Page 1 The printer beeps once. Load single-sheet or continuous paper. The printer then automatically loads the paper and prints a quick reference. Copyright © 1995 by Seiko Epson Corporation. Settings 11, 12, 8.5, 70/6(A4), 5.5, 7, 17, 14, 8, 6, 4, 3.5,...
Page 2 Note: If you want to check the new default settings, enter the default-setting mode again and print the quick reference. After that, turn off the printer to exit the default-setting mode. button to select the page length. The READY lights turn on, off, or blink to...
Page 3: Fcc Compliance Statement
FCC Compliance Statement For United States Users This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
Page 4: Important Safety Instructions
Unplug the printer from the wall outlet before you clean it, and use a damp cloth for cleaning, not liquid or aerosol cleaners. Do not use your printer near water or spill any liquid on it. Do not place the printer on an unstable cart, stand, table or other surface that may allow the printer to fall.
Page 5 Refer all servicing in those compartments to service personnel. Unplug the printer from the wall outlet and have it repaired by a qualified service person under the following conditions: When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed...
Page 6: Where United States Users Can Get Help
Where United States Users Can Get Help Epson America provides local customer support and service through a nationwide network of authorized Epson dealers and S e r v i c e C e n t e r s . Epson also provides the following support services through the...
Page 7: For United Kingdom Users
Claims are made by the user returning the product to the supplier from whom it was purchased or, if this is impractical, to any Epson supplier who also handles the same product. In the event of any difficulty, users are requested to contact the Service Co-ordinator Manager at Epson (UK) Limited.
Page 8: Use Of Options
Use of options Epson (UK) Limited shall not be liable against any damages or problems arising from the use of any options or consumable products other than those designated as Original Epson Products or Epson Approved Products by Epson (UK) Limited.
Page 9 The green and yellow wire must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or with the earth symbol (&) or coloured green or green and yellow. The blue wire must be connected to the terminal in the plug marked with the letter N or coloured black.
Page 10 There are a few things you should know about printing on single sheets as opposed to continuous paper. When you print on single sheets, you may notice that your printer prints the first page of your file correctly but then prints too low on the next page, or that it prints the last few lines from one page onto the next.
Page 11: Table Of Contents
Printer Parts ... 5 Chapter 1 Setting Up the Printer Unpacking the Printer ... Choosing a Place for the Printer ... 1-2 Assembling the Printer ... 1-6 Testing the Printer ... 1-10 Connecting the Printer to Your Computer ... 1-14 Configuring Your Software for the Printer..
Page 12 Chapter 4 Using the Printer Options Cut-Sheet Feeders ... 4 - 2 Additional Tractor Unit ... 4-13 Roll Paper Holder ... 4-16 Interface Cards ... 4-22 Front Sheet Guide ... 4-25 Chapter 5 Maintenance and Transportation Cleaning the Printer ... 5-2 Replacing the Ribbon Cartridge ...
Page 13: Introduction
IBM@ printers. Font selection. You can choose two draft and two Near Letter Quality fonts (Epson Roman and Epson Sans Serif) directly from the control panel as well as normal or condensed printing. Default settings. You can customize the printer’s default settings with the control panel buttons.
Page 14: Options
(C80020* for the standard-width carriage, C80021* for the wide carriage) This option improves continuous-paper handling. It is especially useful with continuous multi-part forms. You can also use it to load two types of continuous paper in the printer at the same time.
Page 15 (This option is available in North and South American countries only.) The last figure in option part numbers, represented by an asterisk (*), varies by country. Contact your local Epson dealer for the part number in your country.
Page 16: Finding Your Way Around
Chapter 1 contains information on unpacking, setting up, testing, and connecting the printer. Be sure to read this chapter first. Chapters 2 and 3 include important information on paper handling and day-to-day operation of your printer.
Page 17: Printer Parts
Printer Parts paper guide edge guides lever prilzfel cover control panel paper-fension unit ribbon cartridge tractor lever parallel interfa A\C inlet Note: In some countries, the power cord is attached.
Page 18: Chapter 1 Setting Up The Printer
Choosing a Place for the Printer ........
Page 19: Unpacking The Printer
This chapter contains information on unpacking, setting up, testing, and connecting the printer. Read this chapter first. Checking the parts When you unpack the printer, make sure that you have all the parts shown below and that none is damaged. Power cord Note: In some countries, the power cord is attached to the printer.
Page 20: Removing The Protective Materials
To prevent damage during shipping, several pieces of protective material are packed with your printer. You must remove these before you put your printer together. Follow the directions on the Notice Sheet inserted in your printer when removing the protective material. Note: Make sure you remove all packing and protective materials from your printer before turning on the power.
Page 21: Choosing A Place For The Printer
Choosing a Place for the Printer When selecting a place to set up your printer, keep the following in mind: Place the printer on a flat, stable surface. Place the printer close enough to the computer for the printer cable to reach.
Page 22 13.6 kg (30 Ibs) for the standard-width carriage 18.4 kg (40 Ibs) for the wide carriage Never use a stand that tilts the printer at an angle of more than 15 degrees from horizontal. If you install a cut-sheet feeder, keep your printer absolutely level.
Page 23: Assembling The Printer
Installing the ribbon cartridge 1. Make sure the printer is not plugged into an electrical outlet. 2. Lift the printer cover by its back edge and then pull it straight up and off. 3. Grasp the tabs on each side of the paper-tension unit as shown below.
Page 24 CAUTION: Moving the print head while the printer is on might damage the printer. Also, if you just used the printer, the print head may be hot; let it cool for a few minutes before touching it. 5. Turn the ribbon-tightening knob in the direction of the arrow to remove any slack in the ribbon.
Page 25 Press down on both ends of the unit until you feel it click into place. Replace the printer cover by first inserting the front tabs into the slots on the printer and then lowering it into place. Finally, push it down until it clicks.
Page 26: Attaching The Paper Guide
Assembling the Printer Attaching the paper guide Your printer comes with a paper guide that allows you to load a single sheet from the top of the printer. Place the notches on the paper guide straight down into the mounting slots on the printer. You can stand the paper guide in an upright position, or lift slightly and then lower it until it lies flat on the printer.
