Thermal Printer Imaging Process & Maintenance

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Thermal printer is a general term for any device that uses a heating element to create the image on the paper.

• several types of thermal printers
  • use significantly different technologies
  • intended for different uses
  • most common type is the direct thermal printer
• Portable or small form factor direct thermal transfer printers
  • used for:
    • high-volume barcode and label printing
    • to print receipts
  • typically support 200–300 dpi
  • some models able to print one or two colors
  • Print speeds are measured in inches per second

Direct Thermal Printer Imaging Process

• require special thermal paper that contains chemicals designed to react and change color as it is heated by the heating element within the printer to create images
• In the feed assembly
  • paper is friction-fed through the print mechanism by a stepper motor turning a rubber-coated roller
  • Paper and labels may be fanfold or roll format

Direct Thermal Printer Maintenance Tips

• When replacing the paper roll
  • need to obtain the specific size and type for the brand and model of thermal printer you are using
  • simple process
    • open the printer case
    • insert the roll, keeping the shiny, heat-sensitive print side facing outward
    • ensure that the end of the paper is held in place by the print head when closing the case again
• Each receipt is separated by ripping the paper across serrated teeth
  • can lead to a buildup of paper dust in the printer
  • lead to bits of paper debris becoming lodged in the mechanism if a clean slice is not made and bits of leftover paper fall into the printer
  • Use a vacuum or soft brush to remove any paper debris
• Label printers can end up with sticky residue inside the printer
  • if not loaded correctly, they can separate from the backing while being fed through the printer
  • ensure users know how to properly load the labels and how to clean up if labels get stuck inside the printer
  • Use a swab and appropriate cleaning fluid, such as isopropyl alcohol (IPA), to clean the print head or any sticky residue inhibiting the feed mechanism
  • can often purchase cleaning cards to feed through the printer to clean the print head safely