Brother GT-3 User Manual

5 (1)

GT-3 Series

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Please read this manual before using the printer.

Please keep this manual within easy reach for quick reference.

GARMENT PRINTER

GT Series US support homepage http://www.brother-usa.com/Garmentprinters/

MEMO

Note based on California law (USA) on the use and handling of Perchlorate

This product contains a CR Coin Lithium Battery which contains Perchlorate Material – special handling may apply.

See http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate.

GT-3 Series

Thank you very much for buying a BROTHER printer. Before using your new printer, please read the safety instructions below and the explanations given in the instruction manual.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

[1] Safety indications and their meanings

This instruction manual and the indications and symbols that are used on the printer itself are provided in order to ensure safe operation of this printer and to prevent accidents and injury to yourself or other people. The meanings of these indications and symbols are given below.

Indications

DANGER

The instructions which follow this term indicate situations where failure to follow the

instructions will result in death or serious injury.

 

 

WARNING

The instructions which follow this term indicate situations where failure to follow the

instructions could result in death or serious injury.

 

 

CAUTION

The instructions which follow this term indicate situations where failure to follow the

instructions may result in minor or moderate injury.

 

 

Symbols

·

·

·

·

·

This symbol (

) indicates something that you should be careful of. The picture inside the triangle

 

 

 

 

 

indicates the nature of the caution that must be taken.

 

 

 

 

 

(For example, the symbol at left means “beware of injury”.)

·

·

·

·

·

This symbol (

) indicates something that you must not do.

·

·

·

·

·

This symbol (

) indicates something that you must do. The picture inside the circle indicates the

 

 

 

 

 

nature of the thing that must be done.

(For example, the symbol at left means “you must make the ground connection”.)

[2] Notes on safety

DANGER

Wait at least 5 minutes after turning off the power switch and disconnecting the power cord from the wall outlet before opening the right side cover. Do not touch the high-voltage area in the control box as high voltage can result in severe injury.

WARNING

Basic precautions

To prevent accidents and problems, do not modify the machine yourself.

Brother will not be held responsible for any accidents or problems resulting from modifications made to the machine.

Do not handle the power cord with wet hands, otherwise it may cause electric shocks.

GT-3 Series

i

WARNING

Installation

Do not set up the printer in a dusty environment. If dust collects inside the printer, it may cause fire or electric shocks or problems with correct operation.

Be sure to connect the ground. If the ground connection is not secure, you run a high risk of receiving a serious electric shock, and problems with correct operation may also occur.

Do not bend the cords excessively or fasten them too hard with staples or anything similar to secure cords, otherwise there is the danger that fire or electric shocks could occur.

Printing

If a foreign object gets inside the printer, immediately turn off the power switch and disconnect the power cord, and arrange for a service call to resolve.

If you continue to use the printer while there is a foreign object inside, it may result in fire or electric shocks or problems with correct operation.

Do not allow the printer to come into contact with liquids, otherwise it may cause fire or electric shocks or problems with correct operation.

If any liquid gets inside the printer, immediately turn off the power switch and disconnect the power cord. Contact Brother to arrange a service call to resolve.

Do not use the printer when smoke or a bad odor coming from the printer, otherwise it may cause fire or electric shocks or problems with correct operation.

Immediately turn off the power switch and disconnect the power cord, and arrange for a service call to resolve.

CAUTION

Environmental requirements

Use the printer in an area which is free from sources of strong electrical noise such as electrical line noise or static electric noise.

Sources of strong electrical noise may cause problems with correct operation.

Any fluctuations in the power supply voltage should be within ±10% of the rated voltage for the printer. Voltage fluctuations which are greater than this may cause problems with correct operation.

The power supply capacity should be greater than the requirements for the printer’s power consumption.

Insufficient power supply capacity may cause problems with correct operation.

The ambient temperature should be within the range of 18°C to 30°C during use.

Temperatures which are lower or higher than this may cause problems with correct operation.

The relative humidity should be within the range of 35% to 85% during use, and no dew formation should occur in any devices.

Excessively dry or humid environments and dew formation may cause problems with correct operation.

Use the printer in a place which is adequately ventilated.

A slight odor is generated when the printed articles are being fixed by heat.

In the event of an electrical storm, turn off the power and disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet.

Lightning may cause problems with correct operation.

ii

GT-3 Series

CAUTION

Installation

Setting up and moving of the printer should only be carried out by a qualified technician.

The printer machine weighs approximately 111 kg (245 lb). Transporting and setting up of the printer should be held in proper way.

The machine may fall down and cause injury.

The printer must be used on a suitable stable surface, otherwise it may tip over or fall down and cause injury.

Furthermore, the table that supports the printer should be at least 137 cm (53.9 inch) in width and 104.5 cm (41.1 inch) in depth, and should be able to bear a weight of 150 kg (330 lb) or more.

Do not set up the printer in a place where it will be affected by vibration. It may become unbalanced and fall down, which cause injury or damage to the printer.

Do not connect the power cord until setup is complete, otherwise the printer may operate if the power switch is turned on by mistake, which could result in injury.

Do not climb onto the printer or place heavy objects on top of it, otherwise it may become unbalanced and tip over or fall down and cause injury.

Printing

This printer should only be used by operators who are appropriately trained in its operation.

Ensure there is adequate space left for safe working. The Platen moves forward while operating and it may be injured.

Do not handle the platen while printing. If your hand gets caught between the platen or the T-shirt tray and the covers, it may be injured.

Do not move the Platen by hand.

The Printer may be mechanically and electrically damaged.

Do not put your hands inside the covers while the printer’s power is turned on, otherwise your hands may touch against moving parts and this may result in injury.

When a problem occurs with the operation of the printer, contact the place of purchase or a qualified technician.

Maintenance

Wait at least 1 minute after turning off the power switch before opening the front cover.

Do not touch the head heat sink as it may be HOT and may cause a burn.

Be careful not to get your fingers caught when closing the front cover, otherwise it may result in injury to your fingers.

Do not move the Platen by hand.

The Printer may be mechanically and electrically damaged.

Do not disassemble the ink cartridge.

