Clover Printer Skipping Lines Diagnostic Report - Solar... | terminalfaults.org

Technical Background:

Printer functionality relies on data transmission from the terminal. App crashes can interrupt the data stream, leading to buffer errors within the printer's firmware. Voltage fluctuations or ESD events during/after the crash can affect the print head's stepping motor control, causing misaligned or skipped lines. Communication errors (baud rate mismatch, parity issues) between the terminal and printer, although less likely after initial setup, are potential contributing factors.

Symptoms:

Clover printer skips lines during printing, specifically observed after a crash of the Scotiabank application on the connected terminal. This results in incomplete or illegible receipts.

Possible Causes:

Data buffer overflow or corruption in the printer's firmware caused by the app crash.
Voltage fluctuations from the terminal's power supply affecting the printer's operation.
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) affecting the printer's electronics, particularly in dry environments.
Loose or damaged communication cables (USB or serial) between the terminal and printer.
Printer driver incompatibility or corruption on the terminal.
Print head stepper motor malfunction due to power surge or mechanical wear.

Solution:

1

Perform a Safe Handling procedure: Unplug the printer from the power source and terminal.
2

Inspect the communication cable (USB/Serial) for any damage or loose connections. Ensure it is securely connected to both the printer and the terminal.
3

Reboot the Clover terminal completely. This clears temporary files and resets the operating system.
4

Once the terminal has rebooted, plug the printer back in. Allow the terminal to re-detect and initialize the printer.
5

Print a test receipt from the Clover terminal's settings menu (not the Scotiabank app) to verify basic printer functionality.
6

If the test print is successful, restart the Scotiabank application and attempt to print a transaction receipt.
7

If the issue persists after these steps, consider contacting Clover support for a firmware update or hardware diagnostic check.

Safety Warning:

Electrical Hazard: Always unplug the printer before inspecting or cleaning it. Tripping Hazard: Ensure all cables are properly routed and secured to prevent tripping. Static Discharge: Avoid touching the printer's internal components. Electrostatic discharge can damage sensitive electronics. Do NOT attempt to open the printer casing; this may void the warranty and damage the device.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the printer exterior with a dry, antistatic cloth. Avoid using liquids near the printer's electronics.,Ensure the communication cable is routed to prevent strain or damage. Use cable ties to manage cable slack.,Implement ESD control measures, especially during dry seasons. Use antistatic mats and wrist straps when handling the printer.,Keep the terminal and printer powered by a stable power source, ideally with surge protection.,Periodically check for and install updates for the Clover terminal's operating system and printer drivers.,Avoid placing the printer near sources of electromagnetic interference (e.g., large motors, microwaves).

Expert Tip:

If the printer intermittently skips lines, try using a high-quality USB cable with ferrite chokes at both ends to reduce electromagnetic interference. If the problem only occurs within the Scotiabank app, it suggests a software-level issue. Check the Scotiabank app logs for any error messages related to printing.

Frequently Asked Questions

•Has the printer firmware been recently updated?

Firmware updates can sometimes introduce bugs or compatibility issues. Determine if a recent update correlates with the onset of the printing problem.

•Is the printer connected directly to the terminal or through a USB hub?

USB hubs can sometimes cause power or data transmission issues. Connecting the printer directly to the terminal can help isolate the problem.

•Does the issue occur with other applications on the Clover terminal?

If the problem is isolated to the Scotiabank app, it points towards a software-specific issue rather than a general hardware problem.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•Has the printer firmware been recently updated?

•Is the printer connected directly to the terminal or through a USB hub?

•Does the issue occur with other applications on the Clover terminal?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: