
be met. Do not use the printer in an unauthorized manner.
The internal Bluetooth radio operates within guidelines found in radio
frequency safety standards and recommendations. The level of energy
emitted is far less than the electromagnetic energy emitted by other
wireless devices such as mobile phones.
European Regulatory Information for the ZBR3 Bluetooth Radio
This device is intended for use in all EU and EFTA member states.
Europe – EU Declaration of Conformity
This device complies with the essential requirements of the R&TTE Directive
1999/5/EC. The following test methods have been applied in order to prove
presumption of compliance with the R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC:
• EN 60950: 2000
Safety of Information Technology Equipment
• EN 300 328-2 V1.4.1 (2003-04)
0336
Important Notice:
This device is a portable RF printer intended
for commercial and industrial use in all EU
27
RW 420 User Guide
Wireless Local Area Network Overview
RW 420 printers can be equipped with several radio options
which use the industry standard 802.11b protocol.
• RW 420 printers with a Compact Flash (CF) radio module
can be identified by the FCC ID number “I28MD-RW4137”
and other regulatory information on the serial number la-
bel on the back of the unit.
• RW 420 printers with a Zebra 802.11b radio module can
be identified by the FCC ID number “I28MD-ZLAN11B”
and other regulatory information on the serial number la-
bel on the back of the unit.
Printers so equipped allow wireless communication as a
node within a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and its
wireless capabilities allow communications from any point
within the WLAN’s perimeter.
Methods of establishing communications to RW series print-
ers will vary with each LAN application. General information
on establishing WLAN communications can be found in either
the ”CPCL Programmers Manual” or the “Quick Start Guide
for Mobile Wireless Printers” both available on-line. More in-
formation and LAN configuration utilities may also be found
in Zebra’s Label Vista™ program (version 2.8 and later). Label
Vista may be downloaded from the Zebra Web site.
continued
28
RW 420 User Guide
Compact Flash (802.11b) Radio Module
The following section only applies when the CF (Compact Flash) WLAN module (With
FCC ID: I28MD-RW4137) is installed in a RW 420 printer (note that only one of the radio options can be
installed in the printer at one time). The FCC ID number is on the serial number label on the back of the
printer and can be read with the module installed.
WARNING: Use of a RW 420 printer with the radio module marked
with “FCC ID: I28MD-RW4137” meets the FCC requirements for
radio frequency (RF) radiation exposure in the standard body worn
configuration with no minimum separation. In this configuration, which
applies whether the belt clip or shoulder strap is used, the face of the
printer from which paper is transported is facing away from the user’s
body. The standard configuration must always be used when the printer
is body worn.
RW 420 printers with this radio option have been SAR tested. The
maximum SAR value measured for each model was 0.062 W/kg
averaged over 1 gram.
European Regulatory Information for this Radio
AT BE CY CZ DK
EE FI FR DE GR
HU IE IT LV LT
LU MT NL PL PT
SK SI ES SE GB
Note: -Member states in the EU with restrictive use for this device are
crossed out!
This device is also authorized for use in all EFTA member states (CH, IS, LI, NO)
0336
Important Notice:
This device is a portable RF printer intended
for commercial and industrial use in all EU and
EFTA member states except in France where
continued
29
RW 420 User Guide
Europe – EU Declaration of Conformity
This device complies with the essential requirements of the R&TTE Directive
1999/5/EC. The following test methods have been applied in order to prove
presumption of compliance with the R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC:
• EN 60950: 2000
Safety of Information Technology Equipment
• EN 300 328-2 V1.2.1 (2001-12)
Technical requirements for spread-spectrum radio equipment
• EN 301 489-17 V1.2.1 (2002-08)
EMC requirements for spread-spectrum radio equipment.
This device is a 2.4 GHz wireless LAN transceiver, intended for indoor home and
office use in all EU and EFTA member states, except in France where restrictive
use applies.
The use of this frequency band in France is subject to restrictions. You may only
use channels 10 and 11 (2457 and 2462 MHz) on French territory, except in those
French departments as listed in the table below where channels 1-13 (2412-
2472 MHz) may be used. For more information see http://www.anfr.fr/ and/or
http://www.art-telecom.fr
01 Ain 36 Indre 69 Rhone
02 Aisne 37 Indre et Loire 70 Haute Saone
03 Allier 39 Jura 71 Saone et Loire
05 Hautes Alpes 41 Loir et Cher 72 Sarthe
08 Ardennes 42 Loire 75 Paris
09 Ariege 45 Loiret 77 Seine et Marne
10 Aube 50 Manche 78 Yvelines
11 Aude 54 Meurthe et Moselle 79 Deux Sievres
12 Aveyron 55 Meuse 82 Tarn et Garonne
16 Charente 57 Moselle 84 Vaucluse
19 Correze 58 Nievre 86 Vienne
2A Corse Sud 59 Nord 88 Vosges
2B Haute Corse 60 Oise 89 Yonne
21 Cote d’Or 61 Orne 90 Territoire de Belfort
24 Dordogne 63 Puy de Dome 91 Essonne
25 Doubs 64 Pyrenees Atlantique 92 Hauts de Seine
26 Drome 65 Hautes Pyrenees 93 Seine St Denis
27 Eure 66 Pyrenees Orientales 94 Val de Marne
32 Gers 67 Bas Rhin
35 Ille et Vilaine 68 Haute Rhin
30
RW 420 User Guide
Zebra 802.11b Radio Module
The following section only applies when the Zebra 802.11b radio module (With FCC ID: I28MD-ZLAN11B)
is installed in a RW 420 printer (note that only one of the radio options can be installed in the printer at one
time). The FCC ID number is on the serial number label on the back of the printer and can be read with the
module installed.