Take care not to let the liquids: Ink, Wash Liquid, Maintenance Solution, Pretreatment or waste liquid come into contact with your eyes or onto your skin, otherwise inflammation can result. In case of contact with eyes, do not rub but immediately rinse the eyes with water.

Furthermore, do not drink the liquids: Ink, Wash Liquid, Maintenance Solution, Pretreatment or waste liquid under any circumstances, as they can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Keep the liquids out of the reach of children.

Be sure to wear protective goggles and gloves when handling the grease, so that they do not get into your eyes or onto your skin. If the grease get into your eyes or onto your skin, inflammation can result. Furthermore, do not drink or eat the grease. They may cause diarrhea or vomiting.

Keep the grease out of the reach of children.

When replacing parts and installing optional accessories, be sure to use only genuine Brother parts.

Brother will not be held responsible for any accidents or problems resulting from the use of non-genuine parts.

GT-3 Series

iii

[3] Warning labels

The following warning labels appear on the printer.

Please follow the instructions on the labels at all times when using the printer. If the labels have been removed or are difficult to read, please contact your nearest Brother dealer.

1 2

3

 

 

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5

6

9

10

11

7

Watch your fingers, or you may be injured.

High temperature warning display

12

Be sure to connect the ground. If

the ground connection is not

secure, you run a high risk of receiving a serious electric shock, and problems with correct operation may also occur.

8

iv

GT-3 Series

Brother GT-3 User Manual

 

Grease

 

Wash Liquid

 

 

 

 

Waste Ink Tank

Ink Cartridge

Pretreatment (20kg)

Maintenance Solution (5kg)

 

 

0085Y

GT-3 Series

v

CONTENTS

 

1. Read This First ..............................................................................................................................................................

1

1-1. Precautions............................................................................................................................................................

1

1-2. Unpacking Your Printer .........................................................................................................................................

5

1-3. Required Condition................................................................................................................................................

5

1-3-1. Environment...................................................................................................................................................

5

1-3-2. Electrical Requirements.................................................................................................................................

6

1-3-3. Software Information......................................................................................................................................

6

1-3-4. Other Requirements......................................................................................................................................

6

1-3-5. Consumable Requirements and Options....................................................................................................

7

2. Identifying Your Printer’s Parts......................................................................................................................................

8

2-1. Front .......................................................................................................................................................................

8

2-2. Right .......................................................................................................................................................................

9

2-3. Rear........................................................................................................................................................................

9

2-4. Inside of the Front Cover.......................................................................................................................................

10

2-5. Upper part of the Maintenance Unit.....................................................................................................................

11

2-6. Under the Platen....................................................................................................................................................

12

2-7. Control Panel.........................................................................................................................................................

13

2-7-1. Display............................................................................................................................................................

14

2-7-2. Menu List........................................................................................................................................................

15

3. Getting Started...............................................................................................................................................................

17

3-1. Placing Your Printer...............................................................................................................................................

18

3-2. Turning On/Off Your Printer...................................................................................................................................

19

3-2-1. Turning On Your Printer.................................................................................................................................

19

3-2-2. Turning Off Your Printer.................................................................................................................................

20

3-3. Preparing Your PC.................................................................................................................................................

21

3-3-1. When you already have GT-541/GT-782 ....................................................................................................

21

3-3-2. PC preparation: For Windows XP (32 bit)....................................................................................................

21

3-3-3. Connection with USB 2.0 Cable: for Windows XP......................................................................................

22

3-3-4. Installation of PC for Windows Vista / Windows 7 (32 bit / 64 bit)...............................................................

24

3-3-5. Connection with USB 2.0 Cable: for Windows Vista / Windows 7.............................................................

25

3-3-6. Opening the installed manuals .....................................................................................................................

25

3-3-7. Opening the Useful Tools..............................................................................................................................

26

3-3-8. How to use Firmware Update Tools.............................................................................................................

27

3-4. Setting Up Your Printer..........................................................................................................................................

28

3-4-1. Adjusting the Display Contrast......................................................................................................................

28

3-4-2. Adjusting the Speaker Volume......................................................................................................................

28

3-4-3. Temperature...................................................................................................................................................

28

3-4-4. Language.......................................................................................................................................................

28

4. Printing Directly fromApplications................................................................................................................................

29

4-1. Basic Printing Procedure ......................................................................................................................................

30

4-2. Setting theApplications’ Print Condition...............................................................................................................

30

4-2-1. Common Notice for AllApplications .............................................................................................................

30

4-2-2. Settings for CorelDRAW ...............................................................................................................................

32

4-2-3. Settings for Adobe Photoshop......................................................................................................................

38

4-2-4. Settings for Adobe Illustrator .........................................................................................................................

44

4-2-5. Settings forAdobe Photoshop Elements.....................................................................................................

49

4-2-6. Settings for Paint Shop Photo Pro................................................................................................................

50

4-2-7. Printing From OtherApplications..................................................................................................................

50

4-3. Setting the Printer Driver Condition......................................................................................................................

51

GT-3 Series

4-3-1. Selecting Machine Mode...............................................................................................................................

52

4-3-2. Entering the Job Comment...........................................................................................................................

53

4-3-3. Selecting the Platen Size ..............................................................................................................................

53

4-3-4. Setting the Ink.................................................................................................................................................

53

4-3-5. Setting the Resolution....................................................................................................................................

53

4-3-6. White Settings................................................................................................................................................

54

4-3-7. Print with Black Ink on black garment...........................................................................................................

55

4-3-8. Making Gray with CMY Inks .........................................................................................................................

55

4-3-9. Color Multiple Pass Printing..........................................................................................................................

56

4-3-10. Settings for Color Inks .................................................................................................................................

56

4-3-11. Settings for White Ink...................................................................................................................................

57

4-3-12. Selecting the Color Processing for increasing the Vividness ...................................................................

57

4-3-13. Printing the image file on Transparent Layer.............................................................................................

58

4-3-14. Setting Print Direction as Uni-Directional ...................................................................................................

63

4-3-15. Printing Color Chart.....................................................................................................................................

