Troubleshooting a Star Micronics TSP143III receipt printer that resets when printing receipts with promotional coupons. Diagnostic and preventative measures.
Check the printer's configuration sheet or print a test page.
Determine the type of cable connecting the printer to the POS system.
Check for any historical power event logs or user reports.
The printer's internal power supply may be experiencing voltage drops due to increased processing load from coupon graphics. Thermal print heads require significant power; adding coupon graphics increases the duty cycle. Baud rate mismatch between POS system and printer can cause data corruption, leading to resets. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) events, particularly in dry environments, can trigger resets. Transient voltage surges on the power line may also cause instability.
The Star Micronics TSP143III receipt printer resets unexpectedly when printing receipts that include promotional coupons.
Safe Handling: Always unplug the printer from the power outlet before inspecting or cleaning it. Avoid using liquids directly on the printer's surface. Be mindful of potential pinch points when handling paper rolls. Do NOT attempt to open the printer casing; this could damage sensitive components and void the warranty. Static electricity discharge may damage electronic components. Ground yourself before touching any electronic components.
Regularly inspect power and data cables for damage. Clean the printer's exterior with a dry, lint-free cloth to prevent dust accumulation. Ensure adequate ventilation around the printer to prevent overheating. Use a surge protector to safeguard against power surges. Apply an anti-static wrist strap when handling the printer in dry environments.
Try disabling coupon printing temporarily to see if the resetting stops. If it does, the issue is likely related to the coupon printing process, indicating firmware or software problems. Also, external USB ferrite choke filters may reduce EMI-induced resets if installed on the USB cable.