Epson DFX-5000PLUS User Manual

NOTE:

Do not lift or carry this printer alone. Make sure that two people carry it, lifting from the bottom as shown here.

Do not try to remove the elastic cord from either front or rear tractors. It is not a protective material.

HINWEIS:

Heben bzw. tragen Sie den Drucker nicht allein. Der Drucker sollte von zwei Personen angehoben und getragen werden,
wie in der Abbildung gezeigt.

Bitte NICHT das Spannseil am vorderen und hinteren Traktor entfemen. Diese gehoren nicht zum Verpackungsmaterial.

ATTENTION:

Ne soulevez pas ou ne transportez pas cette imprimante tout seul. Mettez-vous a deux personnes pour la transporter ou
la soulever, comme indique ci-dessus.

Ne pas essayer d’enlever le cordon élastique des tracteurs avant ou arrière. Cen’est pas un matériau de protection.

NOTA:

Si tiene que mover o transportar esta impresora, no lo haga sólo, levántela con ayuda de otra persona, sujetándola por la
base tal como se indica en la ilustración.

No intente retirar el cable elástico de1 tractor frontal ni de1 tractor posterior. No es material de protección.

NOTA:

Non sollevate o trasportate questa stampante da soli. Siate sicuri che la stampante venga trasportata da due persone,
sollevandola dal basso, come mostrato in figura.

Non togliete gli elastici dal trattore posteriore e frontale. Non fanno parte de1 materiale di protezione.

Printed in Japan 93.12-.85

NOTICE

NOTE:

To prevent damage during shipping several pieces of protective material are packed with your printer. You must remove
these before you assemble your printer.

HINWEIS:

Zur Vermeidung von Transportsähaden wurde der Drucker durch schützende Verpackungsteile gesichert. Diese Teile
müssen vor dem Zusammenbau des Druckers entfernt werden.

ATTENTION:

Afin d'éviter tout dommage durant le transport, des matériaux de protection ont été emballés avec l'imprimante. Veillez à
bien les retirer avant de l'installer.

NOTA:

L'imballaggio della vostra stampante contiene molti elementi protettivi, per prevenire danni durante il trasporto. Non
dimenticate di toglierli prima di iniziare a utilizzare la stampante.

NOTA:

Para evitar darios durante el transporte, su impresora viene protegida por varias piezas de material protector. Debe retirar

estas piezas antes de montar su impresora.

Please also read the back of this sheet.
Lesen Sie bitte auch die Rückseite dieses Hin weisblattes.
Lire attentivement le recto de cette feuille.

Copyright 1993 by Seiko Epson Corporation, Nagano, Japan

Por favor lea también el dorso de esta hoja.
Leggete anche il retro di questo foglio.

4002420
C01-00

Printer Parts

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, or (excluding the US) failure to
strictly comply with Seiko Epson Corporation’s operating and maintenance instructions.

Seiko Epson Corporation shah 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.

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

may be trademarks of their respective owners. Epson disclaims any and all rights in those
marks.

Copyright 1993 by Seiko Epson Corporation
Nagano, Japan

User’s Guide

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. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio and television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures.

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

WARNING

The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will

invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels which
exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment. It is the responsibility of the

user to obtain and use a shielded equipment interface cable with this device. If this

equipment has more than one interface connector, do not leave cables connected to
unused interfaces, Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer
could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

For Canadian Users

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.

Le present appareil numérique n'émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans le règlement sur le
brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le Ministère des Communications du Canada.

ii

Contents

Getting Started

Features
Options

Where United States Users Can Get Help
For United Kingdom Users

Important Safety Instructions
Warnings, Cautions, and Notes

Chapter 1

Unpacking the Printer

Choosing a Place for the Printer
Installing the Ribbon Cartridge
Plugging in the Printer
Testing the Printer

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

Using Software Programs

Non-Windows Software
You’re Ready to Print

................................

................................

Pull tractor (#8309)
Optional interface cards

Epson product guarantee
Use of options
Safety information.

Set Up and Print

Checking the parts
Removing the protective materials

Loading paper onto the front tractor
Running the self test

Connecting the built-in interface
Microsoft Windows 3.1

What is a Printer Driver?

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1
2
2
3
3
4
4
5
5
6

8

l-2
1-3
l-3
l-4
l-6
l-10
1-11
l-12
1-18

l-20
l-21
l-24
l-24
l-26
l-26
l-27

iii

Chapter 2

Loading and Using Paper

Using the Two-Tractor System

Positioning the paper supply

Loading Paper onto the Rear Tractor

Adjusting the Paper Position

Adjusting the top-of-form position
Adjusting the printing position

Tearing Off the Printed Pages

Tear-off mode
Using the

Adjusting the tear-off position
Switching Between Front and Rear Tractors
Changing the Paper
Printing on Multi-part Forms and Labels

Using multi-part forms

Using labels

Chapter 3

The Control Panel

Indicator lights
Buttons

Other control panel features.

Using DIP Switches

Changing DIP-switch settings
DIP-switch tables
DIP-switch functions

Printer mode
Draft printing speed
Character quality
Character table
Shape of zero
Input buffer

Auto line feed
Interface type/parity
Serial bit rate
Page length

...........................

TEAR

OFF button

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Using the Printer

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2-2
2-2
2-3
2-10
2-11

2-13
2-14
2-14
2-16

2-16
2-19
2-21
2-24
2-25
2-26

3-2
3-2
3-3
3-7

3-7
3-8
3-10

3-14
3-14
3-14
3-15
3-15
3-15

3-16
3-16
3-16
3-17
3-17

iv

Skip-over-perforation

...................

Paper memory, overlapping multi-part forms,

multi-part forms with labels
Skip over binding
Automatic tear off

......................

.....................

Using Automatic Interface Selection
Using the Paper Memory Feature

.................

Saving paper memory settings
Loading paper memory settings

...............

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................

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3-18
3-18

3-18

3-18
3-19
3-19
3-20
3-22

Chapter 4

Using the Pull Tractor

Installing the pull tractor

Using the Printer Options

.......................

....................

Using the pull tractor with the front tractor
Using the pull tractor with the rear tractor
Removing the pull tractor

Optional Interface Cards

Installing an interface card

Chapter 5

Error Indicators

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

...........................

Problems and Solutions

The printer does not print
The printer stops printing

...................

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The printout is spaced incorrectly.
The printout is faint or uneven

................