The radiated output power of this internal 802.11b radio is far
below the FCC radio frequency exposure limits. Nevertheless, this radio
must be used in such a manner that the antenna is 2.5 cm. or further
from the human body. The radio and antenna are mounted internally
in this printer such that when the printer is worn with the back of the
printer against the body and the front of the printer (where paper exits)
away from the body, then the 2.5 cm distance between the antenna and
the users body will be met. Do not use the printer in an unauthorized
manner.
European Regulatory Information for this Radio
AT BE CY CZ DK
EE FI FR DE GR
HU IE IT LV LT
LU MT NL PL PT
SK SI ES SE GB
Note: -Member states in the EU with restrictive use for this device are
crossed out!
This device is also authorized for use in all EFTA member states (CH, IS, LI, NO)
0336
Important Notice:
This device is a portable RF printer intended
for commercial and industrial use in all EU and
EFTA member states except in France where
31
RW 420 User Guide
Europe – EU Declaration of Conformity
This device complies with the essential requirements of the R&TTE Directive
1999/5/EC. The following test methods have been applied in order to prove
presumption of compliance with the R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC:
• EN 60950: 2000
Safety of Information Technology Equipment
• EN 300 328-2 V1.2.1 (2001-12)
Technical requirements for spread-spectrum radio equipment
• EN 301 489-17 V1.2.1 (2002-08)
EMC requirements for spread-spectrum radio equipment.
This device is a 2.4 GHz wireless LAN transceiver, intended for indoor home and
office use in all EU and EFTA member states, except in France where restrictive
use applies.
The use of this frequency band in France is subject to restrictions. You may only
use channels 10 and 11 (2457 and 2462 MHz) on French territory, except in those
French departments as listed in the table below where channels 1-13 (2412-
2472 MHz) may be used. For more information see http://www.anfr.fr/ and/or
http://www.art-telecom.fr
01 Ain 36 Indre 69 Rhone
02 Aisne 37 Indre et Loire 70 Haute Saone
03 Allier 39 Jura 71 Saone et Loire
05 Hautes Alpes 41 Loir et Cher 72 Sarthe
08 Ardennes 42 Loire 75 Paris
09 Ariege 45 Loiret 77 Seine et Marne
10 Aube 50 Manche 78 Yvelines
11 Aude 54 Meurthe et Moselle 79 Deux Sievres
12 Aveyron 55 Meuse 82 Tarn et Garonne
16 Charente 57 Moselle 84 Vaucluse
19 Correze 58 Nievre 86 Vienne
2A Corse Sud 59 Nord 88 Vosges
2B Haute Corse 60 Oise 89 Yonne
21 Cote d’Or 61 Orne 90 Territoire de Belfort
24 Dordogne 63 Puy de Dome 91 Essonne
25 Doubs 64 Pyrenees Atlantique 92 Hauts de Seine
26 Drome 65 Hautes Pyrenees 93 Seine St Denis
27 Eure 66 Pyrenees Orientales 94 Val de Marne
32 Gers 67 Bas Rhin
35 Ille et Vilaine 68 Haute Rhin
32
RW 420 User Guide
Setting Up the Software
RW series printers use Zebra’s CPCL Programming language
which was designed for mobile printing applications. CPCL is
fully described in the ”CPCL Programmers Manual”, available
on-line from the Zebra Web site.
You can also use Label Vista™, Zebra’s Windows® based
label creation program which uses a graphical interface to
create and edit labels in the CPCL language. Label Vista is
available on-line from Zebra’s Web site.
RW series printers with an optional memory upgrade can
support an interpreter for ZPL II®, or EPL programming lan-
guages. RW Plus series printers have these interpreters load-
ed as a standard part of their operating system.
If you plan to use ZPL II or EPL, refer to the appropriate
Programming Guides available on-line from Zebra’s Web site.
If you choose to use a third party label preparation system,
follow the installation instructions included in the package.
33
RW 420 User Guide
Card Reader Options
The RW 420 can be equipped with optional Magnetic Stripe
and Smart Card readers. The magnetic stripe card reader al-
lows the user to swipe magnetic stripe cards such as credit
cards through a slot in the printer and then read and process
the data contained in the card.
In a similar manner the Smart Card reader can read the in-
formation written in the microchip embedded in Smart Cards,
and process the information in the chip in a variety of ways
depending on the printer’s application.
Zebra RW 420
Signal:0%
Battery (ok)
Latch: ok Rdr MENU
Zebra RW 420
Signal:0%
Battery (ok)
Latch: ok Rdr MENU
Magnetic Stripe Reader
The status of the Magnetic Stripe Reader (MSR) is indicated
in three possible ways:
• Reader status is displayed on the Main Menu LCD as
shown above in Figure 14.
• The LCD backlight flashes to indicate status (3 flashes =
enabled, 2 flashes = disabled).
• Chimes indicates the reader status (3 chimes = enabled,
2 chimes = disabled).
Figure 14: Magnetic Stripe Reader Status Indicator
continued
“Rdr” indicates
MSR is enabled.
34
RW 420 User Guide
The MSR is used as follows:
1. When the reader is enabled, place the card into the read-
er slot as shown. The magnetic stripe (typically on the
back of the card) must face the bottom of the printer, and
be inserted into the bottom of the card reader slot as
shown in Figure 15.
