Zebra MtP400 Operator's Manual - Power Considerations
Power Considerations
MtP400 printers are designed to provide superior output using as little power as necessary. This provides the
longest possible battery life. The printers may also be operated from an external power supply when used in a
more permanent installation in a vehicle or office. The following discussions indicate how the printer
accomplishes this power conservation using features such as Standby and Auto Power Down. For more
information on battery charging, please refer to “Charging the Battery” on page 38.
Standby Operation
When operating on battery power, the printer automatically enters a Standby mode one minute after last
receiving data, printing, a front panel button is pressed, or a magnetic card reader swipe operation. When in
Standby, the printer will flash the Power Indicator.
While in Standby the printer turns off as many power consuming components as possible. However, the printer
remains fully capable of receiving data or responding to a control panel button. The printer will automatically
“wake up” when it begins to receive data from a host system, or when any front panel Button is pressed.
Auto Power Down
To conserve even more battery power, the printer may also be configured to turn itself off after a specified
number of minutes of inactivity. When the printer powers down, this is equivalent to turning the printer off
using the Power Button and the printer will no longer respond to incoming data.
To enable the Auto Power Down feature, please refer to the Options Menu settings beginning on page 29.
Operation Without A Battery
MtP400 printers may be operated with an optional power supply and without a battery installed. Power supplies
are available for use with 100-240VAC/50-60Hz and for 12/24VDC vehicle applications.
Caution: Use only Printek power supplies designed specifically for your MtP400 printer. Using a different
power supply may cause damage to the printer and will not be covered by the printer’s warranty.
Note: When the printer is connected to an external power supply, the printer will not enter Standby as
described above.
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