The printout is not what you expect
Paper does not feed properly

Hex Dump Mode
Maintaining the Printer

Cleaning the printer

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Replacing the ribbon cartridge
Transporting the printer

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4-2
4-2

4-5
4-9
4-12
4-14
4-15

5-2

5-3
5-3
5-4
5-4
5-5
5-5
5-6
5-7
5-8
5-8

5-9
5-11

V

Appendix A Technical Specifications

Printer Specifications

Printing

Paper

..............................

................................

Mechanical
Electrical

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Environmental
Safety approvals

Interface Specifications

Parallel interface
Serial interface
Optional interfaces

Initialization

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Top-of-form reset

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Appendix B Printer Commands and Character Tables

Sending Printer Commands
Using the Command Summary
Epson ESC /P Commands Arranged by Topic
IBM Emulation Mode Commands Arranged by Topic

Commands that duplicate Epson ESC/P commands

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......

....

Commands that differ from Epson ESC/P commands

Character Tables

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...

A-2
A-2
A-3
A-9
A-10
A-10
A-10
A-11

A-11
A-13
A-14
A-14
A-15

B-2
B-2
B-3
B-9
B-10

B-11
B-14

Glossary

Index

vi

Getting Started

The Epson® DFX-5000+ printer is an advanced dot matrix
printer designed for business applications.

Here’s how to get started with your printer:

Read the important safety instructions in this introduction
Follow the steps in Chapter 1, “Setup and Print.” By the

end of just one chapter you’ll be ready to print on
continuous paper using the application software of your
choice. If you want to use different paper types and
tractors, read Chapter 2.

Use the rest of this user’s guide as a reference for

enhancing print quality, using printer options, and

troubleshooting printer problems.

Features

Here are some of the features that make your printer unique:

Extra-fast printing speeds. Up to 560 characters per second
in draft mode.

Two built-in push tractors (front and rear) for convenient
paper handling. This dual system lets you switch between
different types of continuous paper quickly and easily. The
printer remembers separate top-of-form positions for each
tractor.

Automatic thickness and width adjustment for various
paper types and sizes, including multi-part forms and
labels.

Getting Started 1

A paper memory feature that produces highquality
printing on your multi-part forms by using stored paper
format and thickness information to adjust the print head.

An automatic paper handling system that lets you control

all operations from the control panel. For example, you can

switch between paper loaded on the front and rear tractors

with the push of a button. Another button feeds the paper

forward so you can tear it off and then reverses it to the top
of the page so it is ready to print.

An automatic interface selection feature that allows you to
connect more than one computer at a time.

Compatibility with the Epson ESC/P® commands used by
Epson FX printers.

compatibility with software written specifically for IBM
printers.

Options

An IBM® Proprinter emulation mode that provides

The following options are available for use with your printer.
For detailed information on the installation and use of these
options, see Chapter 4.

Pull tractor

This option improves the handling of heavy multi-part forms

and labels. It also enhances printing alignment on preprinted

forms.

2 Getting Started

(#8309)

Optional interface cards

A number of optional interface cards can be used to
supplement the built-in parallel and serial interfaces. Two of
the cards (Coax and Twinax) let you use your printer as a local
printer for your IBM mainframe or minicomputer. These cards
connect directly to the printer and allow it to function as a local
IBM printer without the addition of any other circuitry or
components. Guidelines for choosing the right interface and
instructions for installing an interface card are given in
Chapter 4.

Where United States Users Can Get Help

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 Connection

SM

at [phone]:

Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized Epson
Reseller or Service Center

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

Sales of the ESC/P reference manual

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.

Getting Started 3

For United Kingdom Users

Epson product guarantee

Under the law, goods sold must comply with their description
and must be of merchantable quality and fit for their purpose
or correspond with any sample.

This guarantee does not affect the seller’s legal obligation or
the rights of the consumer in the “consumer transactions”
under any Statute, including Sections 12 to 15 of the Sales of
Goods Act, 1979.

All Epson Products, other than OEM products, are fully
guaranteed against faulty operation or performance for a period

of ONE YEAR from date of purchase by the user of the product.
All claims under this guarantee MUST be supported by

evidence of purchase, normally the bill of sale invoice, and it is

the responsibility of the claimant to furnish such proof. Epson

(UK) Limited does not issue or operate any form of guarantee
registration card.

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.

Epson (UK) Limited, or Epson Appointed Distributors, will at
their discretion repair or replace part or all of the product to
provide, in their judgement, a satisfactory performance of the
product consistent with its age and apparent usage.

This guarantee covers the cost of both the parts and labour
required to correct any malfunction of the equipment, but
specifically excludes: wear and tear, consumables, physical
damage due to incorrect use or misuse and damage or faulty
operation due to unauthorized and inexpert repair.

4 Getting Started

The guarantee is restricted to the performance of the product
alone, and Epson (UK) Limited does not accept responsibility
for any consequential loss or damage, nor claimed or implied
performance, when the product is used in any combination
with other equipment or program software.

Product guarantee may be invalidated as a result of excessive
or inappropriate use, use in adverse environment or in

conditions outside the specifications or if the product has been
subjected to unapproved modifications.

The guarantee does not cover visits to the user’s premises or
the repair or commissioning of the product on site.

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.

Safety information

Warning:

This appliance must be earthed. Refer to rating plate for voltage
and check that the appliance voltage corresponds to the supply
voltage.

Important:

The wires in the mains lead fitted to this appliance are coloured in

accordance with the following code:

Green and yellow -- Earth
Blue -- Neutral
Brown -- Live

Getting Started 5

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this appliance
may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

The green and yellow wire must be connected to the
terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or

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.

The brown wire must be connected to the terminal in the
plug marked with the letter L or coloured red.

If damage occurs to the plug replace the cord set or consult a

qualified electrician.

Replace fuses only with a fuse of the correct size and rating.

Important Safety Instructions

Read all of these instructions before you set up your printer.
Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the printer.
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.

6 Getting Started

Do not block any slots or openings in the cabinet. These are

provided for the ventilation necessary to ensure reliable

operation and protection from overheating. Placing the

printer on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface may

block the openings. Also, do not place the printer in a

built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.

Never place the printer near or over a radiator or heat
register.

Use the type of power source indicated on the label. If you

are not sure of the type of power available, consult your
dealer or local power company.