Page 27: Testing The Printer
Do not plug in the power cord. 3. If the power cord is not attached to the printer, connect it to the AC inlet on the printer’s rear panel. 4. Plug the power cord into a properly grounded electrical outlet.
Page 28: Running The Self Test
See Chapter 2 for full details on paper handling. The printer prints the self test using the currently selected font. 1. Make sure that the printer is turned off. Move the paper-release lever to the single-sheet position. PAPER FEED 2.
Page 29 CAUTION: Use paper that is at least 210 mm (8.27 inches) wide for the standard-width carriage or 360 mm (14 4. Insert a sheet of paper between the edge guides until it meets resistance. After about two seconds, the printer loads the paper automatically and starts the self test. 1-12...
Page 30: Setting Up The Printer
PAUSE the test, press the 6. While holding down the eject the paper. Then turn off the printer to end the self test. Here is part of a typical self test. CIJRRECIT SETTIl’ICi --I-.- I”ri.11 t e r...
Page 31: Connecting The Printer To Your Computer
Connect the parallel interface cable as described below: 1. Make sure both the printer and computer are turned off; then plug the cable connector securely into the printer. Squeeze the wire clips together until they lock in place on each side of the connector.
Page 32: Configuring Your Software For The Printer
Proprinter (XL), IBM Graphics printer, or IBM printer, in that order of preference. To use all the features of your printer, it is best to choose a program that lists one of the FX printers on its menu. If your program does not list one of these printers, contact the software manufacturer to see if an update is available.
Page 33 Configuring Your Software for the Printer 1-16 Setting Up the Printer...
Page 34: Chapter 2 Paper Handling
Chapter 2 Paper Handling Selecting a Paper Feeding Method ... 2-2 Setting the paper-release lever ... 2-2 Using Single Sheets ... 2 - 4 Loading single sheets from the top ... 2 - 4 Using Continuous Paper ... 2 - 6 Tractor position and available paper paths..
Page 35: Selecting A Paper Feeding Method
Selecting a Paper Feeding Method Your printer provides four paper paths so you can print on almost any type of paper: Choose the top paper guide to print on single sheets. Install the tractor unit in the appropriate location to load continuous paper from the front, rear, or bottom.
Page 36: Paper Handling
Single-sheet position For all single sheets, whether loaded from the top or either of the optional cut-sheet feeders; also for loading single sheets from the front with the optional front sheet guide. Front push-tractor position For continuous paper with the tractor unit installed in the front.
Page 37: Using Single Sheets
257 mm (10.1 inches) on the standard-width carriage and 420 mm (16.5 inches) on the wide carriage. You can load single sheets from the top of the printer. Also, you can load single sheets from the front with the optional front sheet guide. (This option may not be available in some countries.)
Page 38 CAUTION: Always turn off the printer before you use the knob on its left side to clear paper jams. If the printer is on, you may damage it or lose the top-of-form position. If the platen turns but the printer doesn’t load the paper, completely remove the paper and reinsert it more firmly.
Page 39: Using Continuous Paper
Your printer can handle continuous paper up to 254 mm (10.0 inches) wide on the standard-width carriage and up to 406 mm (16.0 inches) wide on the wide carriage.
Page 40: Changing Tractor Positions
Note: Make sure you align your paper supply so paper can feed smoothly into the printer. If you want to feed paper through the bottom paper slot, use a printer stand that has a large enough opening for the paper to feed without obstruction.
Page 41 2. Lift the printer cover up and off the printer. 3. Using the tabs on the paper-tension unit, grasp both ends of the unit and lift it up and off the printer. Store the paper-tension unit in safe place. Paper Handling...
Page 42 See page 2-16 for instructions on loading paper with the pull tractor. To remove the tractor unit, press the tractor’s lock tabs, tilt the unit toward you, and lift it off the printer. Then replace the paper-tension unit. Paper Handling 2-9...
Page 43: Loading Paper With The Front Push Tractor
Using Continuous Paper Loading paper with the front push tractor 1. Make sure the printer is turned off, and remove the front cover. 2. Make sure the tractor is in the front push-tractor position and the paper-release lever is in the front push-tractor position.
Page 44 3. Release the sprocket units by pushing the sprocket locks backward. 4. Slide the left sprocket unit approximately 12 mm (0.5 inch) from the far left position and pull the lever forward to lock it in place. Now slide the right sprocket unit to match the width of your paper, but do not lock it.
Page 45: Removing Paper From The Front Push Tractor
8. Attach the front cover. 9. Turn on the printer. When the printer receives data, it automatically loads the paper before printing. Removing paper from the front push tractor 1.
Page 46: Loading Paper With The Rear Push Tractor
Using Continuous Paper Loading paper with the rear push tractor 1. Make sure the printer is turned off and the paper guide is removed. 2. Make sure the tractor is in the rear push-tractor position and the paper-release lever is also in the rear push-tractor position.
Page 47 (Use the alignment marks on the printer case.) Push the lever back to lock it in place. Then slide the right sprocket unit to match the width of your printer, but do not lock it. Move the paper support so it is midway between the sprocket units.
Page 48: Removing Paper From The Rear Push Tractor
CAUTION: Always turn off the printer before you use the knob on its left side to clear paper jams. If the printer is on, you may damage it or lose the top-of-form position. Removing paper from the rear push tractor 1.
Page 49: Loading Paper With The Pull Tractor
Loading paper with the pull tractor 1. Make sure the printer is turned off. Remove the printer cover and paper guide. 2. Make sure the paper-release lever is set to the pull-tractor position. 3. Make sure your paper has a clean, straight edge. Insert the paper into the desired paper slot until it emerges between the platen and the ribbon guide.
Page 50 Move the paper support so it is midway between the sprocket units. 12 mm (0.5 inch) 8. Pull the paper up until the perforation between the first and second pages is even with the top of the printer’s ribbon. Paper Handling 2-17...
Page 51 Chapter 3. 14. Install the printer cover. CAUTION: Always turn off the printer before you use the knob on its left side to clear paper jams. If the printer is on, you may damage it or lose the top-of-form position. 2-18...
