Abstract: A system for detecting the level of a media supply in a printer has a frame having a support for seating the printer thereon. A first light source is positioned on the support and is energizable to direct a first beam of light into the printer. A first detector is positioned on the support and provides an analog signal in response to reflection of the first beam of light from within the printer. A control logic processor is in signal communication with the first detector and compares the analog signal to a stored/predetermined value and reports a low media condition according to the comparison.

Abstract: A system for detecting the level of a media supply in a printer has a frame having a support for seating the printer thereon. A first light source is positioned on the support and is energizable to direct a first beam of light into the printer. A first detector is positioned on the support and provides an analog signal in response to reflection of the first beam of light from within the printer. A control logic processor is in signal communication with the first detector and compares the analog signal to a stored/predetermined value and reports a low media condition according to the comparison.

Abstract: A current limiting circuit comprises a current limiting element (R1) coupled between an input and an output of the current limiting circuit, and a controllable shunt element (M1) connected in parallel with the current limiting element. The current limiting circuit further comprises a control circuit (102) and a time delay circuit (104). The control circuit is configured to generate a control signal for application to a control input of the shunt element for controlling the shunt element between at least a first state and a second state responsive to a timing signal. The time delay circuit is configured to generate the timing signal, and is coupled between the input of the current limiting circuit and an input of the control circuit. The time delay circuit generates the timing signal based on a designated time constant and in a manner substantially independent of an amount of current passing through the current limiting element.