2. Slide the card through the slot. The card will be read
if slid in either direction. Depending on the application
software, the printer will sound one chime when a scan is
successful .
3. If the card did not read, slide it back through the slot in
the opposite direction.
Figure 15: Using the Magnetic Stripe Reader
Magnetic Stripe Card
Place the Card in the reader slot with the magnetic stripe
facing down as shown.
Card can be read in
both directions.
Magnetic
Stripe Reader
Slot
35
RW 420 User Guide
Smart Card Reader
The optional Smart Card reader is used as follows:
1. The LCD will display “RDR” to indicate the Smart Card
reader is active. (Some reader applications may flash the
display backlight and/or chime three times to indicate the
reader status is “ready.”) At this time, the Printer is acting
only as a Smart Card reader connected to the host termi-
nal; all other printer functions are suspended.
2. Insert the card into the reader slot as shown in Figure 16.
The microchip imbedded in the card must be oriented
facing the bottom of the printer and must be completely
inserted into the Reader Slot to scan successfully .
3. Depending on the application software, the printer will
sound a chime after a successful transaction.
4. After the card has been successfully read the Printer can
resume normal printing operations and the Smart Card
can be removed.
Figure 16: Using the Smart Card Reader
Smart Card Reader
Slot
Insert Smart Card
with microchip
facing down.
Insert Smart Card
completely into
Printer.
36
RW 420 User Guide
Figure 17: Using the Belt Clip
Using the Accessories
Belt Clip
Refer to Figure 17. All RW 420 printers are equipped with a
belt clip as standard. To use: hook the clip over your belt, and
ensure that the clip is securely attached to the belt. The belt
clip will pivot to allow you to move freely while wearing the
printer.
Clip printer
to belt
Printer can
pivot freely
37
RW 420 User Guide
Figure 18: Using the Shoulder Strap
Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Refer to Figure 18. If your printer is equipped for the shoul-
der strap option: snap each end of the shoulder strap into the
“D” rings in the top of the printer. Slide the buckle away from
or towards the printer until you achieve the desired length.
Hold
Buckle Pull Strap
here to
lengthen
Pull Strap
here to
shorten
Snap in to
“D” rings
on printer
38
RW 420 User Guide
Cradle
The RW 420 can be used in conjunction with a docking
Cradle. When the printer is “docked” the Cradle will charge
the printer’s battery and allow the printer to print, receive and
transmit data as usual. The Cradle can provide power from
a 12 VDC power supply either from a power take-off point in
a vehicle or from an external power supply running off A.C.
power. Refer to the documentation supplied with the Cradle
for more information.
Installing the Printer in the Cradle
It is recommended as a safety precaution that the adjustable
shoulder strap be removed prior to docking the Printer. This precaution
ensures the strap will not interfere with proper operation of the vehicle.
• Remove the Docking Connector Cover from the bottom
of the printer, and retain it for future use. (Refer to Figure
20.)
• Place the bottom of the printer over the two pins in the
Cradle.
• Rock the top of the Printer into the Cradle and press firm-
ly until it latches in place.
• Ensure the Cradle power indicator is lit and turn the print-
er on.
You can load media (including media from an external sup-
ply) and perform cleaning operations normally when the
RW 420 Printer is installed in the Cradle .
The RW 420 will allow the four display lines on the control
panel to be rotated 180º when the printer is docked. This al-
lows for easier reading of the display when the Cradle is
mounted vertically. Refer to Figure 19.
Zebra RW 420
Signal:0%
Battery (ok)
Latch: ok Rdr MENU
Zebra RW 420
Signal:0%
Battery (ok)
Latch: ok Rdr MENU
Zebra RW 420
Signal:0%
Battery (ok)
Latch: ok Rdr MENU
Zebra RW 420
Signal:0%
Battery (ok)
Latch: ok Rdr MENU
Figure 19: Display Rotated for Cradle Installation
Normal Display
in Cradle
Display rotated in
Cradle
39
RW 420 User Guide
Figure 20: Installing the Printer into the Cradle
Remove and retain the
Docking Connector
Cover
Place the
Printer over the
retaining pins in
the Cradle.
Rock the Printer into
the Cradle to latch it in
position.
Charge
Indicator
Power Indicator
Always Green when power is on
40
RW 420 User Guide
Removing the Printer from the Cradle
Refer to Figure 21.
• Turn the Printer off.
• Push on the latch on the Cradle and rock the top of the
printer away from the Cradle.
• Lift the Printer out from the Cradle.
Replace the Docking Connector Cover if you will be us-
ing the Printer for an extended period of time away from the
Cradle.
Figure 21: Removing the Printer from the Cradle
Lift the printer free of
the retaining pins.
Press the
Latch button
to release the
Printer.
Rotate the
Printer out of
the Cradle.
41
RW 420 User Guide
Preventive Maintenance
Extending Battery Life
• Avoid exposing the battery to direct sunlight or tempera-
tures over 104° F (40° C).
• Always use a Zebra charger designed specifically for
Lithium-Ion batteries. Use of any other kind of charger
may damage the battery.
• Use the correct media for your printing requirements. An
authorized Zebra re-seller can help you determine the op-
timum media for your application.
• If you print the same text or graphic on every label, con-
sider using a preprinted label.
• Choose the correct print darkness, and print speed for
your media.
• Use software handshaking (XON/XOFF) whenever possi-
ble.
• If your printer has the optional LCD display, use the dis-
play backlight only when necessary. Turn it off whenever
it is not needed.
• Remove the battery from the printer if it won’t be used for
a day or more and you’re not performing a maintenance
charge.
