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SATO

SATO CT4-LX Linerless Setup Guide

Complete setup guide for SATO CT4-LX series linerless printers. Optimised for retail, logistics, and healthcare labelling applications.

15 minutes Easy Models: CT4-LX, CT4-LX-HC, CT408-LX, CT412-LX

Setup Steps

  1. 1

    Power off and open cover

    Switch off the printer using the power button. Push the cover release button on the front-right and lift the top cover fully open.

    Tip: The cover opens to approximately 80 degrees for easy access.

  2. 2

    Prepare the media holder

    Slide the media guides outward to accommodate your roll width. The CT4-LX uses adjustable guides for different roll sizes.

  3. 3

    Load the linerless roll

    Place the linerless roll between the media guides with the print side facing up. The paper should feed from the bottom of the roll, over the top towards the print head.

    Warning: Ensure you're using SATO-compatible linerless media. Non-compatible adhesives can damage the silicone-coated platen roller.

  4. 4

    Thread the media

    Pull the leading edge of the paper under the print head and over the linerless platen roller. Extend about 5cm past the cutter.

    Tip: The CT4-LX comes with a linerless-specific platen roller pre-installed. Verify the white silicone roller is in place.

  5. 5

    Adjust media guides

    Slide the media guides inward until they lightly touch both edges of the roll. This prevents skewing during printing.

  6. 6

    Close the cover

    Press down firmly on the top cover until you hear both latches click securely into place.

  7. 7

    Configure via SATO All-In-One Tool

    Download and install SATO All-In-One Tool from the SATO website. Connect via USB or network and configure: media type (linerless), paper width, and print darkness.

    Tip: The CT4-LX auto-detects media width, but manual configuration ensures optimal results.

  8. 8

    Calibrate sensors

    In the All-In-One Tool, run the automatic sensor calibration routine. This optimises the gap/black mark sensor for your specific media.

  9. 9

    Set label length and cut mode

    Configure the default label length in millimetres. Select your preferred cut mode: full cut after each label, batch cut, or tear-off.

  10. 10

    Print test labels

    Print a configuration label (hold FEED during power-on) and several test labels to verify alignment, print quality, and cut position.

Troubleshooting

Paper jams or wrinkles

Solution: Check media guide alignment—too tight causes wrinkling, too loose causes skewing. Verify the linerless platen roller is clean and rotating freely.

Adhesive residue on platen roller

Solution: Clean the silicone platen roller with SATO cleaning sheets or a lint-free cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Avoid abrasive materials.

Labels not cutting cleanly

Solution: Run the cutter maintenance routine from the All-In-One Tool. If cuts remain ragged, the cutter blade may need professional replacement.

Error 0040 (Paper End)

Solution: Sensor calibration may be incorrect. Re-run auto calibration. If using reflective (black mark) media, ensure marks align with the sensor position.

Faint printing on one side

Solution: The print head pressure may be uneven. Check the head balance adjustment screws on either side of the print head assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What roll widths does the CT4-LX support?
The CT4-LX supports media widths from 25mm to 118mm. For linerless applications, common widths include 40mm, 50mm, 58mm, 75mm, 80mm, and 102mm.
Does the CT4-LX require a special linerless kit?
The standard CT4-LX comes with a silicone-coated linerless platen roller. No additional kit is required. The CT4-LX-HC (healthcare) model also includes linerless capability.
Can I switch between linerless and traditional labels?
Yes, but you should clean the linerless platen roller before switching to avoid adhesive contamination. Recalibrate sensors when changing media types.
What's the maximum print speed for linerless?
The CT4-LX prints at up to 203mm/second (8 inches/second) in linerless mode. For optimal cut quality, slightly slower speeds are recommended.
Is the CT4-LX suitable for high-volume environments?
Yes, the CT4-LX is designed for medium to high-volume printing. It handles rolls up to 127mm outer diameter and features a robust all-metal construction.

More Guides

All printer guides General loading guide Hardware picker

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