ASTM F1943-98(2008)

The Atlantek test system allows simulation of the printing conditions of thermal transfer printers in the marketplace. Thus, this system is useful in matching thermal transfer product performance to various thermal printheads.

This test system is useful for new product development. Thermal transfer printer manufacturers can design print control algorithms to match particular printhead designs to thermal imaging products.

Thermal imaging product manufacturers can formulate and design products (media) to provide a match with certain printhead designs.

Manufacturing process control can make thermal response comparisons relative to process changes.

Customers for thermal products can use this test method to compare supplies from various manufacturers.

The test system can be used to evaluate thermal response of facsimile, label, medical recorder, plotter, and other thermal transfer products (media).

Performance differences between printheads and media combinations can be measured and presented graphically. The interrelationship between printing control variables can also be studied.

1.1 This test method covers the measurement of thermal response of various thermal mass transfer ribbons used for facsimile, labels, medical recorders, plotters, and printers.

1.2 The Atlantek Thermal Response Tester Model 200 described in this test method may be used for specification acceptance, product development, and research applications. Although this test method identifies specific printheads, the tester does support additional printheads.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements, see Section 8.