• Consider purchasing an extra battery.
• Remember that any rechargeable battery will lose its
ability to maintain a charge over time. It can only be re-
charged a finite number of times before it must be re-
placed. Always dispose of used batteries properly.
Refer to Appendix D for more information on proper bat-
tery disposal.
• Don’t print while the LI 72 Wall Charger is plugged into
the unit. Unreliable battery charging can result.
Cleaning Instructions
CAUTION- Use only cleaning agents specified. Zebra
Technologies Corporation will not be responsible for damage caused by
any other cleaning materials used on this printer.
Clean the printer with either the cleaning pen supplied with the printer
or a cotton swab saturated with alcohol.
WARNING: To avoid possible personal injury or damage to the
printer, never insert any pointed or sharp objects into the printer. The
Tear Bar has sharp edges. Use care when cleaning the Tear Bar or the
Printhead to avoid possible personal injury.
42
RW 420 User Guide
Printhead
(Figure 22)
Use the supplied cleaning pen
or 70% isopropyl alcohol on a
cotton swab to clean the print
elements from end to end (the
print elements are located
in the thin gray line on the
printhead).
Platen Roller
(Figure 22)
Rotate the platen roller and
clean it thoroughly with the
cleaning pen or 70% isopropyl
alcohol and a cotton swab.
Tear bar
(Figure 22)
Clean thoroughly with the
cleaning pen or 70% isopropyl
alcohol and a cotton swab.
Exterior Water-dampened cloth
Interior
(Figure 22)
Brush/air blow. Ensure the Bar
Sensor and Gap Sensor windows
are free of dust.
After every five rolls of
media (or more often, if
needed)
Area Method Interval
RW 420 Cleaning
Figure 22: Cleaning the RW 420
After every five rolls of
media (or more often, if
needed)
As needed
Tear Bar
Bar Sensor
Gap Sensor
Platen Surface
Printhead
Elements
43
RW 420 User Guide
Troubleshooting
LCD Control Panel Indicators
The top of the display shows several icons which indicate
various printer functions. Check the indicator status, then refer
to the Troubleshooting topic referenced in the chart to resolve
the problem.
Status Icon Condition Indication Ref. to Topic #
Steady 802.11b RF Link established n/a
Off No 802.11b RF Link 6
Steady Bluetooth Link established n/a
Flashing Transmitting/Receiving n/a
via Bluetooth
Off No Bluetooth Link 6
Flashing Low Battery 3, 6, 7
Flashing Head latch not closed 9, 11
Steady data processing in process 8
Flashing Out of Media 9,11
Blank Screen n/a No application 1,13
Use the supplied cleaning pen
or 70% isopropyl alcohol on a
cotton swab to clean the print
elements from end to end (the
print elements are located
in the thin gray line on the
printhead).
Rotate the platen roller and
clean it thoroughly with the
cleaning pen or 70% isopropyl
alcohol and a cotton swab.
Clean thoroughly with the
cleaning pen or 70% isopropyl
alcohol and a cotton swab.
Water-dampened cloth
continued
44
RW 420 User Guide
Troubleshooting Topics
1. No power
• Check that battery is installed properly
• Recharge or replace battery as necessary. (Always dispose
of used batteries properly. Refer to Appendix D for
more information on proper battery disposal.)
2. Media does not feed:
• Ensure Media Cover is properly closed and latched.
• Check media supports for any binding.
3. Poor or faded print or flashing icon:
• Clean print head.
• Check battery and recharge or replace as necessary.
• Check quality of media.
4. Partial/missing print:
• Check media alignment.
• Clean print head.
• Ensure Media Cover is properly closed and latched.
5. Garbled print:
• Check baud rate.
6. No print:
• Check baud rate.
• Replace battery. Always dispose of used batteries
properly. Refer to Appendix D for more information on
proper battery disposal.
• Check cable to terminal.
• Wireless units (Bluetooth or 802.11b) only: Establish RF
Link. Restore LAN associativity on 802.11b wireless units.
• Invalid label format or command structure — put printer in
Communications Diagnostic (Hex Dump) Mode to diagnose
problem (refer to Troubleshooting Tests section).
7. Reduced battery life
• Check battery date code — if battery is one to two years
old, short life may be due to normal aging.
• Replace battery. (Always dispose of used batteries
properly. Refer to Appendix D for more information on
proper battery disposal.)
8. Flashing icon:
• No application or application corrupted: reload program.
•Flashing indicator is normal while data is being received.
45
RW 420 User Guide
9. Flashing or icon :
• Check that media is loaded.
• Ensure Media Cover is properly closed and latched.
10. Skips labels (only when using label stock):
• Check media for top of form sense mark or label gap.
• Check that the maximum print field has not been exceeded
on label.
• Ensure bar or gap sensor is not blocked or malfunctioning.
11. Communication Error:
• Check media is loaded.
• Ensure Media Cover is properly closed and latched and
error indicators are off.
• Check baud rate.
• Replace cable to terminal.
12. Label Jam:
• Open media cover.
• Apply generous amount of alcohol to printer in area of
jammed label.
13. Blank LCD Screen
• No application loaded or application corrupted: reload
program.
14. Magnetic Strip Card or Smart Card Won’t Read
• Ensure the “RDR” text is displayed, indicating card reader is
enabled. (Refer to the Operator Controls section.)
• Ensure card is inserted with the magnetic stripe or
microchip facing in the correct direction.
• Check card for excessive wear or damage to either the
magnetic strip or the microchip.
