THERMAL TRANSFER PRINTING SYSTEM AND METHOD WITH IMPROVED PRINT QUALITY AND PRINTHEAD LIFE IN COLD AMBIENT TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS

摘要

A method of controlling a thermal transfer printhead by selectively activating the printhead heater elements at customized pulse widths specifically developed for low temperature printing applications (less than 5 °C). Through the application of specific control signal modulation levels to each of five control signals that are dependent on heater element history control data as well as print speed, the printhead produces good print quality while demonstrating excellent longevity.