64

4-4. Uninstalling / Installing the Platen.........................................................................................................................

65

4-4-1. Uninstalling the Platen...................................................................................................................................

65

4-4-2. Installing the Platen........................................................................................................................................

66

4-4-3. Lowering the Platen height............................................................................................................................

67

4-5. Placing the T-shirt on the Platen...........................................................................................................................

69

4-6. Printing ...................................................................................................................................................................

72

4-6-1. Applying the Pretreatment.............................................................................................................................

72

4-6-2. Making One Print...........................................................................................................................................

75

4-6-3. Printing More than One Print Using the Same Print Data ..........................................................................

75

4-7. Removing the T-shirt from the Platen...................................................................................................................

76

4-8. Curing the Ink onto the T-shirt...............................................................................................................................

76

5. PrintingAR3 Files..........................................................................................................................................................

77

5-1. Making Print Data inAR3 File...............................................................................................................................

77

5-2. ReadingAR3 Files Saved in a USB flash drive ..................................................................................................

79

5-3. SendingAR3 Files from GT-3 File Viewer to your Printer ..................................................................................

80

6. Maintenance..................................................................................................................................................................

83

6-1. Replacing Consumables ......................................................................................................................................

84

6-1-1. Replacing the Ink Cartridge...........................................................................................................................

84

6-1-2. Replacing the Wiper Cleaner and Cleaning the Caps / Wipers.................................................................

86

6-1-3. Replacing Flushing Plate Sponge and Flushing Plate Felt.........................................................................

89

6-1-4. Replacing the Fan Filter ................................................................................................................................

89

6-1-5. Replacing the Roller Felts .............................................................................................................................

91

6-1-6. Cleaning the inside of the printer and restart................................................................................................

91

6-1-7. Cleaning the Encoder Strip ...........................................................................................................................

92

6-2. Regular Maintenance............................................................................................................................................

95

6-2-1. Daily Cleaning White for replacing dull White Ink (Once a day, before printing) .......................................

95

6-2-2. White Tube Cleaning (once a week)............................................................................................................

95

6-2-3. Waste Ink Disposal........................................................................................................................................

97

6-2-4. Replacing the Platen Sheet ..........................................................................................................................

98

6-2-5. Required Maintenance for the Long Storage...............................................................................................

99

7. Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................................................................

101

7-1. Solving Printer Problems ......................................................................................................................................

102

7-2. Solving Print Quality Problems.............................................................................................................................

104

7-2-1. Procedure for Solving the Print Quality Problems.......................................................................................

106

7-2-2. Cleaning the Print Heads ..............................................................................................................................

108

7-2-3. Checking Print Quality with Nozzle Check Pattern .....................................................................................

108

GT-3 Series

7-2-4. Changing the Print Direction.........................................................................................................................

111

7-2-5. Changing the Auto Cleaning Setting............................................................................................................

111

7-2-6. Cleaning the Print Head Nozzles..................................................................................................................

112

7-2-7. Replacing the Print Head..............................................................................................................................

114

7-2-8. Adjustment after the Print Head has been replaced....................................................................................

123

7-2-9. Adjusting the CR Speed................................................................................................................................

124

7-2-10. Adjusting the Flushing Interval....................................................................................................................

124

7-2-11. Adjusting the Flushing Volume....................................................................................................................

125

7-2-12. Adjusting the amount of White Ink in Daily Cleaning White......................................................................

126

7-2-13. Copy Log file to USB flash drive.................................................................................................................

127

7-3. SolvingApplication Problems...............................................................................................................................

128

7-4. Error Messages.....................................................................................................................................................

129

8. Specifications.................................................................................................................................................................

137

8-1. Mechanical Specification.......................................................................................................................................

137

8-2. Software Specification...........................................................................................................................................

137

GT-3 Series

1. Read This First

1. Read This First

1-1. Precautions

Please observe the following precautions before using your printer.

zGT-3 represents the common specifications of GT-381, GT-361 and GT-341 models. The individual specifications are described with each model name.

zPlease advise the following to your customers who buy your printed materials:

zPrinted colors may transfer when a printed surface rubs on a white or light-colored synthetic leather made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). When printing CMYK-only garments, the CMYK ink may transfer to the White-only printed garment when they rub against each other. In those cases, clean the stains with a soft cloth or toothbrush with a household cleaner or alcohol.

zWash away the pretreatment halo marks.

zThe printer is designed to be used within the temperature and humidity levels below. Less humidity may cause ink clogging in Print Head nozzles and higher temperature may cause splashy print result. Use the printer within the range of our recommendation for the best print result.

 

 

 

 

Temperature

 

Humidity

 

Keeping your printer

32

°F to 104 °F

 

20 % to 85 %

 

 

(0 °C to 40 °C)

 

(no condensation)

 

 

 

 

 

Operating your printer

50

°F to 95 °F

 

 

 

 

(10 °C to 35 °C)

 

35 % to 85 %

 

 

 

 

 

For the best print result

64

°F to 86 °F

 

(no condensation)

 

 

(18 °C to 30 °C)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

zDo not pull out Ink Cartridge(s) during the operation; it may result in poor print quality or cause damage to your printer.

zDo not turn off your printer, or open the Front Cover during the operation; otherwise the printer may be damaged or spoil the print job.

zBe careful in handling a printed T-shirt that has not yet fixed by heat. Ink is difficult to wash from stained clothes.

zClean the Caps and Wipers, replace the Wiper Cleaners, Fan Filter, Roller Felts (4), Flushing Plate Sponge (top) and Flushing Plate Felt (bottom) according to our maintenance schedule to maintain good print quality. Those Maintenance Parts are packed together in White, Cyan and Magenta (except 180 cc) ink Cartons. Replace them when you open the new ink cartridge or you see the warning indicated on the display. Print quality may be damaged by insufficient cleaning, e.g. dirty printed materials, mis-firing.

zNever use alcohol when you clean Head Caps and Wiper Blade; it will cause damage to the Print Heads. Use Wash Liquid when you clean around the Print Heads.

zInstall the Ink Cartridges in the correct positions as shown. Confirm both the colors of labels on your printer and the Ink Cartridges.

zThe printer indicates empty status "Empty XXXX (color)" when the ink cartridge is used up. Replace with a new Ink Cartridge. Make a new Ink Cartridge available when the icon on the Operation Panel starts blinking. A small amount of ink remains to avoid damage to your printer.

zNew consumables should be stored away from direct sunlight until they are required. Use up the Ink Cartridges, Pretreatment and Maintenance Solution before the expired date, and CMYK inks should be used up within six months after opening the new one.

