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www.citizen-europe.com London: +44 20 8893 1900 Stuttgart: +49 711 3906 420 Hamburg: +49 4152 87800

1

Product Presentation

Citizen CLP 521, CLP 621 and CLP 631

Including CLP 521Z, CLP 621Z and CLP 631Z versions

Citizen CLP 521, CLP 621 and CLP 631

Including CLP 521Z, CLP 621Z and CLP 631Z versions


2

Versions and variants

ModelPrint Type Resolution Emulation

DT TT 200dpi 300dpi Datamax® Zebra®

CLP 521 - - -

CLP 621 - -

CLP 631 - -

CLP 521Z - - -

CLP 621Z - -

CLP 631Z - -

®Datamax is a registered trademark of Datamax Barcode Products Corporation. ®Zebra is a registered trademark of ZIH Corp.


3

Low Cost Of Ownership

Easy operation

Intuitive (logical) actions

Minimum training

No operating mistakes

High reliability

Minimum downtime

Maximum operational uptime

Confidence in product

Low print head pricing Running costs kept low


4

Printer Features

Metal Hi-Lift mechanismMetal Hi-Lift mechanismThe metal construction gives strength and durability for reliable performance and long life and opens wide for easy access

The metal construction gives strength and durability for reliable performance and long life and opens wide for easy access

5” (125mm) outside diameter roll capacity.

High-impact plastic case with media viewing window

5” (125mm) outside diameter roll capacity.

High-impact plastic case with media viewing window

Large internal rollLarge internal roll

Colour Coded!Colour Coded!Highly visible colour-coded mechanism adjustment and head release levers for easy-of-use

Highly visible colour-coded mechanism adjustment and head release levers for easy-of-use

Hi-Lift printhead and drop-in media holder. Still the simplest media loading on any printer.

Hi-Lift printhead and drop-in media holder. Still the simplest media loading on any printer.

Easy load mediaEasy load media

Simple ControlSimple Control4 buttons for easy control and a sophisticated menu system for “power users”

4 buttons for easy control and a sophisticated menu system for “power users”

Adjustable sensorAdjustable sensorAdjustable reflective (black mark) and transmissive (label gap) sensor as standard.

Adjustable reflective (black mark) and transmissive (label gap) sensor as standard.


5

Mechanism Features

Easy to closeEasy to closeA large press button clearly marked “PUSH” for easy closure of the mechanism makes for easy operation

A large press button clearly marked “PUSH” for easy closure of the mechanism makes for easy operation

75mm, 3 inch roll outside diameter and 1 inch cores – industry standard.

No need for specialist ribbons and core sizes. Ink in or ink out capable

75mm, 3 inch roll outside diameter and 1 inch cores – industry standard.

No need for specialist ribbons and core sizes. Ink in or ink out capable

Ribbon changing and installation is completed in seconds, not minutes meaning minimum downtime.

Ribbon changing and installation is completed in seconds, not minutes meaning minimum downtime.

Large accessible ribbon holdersLarge accessible ribbon holdersMedia widthMedia width

Easily set the width of the media. Factory default is “9” for media more than 90mm

Easily set the width of the media. Factory default is “9” for media more than 90mm

Media thicknessMedia thicknessEasily adjust for thicker media such as cards and tickets Easily adjust for thicker media such as cards and tickets

Easy to openEasy to openSimple to operate mechanism release leverSimple to operate mechanism release lever

Large 360m ribbonsLarge 360m ribbons


6

What is ARCP ?

Accurate print positioning Print accurately in boxes Print near to edge of labels

No Ribbon Wrinkle No stripes through text & barcodes No faulty barcodes causing downtime

No smudges or black marks No leading and trailing edge smudging Clean, professional output

Accurate print positioning Print accurately in boxes Print near to edge of labels

No Ribbon Wrinkle No stripes through text & barcodes No faulty barcodes causing downtime

No smudges or black marks No leading and trailing edge smudging Clean, professional output

Printed with ARCP

Printed without ARCP

Smudges & black marksSmudges & black marks

Inaccurate positioningInaccurate positioning

Ribbon wrinkleRibbon wrinkle

Active Ribbon Control & PositioningActive Ribbon Control & Positioning


7

How does ARCP work?

How does it work? By keeping even tension on ribbon at all times from start

to end of the ribbon

Simpler to change ribbons No setup or adjustment required

Less user training

Lower operational costs

How does it work? By keeping even tension on ribbon at all times from start

to end of the ribbon

Simpler to change ribbons No setup or adjustment required

Less user training

Lower operational costs

Large unused ribbonSmall used ribbon roll

The variation in tension between ‘start’ and ‘end’ of the ribbon is related to the size of the rolls.

