Abstract: A clamshell style printing apparatus for printing on print media, including linerless media, and a method for controlling a printing apparatus. The printing apparatus includes a main circuit board assembly located within a printer housing member that mounts relatively low speed electronic components, and which includes a dual-sided circuit board. A control board assembly is electronically coupled to the main board assembly via a SIMM connector and mounts relatively high speed electronic components, such as a microprocessor, RAM, ROM, system clock and Ethernet controller. The printer apparatus defines a print media path that extends from a print media supply to a cutting mechanism and includes a subassembly for mounting the printhead and a rotary cutter element that is movable between opened and closed positions. An alignment mechanism maintains alignment of stationary and rotary cutter members when the subassembly is moved to the closed position.