Epson Action Laser II User Manual

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Seiko Epson Corporation. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.

Neither Seiko Epson Corporation nor its affiliates shall be liable to the purchaser of this product or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses incurred by purchaser or third parties as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or unauthorized modifications, repairs, or alterations to this product.

Seiko Epson Corporation and its affiliates shall not be liable against any damages or problems arising from the use of any options or any consumable products other than those designated as Original Epson Products or Epson Approved Products by Seiko Epson Corporation.

ActionLaser is a trademark of Epson America, Inc. Epson and Epson ESC/P are registered trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation. General Notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and may

Important Safety Instructions

Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference.

Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not

3. use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

Do not use this product near water. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The

5. product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.

Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are

provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, these openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be

blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other

similar surface. This product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.

This product should be operated from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power available, consult your dealer or local power company.

This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into a grounding-type outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the

grounding-type plug.

Do not locate this product where the cord will be walked on.

iii

10. If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that the total of the ampere ratings on the products plugged into the extension cord does

not

exceed the extension cord ampere rating. Also, make sure that the total of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.

11. Never push objects of

any

kind into this product through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts

that

could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never

spill liquid of any kind on the product.

12. Except as specifically explained in the User’s Manual, do not attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing

those

covers that are marked “Do Not Remove” may expose you

to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing in

those

compartments to service personnel.

13. Unplug this product from

the

wall outlet and refer servicing to

qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.

If liquid has been spilled into

If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

the

product does

not

operate normally when the operating

the

product.

instructions are followed.. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by ‘a qualified technician to restore the product to normal operation.

If the product has been dropped or

the

cabinet has been

damaged. If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance,

indicating a need for service.

Safety Information

Laser Safety

This printer is certified as a Class 1 laser product under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Radiation Performance Standard according to the Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act of 1968. This means that the printer does not produce hazardous laser radiation.

Since radiation emitted inside the printer is completely confined within protective housings and external covers, the laser beam cannot escape from the machine during any phase of user operation.

CDRH Regulations

The Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration implemented regulations for laser products on August 2,1976. These regulations apply to laser products manufactured from August 1,1976. Compliance is mandatory for products marketed in the United States. The label shown below indicates compliance with the CDRH regulations and must be attached to laser products marketed in the United States.

Operator Safety

This Laser Page Printer is considered a CDRH Class I laser device, safe for personal use.

The printer contains a 5 milliwatt, 760-810 nanometer wavelength, GaAlAs laser diode.

Direct (or indirect reflected) eye contact with the laser beam may cause serious eye damage; however, safety precautions and interlock mechanisms have been designed to prevent any possible laser beam

exposure to the operator.

CAUTION:

Use of controls or adjustment or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

Ozone Emission

During printer operation, a small amount of ozone is released. This amount is nct large enough to affect human beings adversely.

However, it is best to make sure the room where you are using the printer has adequate circulation, especially if you are printing a high volume of materials or using the printer continuously over a long period of time.

Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1 Setting Up the Printer

Finding a Place for the Printer Unpacking the Printer Assembling the Printer

Chapter 2 Testing and Connecting Your Printer

The Control Panel.

Testing the Printer

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Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

Chapter 3 Using your Printer with Application Software

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Using Printer Selection Menus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 4 SelecType

SelecType Overview. Using SelecType SelecType Options Choosing a Font Using the SUB CONFIG Option.

Chapter 5 Paper Handling

Choosing Paper. Paper-feed Method. Special Setting for Thin Paper Loading Paper in the Cassette Choosing a Paper Size Loading Paper Manually.

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1-2 1-4 1-7

2-2 2-6 2-13

3-2

4-2 4-5 4-11 4-34 4-36

5-2 5-5 5-6 5-7

5-11 5-14

vii

Chapter 6 Maintenance and Transportation

Replacing Consumable Parts Cleaning Your Printer Transporting Your Printer

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Chapter 7 Troubleshooting

Status and Error Messages

Troubleshooting Directory Paper Jam Problems Power Supply Printing Problems. Problems With Graphics SelecType Problems Paper Handling. Decline in Print Quality.

Options ...........................................

