News on 3 September 2003

IBM United States
Hardware Announcement 103-230
August 26, 2003 Models i2s and i24 provide enhanced print speed for IBM 6400 Line Matrix Printer family

At a glance The IBM 6400 printers attach to a wide spectrum of IBM systems — from IBM mainframes/parallel servers to PCs, and these new models offer versatility and cost-effectiveness:
  • Model i2s maintains the print quality and performance characteristics of the existing Models i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15, while providing 33% faster print speed than the Model i15
  • The Model i24 offers high-speed report printing at 6 LPI
  • The IBM Printer Management Utility provides proactive printer monitoring and improved operator control of remote printers
  • A large number of attachment options include Ethernet, ASCII, coax, or twinax
  • An intelligent ribbon system utilizes the new "clean hands" ribbon and can send operator alert messages through the IBM Print Management Utility when a new ribbon is needed
  • Telnet 3270e/5250e provides easy migration of existing coax/twinax SCS applications to Ethernet LANs
  • ANSI Emulation for Genicom applications
  • An optional Power Stacker
  • One- to six-part continuous forms printing
  • Optional Black-Back-Forms Sensor
Overview The IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24 are feature-rich line matrix printers designed to complement the current IBM 6400 family.

The model i2s is a single-hammerbank model with a Fast Draft Speed of up to 2,000 lines-per-minute (LPM). The performance and quality characteristics of the Model i2s are similar to the characteristics of the other single hammerbank IBM 6400 Models — the Models i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15.

The model i24 is a special-purpose report printer developed specifically for high volume text report printing. The Model i24 utilizes a dual hammerbank shuttle that has been optimized for peak printing performance when text is printed at the common report line spacing of 6 lines-per-inch (LPI). The hammerbanks are spaced so that each hammerbank prints a complete line when the line spacing is 6 LPI. The i24 is capable of printing up to 2400 LPM in Fast Draft mode and 1800 LPM in Data Processing mode.

Available features on both models include:

  • A wide range of attachment options
  • An intelligent printer ribbon system that can send an operator alert through the IBM Printer Management Utility (PMU) when a printer ribbon change is needed
  • IBM "clean hands" ribbons for the Model i2s and i24.
  • Optional Telnet 3270e and Telnet 5250e to allow present Coax/Twinax SCS users to migrate to a network without changing the application
  • American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 3.64 Emulation
  • An optional Pullout Paper Tray that provides a convenient method to remove printed output from the printer
  • Remote management with the IBM Printer Management Utility V3.0 and Ethernet
  • IBM Coax/Twinax attachments
  • Integrated Ethernet 10/100BaseT Adapter
  • Intelligent Graphics Processor (IGP) or Code V for graphics and bar code applications
  • A Power stacker to increase paper stacking reliability and control
These new models are extremely versatile, cost-effective printers. They can be attached via Telnet, ASCII, Coax, Twinax, or Ethernet to such diverse hosts as the IBM eServer iSeries™, IBM eServer zSeries®, IBM eServer pSeries™, S/390®, AS/400®, RS/6000®, IBM PC and Netfinity® servers, IBM-compatible PCs, non-IBM systems supporting the ASCII serial/parallel interface, and LANs.
Key prerequisites The Ethernet, Coax, Twinax, and ASCII attachment allow 6400s to be used on virtually all IBM, as well as many non-IBM, platforms.
Description New models complement the existing IBM 6400 family

The IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24 are feature-rich line matrix printers designed to complement the current IBM 6400 family.

The model i2s is a single-hammerbank model with a Fast Draft Speed of up to 2,000 lines-per-minute (LPM). The performance and quality characteristics of the Model i2s are similar to the characteristics of the other single hammerbank IBM 6400 Models — the Models i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15.

The model i24 is a special-purpose report printer developed specifically for high volume text report printing. The Model i24 utilizes a dual hammerbank shuttle that has been optimized for peak printing performance when text is printed at the common report line spacing of 6 lines-per-inch (LPI). The hammerbanks are spaced so that each hammerbank prints a complete line when the line spacing is 6 LPI. The i24 is capable of printing up to 2400 LPM in Fast Draft mode and 1800 LPM in Data Processing mode.

Print speeds can vary widely depending on the print quality mode and lines-per-inch spacing used for printing.

Refer to the Performance section for detailed information on both models that shows the print speeds for a range of print qualities such as Fast Draft, Data Processing (DP), and Near-Letter-Quality (NLQ) modes as well as Print Lines-Per-Inch.

Operational commonality

You can operate the IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24 in the same way as the other 6400 models. These models demonstrate a commonality in areas such as operator panel messages, loading and unloading of forms, and the availability of coax, twinax, Ethernet, Code V, IGP, Proprinter III XL, Epson FX 1050, Printronix P-Series, and Printronix P-Series XQ Variant emulations.

IPDS™ is not available on the i2s and i24 models.

Telnet 3270e/5250e

The Telnet 3270e/5250e feature allows SCS printing that is currently performed with Coax/Twinax attached printers to be easily migrated to Ethernet network attached printers without changing the existing application.

Telnet enables recognition of some printer conditions such as forms jams, end-of-forms, ribbon errors, and not ready in a manner similar to Coax/Twinax attached printers.

This feature must be used with the 10/100 BaseT Ethernet adapter (#4177, #5178)

The Telnet feature cannot be installed with the Coax/Twinax adapter, or any of the ANSI emulation features.