15. Battery Pack Is Hard to Insert
• The battery packs for the RW 420 and QL 420
model printers are similar in size and shape, but not
interchangable. Verify you are using the correct battery
pack. The battery pack part number for the RW 420 is
CT17102-2 (Re-order part number AK17463-005).
• Verify that the shrink wrapping and the warning card
protecting the battery contacts have been removed.
46
RW 420 User Guide
Troubleshooting Techniques
Printing a Configuration Label
To print out a listing of the printer’s current configuration fol-
low these steps:
1. Turn the printer off. Load the media compartment with
journal media (media with no black bars printed on the
back)
2. Press and hold the Feed Button.
3. Press and release the Power button and keep the Feed
button pressed. When printing starts, release the Feed
button.
Refer to Figures 23 through 23b for a sample configura-
tion printout.
Performing a Forced Shutdown
It the printer has locked up and is not responding to any op-
erator inputs or external commands, from either a connected
terminal or a linked LAN, you can perform a forced shutdown.
• If the printer software locks up during normal operation,
force the printer to shut down by pressing and holding
the Power Button for 3 seconds.
• If you try to turn the printer off normally and the soft-
ware locks up, the printer will automatically shut itself off
after a 10 second delay.
• If you try to turn the printer off and it does not respond,
you can force an immediate shut down by pressing and
holding the Power Button again within 10 seconds.
A forced shutdown will preserve the printer’s data and set-
tings
Communications Diagnostics
If there’s a problem transferring data between the computer
and the printer, try putting the printer in the Communications
Diagnostics Mode (also referred to as the “DUMP” mode). The
printer will print the ASCII characters and their and their text
representation (or the period ‘.’, if not a printable character) for
any data received from the host computer
To enter Communications Diagnostics Mode:
1. Print a configuration label as described above.
2. At the end of 2nd diagnostics report, the printer will print:
“Press FEED key to enter DUMP mode.”
47
RW 420 User Guide
3. Press the FEED key. The printer will print: “Entering
DUMP mode.”
NOTE: If the FEED key is not pressed within 3 seconds, the printer will print “DUMP mode
not entered” and will resume normal operation.
4. At this point, the printer is in DUMP mode and will print
the ASCII hex codes of any data sent to it, and their text
representation (or “.” if not a printable character).
Additionally, a file with a “.dmp” extension containing the
ASCII information will be created and stored in the printer’s
memory. It can be viewed, “cloned” or deleted using the Label
Vista application. (Refer the Label Vista documentation for
more information.)
To terminate the Communications Diagnostics Mode and re-
turn the printer to normal operations:
1. Turn the printer OFF.
2. Wait 5 seconds.
3. Turn the printer ON.
Calling Technical Support
If the printer fails to print the configuration label, or you en-
counter problems not covered in the Troubleshooting Guide,
contact Zebra Technical Support. Technical Support ad-
dresses and phone numbers for your area can be found in
Appendix D of this manual. You will need to supply the fol-
lowing information:
• Model number/type (e.g. RW 420)
• Unit serial number (14 digit number, including dashes)
The serial number is found on the large label on the back
of the printer. It is also reported in the configuration label
printout. (Refer to Figures 23 through 23b.)
• Product Configuration Code (PCC) (15 digit number, in-
cluding dashes). The PCC number for an RW 420 Printer
will begin with “RW4” and is printed above the unit serial
number on the back of the unit.
48
RW 420 User Guide
Figure 23: Configuration Label Example
Unit Serial Number
Software and
Firmware
End of First Report
Print Head Test
Report appears
only on units with
wireless options
installed.
Units with no
wireless options
will print an
empty line and
resume printing
This example
has a Bluetooth
module installed.
(Refer to pages
23-24 for more
Information on
TCP/IP and LAN
addresses and
settings.
Settings for
RS232 and USB
communications
via cable
49
RW 420 User Guide
Figure 23a: Configuration Label Example (continued)
1. Dual radio units as illustrated above are not yet offered for sale. This option will be offered after initial
product release.
Information on
any installed
802.11b wireless
devices
In this example,
an 802.11b WLAN
card has been
detected.
List of peripherals
installed. In
this example
the printer has
the Mag Card
and Smartcard
reader option,
and the wireless
expansion module
has an 802.11b
and Bluetooth
wireless module1.
List of power
mangement
settings. Also
includes a count
of the number of
times the unit has
been powered on.
50
RW 420 User Guide
Figure 23b: Configuration Label Example (continued)
Flash Memory Size
Maximum Label
Size
Files Loaded in
Printer Memory
(will include Pre-
scaled or Scalable
Fonts)
Amount of Memory
Available
Pre-scaled fonts
(.cpf) listed
separately
RAM Size
Resident Fonts
Installed
End of Configuration
Report
(my 2010.CPF)
(my 2020.CPF)
Resident
Pre-scaled Font
Installed
myfont .FNT
myfont2 .FNT
myfont3 .FNT
my_2010 .CPF
my_2020 .CPF
51
RW 420 User Guide
Specifications
NOTE.- Printer specifications are subject to change without notice.
Printing Specifications
Print Width Up to 4.09 in. (103.8 mm)
Print Speed 3 in. /second
76.2 mm/second)
Distance from .20 in. (5 mm)
Print Element 41 dots
to Tear Edge
Print Head Life, 1,964,160 in. (50 Km)
calculated nominal
Print Density 203 dots/inch (8 dots/mm)
Memory/Communications Specifications
Flash Memory 4 MB flash (standard)
RAM Memory 8 MB RAM (standard)
RS-232C serial port (RJ-45 connector)
Configurable Baud rate (from 9600 to 57.6
Standard Kbps), parity and data bits.
