~SD - Set Darkness

Overview

The ~SD command sets the darkness level of printing via ZPL. It is equivalent to the darkness setting parameter on the front panel display and controls how dark the printed output appears on the media.

Syntax

~SD##

Parameters

• ## = Two-digit darkness value (required)
  • Range: 00-30
  • Default: Last permanently saved value
  • 00 = Lightest
  • 30 = Darkest

Description

• Controls print density and darkness
• Equivalent to front panel darkness setting
• Two-digit numeric value required
• Can be combined with ^MD command values
• Takes effect immediately

Usage Notes

• Must be two-digit value (use leading zero for values under 10)
• If ^MD command is also used, its value is added to ~SD value
• Changes take effect on next label printed
• Setting persists until changed or power-off

Darkness Levels

Examples

Light Darkness

~SD05

Sets darkness to 5 (very light).

Medium Darkness

~SD15

Sets darkness to 15 (medium, typical).

Dark Darkness

~SD25

Sets darkness to 25 (dark, for coated stock).

Maximum Darkness

~SD30

Sets darkness to maximum (30, for dark media).

Combined with ^MD

^XA
^MD-5
~SD20
^FO50,50^A0N,30,30^FDText^FS
^XZ

If ^MD is -5 and ~SD is 20, effective darkness = 15.

Troubleshooting

Text Too Light

• Increase ~SD value
• Check media compatibility
• Verify printhead temperature

Text Too Dark

• Decrease ~SD value
• Verify media is not too dark
• Check for carbon buildup

Related Commands

• ^MD - Media Darkness
• ^MT - Media Type
• ^PR - Print Rate
• ^ZZ - Printer Sleep

See Also

• Media Darkness (^MD)
• Media Type (^MT)