ANSI 3.64 Emulation

The ANSI 3.64 Emulation is available as an optional feature to allow Genicom applications to print on IBM 6400 printers. Three ANSI options are available:

  • ANSI 3.64 Emulation
  • ANSI 3.64 Emulation with Code V
  • ANSI 3.64 Emulation with IGP
The ANSI emulations can be used with the 10/100 Ethernet attachment, or the parallel port.

These ANSI features cannot be installed with the Code V/IGP feature (#4841, #5846), the Coax/Twinax Attachment, or Telnet.

Intelligent ribbon system and "clean hands" ribbons

The IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24 feature an intelligent ribbon system. When used with the IBM "clean hands" ribbon, the Printer Management Utility, and an Ethernet adapter (#4177, #5178), e-mail operator alert messages can be sent automatically to selected individuals.

The "clean hands" ribbons have a mylar leader that is 60 inches (1.52 m) long so that the user has sufficient leader material to install the ribbon without handling the inked portion of the ribbon.

The IBM 6400 Model i24 uses the same ribbon that is used on the Models 020 and i20. This ribbon is unique to the dual hammerbank technology.

6400 Printer Management Utility

The IBM 6400 family can be easily managed by the IBM Printer Management Utility. This utility provides the ability to remotely manage multiple printers by organizing the printers in a single database, and downloading software and printer settings from a host computer. A virtual operator panel is provided that can be used to configure printers.

The 6400 Printer Management Utility requires that the IBM 6400 be attached to the host system with an internal Ethernet adapter (#4177 or #5178).

The Printer Management Utility (PMU) now automatically provides alert e-mail notification of printer messages to the appropriate operator(s). The PMU will proactively send a message to alert the appropriate individual(s) for various printer situations that require operator action. For example, when a "ribbon low" message is generated by a printer, an e-mail can be sent to the person responsible for correcting the situation.

Additionally, printer settings can be downloaded to multiple printers and a virtual operator panel accessed for each printer.

This new function is included on all new 6400 Model i2s and i24 printers.

Power Stacker

This feature provides an optional Power Stacker for the IBM 6400 Models  i2s and i24. The Power Stacker can only be ordered on an initial order for a new printer. It cannot be added to an installed printer.

The stacker is fully enclosed within the printer cabinet. Forms can have the following characteristics:

  • Single-part forms can have weights from 15 to 100 lbs.
  • Multi-part forms can be up to 6 part, with or without carbons.
  • Form width can be from 3 to 16 inches.
  • Form height (length) can be from 5 to 12 inches.
During printing, a vertically movable paper guide stacks the printed output. Non-marking pinch rollers allow for varying paper thickness and provide constant tension on the paper. The pinch rollers are conductive to reduce the electrostatic charge buildup on the paper.

Two infrared beams sense the paper height and cause the frame position to be controlled as the paper height increases. A paper motion detector mounted at the pinch roller station monitors proper paper movement. If a jam occurs in the stacker, the motion detector senses it and stops the printer.

There is a stacker control panel mounted inside the rear of the printer. The operator sets up the stacker operation from the stacker control panel. Two LEDs indicate power on and online conditions. Push buttons are provided for on/off line, form feed, stacker up, and stacker down.

The stacker operates by raising and lowering the stacking mechanism to adjust to the stack height.

The output stacking capacity is approximately 3,000 sheets of 18-pound, single-part forms.

A pullout rear paper tray, for ease of unloading printed output, is included with the power stacker.

Ethernet and Coax/Twinax attachments with the Power Stacker

When the Model i2s or i24 is configured with the Power Stacker (#4895), the 10/100BaseT Ethernet NIC (#4177, #5178) cannot co-exist with the Coax/Twinax Adapter (#4830, #5835). This limitation does not exist on other IBM 6400 Models.

Pullout Rear Paper Tray

An optional Pullout Rear Paper Tray (#4540) is available for the Models i2s and i24 when the Power Stacker is not installed. This feature provides a convenient tray that pulls out after printed output is stacked on the tray, instead of on the floor of the printer. It is easier to remove the printed output from the tray than from the floor inside the printer. The tray is similar to the one used with the power stacker feature, so this feature is not needed when the power stacker is installed.

Black Back Forms Sensor

This feature provides a forms sensor which is capable of detecting the end-of-forms (EOF) condition for black-backed forms. It may also be used to run forms with binder holes in the body of the form. Because of the variation in the size of binder holes, testing is recommended to verify that the sensor accommodates the size of the binder holes correctly.

The standard EOF sensor is modified such that the EOF optical sensor senses the forward travel of the forms motion arm at EOF, instead of directly sensing the white or light paper. The modified EOF sensor is slightly less precise than the standard sensor, as it is affected by forms tension and the mechanical nature of the forms motion arm.

This feature was formerly available on the IBM 6400 as RPQ S02392 (Initial Order) and S02394 (MES).

New PowerPC® Controller and bulk MES orders

The Coax/Twinax Adapter (#4830, #5835) and the 10/100BaseT Ethernet Network Interface Card (#4177, #5178) on the Models i2s and i24 are different adapter cards than on the IBM 6400 Models i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15. While the initial order features for the i2s and i24 have the same feature numbers as the initial order features for the other IBM 6400 Models, the MES feature numbers are different. There are differences in the adapter cards in the MES kits due to the different controller processor used in the i2s and i24 models.