Small unusedLarge used roll

ARCP automatically balances this tension to give better print quality and no ribbon wrinkle


8

Power & Connectivity Features

Internal power supplyInternal power supplyIntegral internal power supply for greater reliability and safety.

NO ‘external brick’ (which is easily unplugged, unreliable & less powerful)

Integral internal power supply for greater reliability and safety.

NO ‘external brick’ (which is easily unplugged, unreliable & less powerful)

Internal network optionsInternal network optionsUndo two screws and slide out the parallel interface and replace with an Ethernet 10/100 or Wireless LAN interface

Undo two screws and slide out the parallel interface and replace with an Ethernet 10/100 or Wireless LAN interface

Standard interfacesStandard interfaces

Serial RS232C

- industry standard

- up to 115,000 baud / bps

Parallel IEEE1284

- high speed transfer

- plug-and-play compatible in Windows

USB

- the new industry standard

- Windows plug-and-play

Serial RS232C

- industry standard

- up to 115,000 baud / bps

Parallel IEEE1284

- high speed transfer

- plug-and-play compatible in Windows

USB

- the new industry standard

- Windows plug-and-play


9

All Metal Mechanism

Full metal mechanismFull metal mechanism

To ensure the highest reliability, the mechanism is a self-contained unit made from metal.

Citizen’s policy of engineering excellence ensures the most robust design.

It also means that it is easy to recycle compared to plastic mechanism printers.

To ensure the highest reliability, the mechanism is a self-contained unit made from metal.

Citizen’s policy of engineering excellence ensures the most robust design.

It also means that it is easy to recycle compared to plastic mechanism printers.


10

Features mean benefits

The Features The Benefits

Easy operation

Colour coded mechanismUsers learn the printers quickly – minimum training

Metal Mechanism

Internal Power SupplyReliability – low failure and maximum uptime

Easy Media Loading

Easy Ribbon Loading

ARCP System

Quickly changing of supplies – maximum uptime

Large diameter ribbons

Large internal rollMinimum stoppages and maximum uptime


11

Low Cost Of Ownership

Robust design

No failures

Confidence in product

Intuitive, logical actions

Minimum training

No operating mistakes

High reliability

Easy operation

Minimum downtime

Maximum operational uptime

= Lowest Cost Of Ownership


12

Specification Overview

Model CLP 521, CLP 521Z CLP 621, CLP 621Z CLP 631, CLP 631Z

Technology Direct Thermal Thermal Transfer Thermal Transfer

Resolution 200 dpi (8 dots / mm) 200 dpi (8 dots / mm) 300 dpi (12 dots / mm)

Ribbon n/a 360 metre (75mm OD) capacity. Ink side in or out.

Print Speed 4 inches / second, 100 mm / second

Media Width 4.1 inch, 104 mm printable width, 4.65 inch, 118 mm media width

Media capacity 5 inch (125 mm) internal paper roll. 8 inch (200mm) external roll holder.

Media Sensor Adjustable sensor as standard, both see-through (gap) and black-mark

Fonts Scalable & Smooth on board including true-type font support as standard

Memory8Mb RAM, 2Mb Flash on board½Mb RAM and ½Mb flash available for user download

Interface1284 Parallel, RS232C Serial & USB standardEthernet and Wireless LAN are easy-install options


13

Adjustable Media Sensor

Adjustable SensorAdjustable Sensor

The standard sensor is adjustable from the left to the centre of the media allowing for all media types.

It is a see-through (label gap and notch) and reflective (black mark) sensor

The standard sensor is adjustable from the left to the centre of the media allowing for all media types.

It is a see-through (label gap and notch) and reflective (black mark) sensor

Flexible Media CapabilitiesFlexible Media Capabilities

The adjustable sensor is designed to pick up unusually shaped labels. A left-fixed sensor (red line) would miss this label. A middle-fixed sensor (blue line) would work as would an adjustable sensor (green line)

The adjustable sensor is designed to pick up unusually shaped labels. A left-fixed sensor (red line) would miss this label. A middle-fixed sensor (blue line) would work as would an adjustable sensor (green line)

A left-fixed sensor (red line) would potentially miss this label. A middle-fixed sensor (blue line) would not work as it only see the central gap between labels. Only the adjustable sensor (green line) would work.

