Factory Reset Zebra Printers

The factory reset clears all data and configures the printer to the original defaults.

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Factory Reset Conditions

Only perform a factory reset if:

  • All other troubleshooting steps fail
  • Printer settings appear corrupted
  • Printer is struck with incorrect or unknown network settings

Turn OFF the printer

Press and hold PAUSE + FEED. While holding down these buttons, turn the printer ON

Hold PAUSE + FEED until the status indicator is a solid green

3-4 blank labels will feed out of the printer if the Factory Reset is done properly.

Zebra ZD621 Troubleshooting Guide


ProblemSymptomSolution
Printer unresponsiveJob sent, but nothing printsRestart Printer, check connection and print queue
Network light not blinkingPrinter appears online but isn't communicatingNetwork Troubleshooting
Media errors / misfeeds"Media Out" message despite labels loadedMedia & Label Feed Issues
Poor print qualityFaded, streaked, or misaligned printPrint Quality Problems
Printer shows as offlineStatus shows "offline" in DataNinja or WindowsPrinter Status: Offline

Quick Restart Procedure

  1. Power off the printer via the power button or unplug it.
  2. Wait 10 seconds.
  3. Power the printer back on.
  4. Check that:
    • The network is blinking (indicates communication).
    • The printer appears as "Online" in DataNinja or the Printer Station.
    • The Feed Button is responsive.

Network Troubleshooting

Ethernet

  • Confirm that the Ethernet cable is secure.
  • Use a different cable or switch port to rule out hardware issues.
  • Ensure a valid IP address is assigned (static preferred).
  • Watch the network light:
    • Blinking = good
    • Solid = frozen
    • Off = disconnected

Wi-Fi:

  • Reconnect to Wi-Fi from the touchscreen.
  • Make sure signal strength is sufficient.
  • Confirm Wi-Fi SSID/password and DHCP settings.
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Tip

You can print the network config by pressing and holding Feed + Cancel for 2 seconds.

Media & Label Feed Issues

Symptoms:

  • Media Out Error
  • Printer skips labels
  • Print misalignment

Steps to Resolve:

  1. Open the cover and re-seat the label roll.
  2. Make sure guides are properly aligned.
  3. Run media calibration:
  • Tap Settings → Media → Calibrate from the touchscreen.
  1. Set correct media type:
  • Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer
  1. Check label type: gap, black mark, continuous

Print Quality Problems

Symptoms:

  • Faded print
  • Smudged or streaked labels
  • Misaligned barcode

Steps to Resolve:

  • Clean the printhead using an approved cleaning pen or wipe.
  • Adjust Darkness and Print via:
  • Settings → Print Quality
  • Use compatible labels and ribbon (if thermal transfer).
  • Ensure media is properly loaded and tensioned.

Printer Status: Offline

Symptoms:

  • Shows offline in Print Station or Windows
  • Not discoverable on the network

Steps to Resolve:

  1. Restart the printer.
  2. Verify network cable or Wi-Fi status.
  3. Confirm IP address is reachable (ping test).
  4. Restart DataNinja Print Station (if used).
  5. Check that the printer driver is up to date.

Routine Maintenance

TaskFrequency
Clean printheadEvery media/ribbon change
Clean platen rollerWeekly or if slippage occurs
Check label path for debrisWeekly
Firmware updatesQuarterly