GT-3 Series

1

1. Read This First

zNever refill ink, never reconstruct ink cartridges; ink may cohere inside the cartridge bag, tube or even Print Head and may cause serious damage to your printer. We assume no responsibility for any problem caused by using them. Only genuine new ink cartridges should be used.

zThe ink cartridges should always be installed; otherwise the needles may stopped up with ink and your printer may be damaged.

zTubes and Print Heads for White must be cleaned with Maintenance Solution once a week by the menu Tube Cleaning. The Warning "Clean Tube W*" is indicated on the display of the Control Panel after a week passes since the last Tube Cleaning.

zIf the printer is unused for a period of time there is a possibility that Print Heads and Maintenance Unit may become clogged as ink dries. To avoid this, we recommend that the printer should be turned on at least once a week and press the Head Cleaning Button to clean the Print Head. If you are planning not to use your printer for more than two weeks, follow “6-2-5. Required Maintenance for the Long Storage" to keep printer in good condition.

zShake the White Ink Cartridges once a day before you start printing (30 seconds to 1 minute for each, 1-2 minutes for new one). Hold the cartridge upside down to agitate the pigment in the bottom and shake it horizontally.

zIf CMYK inks are printed on a Pretreatment applied T-shirt, ink may wash off. Do not apply Pretreatment when you print without using White ink.

zThe clearance between the Clearance Sensor and the surface of the Print Heads should be app. 2 mm. If the clearance is wider, the ink mist will spread inside the printer and the printing material, and may damage the sensors inside. If you print with wider clearance (more than 2 mm) then check the inside of the printer and keep it clean by referring to "6-1-6. Cleaning the inside of the printer and restart" and "6-1-7. Cleaning the Encoder Strip".

zPretreatment mist may spread out when you use a spray and/or pretreatment applicator. Ventilate your room in operation. Wear a face mask or goggles as necessary.

zPre-treatment on some T-shirts may be seen after applied and cured, wash lightly with water to remove mark. Some dyes may be decolorized by Pretreatment; we recommend you test the garment before printing.

zDispose the used waste ink, pretreatment, maintenance solution (all water-based) or other wastes in accordance with your local regulations. Or make contact to your dealer.

zThe pretreated area may turn yellow when you apply Pretreatment on a white or light-colored garment. Keep the pretreated garment away from the sunlight and wash the printed T-shirt soon.

<Note> Only for the use in the United States

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

2

GT-3 Series

1. Read This First

<Note>

Product names used in this manual are, in general, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective developer or manufacture. However, in this manual, the ® marks or TM marks are not used.

Brother logo is registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd.

Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Corel, CorelDRAW and Paint Shop Pro are registered trademarks of Corel Corporation.

Adobe, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop Elements are either registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries.

Other product and company names mentioned herein may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Screen shots used in this document are in accordance with the guidelines of Microsoft Corporation.

GT-3 Series

3

1. Read This First

<Software>

This unit uses software.

Agree with the license agreement to use the software.

Software License Agreement

The customer may download and use this software after agreeing with the various terms stipulated in the Software License Agreement (herein referred to as the "Agreement").

This software cannot be used if the customer disagrees with this agreement. 1. Ownership

The ownership of this software and any reproductions belongs to Brother Industries (herein referred to as "Company") or its supplier, Wind River KK. This agreement does not transfer this company's software copyright to the customer.

2. License Agreement

2-1. This company hereby grants the customer non-exclusive rights to use this software. 2-2. The customer may not conduct the following.

(1)Modify this software in whole or in part

(2)Duplicate this software for purposes other for backup purposes

(3)Reverse engineering, reverse assemble, or reverse compile this software

(4)Rent or lease this software

(5)Leave a computer in a public location where this software can be downloaded

3.No Warranty

Except for the expressed and implied warranties set forth herein, this company disclaim all other warranties. This company cannot ensure that this software is not defective, not compatible with specific applications, and the use of this software does not infringe upon third party rights.

4. Restriction of Liability

This company shall not be held responsible for any damage, directly or indirectly, caused by problems or any related problems with this software.

5. Third Party Beneficiary

Wind River KK. and its suppliers (herein collectively referred to as "supplier") are third party beneficiaries of this software in this Agreement and may have enforceable rights of the various terms in this Agreement.

6. License Termination

If the customer violates the conditions stipulated in this Agreement, this company may terminate this Agreement without prior notice.

7. Governing Law

This Agreement shall conform to and be interpreted according to Japanese Law.

8. Separate Terms

Regarding the use of this software by customers not under this Agreement, this company or the supplier of this software shall provide the customer with separate terms (herein referred to as "separate terms"). If the customer agrees to these

separate terms, these terms shall take priority over any terms not covered or infringing upon the provisions within the License Agreement.

Agree to abide by the aforementioned terms.

4

GT-3 Series

1. Read This First

1-2. Unpacking Your Printer

<Note>

Your printer must be unpacked by a Brother representative or a Brother authorized shipping company.

After unpacking, check that the following parts are included.

Contact Brother Customer Service Hot Line if any of these is missing.

zGT-3 Printer

zInstall CD

zAC cord

zNozzle Cleaning Kit: 2 for GT-381 and GT-361, 1 for GT-341

zPrint Heads: 8 for GT-381, 6 for GT-361, 4 for GT-341

zOne Waste Ink Tank

zOne Encoder Cleaner

zOne Maintenance Cartridge for GT-381, GT-361

zOne Tube Cleaning Bottle for GT-381, GT-361

zFlushing Plate (including Flushing Plate Felt and Flushing Plate Sponge)

zPrint Head Protection Film: 8 for GT-381, 6 for GT-361, 4 for GT-341

zBasic Operation Manual

z"How to uncrate" Manual

<Note>

Filter Cartridges (8 for GT-381, 6 for GT-361, 4 for GT-341)are installed in both Ink Cartridge Slots. Keep them since they should be used for maintenance & transport operations.

