Replacing Thermal Ribbon
This article describes the procedure for removing and installing thermal transfer ribbon on SATO CL4NX-series RFID printers.
Supported Models
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SATO CLNX Series RFID Printers (including CL4NX and CL6NX)
Prerequisites
Verify the following before proceeding:
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SATO CLNX-series RFID printer
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Compatible replacement thermal ribbon
- Additional ribbon can be purchased from local suppliers such as Peacock Bros.
For supported ribbon specifications, contact support@ramp.com.au.
Procedure
Removing the Used Ribbon
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Open the top cover.

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Move the head lock lever toward the rear to open the print head.

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Press the release tab on the ribbon rewind spindle. Remove the rewind spindle from the printer.

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Remove the used ribbon from the rewind spindle.

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Reinsert the empty rewind spindle into the printer.

Installing the New Ribbon
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Install the replacement ribbon onto the ribbon supply spindle.
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Verify that the matte side of the ribbon faces downward toward the print surface.

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Route the ribbon under the print head.

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Verify that the ribbon lies flat and free of wrinkles.
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Attach the ribbon to the rewind spindle and grip sheet.

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Rotate the rewind spindle counterclockwise to tension the ribbon.
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Lower the print head until the head lock lever engages.

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Close the top cover.
Troubleshooting
Low Print Quality After Ribbon Replacement
If print quality is degraded after replacement:
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Verify that the ribbon is flat and free of wrinkles.
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Verify that the matte side of the ribbon faces the print surface.
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Reinstall the ribbon if misalignment is observed.
- Verify that the ribbon is new and not exposed to the sun.
If issues persist, refer to Print Quality Issues (SATO CL4NX) or contact support@ramp.com.au.