The initial order feature numbers were kept the same to simplify initial orders. The MES numbers were changed due to the hardware differences in the MES kits.

The i2s and i24 use the new PowerPC Controller, and the optional attachment cards are PCI and have a different form factor than the attachment cards used on the other models.

Thus, MES features are not interchangeable between the Models  i2s and i24, and other IBM 6400 Models.

This difference must be considered when bulk ordering MES features that are to be used on different 6400 models. For example, an Ethernet or Coax/Twinax attachment and any other MES ordered for a model i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15 cannot be installed on a Model i2s and i24.

RS-422 Adapter (#5600, #5601)

This feature provides an RS-422 serial port in addition to the standard RS-232 serial port. An adapter is included so that the RS-422 port can be either 25-pin or 9-pin.

While both the RS-232 and the RS-422 ports can be present on the printer, they cannot be active at the same time.

EuroReady

The IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24 are EuroReady, and can print the euro symbol. The host software must be capable of sending the correct euro symbol information to the printer.

Product positioning Replacing Band Printers

The introduction of the IBM 6400-i2s and i24 increases the possibility of using IBM 6400 printers to replace older band printers.

The i2s has a maximum print speed of up to 2000 lpm in Fast Draft mode, and up to 1500 lpm in DP mode (In all cases, the i2s should perform at 33% faster than the 6400-i15). The i24 has a maximum print speed of up 2400 lpm in Fast Draft, and up to 1800 lpm in DP (at 6 lpi spacing only). The 6400 printers are now able to achieve print speeds closer to those of the faster models of the legacy band printers, such as the 4245 and 6262.

Advantages of the IBM 6400 line matrix printers over band printers include the following:

  • No need to change bands for different font styles
  • Full graphics and bar code capability
  • Integrated Ethernet network attach capability to replace ESCON® and Parallel Channel attachments
  • Hot Port switching
  • Excellent reliability
  • Powerful Remote Management
  • Lower acoustics
  • Lower Total Cost of Printing
  • Much lower power consumption
  • Scheduled maintenance not required to maintain good print quality
  • Greater ease of use
Although many band printers are still installed today, the technology of fully-formed characters on a print band has been replaced by the more versatile line matrix technology.

As the marketplace has moved away from fixed character printing such as that provided by band printers, for example, the IBM 4245 and 6262, to more flexible technologies such as what the 6400 printer family has to offer, the availability of band printers has become extremely limited.

The IBM 6400 line matrix printers utilize the latest technology in order to meet the increasing demands for flexibility and efficiency.

The IBM 6400-i2s and the i24, while offering high print speed and high duty-cycle printing, may not enable an easy replacement for all fully formed character printers. High-speed train and band printers have swing out front units, towel ribbons and wide paper paths. Some of these printers will be attached via ESCON and Parallel Channels, which are not supported on the 6400. However, Ethernet LAN connections can normally be used to replace the Channel attachments.

Additionally, band printers deliver fully formed (typewriter-like) print quality, similar to NLQ mode on a line matrix printer, at full speed. While the IBM 6400 delivers high quality printing, the image may not be equivalent to that printed on a band printer, and throughput decreases when higher density print modes are selected such as DP or NLQ. Similarly, the actual throughput obtained by a band printer is dependent upon many factors which include:

  • Number of characters in the print band
  • Speed of the host attachment
  • Characteristics of the print job, and the rated speed of the band printer model
In summary, replacing band printers requires serious consideration of the present print environment, and it must never be assumed that when a 6400 is installed as a replacement for a legacy band printer that it will deliver the same print quality at an equivalent throughput rate.

Model i24 dual hammerbank considerations

Performance

The dual hammerbank print engine in the 6400-i24 (as well as the i20) was designed to deliver optimal performance, beyond even that of the new i2s, for text only applications with 6 lpi (lines per inch) spacing. The dual hammerbanks are spaced so that at 6 lpi, each hammerbank prints a complete row of text, thus, printing two lines of text simultaneously.

At spacing other than 6 lpi, less than 2 complete lines are printed at a time, and the printer is incapable of operating at maximum performance efficiency. Also, wherever there exists a line of text with blank lines above and below it, the effective speed at which the printer is capable of printing is at half speed since only one hammerbank is being utilized. Similarly, the effective speed of printing bar-codes is at 50% of rated speed since the printer will automatically switch to single hammerbank mode so as to eliminate the possible effects of banding (described later).

In summary, the ideal application for the Specialized 6400-i24 is one that is text only, uses 6 lpi spacing, and has minimal blank spacing between lines. For the application which fits this criteria, the i24 should outperform all other 6400 models.

Refer to the Performance section for detailed data.

Model i24 print density

The dual hammerbank technology, such as is used in the 6400-i24, and i20, presents a phenomenon known as banding when printing under certain conditions.

Banding is best described as light to dark variances in print density within a single line. This is most noticeable when the ribbon is between 50 and 75% of ribbon life, and the selected print density mode is either DP or NLQ (most noticeable is NLQ). Ideal environments for the Models i24 and i20 are those that require high volume output capability, along with extreme hardware reliability and high-quality (in terms of character formation and readability) legible output, but do not require the printer to be used for the primary purpose of generating documents utilizing NLQ where it would be unacceptable to have any noticeable variation in print density.