1-3. Required Condition

Please use your printer under the conditions described in this section.

1-3-1. Environment

 

 

 

 

Temperature

 

Humidity

 

Keeping your printer

32

°F to 104 °F

 

20 % to 85 %

 

 

(0 °C to 40 °C)

 

(no condensation)

 

 

 

 

 

Operating your printer

50

°F to 95 °F

 

 

 

 

(10 °C to 35 °C)

 

35 % to 85 %

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(no condensation)

 

For the best print result

64

°F to 86 °F

 

 

 

 

 

 

(18 °C to 30 °C)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If your room is dry, we recommend using a humidifier to avoid Print Heads from clogging with dried ink.

GT-3 Series

5

1. Read This First

1-3-2. Electrical Requirements

Power:

Single-phase 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz

Power Consumptions:

0.4 A (average)

1-3-3. Software Information

Supported OS:

Latest Windows XP (32 bit), Windows Vista (32 bit / 64 bit), Windows 7 (32 bit / 64 bit)

Supported Interface:

USB 2.0

Minimum System Requirements:

256 MB RAM (512 MB or more is recommended),

128 MB free disk space (256 MB or more is recommended), 1 GHz CPU (2 GHz or more is recommended.)

Recommended Applications for precise output:

Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Photoshop Elements, Paint Shop Photo Pro (for BMP editing)

Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW (for Vector Data editing)

1-3-4. Other Requirements

When purchasing optional tools and devices, choose one that meets the following requirements.

USB cable:

USB 2.0-compliant device cable (A/B)

<Note>

Using other USB 2.0-compliant device cable may result in improper connection.

USB flash memory:

Capacity under 32 GB, FAT 32 formatted,

Heat Press:

Must be able to handle the area of Platen 14 x 16 (355.6 mm x 406.4 mm) and maintain heat production of 356 °F (180 °C) for 35 seconds. Pretreatment must be cured with the heat press instead of oven to keep the surface flat and smooth.

<Note>

When you print with White ink, we recommend using oven instead of heat press. (320°F (160 °C), 3 and half minutes with the tunnel 2.4 meter long as a rough indication)

Separator sheet:

When you cure Pretreatment and ink, be sure to use this to make the surface smooth and flat. When you cure printed ink, use this for separation.

6

GT-3 Series

1. Read This First

Urethane mat (continuous foam):

When you cure Pretreatment, use this to release the hot air quickly.

T-shirt:

Made with 100 % cotton, 50 % cotton and 50 % polyester (light-colored are recommended)

<Note>

zPretreatment on some T-shirts may be seen after applied and cured. In that case, wash lightly with water to remove mark. Some dyes may be decolorized by Pretreatment, especially "dye migration" will occur on Polyester garment. Be sure to test before your production.

zSome manufacturing brands may not work as good as 100% cotton garment.

You need to test prior to your production, especially when you print on something new and unknown materials.

1-3-5. Consumable Requirements and Options

For ordering new or replacement items please use the codes below.

Consumables

Parts Code

Black Ink Cartridge

180 cc

GC-30K18

 

 

380 cc

GC-30K38

Magenta Ink Cartridge

180 cc

GC-30M18

 

 

380 cc

GC-30M38

Cyan Ink Cartridge

180 cc

GC-30C18

 

 

380 cc

GC-30C38

Yellow Ink Cartridge

180 cc

GC-30Y18

 

 

380 cc

GC-30Y38

White Ink Cartridge

380 cc x 2

GC-30W38

 

 

 

Maintenance Solution

(5 kg)

GC-50S5K

 

 

 

 

Pretreatment

 

20 kg

GC-51P2L

 

 

 

 

Wash Liquid

 

 

SA6248

 

 

Maintenance Cleaning Kit

SB3168

 

 

 

Nozzle Cleaning Kit

 

SB3082

Platen Sheet

PLTN 14x16

SB3035

 

 

 

Platen Sheet S

PLTN 10x12

SA6401

 

 

 

Platen Sheet SS

PLTN 7x8

SA8211

 

 

 

 

Print Head

 

 

SB3184

 

 

 

Pretreatment Roller

 

SB1290

 

 

 

Capping Cartridge W

 

SB3047

 

 

 

 

Wiper Cleaner

 

 

SB3101

 

 

 

 

Grease

 

 

SB3229

 

 

 

 

Waste Ink Tank

 

 

SB2582

 

 

Maintenance Cartridge W

SB3264

 

 

Maintenance Cartridge (Color)

SB3265

 

 

 

 

Filter Cartridge W

 

 

SB2512

 

 

 

Filter Cartridge (Color)

 

SB2508

 

 

 

 

GT-3 Series

7

2.Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

2.Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

2-1. Front

 

 

0043Y

No.

Name

Description

1

Platen

Holds the T-shirt to be printed.

2

Platen Sheet

Prevents a T-shirt from slipping so that an image is printed on your desired position.

3

T-shirt Tray

Keeps parts of T-shirt hanging from the Platen (e.g. sleeves) on this T-shirt Tray.

4

Front Cover

Open this to work on the inside of your printer, after you turn OFF the printer. (If you

 

 

open the Front Cover while operating, the power automatically turns off.)

5

Stop Lever

Unlocks the lock of the Front Cover. Keep pushing it to release the lock when you

 

 

close the Front Cover.

6

Control Panel

Indicates the status of the printer. Use this to operate your printer.

 

 

See “2-7. Control Panel” for the details.

7

Power Switch

Turns on/off your printer.

8

Shoulder Bar

Adjusts the T-shirt position.

9

USB flash drive Slot

Inserts USB flash drive.

10

Ink Cartridge Slots

Load the Ink Cartridges of the appropriate color: from the left side W1, W2, W3, W4,

 

 

Black(K), Magenta (M), Cyan (C), Yellow (Y).

