Zebra ZM400 Printer Repair & Calibration

Media Calibration Overview

By default, the printer's MEDIA POWER UP and HEAD CLOSE LCD Display configurations are set to CALIBRATION. This results in the printer automatically calibrating on power up or when the printer recovers from an error and is un-paused. During auto calibration, the printer determines the label length and sensor sensitivity settings. The results of the auto calibration are stored in the printer’s temporary memory. These parameters remain in effect until the next calibration is performed or until the printer is power cycled.

 

Common Issues and Resolutions

Problem	Resolution
Paper Out Error	Check Media and Ribbon Loading Loading Read More>> Verify the LCD Display  MAXIMUM LENGTH is set longer than labels used Read More>> Try Defaulting the printer and allow it to run Auto Calibration Read More>> Verify the correct sensor is selected for the media type Read More>> - Use the Black Mark Sensor for media with a black bar on the backing - Use the Transmissive Sensor for gap, notch or hole media Verify the moveable Transmissive Sensor is correctly positioned Read More>> Note: This only applies if you are not using black mark media Perform Manual Calibration Read More>> If the problem persist a Media Sensor Profile can be sent to Tech Support for analysis Read More>> Note: Press the FEED Button after calibrating. If one label feeds each time pressed then the printer is properly calibrated. Verify Software/Driver settings are not changing the calibrated values or printer configurations.
Labels are skipping or the print image is wandering	Check Media Loading and assure the guides are keeping the media aligned Read More>> Verify the printer is set to the correct Media Type. If set to Continuous the printer will not track Top-of-Form. Read More>> Verify the labels are compatible with the media specifications Read More>> Press the FEED Button. If one label feed each time pressed, check your label format or Driver/Software for the source of the problem.   Try Defaulting and verify printer has calibrated correctly Read More>> Check the Transmissive Sensor position Read More>> Perform Manual Calibration Read More>> If the problem persist a Media Sensor Profile can be sent to Tech Support for analysis Read More>>

Helpful Information

Media Types

The "Media Type" parameter in the LCD Display of the  printer must be set to match the type of labels being used. These can be GAP/NOTCH, MARK, or CONTINUOUS. Read More>>

If you are using a Zebra Driver or application software assure the setting matches the printer.  For labels with gaps, holes, or notches use the Transmissive Sensor. This is adjustable and can be positioned to see the top-of-form gap/hole/notch. For Black Marks or Mark Media use the Black Mark selection in the LCD and Driver. When set to CONTINUOUS there is no length tracking and the sensor is only used to indicate when no paper is loaded. 

Loading the Media and Ribbon

These documents/videos demonstrate the correct way to load labels and ribbon.

Medial Loading  Read More>> 

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Media Loading Video

 Ribbon Loading  Read More>>

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Ribbon Loading Video

Manual Calibration   (LCD Display - MEDIA AND RIBBON)

This is a Manual Calibration procedure that allows a user to set the sensor sensitivity of the sensors for unique media or when there are problems with the Auto Calibration function. Here is the Manual Calibration Procedure Read More>> 

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Manual Calibration Video

Media Sensor Profile

A Media Sensor Profile can be used to determine the sensor response and is often useful when troubleshooting media sensing issues. This is helpful when contacting technical support for assistance.

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