Communications Software (X-ON/X-OFF) or hardware (DTR/STR)
communication handshake protocols.
USB 2.0 Full Speed Interface (12 Mbps))
Bluetooth compatible 2.4 GHz SRRF link
Optional Wireless
Communications Wireless LAN capabilities comply with 802.11b
protocols
52
RW 420 User Guide
Communications Ports
USB
Signal
Pin# Name Type Description
1 VBUS - USB Bus Power
2 USB - bi-directional I/O signals
3 USB + bi-directional I/O signals
4 USB_ID - Identifies A/B connector
5 Return - Ground
RS232
Signal
Pin# Name Type Description
1 NC no connect
2 NC no connect
3 RXD input Receive Data
4 TXD output Transmit Data
5 DTR output Data Terminal Ready
set high when printer is on.
6 GND Ground
7 DSR input Data Set Ready
low to high transition turns
printer on, high to low transi-
tion turns printer off (if en-
abled)
8 RTS output Request To Send
set high when printer is ready
to accept a command or data
9 CTS input Clear To Send from host
10 NC no connect
53
RW 420 User Guide
Figure 24: Communication Ports
1
10
RS232
USB
5
1
54
RW 420 User Guide
Media Specifications
Media Width 2.0 in. to 4.1 in.
(50.8 to 104.1 mm)
Max. continuous receipt 143 in. (3620 mm)
(w/std. memory)
Inter-label Gap. 0.08 in. to 0.16 in. (0.12 in. preferred)
(2 mm to 4 mm [3 mm preferred])
Label Thickness .0025” to .0065” (.064 mm to .165 mm)
Max. Label Roll dia. 2.25 in. (57 mm) O.D.
Label Inner Core .75 in. (19 mm) minimum dia;
1.38 in. (35 mm) optional setting
Black Mark The reflective media black marks should
Dimensions extend past the centerline of the roll.
Media Minimum mark width: 0.5” (12.7mm)
Requirements perpendicular to edge of media, centered within
the width of the roll.
Mark length: 0.094” (2.4 mm) parallel to edge of
media
Use Zebra brand direct thermal media that is outside wound. Media may be
reflective (black mark) sensing, or transmissive (gap) sensing, die-cut, or
continuous. RW 420 configured with the External Media option will accept fanfold
media used with an external media supply.
For die-cut labels, use only full auto dies.
55
RW 420 User Guide
Font/Bar Code Specifications
Standard Fonts: 25 bit-mapped fonts; 1 scalable
font (CG Trimvirate Bold Condensed*)
Fonts Available Downloadable optional bit-mapped & scalable
fonts via Label Vista software.
Optional International character sets:
Chinese 16 x 16 (trad), 16 x 16 (simplified),
24 x 24 (simplified); Japanese 16 x 16, 24 x 24;
Hebrew/Arabic
*contains UFST from Agfa Monotype Corporation
Codabar
UCC/EAN 128
UCC-128 Composite A/B/C
Code 39
Code 93
EAN 8/JAN 8, 2 and 5 digit extensions
Linear Bar Codes EAN-8 Composite
Available EAN 13/JAN 13, 2 and 5 digit extensions
EAN-13 Composite
lnterleaved 2 of 5
MSI/Plessey
FIM/POSTNET
UPC-A, 2 and 5 digit extensions
UPCA Composite
UPC E, 2 and 5 digit extensions
UPCE Composite
MaxiCode
PDF 417
2-D Bar Codes Datamatrix (using ZPL emulation)
Available RSS: RSS-14 Truncated
RSS-14 Stacked
RSS-14 Stacked Omnidirectional
RSS Limited
RSS Expanded
Rotation Angles 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°
56
RW 420 User Guide
Physical/Environmental/Electrical Specifications
Weight
w/ battery, 2.0 lbs. (.91 kg. )
excluding media*
Operating: -4° to 131° F (-20° to 55° C)
Temperature
Storage: -22° to 149° F (-30° to 65° C) Range
Operating:10% to 90% (non-condensing)
Relative Humidity
Storage: 10% to 90% (non-condensing)
Battery 7.4V Lithium-Ion 4 AHr.
External single battery charger Model LI72
120-230 VAC depending on model selected
External 4-bay charger Model UCLI72-4
100-240 VAC
Chargers: RW 420 Cradle/Charger
12-48 VDC input
Model RCLI-DC Mobile Chargers
DC-DC run/charge units
Input voltages: 12VDC, 9-30 VDC ,30-60 VDC
* Weight is for unit witout MCR or SmartCard options
57
RW 420 User Guide
Figure 25: RW 420 Overall Dimensions
1.8” [46 mm]
.25” [6 mm]
6.9” [175 mm]
7.4” [188 mm]
3.7”
[94 mm]
max. 1
3.1”
[76 mm]
max. 1
6.3”
[160 mm]
NOTE:
1. Dimensions shown are for units
with the MSR/Smart Card option
installed. Subtract .08” [2 mm]
from these dimensions for units
without this option.
