A pulse width modulation (PWM) system functions such that while label paper is moving into position, ribbon motors have power applied to maintain tension in the ribbon to avoid any contact with the adhesive. Once the label paper stops and is in position the power to the ribbon motors are cut to allow slack in the ribbon and a printhead solenoid actuates at full power to lift. Once lifted the solenoid cuts back to partial power to hold position and the ribbon motors are powered again. Thus, ribbon motor power is adjusted to allow the solenoid to lift without additional resistance.

A pulse width modulation (PWM) system functions such that while label paper is moving into position, ribbon motors have power applied to maintain tension in the ribbon to avoid any contact with the adhesive. Once the label paper stops and is in position the power to the ribbon motors are cut to allow slack in the ribbon and a printhead solenoid actuates at full power to lift. Once lifted the solenoid cuts back to partial power to hold position and the ribbon motors are powered again. Thus, ribbon motor power is adjusted to allow the solenoid to lift without additional resistance.