Issue
Printers may misfeed or misalign labels if the media isn’t properly sensed. Common symptoms include:
Skipping one or more labels between prints
Printing overlapping onto the next label
Print-head position drifting up or down on successive labels
Labels stopping at inconsistent points
Status light flashing after a label prints
Cause
By default, Zebra printers only measure label length at power-up or when the printhead is closed. If you change the “Length” or “Calibrate” settings, or if the media type varies, the printer may fail to detect the label gap or mark correctly.
Resolution
Perform a media calibration so the printer learns your label dimensions and media-sensor characteristics. Two calibration sequences are available:
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Quick Calibration (2-flash Feed)
Finds the gap between labels and measures label length.
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Deep Calibration (7-flash Feed)
Analyzes gap or black-mark contrast and creates a detailed sensor profile. Recommended when labels have irregular gaps, varied thickness, or low-contrast marks.
Calibration Steps
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Load Media
Install the correct label roll and ribbon (if applicable) for your application.
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Power On
Turn on the printer. Wait until it’s idle (status light solid or off).
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Initiate Calibration
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Press and hold the Feed button.
Release after 2 flashes for a quick calibration.
Release after 7 flashes for a deep (sensor-profile) calibration.
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Wait for Completion
The printer will feed several labels and print a sensor-profile stripe.
When feeding stops, the calibration is done.
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Verify
Press Feed once: exactly one label should advance per press.
Print a test label to confirm proper alignment.
Best Practices
Always use label stock and ribbon (if required) approved by Zebra or your shipping-software vendor.
Re-calibrate whenever you switch media types, roll sizes, or after replacing the printhead.
Perform a deep calibration if your labels have black-mark registration or if quick calibration fails to resolve misfeeds.