Godex G500 Thermal Transfer Printer User Manual

1. Introduction

1.1 About This Manual

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Godex G500 Thermal Transfer Printer. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the printer to ensure proper functionality and to prevent damage.

1.2 Product Overview

The Godex G500 is a 4-inch, 203 dpi thermal transfer printer designed for various labeling applications. It features "Twin-Sensor Technology" for compatibility with a wide range of specialty materials and supports 300-meter ribbons for extended printing volume. Connectivity options include USB 2.0, RS232 (Serial), and Ethernet, providing flexibility for integration into different environments. The printer is built with a robust mechanism for long-term reliability.

Figure 1.1: Godex G500 Thermal Transfer Printer. This image shows the front-right view of the printer with a sample label being printed, highlighting its compact design and label output.

2. Important Safety Information

Observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury or damage to the printer:

• Always connect the printer to a grounded power outlet.
• Do not expose the printer to water or excessive humidity.
• Avoid placing the printer in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
• Ensure adequate ventilation around the printer.
• Do not attempt to open or repair the printer yourself. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
• Keep hands clear of moving parts during operation.
• Use only manufacturer-approved labels and ribbons.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Godex G500 Thermal Transfer Printer
• Power Adapter and Power Cord
• USB Cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Software CD (or link to driver download)
• Empty Ribbon Core

4. Setup

4.1 Unpacking and Placement

1. Carefully remove the printer from its packaging.
2. Place the printer on a stable, level surface.
3. Ensure there is sufficient space around the printer for ventilation and access to ports and media loading.

4.2 Loading Labels

1. Open the printer cover.
2. Adjust the media guides to the width of your labels.
3. Insert the label roll onto the media spindle, ensuring the labels feed from the bottom.
4. Feed the leading edge of the labels under the print head and roller until it extends past the front edge of the printer.
5. Close the printer cover.

Figure 4.1: Internal view of the Godex G500 print head and roller mechanism. This image highlights the twin-sensor technology and the path for label media.

4.3 Loading Ribbon

1. Open the printer cover.
2. Place the ribbon roll onto the supply spindle, ensuring the ribbon unwinds from the top.
3. Thread the ribbon through the print mechanism as indicated by the internal diagrams.
4. Attach the leading edge of the ribbon to an empty ribbon core on the take-up spindle.
5. Rotate the take-up spindle clockwise to remove any slack from the ribbon.
6. Close the printer cover.

Figure 4.2: Godex G500 printer with the top cover open, showing a black thermal transfer ribbon correctly loaded onto the spindles. This illustrates the ribbon path for printing.

4.4 Connecting the Printer

The Godex G500 offers multiple connectivity options:

Figure 4.3: Rear view of the Godex G500 printer, displaying the power switch, power input, USB, RS232 (serial), and Ethernet ports. This image helps identify the various connection points.

• Power Connection: Connect the power cord to the printer's power input and then to a grounded electrical outlet.
• USB Connection: Connect one end of the USB cable to the printer's USB port and the other end to an available USB port on your computer.
• RS232 (Serial) Connection: Connect a serial cable to the printer's RS232 port and to the serial port on your computer or device.
• Ethernet Connection: Connect an Ethernet cable to the printer's Ethernet port and to your network router or switch.

4.5 Driver Installation

After connecting the printer, install the necessary drivers on your computer. Drivers can typically be found on the included software CD or downloaded from the official Godex website. Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the driver installation wizard.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Basic Printing

1. Ensure the printer is powered on and connected to your computer or network.
2. Verify that labels and ribbon are correctly loaded.
3. Open the document or label design software on your computer.
4. Select the Godex G500 printer from the print dialog.
5. Adjust print settings (e.g., label size, print density) as required.
6. Initiate the print job.

5.2 Printer Settings and Configuration

Advanced printer settings can be configured through the printer's driver software on your computer or via a web interface for Ethernet-connected printers. These settings include calibration, print speed, darkness, and sensor adjustments.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning the Print Head

Regular cleaning of the print head is crucial for maintaining print quality and extending the printer's lifespan. Use a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe the print head surface. Perform this cleaning after every few ribbon changes or if print quality degrades.

6.2 Replacing Labels and Ribbon

Replace labels and ribbon when they run out. Refer to sections 4.2 and 4.3 for detailed loading instructions. Always use compatible supplies to ensure optimal performance.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Godex G500 printer.

• No Power: Ensure the power cord is securely connected to both the printer and a working electrical outlet. Check the power switch position.
• Poor Print Quality: Clean the print head (Section 6.1). Adjust print darkness settings in the driver. Ensure the ribbon and labels are correctly loaded and compatible.
• Printer Not Detected: Verify USB, RS232, or Ethernet cable connections. Reinstall printer drivers. For Ethernet, check network configuration.
• Labels Not Feeding Correctly: Ensure labels are loaded straight and media guides are adjusted properly. Calibrate the media sensors through the printer utility.
• Ribbon Wrinkling: Check ribbon loading and tension. Ensure the ribbon is compatible with the printer.

8. Specifications

Key technical specifications for the Godex G500 Thermal Transfer Printer:

Figure 8.1: Energy Star certification logo. This indicates the product meets energy efficiency guidelines.

9. Warranty and Support

9.1 Warranty Information

The Godex G500 Thermal Transfer Printer comes with a limited warranty. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Godex website.

9.2 Technical Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or service inquiries, please contact Godex customer support. Contact information can be found on the official Godex website or in your product documentation.