A left-fixed sensor (red line) would potentially miss this label. A middle-fixed sensor (blue line) would not work as it only see the central gap between labels. Only the adjustable sensor (green line) would work.


14

Cut & Peel Options

Cutter and peeler are easily connected without opening the main printer case.Cutter and peeler are easily connected without opening the main printer case.

High speed guillotine auto-cutter. Especially good for ticketingHigh speed guillotine auto-cutter. Especially good for ticketing

Peeler OptionPeeler OptionNew generation “peeler with label taken sensor” has silicone rollers for better “anti-clogging” with glue.

New generation “peeler with label taken sensor” has silicone rollers for better “anti-clogging” with glue.

Cutter OptionCutter Option


15

Typical Applications

CLP 521

Parcel Shipping

Mail Shot Labelling

Food & Date Coding

Ticketing

Retail Point-Of-Sale

(Alternative for ’mini printer’ applications)

CLP 521

Parcel Shipping

Mail Shot Labelling

Food & Date Coding

Ticketing

Retail Point-Of-Sale

(Alternative for ’mini printer’ applications)

CLP 621

General Office Use

Stock Labelling

Vehicle Licence Plates

Banner Printing

CLP 621

General Office Use

Stock Labelling

Vehicle Licence Plates

Banner Printing


16

Typical Applications

CLP 631

Wristband Printing

EAN Barcodes (Retail)

Rating Plates / Serial Numbers / Asset Labels

Compliance Logos (CE / WEEE)

Any Small Labels

2D barcoding

CLP 631

Wristband Printing

EAN Barcodes (Retail)

Rating Plates / Serial Numbers / Asset Labels

Compliance Logos (CE / WEEE)

Any Small Labels

2D barcoding


17

Printing Capacity

Typical Label Size: 4” x 4” (100 x 100mm)

Technically, the printers are capable of:

One label per second

60 labels per minute

3600 labels per hour (continuous run)

2880 labels per day (10% running, 8 hours / day)

Typical Label Size: 4” x 4” (100 x 100mm) Internal 5-inch roll, 1-inch core

Typically 750 labels per roll

= Continuous running would use a roll every 12.5 minutes!

External 8-inch roll, 3-inch core = 1500 labels/roll

= Continuous running uses a roll every 25 minutes

Typical Label Size: 4” x 4” (100 x 100mm)

Technically, the printers are capable of:

One label per second

60 labels per minute

3600 labels per hour (continuous run)

2880 labels per day (10% running, 8 hours / day)

Typical Label Size: 4” x 4” (100 x 100mm) Internal 5-inch roll, 1-inch core

Typically 750 labels per roll

= Continuous running would use a roll every 12.5 minutes!

External 8-inch roll, 3-inch core = 1500 labels/roll

= Continuous running uses a roll every 25 minutes


18

How many labels per day?

Realistic Suggested Usage: 2 rolls of media per day (internal rolls)

Approximately 6,000 inches (150,000 mm) per day

To calculate usage in labels: Divide 6,000 by label length in inches

Or divide 150,000 by label length in mm

For example: 2 inch long labels (address labels)

6,000 / 2 = 3,000 labels per day (or 150,000 / 50 mm)

For example: 6 inch long labels (courier labels)


If there is more than one label per row, just multiply result by labels per row.

Realistic Suggested Usage: 2 rolls of media per day (internal rolls)

Approximately 6,000 inches (150,000 mm) per day

To calculate usage in labels: Divide 6,000 by label length in inches

Or divide 150,000 by label length in mm

For example: 2 inch long labels (address labels)


For example: 6 inch long labels (courier labels)


If there is more than one label per row, just multiply result by labels per row.


19

Printer & Head Warranty

Two Year Warranty

Two year warranty on the printer (excluding print head)

Print head warranty is:

50Km in thermal transfer mode

30Km in direct thermal mode

Or 6 months, whichever comes soonest

Warranty = minimum life – reality will be more

Two Year Warranty

Two year warranty on the printer (excluding print head)

Print head warranty is:

50Km in thermal transfer mode

30Km in direct thermal mode

Or 6 months, whichever comes soonest

Warranty = minimum life – reality will be more

Why not include ‘free lifetime print heads’?

Typical 4”x4” labels: 750 per roll = 75metres / roll

Assume minimum distance of 50Km = 666 rolls

The reality is likely to many more rolls

Print head cost per roll = €0.28 or £0.18 list price

Include as part of the media roll cost

Keeps customer loyal to your consumable supply

Why not include ‘free lifetime print heads’?