This printer may be equipped with a plug having a third

(grounding) pin, which fits only into a grounding-type
outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert
the plug into the outlet, have an electrician replace your
obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the

grounding-type plug.
Do not put your printer where the cord wiIl be walked on.
If you use an extension cord, make sure that the total of the

ampere ratings on the products plugged into the extension

cord does not exceed the extension cord’s ampere rating.

Also, make sure that the total of all products plugged into

the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.

Never push objects of any kind into your printer because

they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts

that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

Except as specifically explained in the user’s manual, do

not attempt to repair the printer yourself. This could

expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks.

Refer all servicing in those compartments to service

personnel.

Getting Started 7

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
If liquid has been spilled into it
If it has been exposed to rain or water
If it does not operate normally when the operating

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 printer to normal
operation.

If it has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged
If it exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating

a need for service

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.

8 Getting Started

Chapter 1

Set Up and Print

Unpacking the Printer

Checking the parts
Removing the protective materials

Choosing a Place for the Printer

Installing the Ribbon Cartridge

Plugging in the Printer
Testing the Printer

Loading paper onto the front tractor
Running the self test.

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

Connecting the built-in interface

Using Software Programs

Microsoft Windows 3.1

What is a Printer Driver?

Non-Windows Software .............................................................. 1-26

You’re Ready to Print .................................................................. l-27

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1-2
1-3

1-4
l-6

1-11
1-12
1-18

l-21

l-24
l-26

Set Up and Print

1-1

Chapter 1

Set Up and Print

Unpacking the Printer

Checking the parts
Removing the protective materials

Choosing a Place for the Printer

Installing the Ribbon Cartridge

Plugging in the Printer
Testing the Printer

Loading paper onto the front tractor
Running the self test.

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

Connecting the built-in interface

Using Software Programs

Microsoft Windows 3.1

What is a Printer Driver?

Non-Windows Software ................................................................ l-26

You’re Ready to Print ................................................................. l-27

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l-2

1-4
l-6

1-11

l-21

l-24
l-26

Set Up and Print

1-1

Unpacking the Printer

Because the printer weighs approximately 29 kg (64 lb), you
should not lift or carry it by yourself. Two people should carry
it, lifting from the bottom.

1-2

Set Up and Print

Checking the parts

Check to see that you have the parts shown below and that
nothing has been damaged during transportation.

power cord

cross-head screwdriver

ribbon cartridge

optional connector lock nuts

After you unpack the printer, store the packing materials in

case you ever need to transport the printer.

Removing the protective

materials

The printer is protected during shipping by several pieces of
packing material

that

must be removed before you turn on the

printer.
Please see the Notice Sheet inserted in your printer for

instructions on removing the protective materials. Then store
them with the other packing material.

Set Up and Print

1-3

Caution:

Be sure to remove all protective materials before you turn
on the printer.

Do not try to remove the elastic cord from the front or rear
tractors. It is not a protective material.

Choosing a Place for the Printer

When you select a location for your printer, keep the following
in mind:

Place the printer on a flat, stable surface.
Place the printer close enough to the computer for its cable

to reach.
Leave plenty of room around the printer for your front and

rear stacks of continuous paper as well as your printed
output.

Use a grounded outlet; do not use an adapter plug.

1-4

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 information in both your computer’s
memory and your printer’s memory.

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

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

Set Up and Print

The illustration below shows a good printer location.

If you plan to use a printer stand, follow these guidelines:

Use a stand that supports at least 58 kg (128 lb).
Never use a stand that tilts the printer. It should always be

kept level.
Make sure to provide enough clearance below the stand

and between the legs so your continuous paper feeds
smoothly.

Place cables so they do not interfere with paper feeding;
secure them to a leg of the stand if possible.

Set Up and Print

1-5

Installing the Ribbon Cartridge

Before installing the ribbon cartridge, make sure that the

protective packing materials are removed and that the printer
is turned off. Remove the ribbon cartridge from its box and
plastic wrapper and then follow these steps:

1.

Open the top cover by gently lifting its front edge up and
away from you.

1-6

Warning:

Never move the print head while the printer is turned on
because this can damage the printer. Also, if you have been
using the printer, the print head may be hot; let it cool for a

few minutes before touching

Set Up and Print

it.

2.

Slide the print head to the exposed part of the paper bail as
shown below.

3.

Remove and throw away the plastic separator from the
middle of the ribbon cartridge. Next, detach the ribbon
guide from the cartridge and turn the ribbon-tightening
knob in the direction of the arrow to take up any slack in
the ribbon.

Set Up and Print

1-7

4.

Hold the ribbon cartridge with both hands and lower it into
the printer as shown below. Pulling the cartridge toward
you, slide the slots nearest you over the corresponding two
pins in the printer. Then push the cartridge down into
position until the other two slots snap into place over the
mounting pins in the printer.

1-8

5.

Press lightly on both sides of the cartridge to make sure it is
locked in place.

Set Up and Print

6.

Insert the ribbon guide over the metal pins on each side of
the print head as shown below. The smaller end of the
guide should be on top, with its angled edge facing back
toward the platen. Turn the ribbon-tightening knob again
to remove any slack in the ribbon.

7.

Slide the print head from side to side to see that it moves
smoothly and that the ribbon is not twisted or creased.

Set Up and Print

1-9

8.

Close the printer’s top cover.

Plugging

1.

Make sure the printer is turned off. (The O on the power
switch located on the lower right side of the printer should

be visible.)

2.

Check the label on the printer’s rear panel to see if the
voltage required by the printer matches that of your
electrical outlet. If it does not match, contact your Epson
dealer without connecting the power cord.

in the Printer

1-10

Set Up and Print

3.

Plug the power cord into the AC inlet on the printer’s rear
panel.

4.

Plug the power cord into a properly grounded electrical
outlet.

Caution:

Whenever you turn off the power, wait at least five seconds
before turning it back on; otherwise you may damage the
printer.

Testing the Printer

Now that your printer is fully assembled, you can use your
printer’s built-in test function to be sure the printer is working
correctly before you connect it to a computer.

Before performing the test, you need to load paper.

Set Up and Print

1-11

Loading paper onto the front tractor

1.

Open the printer’s front cover by lifting the middle of its
bottom edge up until it locks in place, as shown below.

2.

Release the sprocket lock levers on both the right and left
sprocket units by pulling each lever down.

1-12

Caution:

Do not try to pull on or remove the elastic cord from the tractor.

