Causes: You are using an incorrect combination of labels and ribbon for your application. The print engine is set at the incorrect print speed. The print engine is set at an incorrect darkness level. The printhead is dirty.
Remedy: Consult your authorized Zebra reseller or distributor for information and advice. For optimal print quality, set the print speed to the lowest possible setting for your application via ZPL II, the driver, or the software. For optimal print quality, set the darkness to the lowest possible setting for your application via the front panel, the driver, or the software. Clean the printhead according to the instructions in Cleaning the Printhead and Rollers
Code: 14
Display:
Description: Wrinkled ribbon
Causes: Ribbon fed through the machine incorrectly. Incorrect burn temperature. Incorrect or uneven pressure. Media not feeding properly; walking from side to side. The strip plate needs adjusting. The printhead needs vertical adjustment. The printhead and platen roller need to be realigned.
Remedy: See Load Ribbon. Set the darkness to the lowest possible setting for good print quality. Set the pressure to the minimum needed for good print quality. Make sure that media is snug by adjusting the media guide, or call a service technician. Perform adjustment (see Section 4 for strip plate adjustment). Perform adjustment (see Section 4 for printhead adjustment). Perform adjustment (see Section 4 for printhead adjustment).
Code: 15
Display:
Description: Long tracks of missing print on several labels
Causes: Wrinkled ribbon. Print element damaged.
Remedy: See wrinkled ribbon causes and solutions in this table. Replace printhead (see Section 4 for printhead removal).
Code: 16
Display:
Description: Fine, angular gray lines on blank labels
Causes: Wrinkled ribbon.
Remedy: See wrinkled ribbon causes and solutions in this table.
Code: 17
Display:
Description: Light printing or no printing on the left or right side of the label
Causes: Printhead pressure needs adjustment, printhead out of alignment, or toggle in incorrect position.
Remedy: See Toggle Positioning and Printhead Pressure Adjustment. Call a service technician.
Code: 18
Display:
Description: Printing too light or too dark over the entire label
Causes: Media or ribbon is not designed for high-speed operation. Incorrect or uneven printhead pressure.
Remedy: Replace supplies with those recommended for high-speed operation. Set the pressure to the minimum needed. See Printhead Pressure Adjustment