Typical 4”x4” labels: 750 per roll = 75metres / roll

Assume minimum distance of 50Km = 666 rolls

The reality is likely to many more rolls

Print head cost per roll = €0.28 or £0.18 list price

Include as part of the media roll cost

Keeps customer loyal to your consumable supply


20

Network Card Installation

Undo two screws and slide out the parallel interface. Disconnect the cable.Undo two screws and slide out the parallel interface. Disconnect the cable.

Remove existingRemove existing

Reconnect the cable. Slide module back in to case and insert two screws to secure. A configuration print will show “LAN” in the optional interfaces section

Reconnect the cable. Slide module back in to case and insert two screws to secure. A configuration print will show “LAN” in the optional interfaces section

Install newInstall new

EthernetEthernet10 / 100 full and half-duplex auto or manual configuration.10 / 100 full and half-duplex auto or manual configuration.

Wireless LANWireless LAN802.11b compliant. Usual wireless LAN security features such as WEP, if required.802.11b compliant. Usual wireless LAN security features such as WEP, if required.


21

Cutter Installation

The autocutter is ordered as one part number from Citizen - part 2000410. (Some other Citizen cutters needed a module and mounting kit.)

The cutter itself is supplied in two parts – the mounting frame (right) and cutter unit (left)

The autocutter is ordered as one part number from Citizen - part 2000410. (Some other Citizen cutters needed a module and mounting kit.)

The cutter itself is supplied in two parts – the mounting frame (right) and cutter unit (left)

Cutter OptionCutter Option

The cutter is easily installed with a cross-point screwdriver. There is no need to open the main case of the printer, just a connector and side cover.

The cutter is easily installed with a cross-point screwdriver. There is no need to open the main case of the printer, just a connector and side cover.

InstallationInstallation

Auto-Configuration

The printer will automatically sense the cutter has been installed and enable it straight away.

The cutter is ideal for tickets, tags and labels.

Auto-Configuration

The printer will automatically sense the cutter has been installed and enable it straight away.

The cutter is ideal for tickets, tags and labels.


22

Peeler Installation

Peeler OptionPeeler OptionNew generation “peeler with label taken sensor”

The peeler now has silicone rollers for better “anti-clogging” with glue. Citizen part number 2000411

New generation “peeler with label taken sensor”

The peeler now has silicone rollers for better “anti-clogging” with glue. Citizen part number 2000411

The peeler is easily installed with a cross-point screwdriver. There is no need to open the main case of the printer, just a connector and side cover.

The peeler is easily installed with a cross-point screwdriver. There is no need to open the main case of the printer, just a connector and side cover.

InstallationInstallation

Auto-Configuration

The printer will automatically sense the peeler has been installed and enable it straight away.

Auto-Configuration

The printer will automatically sense the peeler has been installed and enable it straight away.


23

Narrow Media & Wristbands

Large wide media holder

plate pressing against wide

side-wall of printer

Large wide media holder

plate pressing against wide

side-wall of printer

How NOT to handle narrow media

• Some other manufacturers printers

are not particularly well suited to

holding wristbands (“spaghetti”)

• Expensive media gets damaged and

stuck too easily

• Narrowest adjustment point still not

good enough for paediatric

wristbands.

How NOT to handle narrow media

• Some other manufacturers printers

are not particularly well suited to

holding wristbands (“spaghetti”)

• Expensive media gets damaged and

stuck too easily

• Narrowest adjustment point still not

good enough for paediatric

wristbands.

Citizen printers are

designed for narrow

media

Citizen printers are

designed for narrow

media

Fully adjustable media

sensor (needed for

unusually shaped media).

Media adjuster capable of

narrow media of 12.5mm

(½-inch)

Fully adjustable media

sensor (needed for

unusually shaped media).

Media adjuster capable of

narrow media of 12.5mm

(½-inch)


24

Citizen Desktop to Mid Range

7200eSeries7200eSeries

20012001

10011001

“Tried And Tested” – for existing installations and those who must have an LCD

“Tried And Tested” – for existing installations and those who must have an LCD

Metal Case7 inches / second8 inch internal media rollARCP ribbon systemUSB standardEthernet optionLCD panel

Metal Case7 inches / second8 inch internal media rollARCP ribbon systemUSB standardEthernet optionLCD panel