Set Up and Print

Slide the left sprocket unit all the way to the left. Lock it into

3.
place by pushing the sprocket lock lever up.

Now slide the right sprocket unit to approximately match the

4.
width of your paper. (Do not lock it in place yet.)

Set Up and

Print

1-13

Slide the two paper supports so that they are spaced evenly

5.
between the sprocket units.

Open both sprocket covers.

6.

1-14

Set up and Print

Be sure your paper has a clean, straight edge, and then fit the

7.
first five holes in the paper over the pins of the sprocket

units as shown below. The side of the paper that you want
to print on should be facing you. Now close the sprocket
covers.

8.

Slide the right sprocket unit so that the paper is straight and

has no wrinkles. Lock the sprocket unit in place by pushing

the sprocket lock lever up.

Set Up and Print

1-15

Caution:

After you lock the right sprocket, it may still move slightly;

this is normal.
Be careful not to pull the paper too tightly when adjusting

the right sprocket.

Pull out slightly on the printer’s front cover and lower it until

9.
it is closed.

1-16

Caution:

Do not push down on the front cover; always pull it out
slightly before closing.

Before turning on the printer, be absolutely sure you have
removed all protective materials. Turning on the printer

while the print head cannot move may seriously damage

the mechanism.

Set Up and Print

10. Turn on the printer. The print head moves to the left of the
printer and the
Also, either the front or rear tractor arrow on the

SELECT

indicator lights up.

POWER

and

PAPER OUT

lights come on.

PAPER

11. Press the

LF/FF/LOAD

button to load your paper. (If the
paper does not load, the front tractor may not be selected.
Press the

FRONT/REAR

button to select the front tractor.

This loads the paper automatically.)

12. After the paper loads, turn off the printer.

Set Up and Print

1-17

Running the self test

The self test can be run in either draft or near letter quality

(NLQ) mode.

1.

While holding down the

TEAR OFF

After printing starts, release the button.
The printer prints a series of characters. Here is part of a

typical self test printout in high-speed draft.

button (for NLQ mode), turn on the printer.

LF/FF

button (for draft mode) or

1-18

Note:

When NLQ quality is selected using DIP switch l-3, the serf test
runs in NLQ mode even if you press

2.

The self test continues until the paper runs out or until you
press the
and you wish to stop the test, press the
resume the test, press the

3.

To end the self test, press the
and then hold down the

Set Up

and

PA USE

Print

button. If the test results are satisfactory

PAUSE

LF/FF

the LF/FF

button again.)

PA USE

button to advance the paper.

button.

PAUSE

button to stop printing

button. (To

4.

Open the paper separator cover and tear off the paper at the
perforation.

5.

Turn off the printer.

Note:

If you open the top cover while the printer is printing, the printer
beeps four times, stops printing, and goes into pause status. To
resume printing, close the top cover and press the PAUSE button.

You can select normal draft mode or high-speed draft mode using
DIP switch 1-2. For details, see Chapter 3.

If continuous paper

example), the paper may not feed properly.

is fed past the sprocket (on the last page, for

Set Up and Print

1-19

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

If the self test printed correctly, you are now ready to connect
the printer to your computer.

Your printer has two separate interface connections: a
Centronics®-compatible parallel interface and an RS-232C­compatible serial interface. If you are not sure which one is
required by your computer, check your computer manual.

Note:

Your printer has an automatic interface selection feature that allows
you to connect more than one interface to the printer at a time. See the
section on using automatic interface selection in Chapter 3.

If you have a suitable shielded cable, you should be able to

connect the printer immediately. If you have one of the few

computers that requires a different type of interface, you

should be able to use one of the optional interfaces described in

Chapter 4.

1-20

Set Up and Print

Connecting the built-in interface

Use this procedure for either the built-in parallel or serial

interface.

Turn off both your printer and computer.

1.
Open the rear cover by grasping it by the handholds on each

2.
side.

Plug the cable connector securely into the parallel or serial

3.
interface.

Set Up and Print

1-21

When you connect the parallel interface, squeeze the wire

4.

clips together until they lock in place on either side of the

connector. If your cable has a ground wire, connect it to the
printer’s ground connector.

When you connect the serial interface, fasten the screw on

the cable connector.

1-22

Set

Up

and Print

Note:

If the screws that come

with the

cable

do

not fit into the connector

lock nuts on the interface, replace the lock nuts with the optional

lock nuts provided with the printer.

Open the plastic clamp to the right of the interface connectors

5.
by pulling out its top tab. Insert the cable in the plastic

clamp and close the clamp, as shown below.

6. Close the rear cover.

Set

Up

and Print

1-23

Caution:

Always close the rear cover before using the printer.

7.

Plug the other end of the cable into the computer. (If there is

a ground wire at the computer end of the cable, attach it to

the ground connector at the back of the computer.)

Before using the printer’s serial interface, you need to select

serial communication by changing the printer’s DIP switch
settings. You may also need to change two other serial interface
settings, serial bit rate and parity, before your printer and
computer can communicate properly. See the section on setting

DIP switches in Chapter 3 for more information.

Using Software Programs

To take full advantage of your printer’s features, find the
instructions for your software programs below.

Microsoft® Windows

TM

3.1

If Windows is already installed on your system, follow the
steps below to set it up with your printer. Then your printer
will work correctly for all your Windows programs, such as
Word for Windows and Lotus® 1-2-3® for Windows.

Note:

If Windows is not already installed on your system, run the setup
program as described in the Windows documentation, and follow steps
4 through 10 below when you reach the section for choosing a printer.

1.

In the window labeled

Main,

double click the

Control Panel

icon.

2.

1-24

Double click the

Set Up and Print

Printers

icon.

Choose the

3.

4.

In the list of printers box, select

If DFX-5000+ is not available, select Epson DFX-8000 or
Epson DFX-5000.

If neither of these is available, select Epson FX-870/1170 or
another Epson FX model.

5.

Choose the
insert a diskette.

6.

If necessary, insert the diskette required.

7.

Choose the

8.

Choose the

9.

Highlight Epson DFX-5000+ (or the printer you added) and

click the button labeled

Add>

Install

Setup
OK

button.

button on the right side of the screen.

Epson DFX-5000+.

button. A dialog box may instruct you to

button.

Set As Default Printer.

10. Click the
You have now installed the printer driver for Windows.

Note:

To use 15 characters per inch on your printer, you need the
DFX-5000+ driver. If your version of Windows does not include it,

contact Microsoft Windows Product Support to obtain the

DFX-5000+ driver.

