Sato, the barcode printing, labelling, and EPC/RFID solutions provider, recently launched the CL4NX series of industrial thermal barcode printers, capitalising on its 33 years of development as a pioneer in thermal barcode printing since 1981.
The CL4NX is Sato's first truly universal printer engineered for the ultimate operator experience, and is crafted to support new and legacy printing applications across a wide array of verticals that would require a durable and dependable printer for years to come.
The CL4NX Series is a state-of-the-art industrial class printer utilising Sato's global design philosophy to provide an easy-to-use platform for the most demanding customer applications and environments with available print resolutions of 203, 305 or 609dpi.
A simple, colour LED indicator alerts users when the printer is operating normally (blue) or if an error condition exists (red). If an error condition is present the CL4NX provides an innovative form of communicating and addressing such an error. Operators are guided through steps to clear an error condition and quickly return the printer back to duty.
All operators should be properly trained on the use of any new printer, but not every employee is able to retain all of the required information for each activity related to the proper use of the equipment. This is especially true when it comes to maintenance or error resolution. If operators have to contact supervisors, refer to product manuals, or contact the manufacturer, these processes can lead to costly downtime.
The CL4NX solves this problem using on-board video assistance. The printer ships pre-loaded with video tutorials for operator guidance and error resolution that can be viewed directly on the printer display. These videos provide instantaneous 'self-help' for operators right on the shop floor, while also reducing the time and expense required for training and re-training.
Maintenance made easy
The CL4NX was designed to reduce the number of potential printer errors or print-run failures, and to speed up the processes of routine maintenance. Operators of the CL4NX are enabled to clean and change out print heads and platen rollers quickly, via tool-less procedures, and thereby minimising production downtime.
Construction of the CL4NX offers a high level of durability by way of its metal exterior, die-cast chassis. Its exceptional print quality and accuracy are the result of its print head mechanism, print head heat control, placement of the head in relation to the present position and Label Tension Damper System (LTDS). The ruggedized construction means the printer can withstand harsh environmental conditions, reduce potential breakdowns, and lower the total cost of ownership and operation.
The bi-fold cover design reduces the overall area required for operating in restricted spaces, with a space reduction of 53 per cent in width and 27 per cent in height compared to competitive industrial models.
Accessing the interior of the printer is also easier. The CL4NX features a wide-angle print head opening of 60 degrees, which is nearly twice the opening you would find in other printer models, for easy access and maintenance of the print area without restrictions.
Tool-less head pressure adjustment provides easy set up and modifications for a variety of label widths and substrates, while a label guide and damper system (LTDS) provides consistent resistance to the media, reducing printer jams and improving print quality, as well as precise label placement.
A large media window makes it easy to view label and ribbon supplies. The straight through label route is clearly visible and accessible, which helps avoid wasted time associated with replenishing consumables.
The internal roll label holder includes an easy slide guide that can extend the standard roll use from 8-inch O.D. to a 10-inch label roll. The new thermal transfer ink-ribbon rewind with an oversized core and coreless capabilities provides stable rotating torque to reduce ribbon wrinkles. An optional internal re-winder is also available, providing liner take up when the optional dispenser is used.
Software and regulatory compliance
The The CL4NX comes with Sato labelling software that brings a complete barcode printing solution and RFID smart label printing solution to desktop, mobile and network users. Concerning New Food Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011, labelling of certain substances or products causing allergies or intolerances requires the following mandatory information:
- Name of the food.
- List of ingredients.
- Labelling of certain substances or products causing allergies or intolerances.
- Quantitative indication of ingredients.
- Net quantity.
- Minimum durability date, 'use by' date and date of freezing.
- Storage conditions or conditions of use.
- Name or business name and address of the food business operator.
- Country of origin or place of provenance.
- Instructions for use.
- Alcoholic strength.
- Nutrition declaration.
Sato's Windows-based label design software ensures that listed allergen names and any associated descriptions are automatically accentuated on the product label. Allergen ingredients are marked in the product database, and the product database is compared with an allergen ingredients database.
Real-time processing for faster throughput
The CL4NX's dual 800MHz CPUs architecture supports real-time processing for faster throughput, while the dedicated second CPU leverages the flexibility of the printer's operating system. Its dual CPU architecture champions an expansive internal memory of 100MB for format storage, large graphics, custom fonts, and other downloads. In addition to the 30 display languages, Unicode support enables 47 print languages, providing even greater flexibility for companies with global operations.
Standard host interfaces include LAN, USB (type A & B), IEEE 1284, RS-232C, EXT, and Bluetooth, as well as optional wireless LAN support for 802.11 a/b/g/n. The USB port allows users to easily download additional fonts, file caption, firmware, emulations, videos, printer settings, and optional devices.
Add a Comment
No messages on this article yet