11

Ink Cartridge Storage

Stores the new Ink Cartridges.

12

Guard Bar

Keeps the loading space of the Platens.

13

Clearance Sensor

Cancels an operation for safety, if it detects obstructions on the Platen. When you

 

(Obstruction Sensor)

lower the platen for printing thicker materials, use Platen Button on the Control Panel

 

 

and check the movement if the material does not hit the flap of the Clearance Sensor.

 

 

The sensor will not work when the clearance between the print head and the material

 

 

is too wide (the platen is too low). Confirm the platen height by referring "4-5. Placing

 

 

the T-shirt on the Platen".

14

Model Plate

Indicates the serial number of the product.

8

GT-3 Series

2. Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

2-2. Right

 

 

 

0044Y

No.

Name

 

Description

 

1

Exhaust slot

The outlet of the Exhaust Fan. Do not cover; Leave the space of 20 cm or

 

 

 

more to release the exhaust air.

2-3. Rear

0045Y

No.

Name

 

Description

1

AC cord socket

 

Inserts AC cord.

2

USB port

 

Inserts USB cable to PC.

3

LAN port

 

Inserts LAN cable to PC.

4

Rear Cover

Covers the Platen moving area.

5

Waste Ink Tube

 

Drains the waste ink.

6

Waste Ink Tank

 

Holds the waste ink. Be aware of the room.

GT-3 Series

9

2. Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

2-4. Inside of the Front Cover

No. Name

1Print Heads (Front)

2Print Heads (Back)

3Filter Cover, Fan Filter, Exhaust Fan

4Roller Felts

5Carriage Guide Shaft

Cancel any operation, restore the Platens and turn off your printer before opening the Front Cover.

Lift the Front Cover with both hands until the lock is set when opening. Keep pushing the Stop Lever to release the lock and close the Front Cover with both hands.

<Note>

If you open the Front Cover while

operating, the power automatically turns off.

0046Y

0047Y

Description

Jets the Color Ink to the platen.

From the left black, magenta, cyan, and yellow. Jets the White Ink to the platen.

From the left W1, W2, W3 and W4.

Absorbs ink mist inside the printer. Exchange the Fan Filter inside the Filter Cover at the timing when you exchange Wiper Cleaner. See "6-1-4. Replacing the Fan Filter". Protects the roller by wiping off the surface. Exchange the Fan Filter inside the Filter Cover at the timing when you exchange Wiper Cleaner. See "6-1-5. Replacing the Roller Felts".

This may be covered with ink mist and dust. Keep Clean to move the Carriage smoothly. See "6-1-6. Cleaning the inside of the printer and restart ".

10

GT-3 Series

2. Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

2-5. Upper part of the Maintenance Unit

 

 

 

0048Y

 

 

 

 

 

No.

Name

 

Description

 

1

Caps (Front: Color side)

Cover the surface of the Print Heads and absorb ink in head cleaning.

 

 

 

From the left black, magenta, cyan, and yellow.

2

Caps (Back: White side)

 

Cover the surface of the Print Heads and absorb ink in head cleaning.

 

 

 

From the left W1, W2, W3, and W4.

3

Wipers (Color / White)

Wipe off the waste ink on the surface of Print Heads. Keep them clean for print quality

 

 

 

at the timing when you exchange Wiper Cleaner. See "6-1-2. Replacing the Wiper

 

 

 

Cleaner and Cleaning the Caps / Wipers".

4

Wiper Cleaner

 

Removes the waste ink on the Wiper. Exchange regularly and keep them clean for

 

(Front: Color side)

 

print quality, at the timing when you open the new ink cartridge or when you see the

5

Wiper Cleaner

 

warning on the display of Control Panel. Remove the projections of both sides and lift it

 

(Back: White side)

 

up. See "6-1-2. Replacing the Wiper Cleaner and Cleaning the Caps / Wipers".

6

Flushing Plate Sponge

 

Hold the flushed ink for keeping print quality. Exchange them at the timing when you

 

Flushing Plate Felt

 

exchange Wiper Cleaner. See "6-1-3. Replacing the Flushing Plate Sponge and

 

 

 

Flushing Plate Felt".

GT-3 Series

11

2. Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

2-6. Under the Platen

0049Y

No. Name

1Platen Fixing Lever

2Platen Height Adjustment Lever

3Bush Platen Shaft

4Platen Positioning Plate

Description

Fixes the Platen.

Tighten/Loosen this lever to install/uninstall the Platen and to adjust the Platen height.

<In case [B] that you cannot rotate Platen Fix Lever (1) by hitting the Platen (3)> Move the Platen Height Adjustment Lever (2) to the A position in the right image and loose the Platen Fixing Lever (1). When you pull out the Lever (1), you can turn it with no load so that move the Lever (1) to easy-to-operate position. Then tighten the Lever (1) to fix the Platen.

Adjusts the Platen height.

Left most position "A" is the normal T-shirt position.

Check the exact height with Platen Button on Control Panel when you print on thicker material. The adequate clearance between the Flap Sensor and the printed material is app. 2 mm. See "4-5. Placing the T-shirt on the Platen".

Ink mist may spreads inside the printer If you print with wider clearance, the ink mist will spread inside the printer and the printing material, and may damage the sensors. Fixes and holds the Platen.

<Note>

You can use Lower-the-Platen Assy (option) when you regularly print thicker material, which can lower the platen by 13 mm than the standard height. See "4-4-3. Lowering the Platen height"

12

GT-3 Series

2. Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

2-7. Control Panel

 

 

 

0050Y

 

 

 

 

No.

Name

 

Description

1

Error Lamp

OFF: no errors

 

 

 

ON: one or more errors have been detected. See "7-4. Error messages".

2

Power Lamp

ON: shows the power is ON.

3

Head Cleaning

 

Cleans all the Print Heads with normal cleaning. (the number of cleaning depends on the

 

Button

 

model).

4

Platen Button

 

Loads / Ejects the Platen. Press this button when you check the adequate height of the

 

 

 

Platen after you change the height. See "4-5. Placing the T-shirt on the Platen"

5

Stop Button

 

Cancels printing or Print Head cleaning.