Close

button.

Set Up and Print

1-25

What is a Printer Driver?

The software you use to enter and format your documents

sends codes that run (or “drive”) your printer. These software
codes select the font, margins, page size, line spacing, and
other features of the document you are printing. Therefore, it is
important that you choose the right printer driver and install it
correctly from within your software. If there is a problem with
the appearance of your document, a software setting is the
most likely the cause.

Non-Windows Software

Most software programs let you specify the type of printer you
are using so that the program can take full advantage of the
printer’s features. If your application program has an
installation or setup procedure that lets you select your printer
from a list of printers, choose the Epson DFX-5000+ printer. If
the list does not include the DFX-5000+, choose one of the
following printers, listed in order of preference:

DFX-8000

DFX-5000
FX-870/1170
FX

Note:

To use 15 characters per inch on your printer, you need a DFX-5000+
printer driver. If your software program does not list this printer,
contact the software manufacturer to see

1-26

Set Up and Print

if

an update is available.

You’re Ready to Print

You are now ready to print documents. If you need additional

information about your printer, such as loading different paper
types, look for the appropriate topic in other chapters in this
user’s guide.

Caution:
Running the printer continuously for extended periods
is not recommended. It can cause the printer to wear out sooner
than expected.

of

time

Set Up and Print

1-27

Chapter 2

Loading and Using Paper

Using the Two-Tractor System

Positioning the paper supply

Loading Paper onto the Rear Tractor

Adjusting the Paper Position

Adjusting the top-of-form position
Adjusting the printing position

Tearing Off the Printed Pages

Tear-off mode
Using the TEAR OFF button
Adjusting the tear-off position

Switching Between Front and Rear Tractors

Changing the Paper
Printing on Multi-Part Forms and Labels

Using multi-part forms
Using labels

..........................

.........................

...........................

..................

.................

...............

....................

..............

................

...................

..................

.................

.....................

...........

............

2-2
2-2

2-3
2-10

2-11

2-13
2-14

2-14
2-16
2-16

2-19
2-21
2-24

2-25
2-26

Loading and Using Paper

2-1

Using the Two-Tractor System

Your printer’s paper handling system consists of a front push
tractor and a rear push tractor. Both tractors are easy to load and

operate, and both accommodate a wide variety of paper types,
including labels and multi-part forms. The printer automatically
adjusts to the thickness of your loaded paper, so you don’t need to
make any manual adjustments for paper thickness settings.

You can use any width continuous paper, from 4 inches (101 mm)
to 16 inches (406 mm) wide. Your printer senses paper width
automatically.

If you are going to use more than two types of paper, it’s best to
load the paper you use most often onto the rear tractor. That way
you can reserve the front tractor, which is easier to reach, for the
paper you change more frequently. Use only the front tractor for
printing on labels.

Caution:

Before using your paper, check that it matches the specifications
described in Appendix A. Also check that your paper has a
straight edge.

Note:

If continuous paper is fed past the sprocket (on the last page, for example),

the paper may not feed properly.

Positioning the paper supply

Since you can load continuous paper from both the front and the

rear, be sure to leave enough room around the printer for the two

stacks of fresh paper as well as for a stack of printed output. It is
also important to keep both stacks of fresh paper aligned with the
printer so that the paper can feed smoothly into the printer.

2-2

Loading and Using Paper

The following illustration shows three ways to position your

printer and paper: with the front tractor loaded, with the rear

tractor loaded, and with both tractors loaded.

Note:

Make sure that your stack

rear tractor’s paper supply.

of

printed pages does not interfere with the

Loading Paper onto the Rear Tractor

The following steps show you how to load paper onto the rear
tractor. You do not need to remove the paper from the front
tractor first because the printer does this for you when you
select the rear tractor.

Note:

If you performed a self test as described in Chapter 1, you loaded
continuous paper onto the front tractor. If you did not run a

self

test,

see “Loading paper onto the front tractor" in Chapter 1.

1.

Turn off the printer.

Loading and Using Paper

2-3

Open the printer’s top cover by gently lifting its front edge

2.
up and away from you, as shown below.

Open the rear flap at the back of the top cover.

3.

2-4

Loading and Using Paper

Release the sprocket lock levers on the rear tractor’s right

4.
and left sprocket units by pushing each lever back.

Caution:

Do not try to pull on or remove the elastic cord from the tractor.

Slide the left sprocket unit all the way to the left. Lock it in

5.

place

by pulling the sprocket lock lever forward.

Loading and Using Paper 2-5

6.

Now slide the right sprocket unit to approximately match
the width of your paper. (Do not lock it in place yet.)

7.

Slide the two paper supports so they are spaced evenly
between the two sprocket units.

2-6

Loading and Using Paper

8.

Open both sprocket covers.

9.

Make sure your paper has a clean, straight edge. With the
side of the paper you want to print on facing down, insert
your paper through the opening at the rear. You may find
it easier to load the paper by standing to the side of the
printer. That way you can feed the paper into the rear
opening with one hand and pull it through with the other.

Loading and Using Paper

2-7

10. Fit the first five holes in the paper over the pins of the

sprocket units as

shown below. NOW close the sprocket

covers.

Slide the right sprocket unit to a

11.

position so that the

straight and has no wrinkles. Lock the sprocket unit in

place

by pulling the sprocket lock lever forward.

2-8

Loading and Using Paper

paper is

Note:

After you lock the right sprocket, if may still move slightly;

this is normal.

Be careful not to pull the paper too tightly when adjusting the

right sprocket.

12. Close the top cover and the rear flap. The paper is now
loaded to the standby position.

13. Turn on the printer. The print head moves to the left of the

printer and the
either the front or rear tractor arrow on the

POWER

and

PAPER OUT

lights go on. Also,

PAPER SELECT

indicator lights up, depending on which tractor was
selected when the printer was turned off last.

Loading and Using Paper

2-9

14.

Check the PAPER SELECT indicator to see which tractor is
selected:

If the rear tractor arrow is lit, press the LF/FF/LOAD

button to load the paper.

If the front tractor arrow is lit, press
button to switch to the rear tractor. When the printer
switches tractors, it also loads the paper automatically.

15.