Data Dump Mode.

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Chapter 8 Technical Specifications

Printer Specifications

Printing Interface Specifications Initialization Option Specifications,

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...................................... 8-19

............................... 8-2

............................. 8-12

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6-2 6-17 6-18

7-2 7-8 7-10 7-16 7-17

7-21 7-23 7-25 7-29 7-34

7-37

8-2

8-24

Appendix A Options

The Multi-Media Feeder The Optional Interface Board

The Memory Expansion Board. Optional Epson GL Identity Card

Viii

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A-2 A-10 A-13

A-21

Appendix B Font Cartridges

Available Font Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using the Font Cartridges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Appendix C Character Samples and Symbol Sets

Available Fonts and Symbol Sets. HP Emulation Mode LQ and FX Emulation Modes Converting Hexadecimal Numbers to Decimals.

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....... C-18

Appendix D Printer Modes

Available Printer Modes HP Emulation Mode LQ and FX Emulation Modes

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Glossary

Index

B-2 B-4

C-2 C-4 C-12

D-2 D-3 D-12

Introduction

Your high-performance Epson® laser printer combines reliability and a wide range of features to give you high-quality printing that is both fast and quiet.

The printer uses a semiconductor laser with the electrophotographic technology used in photocopiers. The imaging system is driven by a powerful processor that allows the printer to compose an entire page in internal memory before printing. The printer provides you with many features not found on other types of printers, such as the ability to mix text and graphics and to print with a range of fonts normally associated with typeset material.

Features

In addition to the high-quality printing and ease of use you expect from an Epson printer, these features make using your new laser printer even easier:

High-quality 300 dots-per-inch (DPI) printing at up to six pages per minute.

HP LaserJet IIP great variety of software written for Hewlett-Packard

emulation that gives you easy access to the

printers.

A font cartridge slot for adding optional fonts to enhance the appearance of your documents.

Two Epson ESC/P® emulation modes for compatibility with the range of software written for Epson 9-pin and 24-pin printers.

Lower operating cost, because the consumable imaging component is divided into the photoconductor unit and the toner cartridge. You need only replace each when necessary, not both as a combined unit.

Introduction 1

Introduction

Two built-in interfaces: A Centronics® parallel interface and an RS-232C serial interface. The RS-232C interface allows you to receive data at a baud rate of up to 19200 bps.

0.5 megabytes (MB) of RAM built-in, expandable up to 5.5MB, for graphics printing and multiple interface operation.

The ability to connect two computers at the same time (or three when an optional interface is installed).

Options

Many printer options are available for your printer. For detailed information on installing and using these options, see Appendix A.

Paper cassette (legal)

If you use legal-size paper, you can purchase this optional cassette from your dealer. The cassette allows you to feed up to 100 sheets of legal paper into the printer.

Introduction

Multi-media feeder (C812141)

The optional multi-media feeder allows you to feed various-sized

papers into your printer. This tray feeds up to 150 sheets of plain

paper or 15 envelopes.

Epson optional interfaces

If you would like to use this printer with three computers or to connect two serial or parallel interfaces at the same time, install one of these interfaces:

32 Kbyte serial interface (C823071) 32 Kbyte parallel interface (C823101)

Introduction 3

Introduction

Memory board (C8226Ol)

You can increase your printer’s memory using the memory board and memory chips. You can expand the memory to a total of 5.5MB,

enough to print complex graphics. See Appendix A for information on expanding your printer’s memory.

Introduction

Epson GL identity card (C826021)

The Epson GL identity card allows your printer to emulate an HP 7475A/7440A plotter.

Introduction 5

Introduction

Laser printer precautions

This printer uses laser technology. The following list of precautions applies whenever you open the printer cover. Even if you are familiar with other types of printers, be sure to follow these

precautions carefully to ensure safe, efficient operation. l

Do not touch

SURFACE

very hot. Protect the light-sensitive photoconductor unit from exposure to

light. Never expose it to sunlight, and expose it to room light for

longer than necessary. Overexposing the unit may cause abnormally dark or light areas to appear thereby reduce the service life of the photoconductor unit.