Trademarks

 
iSeries, pSeries, and IPDS are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation in the United States or other countries or both.
 
zSeries, AS/400, Netfinity, RS/6000, S/390, PowerPC, and ESCON are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation in the United States or other countries or both.
 
Other company, product, and service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.
Publications The publications below are shipped with the product. Additional copies are available immediately:
                                                  Order
Title                                             number

6400 Line Matrix Printer                          S544-5641
 Operator's Guide (English)
6400 Line Matrix Printer                          S544-5640
 Setup Guide (English)
Since these publications are available on the Web site, they are not shipped with the printer.
                                                  Order
Title                                             number

6400 ASCII Programmer's Reference(1)              S544-5635
6400 Code V User's Manual                         S544-5638
6400 IGP User's Manual                            S544-5639
6400 Coax/Twinax Programmer's Reference(1)        S544-5636
6400 Ethernet Interface User's Guide              S544-5830
6400 ANSI Programmer's Reference Manual           S544-5681
1
These publications are shipped with the printer only if the optional feature described by the publication is ordered with the printer.
The Publication Notification System (PNS) is available by order number/ product number. Customers currently subscribing to PNS will automatically receive notifications by e-mail. Customers who wish to subscribe, can visit the PNS Web site at:

The publications listed on the notification can be ordered by calling the Pubs Support Group in Raleigh at 800-879-2755, option 1.

The IBM Publications Center Portal:

The Publications Center is a worldwide central repository for IBM product publications and marketing material with a catalog of 70,000 items. Extensive search facilities are provided, as well as payment options via credit card. Furthermore, a large number of publications are available online in various file formats, which can currently be downloaded free of charge.

Note that PNS subscribers most often order their publications via the Publication Center.

Technical information Specified operating environment Physical specifications

Dimensions and weight

  • Model i2s and i24
    • Width: 68.6 cm (27.0 inches)
    • Depth (without Power Stacker): 73.7 cm (29.0 inches)
    • Depth (with Power Stacker):
      • Height: 103.3 cm (41 inches)
      • Weight: 102 kg (225 lbs) Unpacked
      • Weight: 112 kg (237 lbs) Unpacked with Power Stacker
      • Weight: 130 kg (285 lbs) Packaged for shipping
      • Weight: 139 kg (297 lbs) Packaged for shipping with Power Stacker
Performance:

Model i2s

Model i2s printer throughput in lines-per-minute (lpm) is a factor of the selected font. Printing speed is independent of the number of characters configured in the character set.

Print lines containing attributes such as bold or emphasized (shadow) printing, superscripts, subscripts, or elongated (double high) attributes will print at approximately one-half the rate shown in the tables.

The table shows print speeds for 6 lines per inch (lpi) printing.

Model i24

Model I24 is a double hammerbank printer and printer throughput in lpm is a factor of the selected font and the Line Spacing (lines-per-inch). Printing speed is independent of the number of characters configured in the character set.

Print lines containing attributes such as bold or emphasized (shadow) printing, superscripts, subscripts, or elongated (double high) attributes will print at approximately one-half the rate shown in the tables.

The table shows print speeds for different dot density (fonts) and different line spacing (lines-per-inch) printing.

Model i2s nominal print speed

                                                          Plot
Print quality                      Uppercase  Descenders  mode
dot density             Dot        only       and         inches/
DPI(2)           CPI(3) matrix(4)  LPM        underline   min

High Speed       10     5(9)x5+1
 (Draft)         12     4(7)x5+1   2000       1714        250
60(120)x48       13.3   4(7)x5+1

Data Processing  10     5(9)x7+2
 (DP)            12     4(7)x7+2
60(120)x72       13.3   4(7)x7+2   1500       1200        167
                 15     3(5)x7+2
                 17.1   3(5)x7+2

Correspondence   10     7(13)x9+3
 (NLQ)           12     6(11)x9+3   842        648         87
90(180)x96       15     5(9)x9+3
Model i24 nominal print speed
                                              Uppercase
Print quality                                 only
dot density               Dot                 LPM
DPI(2)            CPI(3)  matrix(4) 6 LPI   8 LPI   4 LPI   3 LPI

                  10      5(9)x5+1
High Speed        12      4(7)x5+1  2400    2100    1370    1200
 (Draft)
60(120)x48        13.3    4(7)x5+1

Data Processing   10      5(9)x7+2
 (DP)             12      4(7)x7+2
60(120)x72        13.3    4(7)x7+2  1800    1477     993     900
                  15      3(5)x7+2
                  17.1    3(5)x7+2

Correspondence    10      7(13)x9+3
 (NLQ)            12      6(11)x9+3  960     753     457     480
90(180)x96        15      5(9)x9+3
Model i24 print speed
                                             Descenders and
Print quality                                underline
dot density             Dot                  LPM                Plot
DPI(2)           CPI(3) matrix(4)   6 LPI  8 LPI  4 LPI  3 LPI  mode

High Speed       10     5(9)x5+1
 Draft           12     4(7)x5+1    2000   2100   1250   1028   266
60(120)x48       13.3   4(7)x5+1

Data Processing  10     5(9)x7+2
 (DP)            12     4(7)x7+2
60(120)x72       13.3   4(7)x7+2    1440   1477    872    720   185
                 15     3(5)x7+2
                 17.1   3(5)x7+2