The paper is now loaded to the top-of-form position. If it looks
like the printing will start too high or low on the page, see the

next section for instructions on adjusting the paper position.

the FRONT/REAR

Adjusting the Paper Position

You can adjust the top-of-form position as well as the printing
position at any point on the page by using the TOP OF FORM and

MICRO FEED

top-of-form position. When you use the optional pull tractor, you

can adjust the paper position in the same way as described below.

buttons. The printer

then

remembers the new

2-10

Loading and Using Paper

Note:

The printing position (based on the fop-of-form position) is controlled
by your software. To change the print position, adjust your software’s
print settings. Use the following procedure only if

not allow print position adjustment.

your software

Adjusting the fop-of-form position

The top-of-form position is the position the printer feeds the
paper to when it loads the paper or performs a form feed. This

position is important because it determines where the printing
begins on each page. If the printing is too high or low on the

page, you can adjust the top-of-form position either
permanently or temporarily depending on how you use the

TOP OF FORM

button.

does

When you want to
position, you enter the top-of-form mode using the

TOP OF FORM

remembers the new top-of-form position even after the

printer is turned off, reset, or initialized. (The printer
remembers separate top-of-form positions for the front and
rear tractors.)

When you want to

position, you adjust the position using the

buttons during pause status without entering top-of-form

mode. The printer remembers the temporary top-of-form
position until the next time you load paper, switch tractors,
or turn off the printer. See “Adjusting the printing
position” later in this chapter.

You can set the top-of-form position from 2.6 mm (0.1 inches)

below the top edge of the paper. The factory setting is 5.8 mm

(0.2 inches).

The following steps show you how to reset (permanently

change) the top-of-form position.

permanently

control panel button. The printer

temporarily

change the top-of-form

change the top-of-form

MICRO FEED

Loading and Using Paper

2-11

Caution:

To adjust the fop-of-form position when labels are loaded in the
printer, use the forward-feeding (top)

MICRO FEED

button
only; do not enter the top-of-form mode. (See "Adjusting the
printing position” later in this chapter.) Never feed labels
backward through the printer.

1.

Make sure the printer is turned on and the desired tractor is

selected (the corresponding tractor arrow should be lit).

2.

Press the
The printer beeps once, and the

TOP OF FORM

button to enter top-of-form mode.

TOP OF FORM

light
flashes. Also, the printer advances the paper so that the
top-of-form position is lined up with the red line on the
clear plastic ribbon protector.

3.

Open the top cover.

4.

Use the

MICRO FEED

buttons to feed the paper to the

desired top-of-form position. The to pedge of the ribbon

protector shows you where the bottom edge of your first

line of text will print. This position is based on the first
printable line of text. If your software inserts a top margin
of five lines, your text will actually print five lines below

the top-of-form position.

2-12

Loading and Using Paper

Note:

The red line on the ribbon protector can

when you are in the

fop-of-form

mode. At all other times your

be

used

as a

reference only

fop-of-form position is hidden behind the print ribbon.

5.

Press the TOP OF FORM button again to exit top-of-form mode

and save your new top-of-form position. Then close the top
cover.

Note:

If you enter fop-of-form mode right after loading paper, you can set the

loading and fop-of-form positions at the same time. (When you use the
optional

Adjusting the printing position

If you need to adjust the printing position in the middle of a page,
or to adjust the top-of-form position when using labels, follow the
steps below.

When you move the printing position, you temporarily change the
top-of-form position by the same amount. For example, if you
adjust the printing in the middle of the page so that it falls a
half-inch lower, the next page will begin printing a half-inch lower
as well. The printer remembers this temporary top-of-form
position until the next time you load paper, switch tractors, or
turn off the printer.

pull

tractor, you cannot adjust the loading position.)

1.

Start printing your document. When you reach the text that you

want to align at a particular spot on the page, press the PAUSE
button to stop printing.

2.

Use MICRO FEED buttons to adjust the position where you

want your next line of text to fall. Press the button once to feed

the paper forward or backward in 1/216-inch increments, or
hold it down to move the paper continuously.

Loading and Using Paper

2-13

Caution:

If you are printing on labels, use only the forward-feeding
(top)

MICRO FEED

3.

When you are finished, press the

printing your document.

button.

PAUSE

button to continue

Tearing Off the Printed Pages

After you finish printing, you can use the tear-off feature to
advance continuous paper on the push tractor to the tear-off
edge of the printer. You can then easily tear off printed sheets.
When you resume printing, the printer automatically feeds
paper back to the loading position.

This feature lets you save paper
between documents.

You can use the tear-off feature in two ways: by turning on DIP

switch 3-8 to select automatic tear-off mode, or by pressing the

TEAR OFF

If the perforation between pages is
edge, you can adjust the tear-off position using the micro-feed
feature. The printer remembers this new tear-off position.

button on the control panel.

Caution:

Never use the
optional pull tractor is installed, or when using the paper
memory feature described in Chapter 3.

fear-off

that

would normally be lost

not

aligned with the tear-off

feature to reverse feed labels,

when the

Tear-off mode

When you select tear-off mode with DIP switch 3-8, the printer
automatically advances continuous paper to the tear-off
position when you finish printing.

2-14

Loading and Using Paper

The printer advances paper to the tear-off position only when
the printer receives a full page of data or a form feed command
and no more data is received for three seconds.

1.

Make sure the printer is turned off.

2.

Turn DIP switch 3-8 on.

3.

Turn the printer on.

When tear-off mode is on and you print on continuous paper
on the push tractor, the printer advances the final printed page
to the tear-off position. Then you can tear off all printed pages.

If the perforation is not aligned with the tear-off edge, adjust
the tear-off position as described in the section on adjusting the
tear-off position.

When you resume printing, the printer automatically feeds the
paper back to the loading position and begins printing.

Loading and Using Paper

2-15

Using the TEAR OFF button

Whether or not the printer is in tear-off mode, you can use the

TEAR OFF

position by following the steps below.

1.

Make sure printing is finished. Then press the
button. The printer advances the paper to the tear-off edge
and the

2.

Tear off all printed pages. If the perforation is not aligned
with the tear-off edge, adjust the tear-off position as

3.

When you resume printing, the printer automatically feeds
the paper back to the loading position and begins printing.

button to advance continuous paper to the tear-off

TEAR OFF

TEAR OFF

described in the next section.

(You can also manually feed the paper back to the loading

position by pressing the

light comes on.

TEAR OFF

button again.)

Adjusting the tear-off position

If the paper’s perforation is not aligned with the tear-off edge,
follow the steps below:

2-16

1.