If you must expose the unit either by taking it out of the printer or by leaving the printer cover open, cover the unit with a soft cloth or sheet of paper.

Be very careful with it from the printer, always set it on a clean, smooth surface. Also, move it only with the green handles, since oils from your skin can permanently damage parts of it and

the

fuser, which is marked by

label. If the printer

the

has

photoconductor unit. When you remove

a CAUTION: HOT

been in operation, the fuser is

the printed page and

may

affect print quality. Avoid pressing on the top of the toner cartridge. Never try to force

the

printer is designed to be sturdy, rough handling can

the

printer’s components into place. Although

damage it.

Introduction

Finding your way around

This manual provides fully illustrated, step-by-step instructions on

setting up and operating your printer. Chapter 1 contains information on unpacking and setting up the

printer. Be sure to read and follow these instructions first. Chapters 2 and 3 contain information on using the control panel,

testing and connecting the printer, and using your printer with application software. Chapter 4 includes a detailed description of SelecType, the control panel feature that allows you to customize your printer’s interface and communication settings, font selection, and other print enhancements.

For a detailed discussion of paper handling, see Chapter 5. Make sure you read this chapter before purchasing paper.

Chapter 6 gives you information on maintaining and transporting your printer.

If the printer does not operate properly or the printed results are not what you expect, see Chapter 7 for troubleshooting tips.

Other chapters and appendixes contain information on technical specifications, printer options, printer modes, using font cartridges, and available symbol sets and character samples. The back of this manual includes a glossary of printer terms and an index.

At the back of this manual is a Quick Reference card showing all SelecType options and submenus. Use the SelecType menu maps found on this card as guides whenever you enter SelecType.

On the back cover foldout are illustrations identifying the different parts of your printer. You can refer to these as you set it up.

Introduction 7

Introduction

Warnings, Cautions,

and Notes

WARNINGS must be followed carefully to avoid bodily injury.

CAUTIONS must be observed to avoid damage to your equipment.

Notes contain important information and useful tips on the

operation of your printer.

Tips for the first-time laser printer user

To get you off to a good start with your Epson laser printer, we offer a few tips you may find helpful:

Remember to wait for the full page to be composed before it prints and feeds out.

The printer takes about 45 seconds to warm up when you first turn it on and up to 20 seconds thereafter to print a page of text. When the

FEED

light on your printer control panel is flashing, data is being received from the computer. When the PRINTING message appears, your job begins printing.

Have an extra toner cartridge on hand before you reach 5000 copies.

Unlike a dot matrix printer, which allows you to print even with a worn-out ribbon, you cannot continue to print without replacing an empty toner cartridge. A TONER LOW message lets you know that you must replace the toner cartridge after printing up to 20 more pages. Then TONER OUT appears.

Introduction

On rare occasions, a print job needs an extra push.

For some print jobs (such as a print screen), the printer may not print even though the data has been sent to the printer’s memory. If the off line and then press the

FEED

light is on, press

FEED

button to print.

ON LINE

to take the printer

Adjust your software’s lines-per-page setting to 60.

You may have used a lines-per-page setting of 66 with your dot matrix printer. For most application software, you will need to reduce the lines-per-page to 60 when printing with your laser printer.

You may have to add memory if you print highly complex graphics.

Your printer’s 0.5MB memory easily handles most print jobs. However, if the INSUFF MEMORY, ADD MEMORY, or PAGE BUFFER FULL appears, you may have to add memory using the

optional memory board and memory chips. See Appendix A in this manual.

Take advantage of your printer's special features.

Your printer allows you to produce typeset-quality images. Use

this manual along with your computer software manuals to enhance your printed presentations. The more legible and pleasing your document, the more likely it will be read and well-

received.

Rest assured that your laser printer is safe to use.

Don’t hesitate to open the printer to clear paper jams or to

replace the toner cartridge or photoconductor unit. Simply

follow the Laser printer precautions found earlier in this chapter.

Introduction 9

Introduction

Where to

Epson America provides local customer support and service through a nationwide network of authorized Epson dealers and Service Centers.