Page 52: Removing Paper From The Pull Tractor
Adjusting the top-of-form position The printer feeds the paper to the top-of-form position when it loads the paper or performs a form feed. This position determines where the printing begins on the page. You may need to adjust the top-of-form position when printing on ready-made forms.
Page 53: Switching Between Continuous And Single Sheets
To switch from continuous paper to single sheets, follow the steps below. 1. If a printed document is still in the printer, press the button to feed the paper forward to the tear-off position. Tear off the document and press the continuous paper backward to the loading position.
Page 54 Switching Between Continuous and Single Sheets 3. Push the paper-release lever back to the single-sheet position. 4. You can now load single sheets from the top as described in Using Single Sheets earlier in this chapter. Paper Handling 2-21...
Page 55: Switching To Continuous Paper
Switching Between Continuous and Single Sheets Switching to continuous paper You can easily switch back to printing on continuous paper. 1. If a single sheet is still in the printer, hold down the EJECT and press the 2. Lift up slightly on the paper guide and then lower it until it lies flat on top of the printer.
Page 56: Printing On Special Paper
Printing on Special Paper In addition to printing on single sheets and continuous paper, your printer can also print on a wide variety of paper types, such as envelopes, labels, and multi-part forms. Before printing on special types of paper, you may need to change the paper-thickness setting.
Page 57: Multi-Part Forms
Printing on Special Paper Use the following table to set the paper-thickness lever to match the thickness of your paper: Paper type* Ordinary (Single sheets or continuous) Thin paper Carbonless multi-part forms 2 sheets (original + 1 copy) 3 sheets (original + 2 copy) 4 sheets (original + 3 copy) Labels Envelope...
Page 58: Labels
Because labels are sensitive to extreme temperature and humidity, always use them under normal operating conditions. Do not leave labels loaded in the printer between jobs; they curl around the platen and may jam when you resume printing. To remove labels from the paper path after you finish printing, tear off the labels at a point before the paper slot.
Page 59: Envelopes
Insert the top edge of the envelope into the printer. If you use No. 6 envelopes, make sure the left edge guide is aligned with the arrow on the paper guide.
Page 60: Chapter 3 Using The Printer
Chapter 3 Using the Printer Control Panel ................3-2 Lights .
Page 61: Control Panel
Lights READY (green) OPERATE when the blinks when the printer is paused, in tear-off mode, out of paper, or the print head is overheated. FONT (green) Shows which font is selected. This light is off for draft, on for NLQ Roman, and blinks for NLQ Sans Serif font.
Page 62: Buttons
FONT Press this button to select a font (draft, Epson Roman, or Epson Sans Serif). This button also selects the normal or condensed mode for these fonts. See Character Fonts later in this chapter for details.
Page 63: Other Control-Panel
Default-setting mode: See the next section for details. Self test: Hold down the on the printer to perform the self test. The self test lets you see that your printer is operating properly and provides a printout of the current default settings.
Page 64: Default-Setting Mode
Default-Setting Mode Default-setting listing Your printer has internal settings that control such functions as emulation, character pitch, and page length. These settings are called default settings because they take effect each time you turn on the printer. For most users, the factory settings are best, but you can change these settings if necessary.
Page 65: Default Setting Descriptions
Default setting descriptions Printer mode When you select ESC/P, the printer operates in the Epson ESC/P mode. When you select IBM, the printer emulates an IBM printer. Character pitch You can set the character pitch to 10 cpi or 12 cpi.
Page 66 When the auto tear off is valid, the printer automatically performs the tear-off feature. The printer automatically feeds the paper perforation to the tear-off position at the edge of the printer cover after you complete a print job. You can then easily tear off the printed page.
Page 67: Input Buffer
24 KB of data, so you can free your computer for other tasks in a shorter time while the printer prints. When the buffer is off, the buffer can store no data, so the computer must wait for the printer to print each character before sending the next.
Page 68: Changing Group 1 Default Settings
1. Make sure the printer is turned off. 2. Turn on the printer while you hold down the enters the Group 1 default setting mode. The printer beeps once. 3. Load single-sheet or continuous paper. The printer then automatically loads the paper and prints a quick reference.
Page 69: Changing Group 2 Default Settings
7. Exit the Group 1 default-setting mode at any time by turning off the printer. Any changes you have made remain in effect until you change them again. Note: If you want to check the new default settings, enter the default-setting mode again and print the quick reference.
Page 70 3. Load single-sheet or continuous paper. The printer then automatically loads the paper and prints a quick reference according to the emulation setting in Group 1. ESC/P mode character table Available only in the European version. Available only in the North/South American version.
Page 71: Changing Group 3 Default Settings
Changing Group 3 default settings 1. Make sure the printer is turned off. 2. To enter the Group 3 default-setting mode, turn on the printer while you hold down the printer beeps once.
Page 72 Note: If you want to check the new default settings, enter the default-setting mode again and print the quick reference. After that, turn off the printer to exit the default-setting mode. COND. 1 READY 1 Settings light...
Page 73: Changing Group 4 Default Settings
Group 4 default settings differ from 1 to 3. You determine the setting by the number of beeps you hear instead of checking the panel lights. Also, the printer does not print a list of Group 4 default settings. To change Group 4 default settings follow the steps below.
Page 74: Micro Feed
When you make adjustments to the loading or tear-off positions for continuous paper, the printer remembers the new setting even if you turn off the printer. The printer automatically advances the paper to the new position when the power is turned on again.
Page 75: Adjusting The Loading Position
Adjusting the loading position The loading position is the position of the paper after it is automatically loaded by the printer. If your printing is too high or low on the page, you can change the loading position. 1. Make sure the printer is turned on.
Page 76 5. To leave the micro-feed mode, press the send data to the printer. The printer remembers the new loading position and advances all subsequent pages to the new position. Note: The printer has a minimum and maximum loading position. If you try to advance the loading position beyond these limits, the printer beeps and the paper stops moving.
Page 77: Tear Off
After you finish printing, this feature advances the paper to the tear-off edge of the printer so you can easily tear off the printed sheets. When you resume printing, the printer automatically feeds the paper back to the loading position.