Turn on the printer and select the desired tractor.

Loading and

Using Paper

Now open the paper separator cover (the flap on the top

2.
part of the printer’s top cover). This exposes the printer’s
tear-off edge.

Press the

3.
TEAR OFF

TEAR OFF

button to enter the tear-off mode. The

light goes on and the printer feeds the paper’s

perforation to the printer’s tear-off edge.

Loading and

Using Paper

2-17

4.

If the paper is not aligned with the tear-off edge, then press

the

MICRO FEED

buttons to feed the paper forward or
backward in l/216-inch increments. (You can also hold
down either

MICRO FEED

button to feed the paper

Note:

You can reset the tear-off position
mode

(after you press

TEAR OFF

light is on). The printer remembers the new

the TEAR OFF

only

when you are in

button once and the

tear-off

tear-off

position even after the printer is turned off, reset, or initialized.

2-18

5.

Tear off the page using the tear-off edge on the printer’s top

cover.

Loading and Using

Paper

6.

Press the
top-of-form position. You are now ready to print your next
document.

Caution:

Always tear off the printed document before you feed the paper

back to the top-of-form position. Neverfeed paper backward
more than one page.

TEAR OFF

button to feed the paper back to the

Switching Between Front and Rear Tractors

You can easily switch between paper loaded on the front
tractor and paper loaded on the rear tractor. The following
steps describe the procedure for switching from the front
tractor to the rear tractor, but you can follow the same steps to
switch from the rear tractor to the front tractor. (To switch
tractors when the optional pull tractor is installed, see
Chapter 4.)

Caution:

Never switch between tractors when labels are already loaded
in the printer. Instead, completely remove the labels first by

tearing off the fresh supply below the tractor and pressing
LF/FF to eject the remaining labels.

Before you start, make sure the printer is turned on and that

the front tractor is selected (the front tractor arrow on the

PAPER SELECT

of printing a document, wait for the printer to finish printing

before you switch tractors. Then follow these steps:

indicator should be lit). If you are in the middle

Loading and Using Paper

2-19

1.

If no paper is loaded in the rear tractor, load paper to the
standby position (the first five pins of the sprocket units),
as described in steps 1 through 13 beginning on page 2-3.

2.

If you have a printed document or excess paper still in the
printer, use the tear-off feature described in the previous

section to tear off the document or excess paper.

2-20

Caution:

Always tear off the printed document and any excess paper
before witching tractors. Never feed more than one page
backward through the printer.

Loading and Using Paper

3.

Press the

The front-loaded paper automatically feeds back to the

standby position and the rear-loaded paper advances to the
top-of-form position.

FRONT/REAR

Changing the Paper

button to switch to the rear tractor.

The following steps describe the procedure for changing paper

on the front tractor, but you can follow the same steps when
you change the paper on the rear tractor.

Before you start, make sure the printer is turned on and the

front tractor is selected. (If you are changing the paper on the
rear tractor, the rear tractor should be selected instead.)

Caution:

Never change paper using the following procedure if labels are
already loaded in the printer. Instead, completely remove the

labels first by tearing off the fresh supply below the tractor and
pressing

paper as described earlier in this chapter.

LF/FF

to eject the remaining labels. Then load the new

Loading and Using Paper

2-21

If you have a printed document still in the printer, use the

1.
tear-off feature described earlier to tear off the document or
excess paper.

Caution:

Always tear off printed documents before changing the
paper. Never feed more than one page backward through
the printer.

2-22

Press the

2.

FRONT/REAR

button to switch to the rear tractor.
The front-loaded paper automatically feeds back to the
standby position.

Loading and Using Paper

Open the printer’s front cover. (To change the rear-loaded

3.
paper, open the printer’s top cover and the rear flap.)

Open the sprocket covers and remove the paper from the

4.
tractor.

Loading and Using Paper

2-23

5.

Load the new paper as described in steps 1 through 12
beginning on page 1-12 (or for rear-loaded paper, steps 1

through 15 beginning on page 2-3).

Printing on Multi-Part Forms and Labels

You can print on various types of paper, including multi-part
forms and labels. Your printer can also handle a variety of
paper thicknesses, from thin paper to six-part forms. The
printer automatically adjusts to the width and thickness of
your paper.

When you print on multi-part forms and labels, the positioning
of your text on the page can be critical. For more information
on aligning your text, see the sections on adjusting top-of-form

and printing positions earlier in this chapter. You should also
check both your printer and your software page length settings

before you load labels or forms.

If you are using labels, preprinted forms, or multi-part forms,
you may want to use the optional pull tractor. See Chapter 4.

2-24

Loading and Using Paper

Caution:

When printing on labels, be absolutely sure that your printing
stays within the printable area of the label to prevent damage to

the print head. For more information on the printable area, see

Appendix A.

Using multi-part forms

You can use multi-part (carbonless) forms with up to four
sheets, including the original, on the rear tractor. On the front
tractor, you can use forms with up to six sheets.

You load continuous multi-part forms the same way you load
any other type of continuous paper. Before loading multi-part
forms, however, make sure the paper has a clean straight edge
and does not separate or tear apart. See the sections on loading
paper earlier in this chapter.

When you use the paper memory feature described in

Chapter 3, the DFX-5000+ can print on multi-part forms that
vary in thickness, such as forms with labels on them or forms
that overlap slightly where they are glued together. These

forms are thicker in the label area and in the places where they
overlap or are joined together, as shown below.

Overlapping multi-part forms

Multi-part forms with labels

Loading and Using Paper

2-25

Caution;

Be sure to use the paper memory feature before you print on
multi-partforms that vary in thickness. See Chapter 3 for
instructions.

When you print on these forms, make sure that the printing fits
within the printable area and that the top-of-form position is
set properly. The printable area is shown in Appendix A.

Using labels

When using labels, always choose the type mounted on

continuous paper with sprocket holes for use with a tractor.
Labels should be used in the front tractor only. You load labels
the same way that you load continuous paper as described in

Chapter 1, “Loading paper onto the front tractor.”

Caution:

Never

use

the

TEAR OFF, FRONT/REAR,

(bottom)

MICRO FEED

button when labels are loaded in the

printer. Labels must never be fed backward through the printer

because

they

can easily come off the backing and jam the

printer.

or reverse-feeding

Although you must never feed labels backward through the

printer, you can still use the automatic paper handling features

if you follow these precautions:

Instead of using the
labels, press the

TEAR OFF

LF/FF

button until the last printed label is

button to remove printed

at the point where you can tear it off easily.

