How to Install A POS Paper Roll in Your Printer: A Step-by-Step Guide

The point of sale system has become the most dominant form of payment in most retail outlets or restaurants, and thermal paper rolls play an essential role in the system as they can print the consumption details and payment proof in seconds. When the paper rolls are getting over, you have to know how to install a new roll. Here in this article, we will share the step-by-step procedure for installing a new paper roll.

8 Steps to Install A New Paper Roll In Your Printer

Install a paper roll into the printer – Image generated by AI

Installing a paper roll into a printer is relatively straightforward. It will take less than one minute to finish.

1. Turn Off the Printer and Get the New Roll Ready

Firstly, you have to turn off the printer by switching the “ON/OFF” button. Make sure the paper roll size (e.g., 80mm, 57mm, or any other size) meets the POS printer’s specifications. You can check this by reading the manual or website or asking your POS system vendor. After getting the roll in your hand, remove the glue and roll about 1 inch of paper from the roll.

2. Open the Printer Cover

Press the “Open” button to open the cover of the printer.

3. Remove the Old Paper Roll

Remove the used, finished paper roll and the core.

4. Place the New Paper Roll

Hold the thermal paper roll by the edges and place it into the printer. Make sure the paper feeds from the bottom of the roll, coming up over the top. And the thermal side of the paper is in close contact with the thermal printhead. There should be a clear diagram or markings in the printer to show you the proper orientation.

5. Thread the Paper

Locate the paper path and thread the leading edge of the paper through it. There may be guides or arrows to help you direct the paper correctly. Ensure that the paper is straight and not wrinkled.

6. Close the Cover

Once the paper is threaded through the printer, close the cover securely. Some printers may have sensors that detect when the cover is closed, so make sure it clicks or locks into place.

7. Turn On the Printer

Power on the printer. It may automatically feed a small amount of paper to initialize. If not, you may need to press a button or follow on-screen prompts to feed a small amount of paper.

8. Test Print

Perform a test print to ensure that the paper is loaded correctly and that the print quality is satisfactory.

Here are general instructions that should cover most thermal printers. The exact steps can vary depending on the printer’s type and momodel. Remember to consult the printer’s user manual for specific instructions if you have difficulty changing the paper roll.

Two Points You Should Pay Attention to:

• In step 4, do not load the paper in reverse. Thermal paper has two sides: the thermal side and the non-thermal side. Only the thermal side can be printed, so you must ensure the thermal side has close contact with the thermal printhead.

Make sure the thermal-coated side is closed to the printer’s thermal head

• It is essential to keep an eye on the receipts that come out of the printer. If there are red lines on the receipt coming out from the printer, it indicates that the roll is about to get over.

Here is A Video Tutorial about How to Install A Paper Roll in a Printer:

A Few More Tips You Should Know

• Store your paper rolls properly: Sunshine and heat are enemies of thermal paper, so make sure your paper rolls are stored in a cool, dry place where the temperature is below 30°C. Keep the packaging intact and reseal the carton after taking out a new roll.
• Clean the printer regularly: Dust in the air and debris from the paper can build up on the printhead over time. You can use a cleaning wipe to clean the printhead to get the best printing performance.
• Choose the right paper size: Always select the correct POS paper roll size for your POS printer. It’s also important to make sure your POS printer is properly connected to a reliable POS system. If you’re using an older setup or considering an upgrade, we found this technology guide to the POS world that explains how to choose the best POS solution for your business.

Final Thoughts

Installing a new paper roll in the printer will not take you more than 1 minute. Once you follow our step-by-step guide, it will be easier for you to change the roll at any time. If you still have any questions about your paper roll installation or printer maintenance, leave a comment below or contact us today — we would be happy to assist you.