CLP 521CLP 521

CLP 621CLP 621

CLP 631CLP 631

Excellent pricingNewest technology

Fast processing speedUSB, serial & parallel

Excellent pricingNewest technology

Fast processing speedUSB, serial & parallel

300 dpi optionNetworking optionsARCP ribbon system5 inch internal roll

300 dpi optionNetworking optionsARCP ribbon system5 inch internal roll


25

Migration Plan (Citizen)

For customer currently using Citizen CLP 1001 or CLP 2001 printers, the upgrade

path is simple:

For customer currently using Citizen CLP 1001 or CLP 2001 printers, the upgrade

path is simple:

• Internal media roll

• Faster processing speed

• Internal networking options

• USB port

• More configuration options

• On-board flash

• TrueType font support

• International characters

• Internal media roll

• Faster processing speed

• Internal networking options

• USB port

• More configuration options

• On-board flash

• TrueType font support

• International characters

• No LCD panel• No LCD panel


26

Migration Plan (Datamax)

DatamaxE-Class

DatamaxE-Class

DatamaxM-ClassDatamaxM-Class

DatamaxProdigy Plus

DatamaxProdigy Plus

DatamaxAllegro

DatamaxAllegro

ArgoxOS / R series

ArgoxOS / R series

CitizenCLP-521Citizen

CLP-521Citizen

CLP-621Citizen

CLP-621

For customers using Datamax® or printers with DMX emulation:For customers using Datamax® or printers with DMX emulation:


27

Migration Plan (Zebra)

ZebraTLP / LP 2844Z

ZebraTLP / LP 2844Z

ZebraS4M

ZebraS4M

ZebraStripe S600

ZebraStripe S600

CitizenCLP-521Z

CitizenCLP-521Z

CitizenCLP-621Z

CitizenCLP-621Z

Printronixwith ZPLPrintronixwith ZPL

Intermecwith ZsimIntermecwith Zsim

Argoxwith PPLZ

Argoxwith PPLZ

For customers using Zebra® or printers with ZPL and ZPL-II emulation:For customers using Zebra® or printers with ZPL and ZPL-II emulation:


28

Competitor Overview

Manufacturer Citizen Zebra Datamax TEC Intermec Godex Argox Sato

DT versionTT version

CLP 521CLP 621

LP2844TLP2844

E4204E4204

B-SV4DB-SV4T

C4C4’TT’

EZ-1200EZ-1200 A200 CX400

Speed, ips 4 4 4 5 4 4 4 4

Ribbon length (metre) 360 74 110 300 91 300 100 110

Ribbon tension system Yes No No No No No No No

Standard DPIOption DPI

200300

200300

200300

200 200300

200300

200 200

ParallelRS232 SerialInternal USBInternal EthernetInternal WiFi

EnhancedStandardStandardOptionOption

StandardStandardStandardOptionNo

StandardStandardStandardNoNo





StandardStandardNoNoNo

Mechanism Metal Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic

Internal Power Supply Yes No No No No No No No

Internal Roll inch (mm)External Roll option

5” (125)8” (200)

5” (125) 5” (125) 5” (125) 5” (125) 5” (125) 5” (125) 5” (125)

Media Sensor Adjustable Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed

Max print length in/mm 32” (800) 11” (280) 24” (600) 24” (600) 18” (470) 68” (999) 45” (1150) 50” (1270)

All specifications based on manufacturers datasheets and reference material which are not always particularly clear or accurate!All specifications based on manufacturers datasheets and reference material which are not always particularly clear or accurate!


29

Competitor Products Analysis

Competitors include

• Zebra TLP,LP 2844 (Z) *

• Datamax E-4204 *

• Intermec C4, PC4 *

• TEC B-SV4D, SV4T *

* competitor products reviewed in this document

Competitors include

• Zebra TLP,LP 2844 (Z) *

• Datamax E-4204 *

• Intermec C4, PC4 *

• TEC B-SV4D, SV4T *

* competitor products reviewed in this document

• Sato CX200DT

• CAB A2/Gemini

• Argox OS214

• Godex EZ1200

• Sato CX200DT

• CAB A2/Gemini

• Argox OS214

• Godex EZ1200


30

Zebra “2844” Overview

• The “2844” features a number of models including the LP-

2844 (direct thermal) and the TLP-2844 (thermal transfer)

• The “non-Z” printer is based on the Eltron machines and

uses the EPL2 emulation. The 2844-Z variants use a faster

and more expensive motherboard to provide Zebra ZPL2

emulation.

• The power supply is an external box power supply provided

by 3rd party in Taiwan

• Mechanism is all-plastic although the printer does feel quite

strong.

• Standard ports on the rear include parallel, 9-pin serial and

USB and a DC power input and switch.

