Clover Printer Double Printing Diagnostic and Resolution... | terminalfaults.org

Technical Background:

Printer mechanisms rely on precise stepper motor control and thermal print head activation. Double printing can occur due to voltage fluctuations, corrupted print commands sent from the terminal's application layer (triggered by the app crash), or a faulty buffer within the printer's firmware. ESD events, common in dry environments, can also corrupt data transmission. Baud-rate mismatch or signal attenuation on the printer cable can also cause errors.

Symptoms:

The Clover printer is producing duplicate prints of transaction receipts following a reported crash of the Scotiabank application on the Clover terminal.

Possible Causes:

Software Glitch: The Scotiabank application crash may have corrupted the print job data being sent to the printer.
Voltage Irregularities: Power fluctuations could cause the printer's internal logic to malfunction, leading to duplicate commands.
Cable Interference: Electromagnetic interference (EMI) or a damaged printer cable can cause data corruption during transmission.
Firmware Error: A bug or corruption in the printer's firmware could result in repeated print cycles.
Driver Issue: Incompatible or corrupted printer drivers on the Clover terminal.
ESD Event: Electrostatic discharge may have temporarily disrupted the printer's control circuits.

Solution:

1

Safe Handling: Unplug the Clover printer from the power source and the Clover terminal.
2

Inspect Cables: Check the printer cable (USB or Ethernet) for any signs of physical damage or loose connections. Ensure it is securely connected to both the printer and the terminal.
3

Reboot Terminal: Restart the Clover terminal completely to clear any residual software errors from the app crash.
4

Reconnect and Test: Plug the printer back into the terminal and the power source. Attempt a test print from the Clover terminal's settings menu (not the Scotiabank app) to see if the issue persists.
5

Update Drivers/Firmware: Check for and install any available printer driver or firmware updates on the Clover terminal through the Clover App Market or device settings.
6

Alternate App Test: Attempt printing from another Clover app (e.g., a simple receipt printing app) to isolate whether the issue is specific to the Scotiabank application.
7

Factory Reset (Printer): If possible via the Clover terminal interface (without physically accessing the printer), perform a printer reset to factory defaults. Note: This may require contacting Clover support.

Safety Warning:

Avoid touching the printer's internal components. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Ensure the power cable is disconnected before performing any external cleaning. Be mindful of ESD, especially in dry environments. Ground yourself before touching the printer or terminal. Never use liquids directly on the printer; always apply them to a cloth first.

Prevention:

Implement regular cleaning of the Clover printer's exterior surfaces with a dry, anti-static cloth. Ensure the printer cable is routed to prevent strain and is shielded if possible. Use a surge protector to mitigate voltage fluctuations. Keep the printer away from sources of strong electromagnetic interference (e.g., microwave ovens).

Expert Tip:

If the issue consistently occurs after the Scotiabank app is used, there may be a conflict. Clear the Scotiabank app cache and data from the Clover terminal's settings. Sometimes, a full app reinstall is needed to resolve software conflicts that generate faulty print commands.

Frequently Asked Questions

•Does the double printing occur with all applications, or only after using the Scotiabank app?

This will help determine if the issue is specific to the Scotiabank app or a more general printer problem.

•Has the Clover terminal or printer experienced any recent power outages or surges?

Voltage fluctuations can damage the printer's internal electronics.

•Are the printer drivers and firmware on the Clover terminal up to date?

Outdated drivers or firmware can cause compatibility issues and printing errors.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•Does the double printing occur with all applications, or only after using the Scotiabank app?

•Has the Clover terminal or printer experienced any recent power outages or surges?

•Are the printer drivers and firmware on the Clover terminal up to date?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: