Technical Bulletin #5
Date: March 1, 1999
Subject: DEFAULT SETTINGS IN FIRMWARE AND METALLIC RIBBON PRINTING TIP
As we test each and every machine prior to leaving our offices, we calibrate the internal firmware settings and record them for our files. We then print them on a label and apply it to the inside front cover of the Millennium manual. Recently we have begun to also apply them on a label to the backside of the printers.
This is extremely helpful, if for some reason, a customer accidentally erases the data in the firmware or if you are optimizing the print quality of the monochrome ribbons onto materials other than the direct color systems print receptive PVC material.
In internal testing, we have found that for best results, primarily with the metallic ribbons, you should increase the overall heat (ID or image density) in the firmware 10-15 units. This will help, especially on the long plates, by increasing the quality of the print resolution. However, each unit is slightly different and if you notice a lack of adhesion, in that the gold or silver is not laying down cleanly, you have gone too far and the foil is not leaving the ribbon carrier cleanly. Simply, lower the heat slightly (5-8 units).
NOTE: When you are finished printing with the metallic ribbon, be sure to set the internal heat (ID) back to its original settings. Failing to do so will result in ribbon wrinkling on solid background colors and/or shadowing when printing color graphics with the full color ribbons.
If you need further assistance in upgrading your printer, please contact DCS technical support at techsupport@directcolorsystems.com or the same via phone at 860-829-2244.
