Top Of Form Sensing (AutoSense Procedure)

To accommodate different media and media dimensions, your printer is equipped with sensors capable of detecting the top of form for labels or tags. Two methods are used by the printer for top of form sensing: gap sensing and black mark sensing.

Gap Sensing

The gap sensing feature depends on the ability of the transmissive (gap) sensor to "see through" the label liner between labels. Label and label backing opacity vary due to manufacturing differences in label stock. The sensor may have difficulty distinguishing the difference between labels and the liner. This may require the user to AutoSense the media. Set the gap sensor's sensitivity with the AutoSense feature. Verify that the reflective sensor's position (note the red light) is immediately below the transmissive (gap) sensor. For all gap sensing operations, the sensor must be in this position. Click here for sensor location diagram.

Black Mark Sensing

The black mark uses a reflective (black mark) sensor to detect a black line (mark) on the media backing. The black mark sensor is used with special labels that have a black mark printed on the back of the label liner or tag between each label or tag. When printing with black mark media, the sensor does not need to be aligned with the upper transmissive (gap) sensor to work and can be moved.  Black mark sensing must be enabled. The reflective sensor's position is indicated by a red light that is visible through the media with the print head open. The sensor can be moved by rotating the black knob on the lower portion of the print mechanism. For proper sensing, ensure that the sensor is aligned with the center portion of the black mark

Notch or Index Hole Sensing 

The reflective sensor is used to detect the hole or notch in the label stock or tags so ensure that the reflective sensor is aligned with the center of the index hole/notch. The reflective sensor's position is indicated by a red light that is visible through the media with the print head open. The sensor can be moved by rotating the black knob on the lower portion of the print mechanism.  Black mark sensing must be enabled. The following dimensions show the required position of the index hole or notch on tag stock 

Sensor Adjustment Range

Note: When using the notch on the inside edge of the tag, the black mark sensing must be enabled. The transmissive (gap) is fixed in the center and can only be used to sense a center located notch. Click here for setting the printer for black mark sensing using EPL commands.