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5.3.1 Cleaning the Printhead
If print quality declines (symptoms include non-compliant bar codes, print
dropouts, streaks; see Section 4.3.4), the typical cause is debris build-up on the
printhead. Furthermore, when the build-up is not removed it may lead to element
failure, greatly reducing the life of the printhead. To clean the printhead:
Œ Turn ‘Off’ and unplug the printer.
• Open the access cover. Unlock the Printhead Latch and raise the Printhead
Assembly. Move media and ribbon away from the printhead as necessary.
Ž Using a cotton swab moistened, not soaked, with isopropyl alcohol gently
wipe away any build-up on the Printhead surface, paying close attention to
the Burn Line. Allow the printhead to dry.
• Replace the ribbon and media. Lower the Printhead Assembly and rotate the
Printhead Latch completely back, to the locked position.
• Close the cover. Plug in and turn ‘On’ the printer. Feed several labels to
normalize tracking.
CAUTION
NEVER use a sharp object to clean the Printhead.