• Internal Ethernet option only available as a factory-installed

option.

• The “2844” features a number of models including the LP-

2844 (direct thermal) and the TLP-2844 (thermal transfer)

• The “non-Z” printer is based on the Eltron machines and

uses the EPL2 emulation. The 2844-Z variants use a faster

and more expensive motherboard to provide Zebra ZPL2

emulation.


by 3rd party in Taiwan

• Mechanism is all-plastic although the printer does feel quite

strong.



• Internal Ethernet option only available as a factory-installed

option.

Power DCSwitch In USB Parallel SerialPower DCSwitch In USB Parallel Serial


31

Zebra “2844” Pros & Cons

Disadvantages of the 2844

• Plastic mechanism

• Loose plastic media guides

• Complex & frustrating media installation

• Poor support for narrow media

• External power supply

• Fixed media sensor

• Small ribbon capacity: Just 74 metres

• No ribbon tension adjustment possible

• Standard Parallel (not enhanced)

• 9-pin serial connector, not 25-pin

• Less RAM and flash, shorter print length

Disadvantages of the 2844


• Loose plastic media guides

• Complex & frustrating media installation

• Poor support for narrow media



• Small ribbon capacity: Just 74 metres




• Less RAM and flash, shorter print length

Advantages of the 2844

• EPL2 emulation

• Cheap, light duty peeler option

• Compact size & light weight

Advantages of the 2844

• EPL2 emulation


• Compact size & light weight


32

Zebra “2844” Detail

Citizen Product Marketing Department’s opinion is:

• The 2844 features sprung-loaded media holders which are a little

lose but do hold a range of media core sizes well.

• The centrally-aligned media guides ‚ are moved left & right by a knob

on the right side. They are very lose but functional.

• The top case is held open by a stay at the rear ƒ but it is not obvious

how to close the mechanism and this can be frustrating.

• Ribbon loading (TLP model) is in the top of the printer. „

• The media sensor is fixed in the middle of the print area. …

• Platen removal is quite easy although the clips are very thin and easy-

to-break. †


• The 2844 features sprung-loaded media holders which are a little

lose but do hold a range of media core sizes well.

• The centrally-aligned media guides ‚ are moved left & right by a knob

on the right side. They are very lose but functional.

• The top case is held open by a stay at the rear ƒ but it is not obvious

how to close the mechanism and this can be frustrating.

• Ribbon loading (TLP model) is in the top of the printer. „

• The media sensor is fixed in the middle of the print area. …

• Platen removal is quite easy although the clips are very thin and easy-

to-break. †

‚

ƒ

„

…†

‡ˆ

• Model shown includes an optional factory-

installed peeler for very light-duty work. ‡

• When closing the top cover, it is easy (tempting)

to touch the printhead surface ˆ which will

contaminate it very quickly.

• Model shown includes an optional factory-

installed peeler for very light-duty work. ‡

• When closing the top cover, it is easy (tempting)

to touch the printhead surface ˆ which will

contaminate it very quickly.


33

Intermec PC4 Overview

• The Intermec PC4 features a DT and TT version.

However, the price difference between the two is

small and therefore the TT version is most popular

• Previously called the “C4” – upgraded to PC4

• A ‘double clamshell’ mechanism is a nice way to load

ribbon, although you still have to feed it through the

printer rather than the ease of Citizen clamshell

system

• The PC4 features an EPL emulation which gives it an

advantage when replacing old Eltron printers.

• Alternative version PC41 features IPL emulation.

• The printer is actually made by Godex in Taiwan.

Godex are now supplying their own version called the

EZ1200 as well as the Intermec version.

• The Intermec PC4 features a DT and TT version.

However, the price difference between the two is

small and therefore the TT version is most popular

• Previously called the “C4” – upgraded to PC4

• A ‘double clamshell’ mechanism is a nice way to load

ribbon, although you still have to feed it through the

printer rather than the ease of Citizen clamshell

system

• The PC4 features an EPL emulation which gives it an

advantage when replacing old Eltron printers.

• Alternative version PC41 features IPL emulation.

• The printer is actually made by Godex in Taiwan.

Godex are now supplying their own version called the

EZ1200 as well as the Intermec version.

