Intermec PM43 Direct Thermal/Thermal Transfer Printer

1. Product Overview

The Intermec PM43 is a robust direct thermal and thermal transfer printer designed for industrial and commercial label printing applications. It offers high-speed monochrome printing at 203 dpi resolution, making it suitable for a wide range of labeling needs. Connectivity options include Fast Ethernet and USB, and it features a user-friendly touchscreen interface for easy operation.

This printer supports various media types, primarily labels, and is capable of printing at speeds up to 12 inches per second.

Figure 1: Intermec PM43 Printer. This image shows the front-right view of the Intermec PM43 printer, highlighting its touchscreen display on the left, the Intermec logo on the top cover, and a clear side panel revealing the label roll inside.

2. Setup and Installation

2.1 Unpacking the Printer

Carefully remove the printer from its packaging. Ensure all packing materials are removed from around the printer, especially from inside the media compartment. Verify that all components listed in the packing slip are present.

2.2 Connecting Power

1. Connect the power cord to the power input port on the rear of the printer.
2. Plug the other end of the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
3. Press the power button, typically located near the power input, to turn on the printer. The touchscreen display should illuminate.

2.3 Connecting to a Computer

The PM43 printer supports both USB and Ethernet connectivity.

• USB Connection: Connect a USB cable from the printer's USB port to an available USB port on your computer.
• Ethernet Connection: Connect an Ethernet cable from the printer's Ethernet port to your network router or switch. The printer can be configured for network printing via its touchscreen interface or web interface.

2.4 Loading Media (Labels and Ribbon)

The PM43 supports both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing. For thermal transfer, a ribbon is also required.

1. Open the printer's top cover.
2. Place the label roll onto the media supply spindle, ensuring the labels feed from the bottom of the roll.
3. Thread the labels through the media guides and under the print head assembly. Adjust the media guides to fit the width of your labels.
4. If using thermal transfer, install the ribbon onto the ribbon supply spindle and thread it according to the diagrams inside the printer.
5. Close the top cover. The printer may automatically calibrate for the new media.

3. Operating the Printer

3.1 Touchscreen Interface Navigation

The PM43 features an intuitive touchscreen display. Use your finger or a stylus to navigate through menus and select options. The main screen typically displays the printer status (e.g., "Ready"), date, and time.

• Status Icons: Icons at the top of the screen indicate connectivity (Ethernet, USB), media status, and ribbon status.
• Menu Access: Tap the menu icon (usually three horizontal lines or a gear icon) to access printer settings, calibration, and diagnostic tools.
• Keypad: The integrated keypad allows for numerical input and function key access (F1-F5).

3.2 Printing a Test Label

To verify proper setup and media loading, print a test label:

1. From the main screen, navigate to the 'Tools' or 'Diagnostics' menu.
2. Select 'Print Test Label' or 'Configuration Label'.
3. The printer will feed and print a label containing its current configuration and status information.

3.3 Driver Installation and Software

Before printing from a computer, install the appropriate printer drivers. These are typically available on the manufacturer's website. Follow the on-screen instructions during driver installation. For advanced label design and printing, specialized label software may be required.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal print quality and extends the life of your PM43 printer.

4.1 Cleaning the Print Head

The print head should be cleaned regularly, especially if print quality degrades or after changing several rolls of media.

1. Turn off the printer and disconnect the power cord.
2. Open the print head assembly.
3. Using a lint-free swab moistened with isopropyl alcohol (99% pure), gently wipe across the print head elements. Allow to dry completely before closing the print head.

4.2 Cleaning the Platen Roller

The platen roller helps feed the media and should be cleaned to prevent media jams and ensure consistent feeding.

1. With the printer off and power disconnected, locate the platen roller beneath the print head.
2. Using a lint-free cloth moistened with isopropyl alcohol, rotate the platen roller manually while wiping its surface.

4.3 General Cleaning

Wipe the exterior of the printer with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Keep the media compartment free of dust and debris.

5. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your PM43 printer.

5.1 No Print Output

• Check Power: Ensure the printer is powered on and the power cord is securely connected.
• Check Connectivity: Verify USB or Ethernet cable connections. For network printing, ensure the printer has a valid IP address and is reachable on the network.
• Check Media/Ribbon: Ensure labels and ribbon (if applicable) are loaded correctly and not depleted.
• Printer Status: Check the touchscreen for any error messages or status indicators.

5.2 Poor Print Quality

• Clean Print Head: A dirty print head is a common cause of poor print quality (streaks, voids). Refer to Section 4.1.
• Adjust Darkness/Heat Settings: Adjust print darkness or heat settings via the printer's touchscreen or driver settings.
• Media/Ribbon Compatibility: Ensure you are using compatible labels and ribbons for your printer and application.
• Print Head Pressure: Verify that the print head is properly latched and applying even pressure.

5.3 Media Jams

• Clear Path: Open the printer cover and carefully remove any jammed media.
• Adjust Guides: Ensure media guides are properly adjusted to the width of your labels, preventing skewing.
• Clean Platen Roller: A dirty or worn platen roller can contribute to jams. Refer to Section 4.2.

6. Technical Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

7.1 Warranty Information

The Intermec PM43 printer comes with a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Intermec (now Honeywell) website for detailed terms and conditions regarding warranty coverage, duration, and claims procedures.

7.2 Technical Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or service requests, please contact Intermec (Honeywell) customer support. Support contact information, including phone numbers and online resources, can typically be found on the manufacturer's official website.

When contacting support, please have your printer's model number (PM43A11NA0041201) and serial number ready.