iSys V12 Thermal Printer - Manual (Page 20)

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Test mode
The TESTMODE function allows the user make a test plot (see Figure 7-34). Approximately four
inches of plot are produced, in a pattern consisting of a 50% grey scale, small and large
checkerboard pattern, and two 1/2” bands of all-black. It will also display the plotters’ firmware
revision and strobe count. This enables the user to see that the plotter is creating an image,
feeding the paper correctly, and that contrast levels and media settings are acceptable, as well
as testing the print function.
To change from the default TESTMODE setting of INACTIVE, press the up button in the TEST
MODE sub-menu to display PLOT TST. Then press the ONLINE button to execute the test.
Contrast
The CONTRAST function adjusts the density of the output plots, the default setting is C1. C1
and increment settings (C1 through C10) are relative values. Determination of plot quality and
the need to increase or decrease contrast is determined after a test plot is output. If the output is
extremely dark, very faint, or irregular, first check that the media setting is correct- see “Media”
section of this chapter.
If the contrast needs to be adjusted, change the contrast setting by pressing the up button while
in the CONTRAST sub-menu. Starting at the lowest value, adjust the contrast level one value at
a time, testing each adjustment. This is particularly important when using lightweight papers or a
media with unknown specifications.
CAUTION: Thermal plotting technology involves high temperatures. Incorrect media or contrast
settings can damage the printhead or other components and void the warranty. Media damage
can also occur.
Speed
The SPEED function adjusts the speed of the plot output. The default setting is 1.0 inch per
second.
Change the speed setting by pressing the up or down buttons in the SPEED sub-menu. The 1.0
inch per second setting results in the highest quality output. The next speeds are 2.0, 3.0, and
4.0 inches per second, respectively.
If the plot speed is erratic, or if output quality is unacceptable, such problems may arise when
data enters the plotter at a slower rate than the set plot speed. This is most likely to occur on the
4.0 inches per second setting. Lowering the plot speed enables the plotter to match the rate of
data from the host and produces a smoother output plot.
When the media setting is FILM, the plotter fixes the speed for maximum quality, plotting at 1.0
inch per second. See “Thermal printhead” in Chapter 5, Theory of Operation, for more details.