Correspondence   10     7(13)x9+3
 (NLQ)           12     6(11)x9+3    738    753    447    369    94
90(180)x96       15     5(9)x9+3
Model i20 nominal print speed
                                           Uppercase
Print quality                              only
dot density             Dot                LPM
DPI(2)           CPI(3) matrix(4)   6 LPI  8 LPI   4 LPI  3 LPI

                 10     5(9)x5+1
High Speed       12     4(7)x5+1    2000   1778    1143   1000
 (Draft)
60(120)x48       13.3   4(7)x5+1

Data Processing  10     5(9)x7+2
 (DP)            12     4(7)x7+2
60(120)x72       13.3   4(7)x7+2    1800   1477     993    900
                 15     3(5)x7+2
                 17.1   3(5)x7+2

Correspondence   10     7(13)x9+3
 (NLQ)           12     6(11)x9+3    960    753     457    480
90(180)x96       15     5(9)x9+3
Model i20 print speed
                                       Descenders and
Print quality                          Underline
dot density            Dot             LPM                    Plot
DPI(2)           CPI(3)matrix (46 LPI  8 LPI   4 LPI   3 LPI  mode

High Speed       10    5(9)x5+1
 Draft           12    4(7)x5+1 2000   2100    1250    1028   266
60(120)x48       13.3  4(7)x5+1

Data Processing  10    5(9)x7+2
 (DP)            12    4(7)x7+2
60(120)x72       13.3  4(7)x7+2 1440   1477     872     720   185
                 15    3(5)x7+2
                 17.1  3(5)x7+2

Correspondence   10    7(13)x9+3
 (NLQ)           12    6(11)x9+3 738    753     447     369    94
90(180)x96       15    5(9)x9+3
2
Dot Density: A (B) X C; where A is the maximum horizontal dot density, B is horizontal dot resolution, C is vertical dot density
3
CPI = characters-per-inch
4
Dot Matrix: D(E) x F + G: Where D is the maximum number of dots that may be placed on E horizontal dot positions; F is the number of vertical dots for uppercase symbols; G is the number of dots available for descenders.
Print speeds may vary under certain conditions. For more information, refer to the ASCII Programmer's Reference (S544-5635).

ASCII Interfaces supported:

  • PC Parallel (IEEE 1284)
  • RS-232C Serial
  • RS-422A Serial (#5600, #5601)
The following ASCII emulations are available on the ASCII interfaces:
  • IBM Proprinter III XL
  • Epson 1050 FX
  • Printronix P-Series
  • Printronix P-Series XQ Variant
  • Printronix Serial Matrix
Operating Environment: IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24
  • Voltages:
    • 100 — 240 V ac single phase grounded 50/60 Hz
  • Temperature:
    • Operating: 10° to 40° C ( 50° to 104° F) up to 5000 feet (1534 meters)
    • Operating: 10° to 32° C ( 50° to 90° F) up to 8000 feet (2438 meters)
    • Storage: -40° to 70° C (-40° to 158° F)
  • Relative Humidity:
    • Operating: 15% to 80% (noncondensing)
    • Storage: 15% to 90% (noncondensing)
  • Acoustics:

  • The noise levels listed below are with the cabinet doors closed.
    • Noise Level — Model i2s, i24 (Printing) 55 dBa
    • Noise Level — Model i2s, i24 (Standby) 42 dBa
  • Power Consumption:
The following table is for 120 V ac, 60 Hz in DP Mode (Models i24 and i2s)
                  DP Mode           Energy
                  ECMA132  Standby  Star

Watts             251      119      28
Btu per hour      857      406      96
VA                291      120      31
See the IBM 6400 Line Matrix Printer Setup Guide for the power consumption data for 220 Volt, 60 Hz.

The 6400 family complies with the following standards for all attachments, except where noted:

  • Europe:
    • Council Directive 89/336/EEC including; EN 55022: 1987, Class A limits EN 50082-1: 1992
  • U.S. and Canada:
    • Code of Federal Regulations Title 47 Parts 2 and 15, Class A
    • Canadian Standard C108.8-M1983, Class A
Hardware requirements The IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24 attach to systems, controllers, and processors as described below:
            System/
Interface   control unit/
type        processor               Attachment

ASCII       iSeries(TM), AS/400(R)  ASCII Workstation
                                     Controller port

            pSeries(TM), RS/6000(R) ASCII serial or
                                     parallel port

            PC, PS/2(R)             ASCII serial or
                                     parallel port

            IBM-compatible PCs      ASCII serial or
                                     parallel port

            Non-IBM systems         ASCII serial or
                                     parallel port

Coax        3174 Controllers        Coaxial ports
                                     (Release A3.0
                                     or higher)

            zSeries(R), ES/9000(R)  Workstation
                                     Subsystem

Twinax      iSeries, AS/400         Twinaxial
                                     Workstation
                                     Controller

            5394 & 5494             Workstation port
             Control Unit

LANS        Ethernet                Ethernet Network
                                     Interfacnbsp; 12e Card
Software requirements IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24 ASCII software support:

The IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24 can use the IBM Personal Printer Data Stream (PPDS) in IBM Proprinter III XL emulation or the Epson FX 1050 emulation when attached to Serial (RS-232C/RS-422A) interfaces, or the IBM PC ASCII (Centronics) Parallel interface. For more information, refer to the 6400 ASCII Programmer's Reference (S544-5635).

