The print head should be cleaned periodically to prevent debris from building up on the print element. The required cleaning interval varies greatly depending on the quality of the ticket stock and the amount of dust entering the print area. Excessive dirt buildup on the print head will result in reduced quality. Continuing to run the print head in a dirty condition will reduce its life expectancy, as it is unable to diffuse heat properly.
The thermal print head can easily be accessed for cleaning or replacement, as follows:
- Disconnect AC cord from the power pack to turn off the printer.
- A desktop version of the printer will have a cover that may need to be removed first.
- DO NOT UNPLUG CABLES FROM PRINT HEAD.
- Open the print head by pushing down and back on the Print Head lock/ cutter guard to unlock the print head.
Lift up on the head mounting assembly/ thermal head and tilt back.
- Clean the entire thermal print head surface (the side that makes contact with the paper) with isopropyl alcohol.
- Gently lower the head mounting assembly/ thermal head and push down to center to lock in place. You will want to confirm that both sides of the latch are locked.
- The printer in now ready for operation. If the print quality is still poor then the thermal head needs to be replaced.