58
RW 420 User Guide
RW 420 Accessories
Description Order Number Input Voltage
Adjustable shoulder strap BT11132-1 n/a
Carrying Strap BT16899-1 n/a
Protective Soft Case AK17463-001 n/a
Extra Battery Pack AK17463-005 n/a
RW 420 Vehicle Cradle/Charger AK17463-004 9-30 VDC
RW 420 Vehicle Cradle/Charger AK17463-003 9-30 VDC
w/ cigarette lighter adapter
Model RCLI-DC Mobile Chargers CC16614-1 12 VDC
DC-DC run/charge units CC16614-2 9-30 VDC
CC16614-3 30-60 VDC
CC16614-92 12 VDC
Model RCLI-AC Mobile Charger CC16614-4 100-240 VAC
AC/DC run/charge unit 50/60 Hz
Model LI 72- Single Battery Charger AT15759-tab1 100-240 VAC
50/60 Hz
Model UCLI72-4-Four Battery Charger AT16305-1 100-240 VAC
(U.S./ Japan) 50/60 Hz
Model UCLI72-4-Four Battery Charger AC16305-1 100-240 VAC
(U.K.) 50/60 Hz
Model UCLI72-4-Four Battery Charger AC16305-2 100-240 VAC
(Euro) 50/60 Hz
Model UCLI72-4-Four Battery Charger AC16305-3 100-240 VAC
(Australia) 50/60 Hz
NOTES
1. Part number of LI72 Single Battery Chargers will vary depending upon the intended country of
use. Contact the factory or your Zebra re-seller for complete part number information.
2. CC16614-9 is the cigarette lighter adapter version of CC16614-1.
Refer to Appendix A for information on Data I/O Cables.
For more details on available accessories, contact your authorized Zebra re-seller.
57
RW Series User Guide Appendices
Appendix A
Interface Cables
RS232 Download Cable
Part Number BL17205-1; RW Mod Plug to 9-Pin DB PC Cable
USB Cable
Part Number AT17010-1; USB A to USB Mini B Cable
58
RW Series User Guide Appendices
Cable Cord Terminal Printer
Terminal Part Number Lgth/Type Connector Connector Notes
SYMBOL
8000 CL17219-1 8’ /Coiled Symbol 8000 Series MOD 10/w twist lock
proprietary
INTERMEC
700 BL17216-1 8’ Coiled 16 pin Hirose MOD10/w twist lock
CK30 BL17218-1 8’ coiled 26 pin JAE MOD 10/w twist lock
COMPSEE
Apex II, III, IV CL17202-3 8’ Coiled MOD 10 MOD10/w twist lock
MISCELLANEOUS
DEX BL17204-1 16”/ straight 1/4” phone jack/DEX MOD 10/w twist lock
Appendix A
MORE INTERFACE CABLES
59
RW Series User Guide Appendices
Appendix C
Maintenance Supplies
In addition to using quality media provided by Zebra, it is
recommended that the printer be cleaned as prescribed in the
maintenance section. The following items are available for
this purpose:
• Cleaning Pen (10 pack), Reorder No. AN11209-1
• Cleaning Kit with Cleaning Pen, and Cotton Swabs, Reor-
der No. AT702-1
Appendix B
Media Supplies
To insure maximum printer life and consistent print quality
and performance for your individual application, it is recom-
mended that only media produced by Zebra be used. Advan-
tages include:
• Consistent quality and reliability of media products.
• Large range of stocked and standard formats.
• In-house custom format design service.
• Large production capacity which services the needs of
many large and small media consumers including major
retail chains world wide.
• Media products that meet or exceed industry standards.
For more information call Zebra Technologies Corporation at
+1.866.230.9495 (U.S., Canada and Mexico) and ask to speak
to a Media Sales Representative.
60
RW Series User Guide Appendices
Appendix D
Product Support
When calling with a specific problem regarding your printer,
please have the following information on hand:
• Model number/type (e.g. RW 420)
• Unit serial number
• Product Configuration Code (PCC)-15 digit number start-
ing with “RW4”
Zebra Technologies International, LLC
333 Corporate Woods Parkway
Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061-3109 USA
Phone: +1.847.793.2600 or
+1.800.423. 0422
Fax: +1.847.913.8766
Zebra Technologies Europe Limited
Zebra House
The Valley Centre, Gordon Road
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire HP13 6EQ, UK
Phone: +44.1494.472872
Fax: +44.1494.450103
Zebra Technologies
Latin American Sales Office
9800 NW 41Street
Suite 220
Doral, Florida 33178 USA
Phone: +1.305.558.8470
Fax: +1.305.558.8485
Zebra Technologies Asia Pacific, LLC
16 New Industrial Road
#05-03 Hudson TechnoCentre
Singapore 536204
Phone: +65-6858 0722
Fax: +65-6885 0838
For product support, contact Zebra Technologies at:
www.zebra.com
Serial Number
Product
Configuration
Code
RW 420
61
RW Series User Guide Appendices
Battery Disposal
The EPA certified RBRC® Battery Recycling
Seal on the Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery supplied
with your printer indicates Zebra Technologies
Corporation is voluntarily participating in an in-
dustry program to collect and recycle these bat-
teries at the end of their useful life, when taken
out of service in the United States or Canada. The RBRC® pro-
gram provides a convenient alternative to placing used Li-Ion
batteries into the trash or the municipal waste stream, which
may be illegal in your area.
When the battery is worn out, insulate the terminals with tape before disposal
Please call 1-800-8-BATTERY for information on Li-Ion bat-
tery recycling and disposal bans/restrictions in your area.
Zebra Technologies Corporation’s involvement in this program
is part of our commitment to preserving our environment and
conserving our natural resources.
Outside North America, please follow local battery recycling
guidelines.
Appendix D
Product Disposal
Do not dispose of this product in unsorted
municipal waste. This product is recyclable.
