DIGITUS Thermal Transfer Label Printer DA-81021 300 DPI User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your DIGITUS Thermal Transfer Label Printer DA-81021. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the printer to ensure proper function and longevity of the device. Keep this manual for future reference.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• 1x Label Printer
• 1x Power Adapter
• 1x USB Cable
• 1x Test Label Paper
• 2x Label Roll Holders
• 1x Cardboard Case (packaging)
• 1x Ribbon
• 1x Ribbon Recycle Roll
• 2x Ribbon Screws
• 1x Quick Installation Guide (QIG)

3. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the printer's components and interfaces.

Image: Front view of the DIGITUS Thermal Transfer Label Printer DA-81021.

Image: Diagram illustrating the feed button, status indicator, ON/OFF switch, power supply input, microSD card slot, RJ45 Ethernet port, RS-232 serial port, and USB-B 2.0 port on the DIGITUS DA-81021 label printer.

Image: Rear view of the DIGITUS DA-81021 label printer, highlighting the various connectivity ports including USB, RS-232, Ethernet, and microSD card slot.

4. Setup

4.1. Connecting the Printer

1. Connect the power adapter to the printer's power input and then to a power outlet.
2. Connect the printer to your computer using the provided USB cable, or via an RS-232 serial cable, or an Ethernet cable for network connectivity.
3. Turn on the printer using the ON/OFF switch located on the side of the device.

4.2. Loading Labels and Ribbon

The printer supports both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing methods. For thermal transfer printing, a ribbon is required.

Image: The DIGITUS DA-81021 label printer with its top cover open, illustrating the correct placement of a label roll within the housing.

Image: Internal view of the DIGITUS DA-81021 label printer, showing the mechanism for loading both the thermal ribbon and label media.

1. Open the top cover of the printer.
2. Insert the label roll onto the label roll holders and place it into the designated slot. Ensure the labels feed smoothly.
3. If using thermal transfer, install the ribbon onto the ribbon supply spindle and thread it through the print mechanism as indicated in the diagram. Secure the ribbon with the ribbon screws.
4. Close the top cover.

4.3. Driver Installation

Install the appropriate printer drivers for your operating system (Windows, Mac, Linux). Drivers are typically provided on a CD or can be downloaded from the Digitus support website. Follow the on-screen instructions for installation.

5. Operating the Printer

5.1. Basic Printing

Once the printer is connected and drivers are installed, you can print labels from your application. Ensure the label size and type settings in your software match the loaded media.

Image: The DIGITUS DA-81021 label printer actively printing a label on a desk, demonstrating its use in a typical office environment.

5.2. Printer Controls and Indicators

• Feed Button: Press to advance a single label or a set length of media.
• Status Indicator: Provides visual feedback on the printer's status (e.g., ready, error, out of media). Refer to the QIG for specific light patterns.
• ON/OFF Switch: Controls the power to the printer.

5.3. Supported Media and Printing Features

• Label Types: Continuous, gap, black mark, fan-fold, and perforated labels.
• Print Resolution: 300 DPI for clear and sharp prints.
• Print Speed: Up to 101.6 mm/s (4 inches/second).
• Print Width: Adjustable between 25.4 mm and 118 mm (1 to 4.25 inches).
• Ribbon Capacity: Supports 300-meter ribbons on a 25.4 mm (1 inch) core.
• Emulation: TSPL, EPL, ZPL, and DPL for broad compatibility with various label printing software.
• Barcode Support: Comprehensive support for 1D (e.g., Code 39, Code 128, EAN, UPC) and 2D (e.g., PDF-417, QR code, DataMatrix) barcodes.

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 moistened with isopropyl alcohol. Ensure the printer is turned off and cooled down before cleaning.

Image: Detailed internal view of the DIGITUS DA-81021 label printer, highlighting the print head, black ribbon, gap sensor, and black mark sensor.

6.2. Replacing Labels and Ribbon

Replace label rolls and ribbons as they run out. Follow the loading instructions in Section 4.2. Always use compatible labels and ribbons to prevent damage to the printer and ensure optimal print quality.

7. Troubleshooting

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

• Printer not responding:
  • Check power connection and ensure the printer is turned on.
  • Verify USB/Ethernet/Serial cable connections.
  • Restart the printer and your computer.
  • Ensure drivers are correctly installed.
• Poor print quality:
  • Clean the print head (refer to Section 6.1).
  • Ensure the correct label and ribbon type are used for thermal transfer printing.
  • Adjust print density settings in your printer preferences.
  • Check if the ribbon or labels are properly loaded and not creased.
• Labels not feeding correctly:
  • Ensure labels are loaded correctly and not jammed.
  • Check for any obstructions in the label path.
  • Verify label type settings in your software.

If issues persist, contact customer support.

8. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the DIGITUS Thermal Transfer Label Printer DA-81021.

9. Warranty and Support

EU Spare Parts Availability: 1 Year from the date of purchase.

For technical support, driver downloads, or further assistance, please visit the official Digitus website or contact your local dealer. You can also find more information on the Digitus Brand Store.