 

 

 

Returns to Standby mode.

6

Up Button

 

Selects the previous (upper) item. Increases a numeric value. Opens the Menu display.

7

Down Button

 

Selects the next (lower) item. Decreases a numeric value. Opens the Menu display.

8

OK Button

Executes the selected command. Opens the Menu display. Clears the error status.

9

Back Button

Returns to the previous display. Opens the Menu display.

10

Display

 

Displays the Job Comment of the print data received, the status of the printer, and the

 

 

 

menu items for various settings.

11

Print Button

 

Indicates the print data status and starts the print.

 

 

 

OFF: No print data has been received

 

 

 

Flashing: Receiving a print data

 

 

 

ON: Print data is ready to print.

<Note>

On machine initialization these lamps have a 30-second self check time.

GT-3 Series

13

2. Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

2-7-1. Display

The following image indicates that GT-3 has received a print data and ready to print. The Display indicates Job, printer status and the information needed for printing operations.

No.

Item Shown

1Job Name

2Job Comment

3Amount of Ink Required

4Platen Size

5Number of Platen Move

6Number of Print

7Printer Status

8Amount of Ink Remained

9Uni-Directional Print Icon

10Number of White Print Head Icon

11Resolution Icon

01e0026Y

Description

Shows the indentified name of the print data, which is automatically set by Printer Driver. Shows the 30 characters of the Job Comment set by the operator with Printer Driver. Shows how much ink (cc) is required for making one print of the received data.

Shows warning message(s) if necessary. Shows Platen Size set by Printer Driver.

Shows the number of the Platen Move (loading/unloading) in printing one print data.

Shows the number of prints completed of the print data. Shows the printer status.

Shows amount of ink remained in each cartridge, from the left, W1, W2, W3, W4 , Black (K), Magenta (M), Cyan (C) and Yellow (Y).

It flashes when ink is low. Prepare the new cartridge(s).

Shows when the printer or the print data is set to uni-directional printing.

Shows how many White Print Heads are used in printing one print data.

Shows the resolution of the print data.

<Note> When one or more errors are detected, error message(s) will be displayed instead.

14

GT-3 Series

2. Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

2-7-2. Menu List

Push either one of the OK Button, Up Button, Down Button and Back Button to go into the Menu.

 

Menu

 

Content

 

 

 

Executes Head Cleaning of either one by one or of all four Print Heads.

 

Head Cleaning

 

See "7-2-2. Cleaning the Print Heads"

 

 

Normal: normal mis-firing

 

 

 

 

 

 

Powerful: After cleaning the Print Head nozzles, when normal head cleaning does not work.

 

 

 

Prints to check mis-firing and print quality.

 

 

 

Nozzle Check CMYK / W: shows mis-firing

 

Test Print

 

Standard Check CMYK / W: shows general print quality

 

 

 

Whiteness: confirms the white quality

 

 

 

Head Test CMYK / W: confirms which print head is broken

 

Daily Cleaning White

 

Flushes the " thinner and white-less" dull White Ink caused by sinking white pigment. See

 

 

"6-2-1. Daily Cleaning White for replacing dull White Ink".

 

 

 

 

Print Data Load

Reads a print data (AR3 file) in USB flash drive. The inside folder shows with [...].

 

 

 

Sets the print direction. This setting is prior to Printer Driver setting.

 

 

 

Auto Default Bi-directional, Printer Driver setting is available.

 

Print Direction

 

Always Uni-Directional: always prints uni-directionally.

 

 

 

Always Bi-Directional: always prints bi-directionally. See "7-2-4. Changing the Print

 

 

Direction".

 

 

 

Goes into the Maintenance submenu.

 

 

 

White Tube Cleaning Cleans the pigment in White Print Heads and Tubes.

 

 

 

See "6-2-2. White Tube Cleaning."

 

 

 

Load White Loads White Ink into the Tubes filled with Maintenance Solution

 

 

 

after White Tube Cleaning. See "6-2-2. White Tube Cleaning"

 

 

 

Initial Cleaning Loads ink into the empty new Tubes and Print Heads. CMYK ink

 

 

 

is loaded directly into Tubes. Maintenance Solution is

 

Maintenance

 

required before White ink.

 

 

 

Maintenance Parts Exchange: See "6-1-2" to "6-1-7".

 

 

 

Nozzle Cleaning: Select this menu when you cannot solve mis-firing. See

 

 

 

"7-2-6. Cleaning the Print Head Nozzles"

 

 

 

CR Encoder Strip Cleaning: See "6-1-7. Cleaning the Encoder Strip".

 

 

 

Head Replacement: See "7-2-7. Replacing the Print Head"

 

 

 

Color Tube Cleaning: See "7-2-7. Replacing the Print Head"

 

 

 

Log Copy to USB: See "7-2-13. Copy Log file to USB flash drive"

 

 

 

Goes into the Printer Setting.

 

 

 

LCD Contrast: Adjusts the Display contrast. See "3-4-1. Adjusting the Display Contrast"

 

 

 

Speaker Volume: Adjusts the speaker volume. See "3-4-2. Adjusting the Speaker Volume".

 

 

 

Temperature: Sets Fahrenheit / Centigrade. See "3-4-3. Temperature".

 

Printer Setting

 

Auto Cleaning Interval: See "7-2-5. Changing the Auto Cleaning Setting ".

 

 

CR Speed Adjustment: Adjusts the increase/decrease of the Carriage speed. See

 

 

 

 

 

 

"7-2-9. Adjusting the CR Speed".

 

 

 

Flushing Interval: Adjusts the number of lines (interval) to flush ink in printing. See

 

 

 

"7-2-10. Adjusting the Flushing Interval".

 

 

 

Flushing Volume: Adjusts the ink volume in flushing. See "7-2-11. Adjusting the Flushing

 

 

 

Volume".

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Continued on the next page)

GT-3 Series

15

2. Identifying Your Printer’s Parts

Menu

Content

 

Daily Cleaning W Setting: Adjusts the amount of White Ink that is flushed in Daily

 

Cleaning White. See "7-2-12. Adjusting the amount of White Ink in Daily

 

Cleaning White".