Page 78: Using The Tear Off Button
1. Print on continuous paper loaded on the front or rear push tractor (as described in Chapter 2). When you finish printing, the printer advances the final p&ted page’s perforation to the tear- off position. 2. Tear off all printed pages.
Page 79: Adjusting The Tear-Off Position
PAUSE/TEAR OFF Press the down on the page, or press the tear-off position up on the page. The printer remembers the new tear-off position even after you turn off the printer. Tear off any printed pages. When you begin printing, the printer automatically feeds the paper back to the loading position and begins printing.
Page 80: Character Fonts
Character Fonts Your printer has two draft fonts (normal and high-speed) and two Near Letter Quality (NLQ) fonts (Epson Roman and Epson Sans Serif). You can select these through application software and the control panel. The draft fonts are ideal for preliminary work. Use the default- setting mode (explained earlier in this chapter) to choose between normal and high-speed draft.
Page 81 OPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^-‘abcdefghijklnnopqrstuwxyzI EpsonSan Serif !"#8%&+$+,--./0123456789:;<=>?WBCDEFGHIJK DPC?RSTUVWXYZ[\]^-' a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z Epson San Serif condensed 3-22 Using the Printer abcdefghi _,_’...
Page 82: Data Dump Mode
In data dump mode, the printer produces a printout of all the codes it receives. To use data dump mode, follow these steps: Make sure the printer is turned off.
Page 83: Chapter 4 Using The Printer Options
Chapter 4 Using the Printer Options Cut-Sheet Feeders ..4-2 Installing a cut-sheet feeder..4-2 Loading paper with the single-bin cut-sheet feeder..4- 3 Loading paper or envelopes with the high-capacity cut-sheet feeder ..4-6 Assembling the double-bin cut-sheet feeder ..4-9 Switching between continuous paper and the cut-sheet feeder ...
Page 84: Cut-Sheet Feeders
Install your cut-sheet feeder (single-bin, high-capacity, or double- bin) by following the steps below. 1. Make sure the printer is turned off. Remove the paper guide and printer cover. 2. If the tractor unit is installed in the pull-tractor position, remove it and reinstall it in the front or rear-tractor position.
Page 85: Loading Paper With The Single-Bin Cut-Sheet Feeder
Release the latch levers to lock the cut-sheet feeder in place. 5. Replace the printer cover by first inserting the front tabs into the slots on the printer, then lowering it into place. You are now ready to load paper with your cut-sheet feeder.
Page 86 3. Pull the paper-set levers all the way forward until the paper guides retract and lock open. 4. Take a stack of paper and fan it. Next, tap the side and bottom of the paper on a flat surface to even up the stack. Using the Printer Options...
Page 87 You can still insert single sheets using the paper guide or the optional front sheet guide. The cut-sheet feeder automatically loads paper when you send print data to the printer (as long as the light is lit). You can also load paper from the cut-sheet feeder by...
Page 88: Loading Paper Or Envelopes With The High-Capacity Cut-Sheet Feeder
Next, slide the right paper guide to roughly match the width of your paper. Slide the paper support to midway between the paper guides. Using the Printer Options...
Page 89 6. Adjust the position of the right paper guide so that it matches your paper’s width and lock it in place. Make sure the position of the guide allows the paper to move up and down freely. Using the Printer Options...
Page 90 The cut-sheet feeder automatically loads paper when you send print data to the printer (as long as the load paper from the cut-sheet feeder by pressing the button.
Page 91: Assembling The Double-Bin Cut-Sheet Feeder
2. Hold the single-bin cut-sheet feeder in both hands. Fit the notches in the single-bin cut-sheet feeder over the mounting posts on the rear of the high-capacity cut-sheet feeder. Cut-Sheet Feeders Using the Printer Options...
Page 92 BIN 2. Select the bin number by holding down the button and pressing the printer is out of paper. When you select BIN 1, the printer beeps once. When you select BIN 2, it beeps twice. You can also specify the bin number by using your application software as described in your software user’s manual or by using...
Page 93: Switching Between Continuous Paper And The Cut-Sheet Feeder
Switching between continuous paper and the cut-sheet feeder This printer allows you to switch easily between the cut-sheet feeder and the tractor-feeding system without removing either the feeder or the continuous-paper supply. Switching to continuous paper 1. Make sure continuous paper is mounted on the tractor properly.
Page 94 Cut-Sheet Feeders Switching to the cut-sheet feeder 1. If any printed sheets remain in the printer, press the button to advance the continuous paper to the tear-off position. 2. Tear off the printed pages. 3. While holding down the printer feeds the continuous paper backward to the paper-park position.
Page 95: Additional Tractor Unit
Below are the various ways of feeding continuous paper with two tractor units. Tractor Position of the positions paper-release lever Pull + front Front push-tractor push Pull + rear Rear push-tractor push Front push Front push-tractor rear push or Rear push-tractor Paper path &J Using the Printer Options 4-13...
Page 96: Using Two Tractor Units In Combination
CAUTION: Always turn off the printer before you use the knob on its left side to clear paper jams. If the printer is on, you may damage it or lose the top-of-form position. Release the sprocket lock levers of the pull tractor and adjust the sprocket units to match the width of the paper.
Page 97 Then move the paper-release lever back to its original position. 10. See that the paper is not crooked or wrinkled; then lock the sprocket units in place. 11. Reinstall the printer cover. 4-15 Using the Printer Options...
Page 98: Roll Paper Holder
Roll Paper Holder The optional roll paper holder (#8310) for the standard-width printer allows you to use 8.5-inch roll paper such as that used with telex machines. This provides an inexpensive alternative to continuous paper for applications requiring variable paper lengths.
Page 99 5. Hook the tension lever onto both ends of the stand as shown below. Then, while pulling upward on the tension lever, fit the wire ends of the tension lever into the holes in the stand. 4-17 Using the Printer Options...
Page 100: Loading A Roll Of Paper
After you have installed the roll paper holder, load a roll of paper as follows: 1. Make sure the printer is turned off and the paper guide and the tractor unit are removed. 2. Set the paper-release lever to the single-sheet position.