Power DC USB present on newer versionsSwitch In Parallel SerialPower DC USB present on newer versionsSwitch In Parallel Serial


34

Intermec PC4 Pros & Cons

Disadvantages of the PC4

• All plastic mechanism



• Small ribbon capacity: only 91 metres and

uses special half-inch ribbon cores


• External Ethernet (Currently no WiFi)

• Standard Parallel, not enhanced


Disadvantages of the PC4




• Small ribbon capacity: only 91 metres and

uses special half-inch ribbon cores


• External Ethernet (Currently no WiFi)

• Standard Parallel, not enhanced

• 9-pin serial connector, not 25-pinAdvantages of the PC4

• EPL emulation

• Light duty peeler standard

• Nice double clamshell system

Advantages of the PC4

• EPL emulation

• Light duty peeler standard

• Nice double clamshell system


35

Intermec PC4 Detail


• The centrally-aligned media guides are moved left &

right by a knob on the right side ‚ The mechanism is

precise.

• The media holder ƒ clips in to the case nicely. It has two

‘directions’ for different core sizes (40mm, 25mm)

• The ‘double clamshell’ mechanism „ where the ribbons is

installed, is one of the unique design features. Even so,

the ribbon must be fed through a slot in the mechanism …

and the sticky ribbon end can easily get tangled.

• Ribbon is only 91metre length – quite short.

• The black-mark and label gap media sensor is fixed in the

middle of the print area † and cannot be moved..

• Light-duty peeler is a standard fitment ‡

• When closing the top cover, it is easy (tempting) to touch

the printhead surface ˆ which will contaminate it very

quickly.


• The centrally-aligned media guides are moved left &

right by a knob on the right side ‚ The mechanism is

precise.

• The media holder ƒ clips in to the case nicely. It has two

‘directions’ for different core sizes (40mm, 25mm)

• The ‘double clamshell’ mechanism „ where the ribbons is

installed, is one of the unique design features. Even so,

the ribbon must be fed through a slot in the mechanism …

and the sticky ribbon end can easily get tangled.

• Ribbon is only 91metre length – quite short.

• The black-mark and label gap media sensor is fixed in the

middle of the print area † and cannot be moved..

• Light-duty peeler is a standard fitment ‡

• When closing the top cover, it is easy (tempting) to touch

the printhead surface ˆ which will contaminate it very

quickly.

‚

ƒ

„

…

†

‡

ˆ


36

TEC B-SV4 Overview

• The TEC B-SV4D is the direct thermal version. The B-SV4T

is the thermal transfer version.

• The printer uses a TEC emulation

• The product is well designed, all plastic, but does feel very

strong and robust.


by 3rd party in China



• The printer is actually produced by TSC – Taiwan

Semiconductor. TSC’s own printers are the TDP245 and

TTP245 printers.

• Servicing is good with easy to replace print heads and

platens.

• The TEC B-SV4D is the direct thermal version. The B-SV4T

is the thermal transfer version.

• The printer uses a TEC emulation

• The product is well designed, all plastic, but does feel very

strong and robust.


by 3rd party in China



• The printer is actually produced by TSC – Taiwan

Semiconductor. TSC’s own printers are the TDP245 and

TTP245 printers.

• Servicing is good with easy to replace print heads and

platens.

DC PowerUSB Parallel Serial Input Switch

DC PowerUSB Parallel Serial Input Switch


37

TEC B-SV4 Pros & Cons

Disadvantages of the B-SV4



• Fixed label gap sensor (moveable black mark)

• External Ethernet

• Standard parallel, not enhanced


• 25Km printhead life

• No industry standard emulations reported although a

programmable interpreter is available

Disadvantages of the B-SV4



• Fixed label gap sensor (moveable black mark)

• External Ethernet

• Standard parallel, not enhanced


• 25Km printhead life

• No industry standard emulations reported although a

programmable interpreter is availableAdvantages of the B-SV4

• Print speed up to 5 ips

• Compact size

Advantages of the B-SV4

• Print speed up to 5 ips

• Compact size


38

TEC B-SV4 Detail


• The media guides are aligned centrally by a knob on the

right side ‚. However the media holder ƒ must be adjusted

manually leading to potential media alignment problems.

• The lower sensor „ (for black mark detection) is adjustable by

sliding from side to side. However, it is not clear how to align

this with the upper sensor … for the label gap mode!

• Options for light-duty peeler and an autocutter can be

installed at the front of the printer †

• Platen ‡ and printhead ˆ removal and exchange are easily

done without any tools.


• The media guides are aligned centrally by a knob on the

right side ‚. However the media holder ƒ must be adjusted

manually leading to potential media alignment problems.

• The lower sensor „ (for black mark detection) is adjustable by

sliding from side to side. However, it is not clear how to align

this with the upper sensor … for the label gap mode!

