Fargo/Datamax Prodigy Plus w/BarTender software

[grschutz]

I am having problems trying to get an older Datamax Prodigy Plus barcode printer to work with the BarTender Enterprise Edition (trial) software. Does anyone out there have any experience using this combination of printer/software?

I think my problem must be stemming from either a serial communications problem or a printer memory problem, but I am not sure. From within the printer setup, I can get the printer to print a test dot pattern and the current settings, but when I try to print a label, the printer advances a label, but it is blank.

I know the printer is several years old (1994?). Do I maybe need to look into some kind of a firmware update?

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Greg

 

[jlasman]

Do you have a Null Modem on the serial line? That or a Null Modem cable is usually required.

Jim Asman
jlasman@telus.net

 

[grschutz]

Yes, I am using a null modem cable. The printer has been used for quite some time on a Unix system. I took a cable that has been used before on the Unix system and had to modify one end to convert it to a 9 pin connection that I could plug into a COM port on the back of my Windows computer. I followed a wiring diagram that I found in the printer's user manual.

I was actually going to try to make a new cable to rule out the possibility that it was a cable problem. I think my original cable is wired correctly though.

 

[jlasman]

Was the connection on the Unix box a normal COM port or was it a Multi-Port card for terminals. If the latter, I would verify that the ports are straight RS232 and are not set up as a "modem" port already.

Assuming the cabling issues are resolved, then I guess the COM port settings are the other thing that is left.
Jim Asman
jlasman@telus.net

 

[awarnica]

If the printer is printing a test page, and feeding but not printing the label, then I would guess that bartender might be the problem, not the cable.

I have worked with Bartender before and found that many times they have printer specific drivers for specific printers. Visit their website and make sure you have the proper driver.

In fact, if you end up calling customer support their first suggestion is ALWAYS "go to our website and get the latest driver."

Then give it a shot.

Andrew