Page 101 Roll Paper Holder 3. Cut the leading edge of the roll paper straight across. 4. Insert the roll paper holder shaft into the center of the paper roll as shown. Using the Printer Options 4-19...
Page 102 Then turn on the printer. 6. Bring the leading edge of the paper up over the paper path guide and insert it into the printer. The printer loads the paper automatically. 4-20...
Page 103 Roll paper cannot be fed backward. When you want to unload roll paper, cut the paper behind the point where it feeds into the printer; then while holding down the eject the remaining paper.
Page 104: Interface Cards
Interface Cards You can use optional interface cards to supplement your printer’s built-in parallel interface. The Epson interfaces below are compatible with your printer. Model Number C823051 /C823061 C823071/C823081 C8231Ol/C823102 C823131/C823132 If you are unsure whether you need an optional interface or would like to know more about interfaces, contact your dealer.
Page 105 3. Insert the interface card into the slots on both sides of the interface compartment. Slide the card in firmly until the connector at the rear of the interface card fits into the printer’s internal socket. 4. Secure the screws to complete installation.
Page 106: The C823051/C823061 Serial Interface Card
When the area for data in the input buffer drops to 256 bytes, the printer outputs an X-OFF code or sets the DTR flag to “1” (MARK) indicating that it cannot receive data. Once the vacant area for data in the buffer increases to 528 bytes, the printer outputs an X-ON code or sets the DTR flag to “0”...
Page 107: Front Sheet Guide
Front Sheet Guide The optional front sheet guide fits inside the front of the printer. It handles single sheets that are 148-257 mm (5.8-10.1 inches) wide for the standard-width printer or 148-364 mm (5.8-14.3 inches) wide for the wide-carriage printer from the front paper slot.
Page 108: Loading Single Sheets From The Front
Front Sheet Guide Note: When the optional front sheet guide is installed in the printer, the tractor unit cannot be mounted in the front position and you cannot use the front push tractor. Loading single sheets from the front 1. Place the paper-release lever in the single-sheet position.
Page 109 CAUTION: Always turn off the printer before you use the knob on its left side to clear paper jams. If the printer is on, you may damage it or lose the top-of-form position. If the platen turns but the printer doesn’t load the paper, completely remove the page and reinsert it more firmly.
Page 110: Chapter 5 Maintenance And Transportation
Chapter 5 Maintenance and Transportation Cleaning the Printer..5 - 2 Replacing the Ribbon Cartridge..5-3 Transporting the Printer ..5-4 Maintenance and Transportation...
Page 111: Cleaning The Printer
Cleaning the Printer To keep your printer operating at its best, you should clean it thoroughly several times a year. 1. Make sure the printer is turned off and unplug the printer’s power cord. Then remove the paper guide, tractor unit, and the cut-sheet feeder, if one is installed.
Page 112: Replacing The Ribbon Cartridge
Genuine Epson ribbons are designed and manufactured to work properly with your Epson printer. Their high quality ensures proper operation and long life of the print head and other printer parts. Using any other ribbon may damage your printer or shorten its life.
Page 113: Transporting The Printer
Transporting the Printer If you need to transport your printer some distance, carefully repack it using the original box and packing materials, as described below. Turn off the printer. Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet; then disconnect the interface cable from the printer.
Page 114: Chapter 6 Troubleshooting
Chapter 6 Troubleshooting Problems and Solutions ........6-2 Power Supply ...
Page 115: Problems And Solutions
When you use the cut-sheet feeder, the paper does not feed properly. When you use two tractor units in combination, continuous paper does not feed properly. When you use an optional interface, the printer does not operate properly. 6-2 Troubleshooting See 6-3...
Page 116: Power Supply
If the voltages do not match, unplug the printer and contact your dealer immediately. Do not reconnect the power cord to an electrical outlet. If problems persist, contact your Epson dealer, or a qualified service person. Troubleshooting 6-3...
Page 117: Printing
The printer makes a strange noise, beeps several times, and stops abruptly. Turn off the printer and check for a paper jam, ribbon jam, or other problem; then try to print again. If the printer still does not print correctly, contact your dealer or a qualified service person.
Page 118: Troubleshooting
READY light blinks but the printer does not print or it stops printing abruptly. The print head is overheated. Wait a few minutes; the printer resumes printing automatically when the print head cools. The print is faint or uneven. of printed...
Page 119 All text is printed on the same line. Set the automatic line feed on in the default-setting mode so that the printer automatically adds a line-feed code to each carriage return. Check the default settings. See page 3-5. The text is printed with blank lines between the lines Two line-feed signals are being sent.
Page 120 If the printer still does not print correctly, try the self test described in Chapter 1. If the self test works properly, the printer is all right and the problem probably lies in the computer, the software, or the cable.
Page 121: Paper Handling
Printing starts too low on the page, or the bottom printed at the top of the next page. Be sure to choose the correct printer from your application program’s menu. See page 1-15. If possible, specify single-sheet paper with your application software.
Page 122 The paper feed is crooked or the paper jams. Turn off the printer and put the paper-release lever in the pull- tractor position. Pull out the paper and check the following two items: Make sure the paper size is within the specified range. See page 7-3.
Page 123 Check that the paper thickness is within the specified range. See page 7-3. The paper does not eject properly. The page is too long. Tear off the paper and remove it from the printer. Use only paper that is within the specified range. 6-10 Troubleshooting...
Page 124: Options
When you send data, the platen rotates but paper does not feed. Make sure the cut-sheet feeder is correctly installed on the printer. See that the paper-release lever is pushed back to the single- sheet position. Check for a paper jam near the print head.
Page 125 The paper feed is crooked or paper jams. Make sure that the sprocket units on both tractors are aligned. When you use an optional interface, the printer does not operate properly. The printer does not print or You may be trying to use an interface or interface cable with the wrong specifications.
Page 126: Chapter 7 Technical Specifications
Chapter 7 Technical Specifications Printer Specifications ... 7-2 Printing ... 7 - 2 Paper ..7-3 Mechanical ... 7-8 Electrical ..7-9 Environmental ..7-10 Interface Specifications ... 7-11 Specifications and pin assignments ... 7-11 Interface timing ..7-14 Option Specifications..7-15 Cut-sheet feeders..