• Options for light-duty peeler and an autocutter can be

installed at the front of the printer †

• Platen ‡ and printhead ˆ removal and exchange are easily

done without any tools.

‚

ƒ

„

…

‡

ˆ

†


39

Datamax E-Class Overview

• The “E-Class” features 3 models, but the most

common is the E4203 which is a 3ips 200 dpi model

• They are of an old-design and is certainly showing its

age compared to the other machines.

• The large external power supply is very heavy and

bulky.

• The mechanism is almost all-plastic. It uses low

quality black plastic making it look very “cheap” .

• Although it is clamshell, the mechanism does not have

a straight paper path and the head assembly is not

spring loaded.

• Standard ports on the rear include parallel, 9-pin serial

a DC power input and switch.

• The “E-Class” features 3 models, but the most

common is the E4203 which is a 3ips 200 dpi model

• They are of an old-design and is certainly showing its

age compared to the other machines.

• The large external power supply is very heavy and

bulky.

• The mechanism is almost all-plastic. It uses low

quality black plastic making it look very “cheap” .

• Although it is clamshell, the mechanism does not have

a straight paper path and the head assembly is not

spring loaded.

• Standard ports on the rear include parallel, 9-pin serial

a DC power input and switch.

Sensor DC PowerAdjust Parallel Serial In SwitchSensor DC PowerAdjust Parallel Serial In Switch


40

Datamax E-Class Pros & Cons

Disadvantages of the E-Class


• Looks very low build quality

• Large external power supply


• Non-straight media path



• External Ethernet option only

• No other emulations (just DPL)

Disadvantages of the E-Class


• Looks very low build quality

• Large external power supply


• Non-straight media path



• External Ethernet option only

• No other emulations (just DPL)Advantages of the E-class


Advantages of the E-class



41

Datamax E-Class Detail


• The E-class has a simple left-align media holder

• The printer’s mechanism is nicely colour-coded but this doesn’t

detract from the poorly-finished black plastic throughout the interior

with moulding patterns everywhere!

• Label loading is simple although the unusual paper path that curves

down then sharply up again is confusing. The media holder is

tipped back at an angle as well.

• Ribbon loading on the thermal transfer model is quite

straightforward but still requires the ribbon to be “fed through” the

mechanism at one point. „

• The media sensor is fixed at the left of the print area. …

• Platen removal is difficult but head changing easier

• A very light duty peeler is installed although the present sensor is

optional. †


• The E-class has a simple left-align media holder

• The printer’s mechanism is nicely colour-coded but this doesn’t

detract from the poorly-finished black plastic throughout the interior

with moulding patterns everywhere!

• Label loading is simple although the unusual paper path that curves

down then sharply up again is confusing. The media holder is

tipped back at an angle as well.

• Ribbon loading on the thermal transfer model is quite

straightforward but still requires the ribbon to be “fed through” the

mechanism at one point. „

• The media sensor is fixed at the left of the print area. …

• Platen removal is difficult but head changing easier

• A very light duty peeler is installed although the present sensor is

optional. †

‚

ƒ

„

…

†

ƒ


42

Application: Banner Printing

CLP 621 with K-012 external keyboard

Ribbons for flowers and gifts

Application written by Citizen In Europe

Standard printer and keyboard


Ribbons for flowers and gifts

Application written by Citizen In Europe

Standard printer and keyboard


43

Application: Vehicle Licence Plates


Suitable for certain countries only that use plastic number

plates, e.g. UK, France, Portugal.

Application written by Citizen in Europe

Standard 621 printer

Paper tray modification for single sheets

Printing using reflective material and then laminate with

adhesive-backed clear acrylic


Suitable for certain countries only that use plastic number

plates, e.g. UK, France, Portugal.

Application written by Citizen in Europe

Standard 621 printer

Paper tray modification for single sheets

Printing using reflective material and then laminate with

adhesive-backed clear acrylic


44

CLP 621V: In-Line Validation

Barcode scanner installed on

front of printer

Checks readability and

validates every barcode

Custom error print to alert

users to any errors

Can even be programmed

to show a helpdesk phone

number.

Barcode scanner installed on

front of printer

Checks readability and

validates every barcode

Custom error print to alert

users to any errors

Can even be programmed

to show a helpdesk phone

number.

CLP 621V “CitiSafe” special versionCLP 621V “CitiSafe” special version


45

Citizen Systems Europe

Thank youThank you

Date post:	22-Dec-2015
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