Also, native IBM 6400 Printer support is provided for the IBM RS/6000 systems. Drivers can be downloaded from:

The following systems support the IBM 6400 Models i2s and i24:

              Software --
System        minimum level            Emulation

Personal      Microsoft(TM) Windows(R) Proprinter III XL,
 Computers     3.1 and above            Epson FX

pSeries       AIX(R) Version 3.1.5     Proprinter III XL,
 and RS/6000   and above                Epson FX

iSeries       OS/400(R) V4 R5 and      Proprinter III XL,
 and AS/400    above                    Epson FX

              PC Support/400           Proprinter III XL,
               Version 2.3              Epson FX

              Personal                 Proprinter III XL,
               Communications for       Epson FX
               AS/400 for Windows
               Version 4.0

              Client Access/400        Proprinter III XL,
               Version 3.1              Epson FX
Printronix emulations:

The Printronix printer emulation is similar to the other models.

Protocol            Operating System

TCP/IP              Novell NetWare 4.11,
                     or later using lpr mode

NetBIOS/NetBEUI     IBM LAN Server 1.3, or later
TCP/IP              IBM LAN Server 1.3, or later

NetBIOS/NetBEUI     Microsoft LAN Manager 2.0c,
                     or later
TCP/IP              Microsoft LAN Manager 2.0c,
                     or later

NetBIOS/NetBEUI     Windows NT(R) 3.1, or later
TCP/IP              Windows NT 3.1, or later

TCP/IP              AIX 3.2.5, 4.1
Supported TCP/IP print methods are LPD, FTP, and Reverse Telnet.

Compatibility: The ASCII, Coax/Twinax, and Ethernet adapters on the Models i24 and i2s are software compatible with the IBM 6400 i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15.

However, hardware compatibility does not exist with the Coax/Twinax Adapter (#4830, #5835) and the 10/100BaseT Ethernet Network Interface Card (#4177, #5178) between the Models i2s and i24 and the Models i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15.

The Models i2s and i24 use the new PowerPC® Controller, and the optional attachment cards are PCI and have a different form factor than the attachment cards used on the Models  i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15.

Thus, MES features are not interchangeable between the Models  i2s and i24, and other IBM 6400 Models.

This difference must be considered when bulk ordering MES features that are to be used on different 6400 models. For example, an Ethernet or Coax/Twinax attachment and any other MES ordered for a model i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15 cannot be installed on a Model i2s and i24.

Limitations

  • The following features (available on the IBM 6400 Models  i5P, i05, i1P, i10, and i15) are not available on the IBM 6400 Models i24 and i2s.
    • Network Print Server — Token-Ring Type 1 (#4121)
    • Network Print Server — Token-Ring Type 3 (#4124)
    • Network Print Server — Ethernet 10BaseT (#4164)
    • Network Print Server — Ethernet 10Base2 (#4165)
    • Ethernet IPDS™ (#5861, 5866, 6861, 6866, 5865, 6865)
    • Wireless Ethernet (#4542, 5961)
    • IPDS (#4861, 4866)
  • Maximum forms length of 24 inches.
  • Maximum forms width of 17 inches (including tear strips) or 16 inches (without tear strips). Note: If the rear exit of the pedestal models is used, there is a maximum forms width of 16 inches, including tear strips.
  • Uses 15 pound (56 grams/square meter or 6.8 kg) to 100 pound cardstock (163 grams per square meter or 45.36 kg) stock, with a maximum thickness of 0.025 inches (0.0635 cm).
  • Maximum print line of 13.6 inches.
  • Friction feed paper handling is not supported.
  • Checking the readability of the application is necessary when using high speed (draft mode) fonts requiring greater than 15 cpi for critical applications.
  • Processing of forms with black or dark-colored backing, or forms with see-through plastic or cellophane-covered openings or windows, may give false End-of-Forms (EOF) signals.
  • Downloaded characters are not supported in Proprinter, Epson, P-series, P-series XQ Variant or Printronix Serial Matrix emulations.
  • Due to the variation in carbonless forms' type and age, readability of more than 4-part forms should be assured before using for critical applications.
  • Compatibility differences may exist when replacing or coexisting with older printers due to technology differences, product and application customization, and emulation differences.
  • The coaxial portion of the IBM coax/twinax feature of the IBM 6400 is subject to the following limitations, and the following features are not supported:
    • Minimum dot matrix of 9 wide by 8 high.
    • Minimum dot matrix of 4 or 7 wide by 8 high.
    • IBM 3287 Models 1C and 2C.
    • Programmed symbols 2 and 4, 190 character downloadable fonts. For SCS/DSC/DSE mode only.
    • Data analysis = APL feature.
    • Graphic escape.
  • The twinaxial portion of the IBM coax/twinax feature of the IBM 6400 is subject to the following limitations, and the following features are not supported:
    • Minimum dot matrix of 9 wide by 8 high
    • Minimum dot matrix of 4 or 7 wide by 8 high
    • Print lines greater than 198 characters
LAN Attachment Adapter comparison:

The following table is a guide to the various methods of attaching the IBM 6400 to a LAN.

