Barcodes simplify a way in aquiring information accurately and quickly
without the usual key entry stroke errors which typically can be 1 in 20 to 1 in 300 depending on
the
operator.
Why have different Barcodes?
Different Barcodes were developed to suit specific needs. For instance,
Code39 (Code 3 of 9) allows entry of alpha numeric data where as EAN 13 is a fixed length
numeric only code with error detection and the numbers are allocated by an overseeing body.
How do I register a Barcode for my product?
Barcodes need to be registered with EAN Australia. To contact EAN Austrlia you can visit thier website www.ean.com.au or phone them on 1300 366 033.
I am getting my product packaging printed and my printer is asking for a film of my (registered) barcode. How and where do I get one from?
Most design bureau's can produce these films. Ask whether they can verify the barcode to make sure that the barcode film is good. If they do not have the film you can contact Tennyson Graphics. Their website is www.tennysongraphics.com or you can contact them via phone on 9551 8600.
What is A.D.C.?
A.D.C. is a synoym for Automatic Data Capture. These products automate
the capture of information usually directly into a computer for storage or reference to a data base.
What kind of technology should I use to capture data automatically?
Basically you need to decide the type of information you require, the size of
the information, the accuracy, the distance from the item and if there needs to be any security
applied to the information.
Can I print Barcodes from my Word Processor?
Yes, if you use a True Type Font the process is very simple. However once
you start to require some form of error checking and encoding then you need to preprocess the
information prior to converting it into a True Type Font.
Cutters
How do I really measure the performance of a cutter?
The straight line speed of a cutter only gives a partial indication of its performance. The
most telling indicator is the acceleration. Acceleration measures the speed at which the cutting
head travels through curves and around corners. The SummaCut series use 2g
acceleration to cut
curves and corners, the Summa S Class uses 4g. On its own 1000mm per second
cutting speed only offers good performance, with 4g acceleration it provides blistering
performance.
What's the difference between a tangential cutter and a drag knife cutter?
A drag (or swivel) knife cutter literally drags the leading edge of the knife around and pivots
on the point of the knife to go around corners. On a tangential cutter the blade is steered by
two bearings inside a special nose piece.
To negotiate corners the blades lift, turns, returns to the vinyl, and then cuts in
the new direction. This is a far superior method for materials like rubylith, or jobs that
involve large amounts of small lettering on self-adhesive vinyl.
A Summa drag knive cutter can exert 400g down pressure, a tangential 600g so it
is particularly appropriate for reflective materials, especially
Class 1.
What software do I have to have?
Summa cutters have two languages built right in. Firstly there is DMPL, Summas own language. This provides for superior cutting at it was designed with cutters in mind. Then there is HPGL + HPGL/2 . HPGL devices were most common so any software that outputs HPGL files will drive
a Summa cutter. Basically, any proprietary brand software will output HPGL - eg CorelDraw.
CAS software that supports Summa cutters includes Amiable, CASmate, Signlab, and Sign
Wizard.
Graphics Printers
Do I have to laminate my prints?
Depending on your expected life requirements prints produced using pigment inks will last longer outdoors than those made
with dye-based inks. However, even pigment-based prints typically need to be laminated for long-term
colour fastness outdoors, and general protection against the elements.
With the introduction of Summa' new thermal transfer printer,
DC Series. The Durachrome uses resin ribbons to transfer solid colour
onto various media. This process results in a print that will last 3 - 5 years outdoors on uncoated
media without lamination. Additionally the DCseries can apply an abrasion overcoating automatically after the last colour is printed. This provides greater wear resistance for Automotive and similar applications. Graphics Printers
How can I get technical help on older Summagraphics and Houston Instruments equipment?
You will need to book a technical support call, have your Visa or Master Card ready or pre book at our online store at www.databar.com.au, the fee is $27.50 inc GST for up to 15 minutes. Then call us directly on 03 5282 8559
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How do I get drivers and
firmware upgrades?
CalComp drivers can be downloaded from the drivers section of this web site. Older Summagraphics and Houston Instruments equipment
- You will need to book a technical support call, have your Visa or Master Card ready or pre book at our online store at www.databar.com.au, the fee is $27.50 inc GST for up to 15 minutes. Then call us directly on 03 5282 8559.
(Back to Question list)
I downloaded the file, but I get
a CRC error when I try to use it. What should I do now?
You probably had a bad file, download the file again.
(Back to Question list)
What is a ".hqx"
(Macintosh) file?
The .hqx files permit easier
transmission over the Internet to a Macintosh. You will, however, need an hqx converter. Converters from hqx to the Mac sea format are readily
available on the web. I found an hqx converter by using the search service at
www.altavista.digital.com (there were 50,000 other references to hqx). The first
one I found was at www.pulpless.com/maczip.html.
bottom line:
1. Download the hqx file.
2. Download an hqx converter program.
3. Use the hqx converter to change the hqx file into an sea file (self-extracting archive)
4. Run (execute) the sea file. It will
decompress and you have the actual data file.
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How do I get parts information
for your products?
Parts information is available via the parts section of this website. If you don't see a part you require email