Printer Setting

Auto Job Delete: Deletes the print data automatically after the print number which

 

is set with Printer Driver is finished. Default is OFF.

 

GT-341 mode (No White): Sets the printer to stop all the operation of White Heads.

 

See "6-2- . Required Maintenance for the Long Storage".

 

 

Total Print

Shows the number of prints.

Platen Reset

Restores the Platen.

Language

Sets the language shown on the display. See "3-4-4. Language".

Version

Shows versions of the firmware.

16

GT-3 Series

3. Getting Started

3. Getting Started

Before using your printer, it needs to be correctly setup as described in this chapter.

WARNING

Do not handle the power cord with wet hands, otherwise it may cause electric shocks.

Do not set up the printer in a dusty environment. If dust collects inside the printer, it may cause fire or electric shocks or problems with correct operation.

Be sure to connect the ground. If the ground connection is not secure, you run a high risk of receiving a serious electric shock, and problems with correct operation may also occur.

Do not bend the cords excessively or fasten them too hard with staples or anything similar to secure cords, otherwise there is the danger that fire or electric shocks could occur.

CAUTION

Setting up and moving of the printer should only be carried out by a qualified technician.

The printer machine weighs approximately 111 kg (245 lb). Transporting and setting up of the printer should be held in proper way. The machine may fall down and cause injury.

The printer must be used on a suitable stable surface, otherwise it may tip over or fall down and cause injury.

Furthermore, the table that supports the printer should be at least 137 cm (53.9 inch) in width and 104.5 cm (41.1 inch) in depth, and should be able to bear a weight of 150 kg (330 lb) or more.

Do not set up the printer in a place where it will be affected by vibration. It may become unbalanced and fall down, which cause injury or damage to the printer.

Do not connect the power cord until setup is complete, otherwise the printer may operate if the power switch is turned on by mistake, which could result in injury.

Do not climb onto the printer or place heavy objects on top of it, otherwise it may become unbalanced and tip over or fall down and cause injury.

GT-3 Series

17

 

3. Getting Started

3-1. Placing Your Printer

Uncrate and Setting the printer by following the steps in Uncrate Manual , which is packed with the printer. Locate your printer taking the following into account

zEnvironmental conditions are suitable.

zAvoid direct sunlight, dust and extremes of humidity.

zNever use an extension cable.

zA working space must be left around the printer.

Minimum space of 100 cm (39.4 inch) on the front and the right. Keep away from the right side of the Exhaust Fan at least by 20 cm (7.9 inch).

zBody size is app. 137 cm (53.9 inch) x 104.5 cm (41.1 inch) x 66 cm (26.0 inch) and weighs app. 111 kg (245 lb).

zThe table that supports the printer should be at least 137 cm (53.9 inch) in width and 104.5 cm (41.1 inch) in depth, and should be able to bear a weight of 150 kg (330 lb) or more. Its tabletop must be level.

Unit:cm

0051Y

18

GT-3 Series

3. Getting Started

3-2. Turning On/Off Your Printer

<Note>

Before you connect the power cord, make sure:

zThe Ink Cartridges, Wiper Cleaners and Flushing Sponge et al. are adequately installed.

zWaste ink tube is properly set the Waste Ink Tank*.

(* See "1-3-5. Consumable Requirements and Options" for part code.)

zThe Rear Cover is mounted.

zKeep the front space approximately 30 cm (12 inches) on the front as the Platen slides out when operating, and the right space at least 20 cm (7.9 inch) for exhausting air from the Exhaust Fan for exhausting air.

3-2-1. Turning On Your Printer

(1)Hold the White Ink Cartridges upside down from the inserting position and shake them back and forth beforehand (30 seconds to 1 minute for each).

(2)Connect the power cord (included) to the AC cord socket of your printer.

(3)Connect the power plug to the power outlet.

Ensue the printer is connected to a suitable earth point

(4)Press the Power Switch to turn ON your printer.

Your printer turns on, lights up the Error Lamp and the Print Button while initializing.

The initialization requires approx. 40 seconds. When it finishes, the machine goes to [standby] mode.

GT-3 Series

19

 

3. Getting Started

3-2-2. Turning Off Your Printer

When you have finished using your printer, follow the instructions below to turn it off.

(1)Make sure that your printer is [standby] or [ready] mode.

(2)Select [Platen Reset] in Menu to store the Platen in the printer.

(3)Press Power Switch to turn OFF your printer.

(4)If you are planning not to use your printer for over-two-week periods of time, disconnect the power plug from the power outlet.

<Note>

zAs for GT-381 and GT-361, do not leave the White ink inside the printer. White pigment precipitates and may cause serious damage to your printer. Before you start your job, shake the cartridges for 30 seconds to 1 minutes and execute [Daily Cleaning White] to flush the white-less White Ink. Clean the tubes once a week with Maintenance Solution. Follow the steps of "6-2-1. Daily Cleaning White for replacing dull White Ink" and “6-2-2. White Tube Cleaning ".

zDo not turn off your printer when it is operating. It may cause serious damage to your printer. If you turn off your printer accidentally during the operation, immediately restart it, and then turn it off correctly following the steps described in this section. If the power supply stops in printing by accident and will not recover soon, then turn OFF the printer and apply the Print Head Protection Films packed in the Print Head to cover the nozzles of the Print Heads so that the Films should protect the nozzles from drying. Wash the surface of the Print Head Protection Films with either the Maintenance Solution or Wash Liquid to protect the Print Head Nozzles from dust. After the power supply is available, remove the Print Head Protection Films and turn ON the printer for initialization and do Head Cleaning.

0052Y

zIf the printer is unused for a long time we recommend turning on your printer once a week and press the Head Cleaning Button to protect the Print Heads and Maintenance Unit from drying and clogging. This ensures the ink is kept free flowing. As for White Print Heads, do the powerful cleaning with maintenance solution.

If you are planning not to use your printer for more than two weeks, follow “6-2-5. Required Maintenance for the Long Storage" to prevent ink clogging.

20

GT-3 Series

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