Epson also provides the following support services through the Epson Consumer Resource Center at (800) 922-8911:

Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized Epson Reseller or Service Center

Technical assistance with the installation, configuration, and operation of Epson products

Epson technical information library fax service Product literature with technical specifications on our current

and new products Sales of ribbons, supplies, parts, documentation, and accessories

for your Epson product

Customer Relations.

get

help

Introduction

Chapter 1

Setting Up the Printer

Finding a Place for the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Unpacking the Printer.

Carrying the printer

Assembling the Printer.

Installing the photoconductor unit. Installing the toner cartridge Installing the output tray Loading and installing the paper cassette Attaching the power cord

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1-2 1-4

1-6 1-7

1-7 1-11

1-14 1-15 1-18

Setting Up the Printer

1-1

Finding a Place for the Printer

Before unpacking the printer, you need to find a suitable place to use it. Follow these guidelines:

Place the printer on a flat, stable surface. Place the printer close enough to the computer or workstation for

its cable to reach. Use a grounded outlet that has three holes to match the plug on

the printer’s power cord. Do not use an adapter plug. When you use the printer’s standard parallel interface, make

sure you have a shielded twisted-pair parallel cable less than 3 m (10 ft) in length.

Leave adequate room around the printer to allow easy printer operation and maintenance. The diagram below shows the

amount of space recommended.

To give you enough room to open the printer cover, allow

335 mm (13.5 inches) from the bottom of the printer to any shelf

or surface directly above the printer, as shown on the next page.

1-2

Setting Up the Printer

Finding a Place

for

the Printer

CAUTION:

Avoid locations that are subject to direct

sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, or dust.

Avoid using electrical outlets that are controlled by wall switches or automatic timers. Accidental disruption of power can wipe out valuable information in your computer’s and printer’s memory.

Avoid using outlets on the same circuit with large motors or other appliances that might affect the power supply.

Keep the entire computer and printer system away from potential sources of interference, such as loudspeakers or the base units of cordless telephones.

Setting Up the Printer

1-3

Unpacking the Printer

The printer and the other components are in separate packaging inside the main carton.

Carefully unpack the main carton and make sure you have the accessories shown below.

Paper Cassette

User's Guide

Output Tray

Photoconductor

Unit

Toner Cartridge

Power Cord

Output Tray

(smaller part)

1-4

Setting Up the Printer

Unpacking the Printer

Carefully remove the printer from the large carton and set it on a flat, stable surface. Since the printer is heavy, you may need someone to help you lift it.

Remove the plastic protective bag from the printer. Then remove

the plastic bags from the paper cassette, output tray, and power

cord.

Note: Make sure that you save all packing materials. Repack the printer in these materials whenever you ship it. See Chapter 6 for details on transporting your printer.

Setting Up the Printer

1-5

Unpacking the Printer

Carrying the printer

When you move your printer to the location you selected, carry it by placing your hands underneath each side of it, as shown below:

Note: The printer weighs about 13 kg (29lbs) and should be carried with care. You may need someone to help you lift it.

1-6

Setting Up the Printer

Assembling the Printer

Before you can use the printer, you need to install a few parts. Make sure your printer is in its operating location before you install these

parts.

Note: The consumable parts for this printer are listed below. It is recommended you keep spares on hand for timely replacement. For more information about the life of these parts, see Consumable parts in Chapter 8.

Photoconductor unit Toner cartridge

Lasts up to 30,000 pages Lasts up to 5,000 pages, depending

upon the complexity of print jobs

Installing the Photoconductor unit

The first component you need to install is the photoconductor unit. Follow the guidelines below during installation; otherwise, print quality may decline.

Setting Up the Printer

1-7

Assembling the Printer

CAUTION:

Never touch any part of the photoconductor unit

except the green handles.

Do not expose the photoconductor unit to light brighter than normal room light.

Never install the toner cartridge before you install the photoconductor unit.

Push down on the latch on the top printer cover.

the printer to open the

1-8

Setting Up the Printer

Assembling the Printer

Remove the photoconductor unit from its packaging. Pull the red protective pieces from both sides of the unit, as shown below.

Hold the photoconductor unit by the green handles and insert it into the printer, as shown below.

Setting Up the Printer

1-9

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