Ribbon breaking can be a frustrating and expensive issue. Print Ribbons can break in either a straight cut or a jagged tear. There are different causes and resolutions for each type.
If the ribbon break is a straight cut:
- Run a self test from the printer to determine whether the problem is with the printer.
- Thoroughly Clean the rollers with a 99% Isopropyl alcohol cleaning card We recommend Fargo Part # 82133
- Update your driver and printer firmware
- Calibrate the ribbon sensor
- Ensure that your driver/printer is correctly set for the card size (CR79/CR80)
- Try a different ribbon and cards
- Ensure you have the correct power supply (MagTech)
- Adjust the card position in the driver by changing the Horizontal value negatively in increments of 2
- Change the Print Top of Form setting in the advanced settings of the driver positively by increments of 2 and test print a few cards
If the ribbon break is jagged tear:
- Run a self test from the printer to determine whether the problem is with the printer.
- Thoroughly Clean the rollers with a 99% Isopropyl alcohol cleaning card We recommend Fargo Part # 82133
- Update your driver and printer firmware
- Calibrate the ribbon sensor
- Ensure that your driver/printer is correctly set for the card size (CR79/CR80)
- Try a different ribbon and cards
- Reduce the image darkness or dye sub intensity through the printer driver
- Ensure you have the correct power supply (MagTech)
Contact and Authorized Fargo Repair center if your ribbon is still breaking.