Menu
Cart 0

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:
For ZeroNine products used in the Gerber Edge® Printers

Q: What is FrogSkin?
Q: How long do your ribbons last outside?
Q: Does using ZeroNine ribbons void my printers warranty?
Q: How do I reload an OEM cartridge?
Q: What is the difference between NexGen and Legacy ribbons?
Q: Is there anything I should know before printing a graphic for a vehicle?
Q: How do I get the best results when printing with Neon Foils?
Q: How do I increase printability on Static Cling vinyl?

Q: What is FrogSkin?

A: FrogSkin is a thermal transfer ribbon that is a clear printable ribbon that increases the chemical resistance, reduces UV light exposure, and is an abrasion guard. It should be printed last on top of your finished print. If you have trouble printing with our FrogSkin, please refer to our FrogSkin Help page.

Q: How long do your ribbons last outside?

A: Even though we suggest all outdoor signage to be protected with our FrogSkin ribbon, we warranty most of our ribbons for 3 years with a few exceptions. Our Neon colors fade quickly with UV exposure and are only suggested for indoor use. Other colors like Metallic Gold and Mirror Silver will last one year before beginning to break down. If the graphics are going on automobiles, tractors or boats, please use FrogSkin for the added protection of going through car washes and other harsh environments. Consider what the graphic will be exposed to and how long you wish it to last. Colors like yellow and red fade more quickly than blues and greens.

Q: Does using ZeroNine ribbons void my printers warranty?

A: Absolutely not! Your OEM supplier or distributor can not make any claim about voiding or changing your printer warranty because you didn't use the OEM ribbon, and if so ask for it in writing to see what their reaction is! It is an illegal statement due to the Sherman and Clayton Antitrust Acts. To find out more information about this, click here.

Q: How do I reload an OEM cartridge? 

A: Please read our Cartridge Reloading Page.

Q: What is the difference between NexGen and Legacy ribbons?

A: In 2003 we began reformulating our thermal transfer ribbons in order to improve the quality of our inks. The main improvements were increased chemical, abrasion, and UV resistance. NexGen ribbons are also designed to work at 300x600dpi modes at the fastest printer settings. The dot patterns were improved so that process and gradients have better results than ever before. Other highlights are improved printability on Oracal 651 vinyl and CMYK process print outputs matching the OEM output.

Q: Is there any thing I should know before printing a graphic for a vehicle?

A: Before you begin using your foils for vehicle use, consider what your graphics will be going through. 

    a) Chemicals in car washes, crop dusting, fertilizing,
        waxes, buckets, rain, etc.
    b) Ultraviolet exposure
    c) Gasoline spilling or dripping when refueling

The decals you create must be able to stand up to these elements. For added protection, we can recommend a variety of solutions to help you out. Try applying our Clear Protector or Frog Juice spray to extend the life of your products. Also, keep in mind that some of our ribbons are not outdoor rated. If you still would like more help, call us at 800-325-0911.

Q: How do I get the best results when printing with Neon Foils?

A: Neon foils are formulated to add high intensity colors into your designs. By following these guidelines, you will be printing these foils hassle free.

Color Settings: Neon Yellow:
Neon Green:
Neon Pink:
Trans Yelow GCT-625
Trans Green GCT-116
Trans Red GCT-643


Printing Neon Foils on Calendered or Cast Vinyls:
SETTINGS FOR 1 COLOR PRINT: neon foil on white or clear
   1. Substrate Setting: Series 220 Premium Film
   2. Printhead Setting: Lighter or Light
SETTINGS FOR 2 COLOR PRINT: neon foil with black overprint
   1. Substrate Setting: Image Cal "P"
   2. Printhead Setting: Lighter
   3. Color Setting: Black GCS-012

Printing Neon Foils on Static Cling
SETTINGS FOR 1 COLOR PRINT: neon foil on white or clear
   1. Substrate Setting: Static Cling
   2. Printhead Setting: Lighter
SETTINGS FOR 2 COLOR PRINT: neon foil with white overprint
   1. Substrate Setting: Static Cling
   2. Printhead Setting: Lighter
   3. Color Setting: White GCS-010

Q: How do I increase printability on Static Cling vinyl?

A: Most of our colors print great on Static Cling. If printability is an issue printing our FrogSkin or Finish Coat Semi-Gloss ribbon first is a good solution because our ribbons can be printed on top of them easily. Feel free to call ZeroNine for more information.