Page 127: Printer Specifications
Printer Specifications Printing Printing method: Printing speed: Quality High-speed draft Draft Near letter quality Printing direction: Line spacing: Payer-feed speed: Buffer: Technical Specifications 9-pin impact dot matrix Characters/inch Bidirectional logic-seeking for text Unidirectional for graphics l/6-inch, 1 /&inch, or programmable in...
Page 128: Paper
IO cpi 12 cpi 17 cpi (10 cpi condensed) 20 cpi (12 cpi condensed) Draft, Epson Roman, or Epson Sans Serif in Character fonts: normal or condensed mode. You can also select other font/pitch combinations using ESC/P commands. See the command summary in Chapter 8 for details.
Page 129 58.2 g/m2 (12 to 15 lb) per sheet in multi-part forms Use carbonless multi-part forms only. Note : You can use recycled paper with this printer. If you notice an increase in ribbon consumption and paper jamming, use a higher grade of paper.
Page 130 Labels: Size 63.5 x 23.8 mm (2.5 x 0.93 inches) 101 x 23.8 mm (4 x 0.93 inches) 101 x 27 mm (4 x 1.06 inches) Thickness 0.07 to 0.09 mm (0.0028 to 0.0031 inches) for backing sheet 0.16 to 0.19 mm (0.0063 to 0.0075 inches) total Use continuous type labels only.
Page 131: Printable Area
Printable area: Single sheets The minimum top margin is 8.5 mm (0.33 inches). The minimum left and right margins are 3 mm (0.12 inches). However, the maximum printable width is 203 mm (8 inches) for the standard-width carriage or 345 mm (13.6 inches) for the wide carriage. The minimum bottom margin is 13.5 mm (0.53 inches).
Page 132: Roll Paper
The minimum left and right margins are 3 mm (0.12 inches). However, the maximum printable width is 203 mm (8 inches) for the standard-width carriage. The minimum bottom margin is 13.5 mm (0.53 inches). Printer Specifications Printable area Technical Specifications 7-7 ’...
Page 133: Mechanical
Printer Specific&ions Mechanical Paper-feed methods: Friction (with or without optional cut-sheet feeder) Push tractor (front or rear) Pull tractor Push-pull tractor (optional) Fabric ribbon cartridge Ribbon: Standard: #8750 Wide: Life expectancy at 14 dots/character: 3 million characters Standard: 4000 power-on hours...
Page 134: Electrical
Power consumption: Rated frequency range: Input frequency range: Dielectric strength (between AC line and chassis): Note: Check the label on the back of the printer for the voltage of your printer. AC 120 V AC 103.5 to 132 V 1.8 A...
Page 135: Environmental
Printer Specifications Environmental Operation: Temperature: Storage: Humidity (without condensation): Operation: Storage: Safety Approvals standards: Safety US model: European model: R.F.1 US model: European model: 7-10 Technical Specifications 5” to 35°C (41” to 95°F) -30” to 60°C (-22” to 140°F) 10% to 80% RH...
Page 136: Interface Specifications
Interface Specifications Your printer is equipped with an 8-bit parallel interface. Specifications and pin assignments The built-in parallel interface has the following characteristics: S-bit parallel Data format: STROBE pulse Synchronization: Handshake thing: BUSY and ACKNLG signals TTL-compatible Signal level: 36-pin 57-30360 Amphenol connector or...
Page 137 HIGH in the following cases: 1) During data entry 2) During input buffer full 3) During printer-error status A HIGH signal indicates that the printer is out of paper. Pulled up to 5V through 3.3 kR Twisted-pair return signal ground level...
Page 138 0.2 microseconds. Data transfer must be carried out by observing the ACKNLG or BUSY signal. Data transfer to this printer can be carried out only after receipt of the ACKNLG signal or when the BUSY signal is LOW.
Page 139: Interface Timing
Interface timing The figure below shows the timing for the parallel interface. BUSY BUSY ACKNLG ACKNLG DATA DATA -.--- -.--- STROBE STROBE 7-14 Technical Specifications...
Page 140: Option Specifications
C80638* High capacity C80639* Single-bin Wide C80640* High capacity Dimensions include the printer. Bin capacity: Single sheets: C80637* and C80639* Up to 50 sheets of 82-g/m* (22~lb) paper C80638* and C80640* Up to 150 sheets of 82-g/m* (22-lb) paper Envelopes:...
Page 141: Operating Conditions
Option Specification Paper: C80637* C80639* Width C80638* C80640* Paper length Thickness Weight Paper storage conditions: Temperature: Humidity: Environmental Temperature: Operation: 5" to 35°C (41” to 95°F) Storage: -30" to 60°C (-22” to 140°F) Humidity (without condensation): Operation: 15% to 80% RH Storage: 5% to 85% RH Note:...
Page 142: Front Sheet Guide
Front sheet guide Dimensions and weight: Printer Option Standard C814001 Wide C814011 Paper: C814001 Width C814011 Paper length Thickness Weight Prifitable area: Single sheets: Same as single sheets from the top insertion. (Multi-part forms) Note: Front sheet guide is available only at the nomal operating conditions.
Page 143: Initialization
Initialization There are two ways the printer can be initialized (returned to a fixed set of conditions): Hardware initialization Software initialization These two kinds of initialization have slightly different effects. Software initialization does not initialize the printer mechanism or ‘clear the user-defined character set. Also, software initialization does not clear the data buffer of all text.
Page 144: Chapter 8 Command Summary
Using the Command Summary ....... 8-2 ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic ... 8-3 Printer operation ... 8-3 Data control ... 8-4 Vertical motion ...
Page 145: Using The Command Summary
Using the Command Summary The following sections list and describe all the commands available in the Epson ESC/P and the IBM emulation modes. They are sorted by topic in each mode. If a command has parameters, they are explained. Parameters are indicated by lowercase letters, usually n.
Page 146: Esc P Commands Arranged By Topic
ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic Printer operation Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC @ ESC s 1/0 ESC < ESC U 1/0 ESC 8 ESC 9 ESC EM n For the ESC EM command, the variables are the characters; for example, use “1” (49 decimal or 31 hex), not decimal 1.