Please recycle according to your local stan-
dards. For more information, please see our
web site at: http://www.zebra.com/recycle
62
RW Series User Guide Appendices
Appendix E
Web Links
The following details the URLs for finding specific documents
on Zebra’s Web site www.zebra.com.
Programming Manuals URL: EPL, ZPL & CPCL Language Manuals
http://www.zebra.com/id/zebra/na/en/index/resource_library/manuals.results.html
continued
WIreless Configuation Quick Start Guide URL:
http://www.zebra.com/id/zebra/na/en/index/resource_library/manuals.results.html
RW420
RW420 Select
“Programming
Guide”
Select “Show
All”
Select
printer
model (e.g.
RW 420)
Select
“Connectivity
Guide”
Select “Show
All”
Click
on“Submit”
Select printer
model (e.g.
RW 420)
Click
on“Submit”
63
RW Series User Guide Appendices
Label Vista Download URL:
http://www.zebra.com/id/zebra/na/en/index/drivers_downloads/utilities.html
At the resulting window select “Label Vista” (circled)
Click on “Label Vista”
and then on “Download
demo” in the next
screen to download the
application.
64
RW 420 User Guide
Index
A
Accessories
Adjustable Shoulder Strap 37
Belt Clip 36
Docking Station
installing the printer in 38
removing the printer from 40
list of 58
B
Battery pack
charging 11
while printing 12
disposal of 41,44
installing 11
life, tips for extending 41
Bluetooth Device Address (BDA) 25
Bluetooth Networking Overview 25
C
Card Readers
Magnetic Stripe Reader 33
Smart Card Reader 35
Charger, Battery
LI 72 (single charger) 11
UCLI72-4 (quad charger) 12
charging cycle times 13
safety 12
Cleaning
exterior 42
interior 42
platen 42
printhead 42
tear bar 42
Communications
RS232 23
Connector signals 52
USB 24
Configuration Code, product (PCC) 47
Controls, Operator 18
functions illustrated 19
LCD functions, extended 20
Cradle 20,38
D
Declaration of Conformity
802.11b (Compact Flash radio)
EU countries 29,31
Bluetooth radio (ZBR-3)
EU Countries 26
Zebra 802.11b Radio 31
L
Label, Configuration
printing 22
Label, configuration, example 48
Label Vista 27,32
M
Manual
CPCL Programming 27,32
EPL Programming 32
ZPL II Programming 32
Media, loading 14
fan-fold media 16
media Spacer, use of 16
P
Programming language
EPL 32
ZPL II 32
R
Radio Regulatory Information
802.11b (Compact Flash radio)
EU countries 28,30
Bluetooth radio (ZBR-3)
EU countries 26
Zebra 802.11b Radio Module 30
EU Countries 30
S
Software 32
Specifications
Font/bar Codes 55
Label 54
Memory/communications 51
Physical 56
printing 51
T
Technical Support
contacting 47
Troubleshooting
control panel indicators 43
entering communications diagnos-
tic mode communicat 46
forced shutdown 46
printing a configuration label 46
topics 44
W
Wireless Communications
802.11b (Compact Flash radio)
28,30
using in a WLAN 27
Bluetooth (ZBR3) radio 25
Zebra 802.11b Radio Module 30
D275,286
D347,021
D389,178
D430,199
D433,702
3,964,673
4,019,676
4,044,946
4,360,798
4,369,361
4,387,297
4,460,120
4,496,831
4,593,186
4,607,156
4,673,805
4,736,095
4,758,717
4,816,660
4,845,350
4,896,026
4,897,532
4,923,281
4,933,538
4,992,717
5,015,833
5,017,765
5,021,641
5,029,183
5,047,617
5,103,461
5,113,445
5,140,144
5,132,709
5,142,550
5,149,950
5,157,687
5,168,148
5,168,149
5,180,904
5,229,591
5,230,088
5,235,167
5,243,655
5,247,162
5,250,791
5,250,792
5,262,627
5,267,800
5,280,163
5,280,164
5,280,498
5,304,786
5,304,788
5,321,246
5,335,170
5,364,133
5,367,151
5,372,439
5,373,148
5,378,882
5,396,053
5,396,055
5,399,846
5,408,081
5,410,139
5,410,140
5,412,198
5,415,482
5,418,812
5,420,411
5,436,440
5,444,231
5,449,891
5,449,893
5,468,949
5,479,000
5,479,002
5,479,441
5,486,057
5,503,483
5,504,322
5,528,621
5,532,469
5,543,610
5,545,889
5,552,592
5,570,123
5,578,810
5,589,680
5,612,531
5,642,666
5,657,066
5,768,991
5,790,162
5,791,796
5,806,993
5,813,343
5,816,718
5,820,279
5,848,848
5,860,753
5,872,585
5,874,980
5,909,233
5,976,720
5,978,004
5,995,128
5,997,193
6,004,053
6,010,257
6,020,906
6,034,708
6,036,383
6,057,870
6,068,415
6,068,415
6,095,704
6,109,801
6,123,471
6,147,767
6,151,037
6,201,255 B1
6,231,253 B1
6,261,009
6,261,013
6,267,521
6,270,072 B1
6,285,845 B1
6,292,595
6,296,032
6,364,550
6,379,058 B1
6,409,401 B1
6,411,397 B1
6,428,227 B2
6,530,705
6,540,122
6,607,316
6,609,844
6,874,958
6,899,477
This product and/or its use may be covered by one or more of the
following US patents and corresponding international patents
worldwide
Patent Numbers

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