Protect your printhead!

The printhead is the most expensive component to replace on a bar code printer—ranging from about $400 to $800, depending on the model. So it makes sense to take preventive measures to protect this key part. When it’s damaged, you not only incur the repair expense, but you suffer downtime that cuts into your productivity, and wasted media from reprinting the labels that don’t output clearly. Here are a few tips to avoid unnecessary service calls and repair:

• Clean the printhead every time you change the ribbon. Wipe it with a lint-free cloth and 90% isopropyl alcohol or use Genuine Zebra cleaning swabs. You should also keep a supply of Zebra Printhead Cleaning Kits on hand for a more thorough cleaning.
• Use only approved media in your printer. The wrong adhesive can ooze and damage the printhead.
• Wrap and store the printer ribbons and media in a clean area to avoid collecting debris that then transfers to your printer. Even the tiniest piece of dirt can scratch the glass etching on the printhead, and a busy warehouse poses a high risk for contaminants.
• Keep your printer covered when not in use to keep out excess dirt and debris.
• When cleaning the printhead, remove any jewelry that could scratch the glass on the printhead.

Protect your valuable investment with simple maintenance that will ensure your printer works when you need it! For information on printhead maintenance, cleaning supplies, and Ryzex’s preventive maintenance service, please contact us.

Have you ever experienced printhead problems? What was the cause? What are you doing differently to avoid those issues? Please share your experiences and any other tips for avoiding printhead failure.