Page 147: Data Control
ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic Data control Dec. ASCII Vertical motion Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC Cn ESC C 0 n ESC N n ESC 0 ESC 0 ESC 1 ESC 2 ESC3n Command Summary Description Hex. Carriage Return Cancel Line Delete Character Form Feed Set Page Length in Lines...
Page 148: Horizontal Motion
Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC A n ESC J n ESC B nn ESC / c Horizontal motion Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC l n ESCQn Set n/72-inch Line Spacing n = O-85 Perform n/216-inch Line Feed n = O-255 Tab Vertically Set Vertical Tabs Up to 16 tabs (1-255)
Page 149: Overall Printing Style
ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic ASCII Dec. Hex. Description ESC $ nl n2 36 ESC \ nl n2 92 Overall printing style Dec. ASCII ESCxn ESC k n Command Summary Set Absolute Horizontal Print Position n = (n 1 + n2 x 256)/60 inches n: Specifies print position as n/60 inches from the left margin.
Page 150: Character Pitch And Size
ASCII Dec. Hex. Description ESC ! n Character pitch and size ASCII Dec. Hex. Description ESC P ESC M ESC p 1/O ESC SI ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic Master Select To find the value of n, add together the numbers of the typestyles you want to combine from the list below: n= 0: 10 pitch...
Page 151: Print Enhancement
ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic ASCII Dec. Hex. Description ESC SO ESC W l/O 87 ESC w l/O Print enhancement Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC E ESC F ESC G ESC H ESC SO ESC Sl ESC T ESC 4 ESC 5 ESC- l/O 8-8 Command Summary...
Page 152: Word Processing
Word processing Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC an Character tables Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC tn ESC R n ESC 6 ESC 7 Select Justification n = 0: Left justification 1: Centering 2: Right justification 3: Full justification Set Intercharacter Space n = 1/120-inch spaces (0-127) added on right side of each character Select Character Table...
Page 153 ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic ASCII Dec. ESC ( t nn 116 28 74 These character tables are available only in Europe. ** These character tables are available only in North /South America. 8-10 Command Summary Description Hex. Assign Character Table ESC ( t 3 0 dl d2 d3 Assign character table with d2 and d3 to registered table set by ESC t according to dl...
Page 154: User-Defined Characters
User-defined characters ASCII D e c . H e x . Descriution ESC & nn ESC: 0 n 0 ESC % n ESCIn Graphics ASCII Dec. Hex. Description ESC K nl n2 75 ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic Define User-Defined Characters ESC &...
Page 155 ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic ASCII D e c . H e x . Describtion ESC L nl 112 76 ESC Y nl n2 89 ESC Z nl n2 90 Adjacent dots cannot be printed in these modes. Command Summary 8-12 Select Double-Density Graphics Mode ESC L nl n2 data...
Page 156 Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC ? sm ESC A mn ESC/P Commands Arranged by Topic Reassign Graphics Mode ESC ? sm Changes one graphics mode to another. s = K, L, Y or Z s: Graphics command (ESC K, ESC L, ESC Y or ESC Z) to be changed m = O-7 m: Graphics mode for reassignment.
Page 157: Ibm Commands Arranged By Topic
ESC C 0 n ESCNn ESC 0 ESC 4 8-14 Command Summary Select Printer Deselect Printer n = 3: Deselect standard printer 22: Deselect wide printer Turn Unidirectional Mode On/Off n = l : O n 0: Off Beeper Carriage Return Cancel Line...
Page 158 Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC 0 ESC 1 ESC 2 ESC3n ESC A n ESCJn ESC5n ESC B nn Horizontal motion Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC X nln2 88 Select 1 /&inch Line Spacing Select 7/72-inch Line Spacing Select ESC A Line Spacing Set n/216-inch Line Spacing n = O-255 Set n/72-inch Line Spacing...
Page 159: Overall Printing Style
IBM Commands Arranged by Topic ASCII Dec. Hex. Description ESC R Overall printing style ASCII D e c . H e x . Descriution ESCIn Character pitch and size ASCII Dec. Hex. Description ESC : I’l/O Command Summary 8-16 Reset All Tabs Select Font n = 0: Normal quality 10 pitch font 1: Normal quality 12 pitch font...
Page 160 Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC SI ESC SO ESCWn ESC[@nn 9164 IBM Commands Arranged by Topic Select Condensed Mode Select Condensed Mode Select Double-Width Mode (one line) Select Double-Width Mode (one line) Cancel Double-Width Mode (one line) Turn Double-Width Mode On/Off n=l:On 0: Off Select Double-Height, Double-Width...
Page 161: Print Enhancement
IBM Cornmnmh Amnged by Topic Print enhancement Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC E ESC F ESC G ESC H ESC SO ESCSl ESC T E S C - n ESC-n Character tables Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC 6 ESC 7 8-18 Command Summary Select Emphasized Mode...
Page 162 Dec. Hex. Description ASCII ESC\nl ESC A User-defined characters ASCII Dec. Hex. Description Graphics ASCII Dec. Hex. Description ESC K nln2 75 Print Characters from Symbol Set Enables printing of printable characters assigned to codes below 32 for the next (n2 x 256 + nl) characters received from the computer.
Page 163 ASCII Dec. Hex. Description ESC L nl n2 76 ESC Y nl 1~2 89 ESC Z nl n2 90 8-20 Command Summary Select Double-Density Graphics Mode ESCLnln2datan=nl+n2x256 n: Total columns for graphics data = n bytes of graphics data Select High-Speed Double-Density Graphics Mode ESC L nl n2 data n = nl + n2 x 256...
Page 164: Appendix
Appendix Character Tables in the ESC/P Mode ... A-2 Character Tables in the IBM Emulation Mode ... A-9 A p p e n d i x A - l...
Page 165: Character Tables In The Esc/P Mode
Character Tables in the ESC/P Mode This section lists the character tables available in the ESC/P mode. You can select these character tables with the default-setting mode or by using a software command. All tables except the italic character table are the same as PC437 table for hex codes 00 through 7F, so only the PC437 and italic tables are shown completely.
