1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the vretti PB821 Portable A4 Thermal Printer. This compact and versatile printer is designed for on-the-go printing, supporting both Bluetooth and USB connections. It is compatible with various operating systems, including iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac OS. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your printer to ensure optimal performance.
2. Safety Information
- Do not disassemble, repair, or modify the printer yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel for any repairs.
- Keep the printer away from water, moisture, and direct sunlight.
- Use only the specified power adapter and thermal paper to avoid damage and ensure print quality.
- Avoid touching the print head immediately after printing, as it may be hot.
- Ensure proper ventilation when operating the printer.
3. Package Contents
Please check the package contents upon unpacking. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your retailer.
- vretti PB821 Portable Thermal Printer
- USB Type-C Cable (for charging and PC connection)
- USB Drive (containing drivers for various operating systems)
- Quick Start Guide
- Thermal Paper Roll (pre-installed or included)
4. Product Overview
The vretti PB821 is a compact and lightweight thermal printer designed for portability and ease of use. It features a sleek design and supports various thermal paper types.
Figure 4.1: Compact design of the vretti PB821 printer, highlighting its dimensions (26.5cm x 8cm x 4.65cm) and portability.
Key Features:
- Portable Design: Lightweight (650g) and compact for easy transport.
- Dual Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth for mobile devices (iOS, Android) and USB for computers (Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Chromebook).
- Inkless Thermal Printing: No need for toner, ribbon, or ink, reducing operational costs.
- High Resolution: Up to 203 dpi for clear and sharp prints.
- Versatile Paper Support: Compatible with A4, A5, B5, 110mm, 80mm, 53mm thermal paper, including roll and folding types.
- Long Battery Life: 1500mAh battery, capable of printing approximately 223 sheets on a full charge.
5. Setup
5.1 Initial Charging
Before first use, fully charge the printer using the provided USB Type-C cable and a compatible power adapter (not included). The charging indicator light will show the charging status.
Figure 5.1: Printer battery capacity and charging details.
5.2 Loading Thermal Paper
The vretti PB821 supports both roll and folding thermal paper.
- Open the paper compartment cover.
- Insert the thermal paper according to the type:
- For Roll Paper: Place the roll into the designated slot, ensuring the printing side faces the print head.
- For Folding Paper: Feed the first sheet into the printer's paper entry slot, ensuring it is aligned straight.
- Close the paper compartment cover, ensuring the paper is properly aligned and extends slightly from the output slot.
Figure 5.2: Loading roll paper and folding paper.
5.3 Software Installation
To use the printer, you will need to install the appropriate software for your device.
Figure 5.3: Printer connectivity options and app download QR codes.
5.3.1 For Mobile Devices (iOS/Android)
- Download the "XLifePro" application from the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play Store (for Android). You can also scan the QR code provided in Figure 5.3 or visit m.yoyin.net/h5/download/download_xylife_oversea.html.
- Install the application on your smartphone or tablet.
Figure 5.4: XLifePro App connection steps.
5.3.2 For Computers (Windows/Mac OS/Linux/Chromebook)
Insert the provided USB drive into your computer. Install the appropriate printer drivers for your operating system. Follow the on-screen instructions during installation.
5.4 Connecting the Printer
5.4.1 Bluetooth Connection (Mobile Devices)
- Ensure the printer is powered on.
- On your mobile device, enable Bluetooth.
- Open the "XLifePro" application.
- Within the app, navigate to the device connection section (refer to Figure 5.4, Step 2).
- Select "PB821" from the list of available devices to pair.
- Once paired, the Bluetooth indicator on the printer will illuminate steadily.
5.4.2 USB Connection (Computers)
- Ensure the printer is powered on.
- Connect one end of the USB Type-C cable to the printer and the other end to an available USB port on your computer.
- After driver installation, your computer should recognize the printer.
Figure 5.5: Bluetooth and USB connection compatibility.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Printing from Mobile Devices (via XLifePro App)
- Ensure your printer is connected via Bluetooth to your mobile device.
- Open the "XLifePro" application.
- Select the document or image you wish to print (refer to Figure 5.4, Step 3). The app supports various document formats including A4, A5, B5, and custom sizes.
- Adjust print settings such as paper size, density, and orientation within the app, if available.
- Tap the "Print" button to start printing.
6.2 Printing from Computers (via USB)
- Ensure your printer is connected via USB to your computer and drivers are installed.
- Open the document or image you wish to print using your preferred application (e.g., Word, PDF viewer).
- Go to "File" > "Print" (or use the shortcut Ctrl+P/Cmd+P).
- Select "vretti PB821" from the list of available printers.
- Adjust print preferences such as paper size, orientation, and print quality in the printer settings dialog.
- Click "Print" to send the job to the printer.
6.3 Supported Paper Types and Sizes
The vretti PB821 printer is designed to work with various thermal paper types and sizes:
- Paper Types: Flat thermal paper, continuous thermal folding paper, thermal roll paper.
- Supported Sizes: A4, A5, B5, 110mm, 80mm, 53mm.
Figure 6.1: Supported thermal paper types and sizes.
Figure 6.2: Examples of supported document formats and sizes.
7. Maintenance
7.1 Cleaning the Print Head
Regularly cleaning the print head ensures optimal print quality and extends the printer's lifespan.
- Turn off the printer and disconnect the power cable.
- Open the paper compartment cover.
- Gently wipe the print head with a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol.
- Allow the print head to dry completely before closing the cover and turning on the printer.
7.2 Battery Care
- Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently.
- If storing the printer for an extended period, charge it to about 50% and recharge every 3-6 months.
- Use only the provided USB Type-C cable for charging.
7.3 Storage
Store the printer in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and dust. Ensure no heavy objects are placed on top of the printer.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Printer does not turn on | Low battery; Power button not pressed correctly | Charge the printer; Press and hold the power button for a few seconds. |
| Poor print quality | Print head dirty; Incorrect paper type/orientation; Low battery | Clean the print head (Section 7.1); Ensure thermal paper is loaded correctly; Charge the printer. |
| Cannot connect via Bluetooth | Bluetooth not enabled; Printer not in pairing mode; App issue | Ensure Bluetooth is on for both devices; Restart printer and app; Re-pair the device in the XLifePro app. |
| Printer not recognized by PC | Drivers not installed; Faulty USB cable/port | Install drivers from the provided USB drive; Try a different USB cable or port. |
| Paper jam | Improper paper loading; Damaged paper | Turn off the printer, open the cover, and carefully remove jammed paper. Reload paper correctly. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | vretti |
| Model | PB821 |
| Color | Dark Black |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 28.5 x 11.3 x 8 cm (Product) / 26.5 x 8 x 4.65 cm (Body) |
| Weight | 650 g |
| Printing Technology | Thermal Printing |
| Resolution | Up to 203 dpi |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB |
| Supported OS | iOS, Android, Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Chromebook |
| Battery Capacity | 1500 mAh |
| Paper Types | Thermal paper (flat, folding, roll) |
| Supported Paper Sizes | A4, A5, B5, 110mm, 80mm, 53mm |
10. Warranty and Support
The vretti PB821 Portable A4 Thermal Printer comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your package for specific terms and conditions. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact vretti customer service through their official website or the contact information provided with your purchase.
For the latest drivers and software updates, please visit the official vretti support page.