Support attachments,
protocols,
environments                       Ethernet 10/100
for Models i2s and                 Adapter
i24                                #4177, #5178

Attachments

 Ethernet
  10BaseT                          Yes

  10Base2                          No

  100BaseT                         Yes

 Token ring
  4 MB/16 MB UTP                   No
  4 MB/16 MB STP                   No

IP address loading
methods (initial):

 Printer Operator
 Panel                             Yes

 TCP/IP                            BOOTP, ARP
                                   RARP, DHCP

 Printer utility                   Yes
 provided

Printing methods
supported:

 Novell NetWare                    TCP/IP

  RPRINTER                         Yes
  pServer                          Yes

  LAN Manager/
  LAN Server                       TCP/IP

  TCP/IP                           LPD, FTP,
                                   Telnet 3270/
                                    5250

  Windows                          TCP/IP,
                                   NetBIOS/NetBEUI

Number of virtual                  d1prn-d8prn
 printers

Other TCP/IP                       Telnet, BootP
 protocols supported               ARP, RARP, ICMP
                                   IP, TCP, UDP,
                                   SLP, SNMP

Microcode upgrade                  Download
 method                            Flash

Web browser
 configuration                     Yes
 support

String substitution                Yes

Beginning string/                  Yes
 ending string
 addition
Planning information Customer responsibilities: The IBM 6400 is designated as Customer Setup (CSU) for initial installation since optional features are installed before the machine is shipped. However, most MES field-installable features are not customer setup, and require IBM Field Engineering installation During the initial installation, the customer is responsible for:
  • Adequate site, system, and other vendor preparation.
  • Receipt at the customer's receiving dock and placement of the printer.
  • Installation and configuration of the printer by following the instructions in the Setup Guide and on the Configuration Utility diskette.
  • Ordering, installing, and maintaining cables. Refer to the Cable Orders section. No cables except a power cord are shipped with the printer.
  • Ordering and replacing the ribbons. Refer to the Supplies section.
  • Changing and replacing forms, including clearing jams and cleaning as appropriate.
  • Using and following the problem determination procedures and filling out the trouble report prior to calling for IBM service.
For customers who desire to have IBM install and configure the 6400 or its features, see the Installability section for information on the optional CE Installation contract.

Cable orders

Power Cords: A 6 ft (1.8 m) power line cord is provided with the printer.

Since the power cord extends 6 feet from the printer, no special line cord is needed for Chicago.

Cable orders — ASCII Serial/Parallel

The IBM 6400 can be connected to personal computers and controllers via industry standard EIA™-232-C and PC-parallel printer cables.

Cable orders — Coaxial

The coax/twinax feature may be connected to the 3174 via coaxial cable. For information on coaxial cabling, see "IBM 3270 Installation Manual — Physical Planning," GA27-2787.

For information on shielded twisted-pair cabling see "Using the IBM Cabling System with Communications Products," GA27-3620.

Cable orders — Twinaxial

The coax/twinax feature may be connected to the AS/400, S/36, or 5394/5494, with twinaxial cable or shielded twisted-pair cable. For information on twinaxial cabling, see "IBM 5250 Information Display System Planning and Site Preparation Guide," GA21-9337. For information on shielded twisted-pair cabling, see "Using the IBM Cabling System with Communications Products," GA27-3620.

The Coax/Twinax feature may also be connected to the AS/400 or S/36 via telephone twisted-pair cable. For proper identification, installation, and application of cable and associated accessories, refer to the "IBM 5299 Model 3, Terminal Multi-connector and Telephone Twisted-Pair Planning, Setup, and Maintenance Guide," GA27-3749.

The customer is responsible for ordering, installation, and maintenance of these cables and their various parts. The attachment cables may be purchased from IBM or from a customer-selected source.

If the cables are ordered through your IBM representative, specify part number, assembly number, or bulk number as appropriate, and allow a lead time of 90 days.

Installability: The IBM 6400 is a Customer Setup (CSU) machine. All 6400 features ordered with the printer are factory installed prior to shipment.

For a fee, customers can elect to have IBM install the printer hardware and:

  • Configure any printer optional features
  • Install printer ribbon and explain supplies usage
  • Perform™ printer hardware configurations
  • Provide key operator training
  • Provide basic instruction on forms loading and adjustments
A cover letter shipped with the printer explains the optional fixed price offering for IBM to install the 6400 printer.

If the customer desires to have IBM install the printer, the customer can call 800-IBM-SERV (426-7378) to have the IBM 6400 installed. An IBM representative will return the customer's call to schedule the printer installation.

Supplies: The new 6400 Models i2s and i24 feature a "clean hands" ribbon. The "clean hands" ribbon has a mylar leader that is 60 inches long and enables the user to install the ribbon without handling the inked portion.

These "clean hands" ribbons can only be used on the new IBM 6400 Models i5P, i1P, i10, i15, i05, i2s, and i24.

IBM 6400-i Premium 30 Ribbon for the 6400 Models i5P, i05, i1P, i10, i15, and i2s.

  • Part Number: 57P2308
  • Number of Ribbons per Box: Six
  • Number of Boxes per Part Number 57P2308: One
  • Average Yield in DP Mode: 30 million characters
  • Printers Supported: IBM 6400 Models i5P, i1P, i10, i15, i20, i05, and i2s.
Three IBM 6400-i Premium 30 Ribbons are shipped with each 6400 Model i5P, i05, i1P, i10, i15 or i2s.