Page 166 PC850 (Multilingual) PC863 (Canadian-French) ‘:‘.y Character Tables in the ESC/P Mode PC860 (Portuguese) PC865 (Norwegian) Appendix A-3...
Page 167 Character Tables in the ESC/P Mode PC437 Greek* WDEl8QABCDEF 1 A P L : I : ; ; PC869 (Greek)” -18QABCDEF ‘I ‘( ..::: A-4 Appendix PC851 (Greek)” Llctl PC852 (East Europe)*...
Page 168: Character Tables
PC853 (Turkish)* PC855 (Cyrillic)” Tables in the ESC/P Mode Character PC857 (Turkish)* PC866 (Russian)” coDE_t !-:I BTB~ A Q A Appendix A-5...
Page 169 USSR GOST+ B c 6 c b AQn@' -~llEXex\ xilxu+ 3 rI 3 q + HmHmt finlzinll K'bKsi Jl Ill n bl f MbubM BRASCII (Brazilian Portuguese)*” A - 6 A p p e n d i x PC861 (Icelandic)* Abicomp (Brazilian Portuguese)**...
Page 170 Italic character table O@P’pttS IAQasdB!lApaq lx1 ! DC2 " Dc3#3cscs~ac#3cscs DcO;;;~:iBO4DTdt 'TGWgWiA'7GWgw BSCAN(~HX~~~O(~HX~~ HTM~!JIY~yRU)9lYiy VTESC+ < =Mlm}Jg-=M]m> >N^n”gg ;. ? 0 _ Character Tables in the ESC/P Mode B R b r ti I ‘I 2 'jzJ85BUeu ” JzJzAa*:JZjz K[k(#&+;K[k{ 1 Rii, oDELQY;?o-o0 O@PP'p...
Page 171 Character International character sets The table below shows the international character sets you can select with the default-setting mode and the ESC R software command. For example, when you select “Italic-France”in the default-setting mode, the characters in the//France” row on the table below are used in the italic character table.
Page 172: Character Tables In The Ibm Emulation Mode
Character Tables in the IBM Emulation Mode This section lists the character tables available in the IBM emulation mode. The IBM emulation mode can be selected with the default- setting mode. These character tables can be selected with the default-setting mode, or by using the ESC 6 (table 2) or ESC 7 (table 1) software command.
Page 173 Character Tables in the IBM Emulation Mode PC437 (table 2) O@P' ~1 ! 1 11 2BRbr #3CScsti86 I,g%5EUeuabR B6FVfvdQa '7GWgwghP1 BSCAN(~H'X~~~#~ :J,Zj Klk{ PC865 (table 1) A-10 Appendix pcdgg :: @ i ;j A t a f 4196% &U-I PC865 (table 2) tiaeig*=j-pi L A a E II I...
Page 174: Symbol Set
Symbol set Characters defined in the following symbol set can be printed using the ESC\(characters) or ESC * (one character) software command. Character Tables in the IBM Emulation Mode Appendix A-11...
Page 175: Glossary
A binary digit (0 or 11, which is the smallest unit of information used by a printer or computer. buffer The portion of the printer’s memory used to store data before printing it. byte A unit of information consisting of eight bits.
Page 176 A troubleshooting feature that helps advanced users find the cause of communication problems between the printer and the computer. When the printer is in data dump mode, it prints each code it receives in hexadecimal notation and ASCII characters. default A value or setting that takes effect when the equipment is turned on, reset, or initialized.
Page 177 ESC/P Abbreviation for Epson Standard Code for Printers. This system of commands gives you software control of your printer from your computer. It is standard for all Epson printers and supported by most application software for personal computers. font A font is a style of type designated by a family name.
Page 178 See interface. printable area The area of a page on which the printer can print. It is smaller than the physical size of the page due to margins. proportional printing Printing in which the width of the character varies from character to character.
Page 179 All data stored in RAM is lost when the printer is turned off. reset To return a printer to its defaults by sending a command, an INIT signal, or by turning the printer off and then back on. self test A method for checking the operation of the printer.
Page 180: User-Defined Characters
The position to which the printer feeds the paper at the end of a print job. You can change the position by using the micro-feed feature. top-of-form The position on the paper that the printer recognizes as the first printable line.
Page 181: Index
3-7, A-2--6, A-8--9 Cleaning the printer, 5-2 Command, see Printer command Connecting the printer, printer to computer, 1-14 parallel interface, 1-14 power cord to printer, 1-10 serial interface, 4-24 optional interface card, 4-22-24 Continuous paper loading, 2-10-22 top-of-form, 2-19 Control panel, 3-2-4...
Page 182 Edge guides, Intro 5, front, Eject, control panel, 3-4 Envelopes, cut-sheet feeder, 4-6-8 loading, 2-26, 4-6--8 specifications, 7-5, 7-7 Fonts, 3-21 button, control panel, 3-3 light, control panel, 3-2 samples, 3-22 Front push-tractor, loading, 2-10-12 position, 2-7 Guide, front sheet, 4-25-27 Handshake timing, 4-24 High-speed draft, default- setting mode, 3-14...
Page 183 Tear-off, mode, 3-18-20 position, 3-20 Technical specifications, 7-1-18 Tractor unit, loading paper, 2-10-24 optional, 4-13--15 position, 2-7-10 Transporting the printer, 5-4 Troubleshooting, 6-1-12 directory of problems, 6-2 options, 6-11-12 paper handling, 6-8-10 power supply, 6-3 printing problems, 6-4--7 Index IN-3...
Page 184 Unpacking the printer, 1-2-3 Voltage, 1-2, 7-9 Warnings, cautions, and notes, Intro 4 Weight, 7-9 I N - 4 I n d e x...

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C094001 - fx 870 b/w dot-matrix printer Fx-1170 Fx-850 Fx-800 Ex-800 Fx-85 ... Show all

Epson FX-870 User Manual

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Setting up the Printer

Chapter 2 Paper Handling

Chapter 3 Using the Printer

Chapter 4 Using the Printer Options

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

Chapter 7 Technical Specifications

Chapter 8 Command Summary

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Troubleshooting

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Summary of Contents for Epson FX-870

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Table of Contents