When a label gets stuck in your MakeID printer, removing the paper is only half the battle. If you don't clean the residue left behind, you’re almost guaranteed to face another jam within the next few prints. So, what is the right way to clean your printer without damaging the delicate internal electronics?
First, always ensure the power is off. The thermal print head is a sensitive component that can be damaged by static or physical force. Use a lint-free cloth or a specialized cleaning pen. If you don't have those, a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol works perfectly. Focus your efforts on three key areas: the print head, the rollers, and the sensors. The print head is where the heat transfer happens; any debris here will not only cause jams but also result in white streaks on your labels. Click here to know more.
The rollers are responsible for pulling the label through the machine. If they are covered in adhesive, they will "grab" the label too tightly, leading to a wrap-around jam. Wipe them down until they feel smooth and non-tacky. Finally, don't forget the sensors. These "eyes" of the printer detect the gaps between labels. If they are obscured by dust, the printer won't know when to stop feeding, leading to an overrun and a subsequent jam. A thorough cleaning ensures that the media path remains slick and the sensors remain sharp, providing a reliable foundation for all your heavy-duty industrial labeling needs.