Zebra ZT411 ZT421 How To Load The Media And Ribbon

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Step-By-Step Instructions To Load The Media And Ribbon On The Zebra ZT411 and ZT421

To load media (labels) and ribbon into the Zebra ZT411 or ZT421 industrial printers, follow these step-by-step instructions. Both models have a nearly identical loading process:

Loading Media (Labels):

1. Open the Printer:
• Pull the large green latches on the sides of the printer cover to open the media door.
2. Insert Media Roll:
• Slide the media roll onto the media supply spindle.
• Push the roll all the way to the back of the spindle.

Adjust the green media guide on the spindle to snug the roll.

3. Thread the Media:
• Pull the media under the media dancer roller (spring-loaded roller).
• Thread it under the printhead mechanism.
• Ensure it goes over the platen roller (the rubber roller below the printhead).
• Route the media through the green media guides on the bottom.
4. Adjust Media Guides:
• Move the green media guides to lightly touch the edges of the label without bending them.

Loading Ribbon (Only for Thermal Transfer Mode):

1. Insert Ribbon Roll:
• Place the ribbon roll on the ribbon supply spindle (located above the media roll).
• Push it all the way to the back.
• Secure with the green guide.
2. Thread the Ribbon:
• Pull the ribbon under the printhead assembly (same path as media but above it).
• Thread it to the ribbon take-up spindle (at the front of the printer).
• Tape the ribbon to the take-up spindle or wind a few turns to secure it.
3. Tighten and Align:
• Turn the take-up spindle to remove slack and ensure smooth movement.

Final Steps:

1. Close the Printhead:
• Press down on the green lever until it clicks.
2. Close the Printer Cover:
• Lower the top cover until it latches.
3. Calibrate (Optional but Recommended):
• Press the power button, then press the Feed button to check alignment and calibration.
• Alternatively, use the printer’s touch screen to run a Media Calibration.