Excel Series FAQ

You will find the following information here:

• What bar codes can I print with the EXCEL, and are they verifiable?
• Are inkjet printers environmentally friendly?
• What is the best way to maximize print quality and reliability?
• What if I need help in repairing my printer or ordering a part?
• Can I interface my EXCEL printer with a computer or controller?
• Can I use my EXCEL in a wet environment?
• What are the advantages of a printer that utilizes factory air?
• What is the difference between the EXCEL Autoflush option and the “self cleaning” printheads of other printers?

What bar codes can I print with the EXCEL, and are they verifiable?

The EXCEL Series comes standard with a wide variety of bar codes. Included are I 2-of-5, Code 39, Code 128, EAN 8, EAN 13, and UPC-A. Sometimes, customers are looking to meet a size specification to be considered verifiable. A single nozzle EXCEL printer typically prints .35 inch (8.9mm) high. Due to the advanced capabilities of scanners, bar code height is no longer as important as it used to be when reading the code. What most people want with a verifiable bar code is the reassurance that their EXCEL printer can print a reliable code that can be scanned by the end user. Videojet has many applications where EXCELs are performing this exact function. The key to a successful application is to do your homework before the installation. Eliminate unnecessary vibration in the production line, insure that the printhead to substrate distance and the set-up parameters are within specification and use a scanner system to continuously or intermittently test the bar codes being printed.

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Are inkjet printers environmentally friendly?

The EXCEL Series are the greenest CIJ printers in the market. Not only do they have the lowest emissions, but Videojet offers a wide variety of inks and accessories to minimize and/or eliminate harmful emissions. The breadth of these environmental solutions will allow you to maintain the environment without sacrificing productivity.

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What is the best way to maximize print quality and reliability?

The EXCEL Series has built a reputation of being the most reliable printer in the industry with the highest print quality. Yet as with all equipment, it will require periodic maintenance. If you follow the suggested maintenance schedule, you will spend a minimal amount of time maintaining your printer and be rewarded with exceptional uptime and productivity. In addition, it is always recommended that you use Videojet parts and supplies. Videojet never cuts corners when it comes to quality. As a result, you can be assured that the components and supplies you are using in your printer will minimize down time.

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What if I need help in repairing my printer or ordering a part?

The most reliable feature of Videojet is the caliber of people that work there. Telephone Customer Support is available to help answer your service questions and assist you in obtaining the parts that you need. A local Service Engineer can provide you with state-of-the-art expertise in servicing and maintaining all of your Videojet products. The experience and capability of Videojet’s Technical Support and Service Department are unmatched in the industry.

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Can I interface my EXCEL printer with a computer or controller?

Absolutely. All EXCELs come standard with a serial interface. For complex applications, there is ESI (Enhanced Serial Interface) software that allows you to tailor the functions of the printer to your application. In addition, there are a host of OEMs that write software specifically for controlling EXCEL printers. They can assist you in designing an interface for your application.

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Can I use my EXCEL in a wet environment?

Absolutely. EXCEL printers perform very well in wet environments. The EXCEL 178i is IP65 (close equivalent to NEMA 4) compliant, and can be used in wash down environments. The rest of the EXCEL Series is rated as IP54 (close equivalent to NEMA 12). These printers also do well in wet environments and are drip and splash proof. The only difference is that the IP54 rating does not recommend direct hosing in a wash down environment.

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What are the advantages of a printer that utilizes factory air?

There are many, many advantages to a printer that fully utilizes factory air. First and foremost, a factory air driven printer will be far more reliable than a printer which attempts to integrate gear pumps. Factory air provides a constant and plentiful source of vacuum and fluid pressure. As a result, the printer will have a more dependable hydraulic system which will result in increased up time and improved print quality. In addition, factory air allows the EXCEL Series to use longer printhead umbilical lengths and integrates positive air in the printhead to eliminate potential clogging.

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What is the difference between the EXCEL Autoflush option and the “self cleaning” printheads of other printers?

Not much. That “self cleaning” printhead is actually an autoflush feature. All of the current printers in the industry offer autoflush. An autoflush pump pushes make-up through the nozzle and return line. This can eliminate nozzle clogging and significantly reduce printhead cleaning in many applications. However, it is important to remember that due to fluid types and environmental conditions, every application is unique and may require different maintenance intervals. Please check with your Sales and Service Engineers for what is appropriate for your installation.

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