ZM and ZT Series Printer Cutter Information and Problem Solutions

Issue / Question

Common Printer Cutter related issues and information related to resolving said issues.

Applicable To

ZM and ZT Series Printers with the Cutter option installed.

Resolution / Answer

Issue	Recommend resolution
Cutter is not cutting	Ensure that the printer is set to PRINT MODE CUTTER.  Read more >> Try cleaning the cutter. Read more >>   Your printer may require service.
Printer LCD displays CUTTER JAM error	Try cleaning the cutter.;Read more >> The cutter must complete the cut cycle within a specified time or the printer will display the CUTTER JAM error. Check for debris or obstructions in the cutter path.
Cutter does not cut completely through the media or labels	Try cleaning the cutter.;Read more >> The cutter module& may need to be replaced.Read more >>
Cutter is not cutting at the intended gap	If the cut location is inconsistent, the printer may need to be re-calibrated. Read more here: ZM Series Calibration Issues and Details (With Video) If the cut location needs to be adjusted, use the Tear-Off adjustment to move the cut location. Read more here: Tear off position adjustment using the LCD Display The Tear-Off Position adjusts the cut location and is configured from the LCD display. Press Feed after the adjustment and check the cut location.  Note: Software or drivers may have Tear-off configurations and will override the LCD values. Match the values in your software/driver if needed.
Cutter is not cutting when I want it to cut	You can use ZPL to control the cutting function. Read more here: Controlling the Cutter Function on a Zebra ZT or ZM Series Printer
How to select the Linerless Cut option in the driver	For V5: For V8:

How does the Cutter Module works?

1. The printer prints a label and moves it to the cut position. The cut position will be the detected gap for Non-Continuous media, and for Continuous media, the specified label length.
2. The cut is performed and the label then retracts to position the leading edge of the next label under the printhead for the next print cycle.
   
   Note: The cut cycle and backfeed takes about 1 second to complete.
    
3. If the printer does not detect the cutter returning to the home position within a specified time, the printer will display a CUTTER JAM error and require user intervention.

Additional notes:

• The printer must be configured for the Cutter Mode to cut labels. There are several methods that may be used to set the printer to the Cutter Mode depending on your application. Read more >>
• The printer will cut after printing each label unless configured otherwise via the application or via ZPL commands.
• There is limited batch control cutting via drivers/application software. Use of specific ZPL commands does allow for more dynamic cut control.

Read more here:  Controlling the Cutter Function on a Zebra ZT or ZM Series Printer