The IBM 6400 Model i24 uses the same "clean hands" ribbon that is used on the Model 020 and i20. This ribbon is unique to the dual hammerbank technology on the Models 020 and i20.

IBM 6400-i Premium 2000 Ribbon for the Model i20, 020 and i24.

  • Part Number: 54P1095
  • Number of Ribbons per Box: Twelve
  • Number of Boxes per Part Number 54P1095: One
  • Average Yield in DP Mode: 60 million characters
  • Printers Supported: IBM 6400 Models i20, 020, and i24.
  • This ribbon is unique to the Model 020, i20, and i24 because of the Dual Hammerbank technology, and cannot be used with other IBM 6400 printers. Ribbons used on other IBM 6400 printers cannot be used on the Models i20, 020, and i24.
Three IBM 6400-i Premium 2000 Ribbons are shipped with each 6400 Model i20 and i24.

Choosing the right supplies is very important. For optimum print quality and reliable performance, the use of IBM supplies is recommended. Supplies are purchase-only items. The customer is responsible for ordering and maintaining an adequate stock of supplies. Many Authorized Supplies Resellers offer supply agreements; these agreements often offer price discounts, price protection, established shipping schedules, and reduced administrative expenses.
 

Licensed Internal Code: IBM Licensed Internal Code (LIC) is licensed for use by a customer on a Specific Machine, designated by serial number, under the terms and conditions of the IBM Agreement for Licensed Internal Code, to enable a Specific Machine to function in accordance with its Specifications, and only for the capacity authorized by IBM and for which the customer has paid.
 
                                                   Minimum
                                                   monthly
                                                   maintenance
                          Machine       Purchase   charge
Description               type/model    price      (IOR, 24x7)

Line Matrix Printer       6400-i2s          
Line Matrix Printer       6400-i24          
Optional Features
                                                               MMC
                                            Feature  Purchase  (IOR,
Description                                 number   price     24x7)

Ethernet 10/100 BaseT Adapter --            4177           NC
 Plant Order
Ethernet 10/100 BaseT Adapter --            5178        695    NC
 Field Install

ASCII Only Attachment                       4800     NC        NC
 (not with #4830) Plant

Coax/Twinax Attachment --                   4830      1,545    NCnbsp; AS/400 for Windows

 Plant Order
Coax/Twinax Attachment --                   5835      1,545    NC
 Field Install

IGP/Code V (Printronix Emulation)           4841      1,045    
 Plant
IGP/Code V (Printronix Emulation)           5846      1,045     24
 Field

Telnet 3270e and 5250e -- Initial           4520        599    NC
Telnet 3270e and 5250e -- MES               5530        599    NC

ANSI 3.64 Emulation -- Initial              4521        250    NC
ANSI 3.64 Emulation -- MES                  5531        250    NC
ANSI 3.64 Emulation with IGP --             4522      1,045    NC
 Initial
ANSI 3.64 Emulation with IGP --             5532      1,045    NC
 MES
ANSI 3.64 Emulation with Code V --          4523      1,045    NC
 Initial
ANSI 3.64 Emulation with Code V --          5533      1,045    NC
 MES
Pullout Rear Paper Tray -- Initial          4540        350    NC
Pullout Rear Paper Tray -- MES              4541        350    NC

Power Stacker- Initial Order                4895      4,200    NC

Black Back Forms Sensor -- Initial          4640         95    NC
Black Back Forms Sensor -- MES              4641        195    NC

RS-422 Adapter (Initial)                    5600        145    NC
RS-422 Adapter (MES)                        5601        145    NC

IBM 6400 ASCII Programmer's Reference       4882         79    NC
IBM 6400 Coax/Twinax Programmer's           4883         79    NC
 Reference Manual
QuickShip                                   1724     NC        NC
MMC = Monthly Maintenance Charge
NC = No Charge
                    Field          Plant
Feature             install        install
number              only           only

1724                No             Yes
2924                No             Yes
2928                No             Yes
2929                No             Yes
2930                No             Yes
2931                No             Yes
2932                No             Yes
2935                No             Yes
2980                No             Yes
2988                No             Yes
4177                No             Yes
4520                No             Yes
4521                No             Yes
4522                No             Yes

                    Field          Plant
Feature             install        install
number              only           only

4523                No             Yes
4540                No             Yes
4541                Yes            No
4640                No             Yes
4641                Yes            No
4800                No             Yes
4830                No             Yes
4841                No             Yes
4882                No             No
4883                No             No
4895                No             Yes
5178                Yes            No
5530                Yes            No
5531                Yes            No

                    Field          Plant
Feature             install        install
number              only           only

5532                Yes            No
5533                Yes            No
5600                No             Yes
5601                Yes            No
5835                Yes            No
5846                Yes            No

9951                No             Yes
9970                No             Yes
9971                No             Yes
9972                No             Yes
9973                No             Yes
9974                No             Yes
9975                No             Yes
9976                No             Yes
9977                No             Yes
9978                No             Yes
9979                No             Yes
9980                No             Yes
Trademarks
 
iSeries, pSeries, IPDS, EIA, Perform, and ServiceSuite are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation in the United States or other countries or both.
 
AS/400, RS/6000, PS/2, ES/9000, zSeries, AIX, OS/400, and PowerPC are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation in the United States or other countries or both.
 
Microsoft is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
 
Windows and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
 

Other company, product, and service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.
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