Before using the

FRONT/REAR

button to switch tractors or
change paper, remove the entire supply of labels first.
Always remove labels by tearing off the fresh supply at a
perforation below the tractor and then pressing the

button to eject the remaining labels.

2-26

Loading and Using Paper

LF/FF

When adjusting the top-of-form or printing position, use

only the forward-feeding (top)

MICRO FEED

button.

Caution:

Because labels are especially sensitive to extreme temperatures
and humidity, always use them under normal operating
conditions.

Loading and Using Paper

2-27

Chapter 3

Using the Printer

The Control Panel

Indicator lights
Buttons

Other control panel features

Using DIP Switches

Changing DIP-switch settings
DIP-switch tables
DIP-switch functions

..............................

Printer mode
Draft printing speed

Character quality
Character table
Shape of zero
Input buffer

Auto line feed
Interface type/ parity
Serial bit rate
Page length
Skip-over-perforation

Paper memory, overlapping multi-part forms,

multi-part forms with labels
Skip over binding
Automatic tear off

..........................

..........................

.........................

........................

.........................

.......................

........................

.........................

........................

.........................

.........................

..................

.................

......................

....................

......................

....................

...................

...............

......................

.....................

3-2
3-2

3-3
3-7

3-7
3-8
3-10
3-14
3-14

3-14
3-15
3-15
3-15
3-16
3-16
3-16

3-17
3-17
3-18

3-18
3-18
3-18

Using Automatic Interface Selection
Using the Paper Memory Feature

Saving paper memory settings
Loading paper memory settings

.................

...............

................

................

Using the Printer

3-19

3-19
3-20
3-22

3-1

The Control Panel

The control panel gives you access to several powerful
features. The panel consists of indicator lights and buttons.

Indicator lights

POWER

PAPER OUT

PAUSE

TEAR OFF

TOP OF FORM

On when the power switch is on and
power is supplied to the printer.

On when the printer is out of paper. This
light goes on whenever no paper is
positioned behind the print head, even if
paper is loaded on the tractors in the
standby position.

Flashes when the paper jams.
On when printing is paused.
On when the printer is in tear-off mode.

The printer remembers any change you
make to the tear-off position when this
light is on.

Flashes when the printer is in top-of-form

mode. The printer remembers any change
you make to the top-of-form position
when this light flashes.

3-2

Using the Printer

PITCH

10

12

17

PAPER SELECT

FRONT

PAPER SELECT

REAR

Buttons

On when the printer is set to print ten
characters per inch.

On when the printer is set to print twelve
characters per inch.

On when the printer is set to print

seventeen characters per inch.
On when the front tractor is selected. The

light is green when paper is loaded (even

if the paper is in the standby position),
and red when the tractor is out of paper.

On when the rear tractor is selected. The
light is green when paper is loaded (even
if the paper is in the standby position),
and red when the tractor is out of paper.

PAUSE

Controls whether the printer can print or
not. Press this button to stop or start
printing when data is in the input buffer.

Using the Printer

3-3

LF/FF/LOAD

LF

advances paper one line at a time. To
feed your paper one line, press this button
once.

FF

advances the paper to the top of the
next page. To use this feature, press and
hold the button for about one second.

TEAR OFF

Caution:

Never use

button instead to feed the printed labels to a point where they
can be torn off

LOAD

loads paper on the push tractor of

the selected paper path when no paper is

currently loaded.
This button can also be used to run the

printer’s draft self test. See the section on
running the self test in Chapter 1.

Feeds the paper to the printer’s tear-off
edge and puts the printer in tear-off mode.

If the perforation of your paper does not
align exactly with the printer’s tear-off

edge, use the

MICRO FEED

buttons to
adjust the tear-off position. See the section
on adjusting the tear-off position in
Chapter 2.

This button can also be used to run the
printer’s NLQ self test. See the section on
running the self test in Chapter 1.

the TEAR OFF

button with labels. Use the

LF/FF

3-4

Using

the Printer

MICRO FEED

These two buttons advance or reverse the
loaded paper in 1/216-inch increments.
You can use these buttons to adjust the
top-of-form, tear-off, and printing

positions.
To reset the top-of-form position, press

the

TOP OF FORM

top-of-form mode. Then use the

FEED

buttons to move the paper to the
desired position. See the section on
adjusting the top-of-form position in

Chapter 2.

To reset the tear-off position, press the

TEAR OFF

and feed the paper to the tear-off position.
Then use the
move the paper to the desired position.
See the section on adjusting the tear-off
position in Chapter 2.

To adjust the printing position, press
either
reverse the paper to the desired position.

See the section on adjusting the printing
position in Chapter 2.

button to enter tear-off mode

MICRO FEED

button to enter

MICRO FEED

button to advance or

MICRO

buttons to

These buttons are also used for the paper
memory feature described later in this
chapter.

Caution:

When using labels, use only the
Never feed labels backward through the printer.

top MICRO FEED

Using the Printer

button.

3-5

TOP OF FORM

Lets you enter and exit the top-of-form

mode so you can adjust the top-of-form

position. The top-of-form position is
where printing begins on each page.

If your printing is too high or low on the

page, you can reset the top-of-form
position by entering top-of-form mode
and using micro feed to adjust the
position. The printer remembers this new

top-of-form position even after it is turned

off, reset, or initialized. Also, the printer
remembers separate top-of-form positions
for the front and rear tractors.

See the section on adjusting the
top-of-form position in Chapter 2.

PITCH

Lets you select the characters per inch for
printing. Push the button until the light
appears next to your preference. (Your
software setting overrides this setting.)

PAPER SELECT

FRONT/REAR

Lets you select the front or rear tractor. If
you have been using paper loaded on one
tractor, first remove the printed output
before pressing this button to switch the
tractor. When you switch between
tractors, the paper already loaded in the
printer is fed backward to the standby
position and the paper on the newly
selected tractor is loaded.

Caution:

Never use the FRONT/REAR button when labels are loaded in

the printer. Al ways tear off any printed pages or excess paper

so you don’t feed more than one page backward through the

printer.

3-6

Using the Printer

Other control pane/ features

Self test

Hex dump

Print settings

Using DIP Switches

By holding down the
button while you turn on the printer, you
can start the printer’s self test. The self test
prints the characters in the printer’s ROM

(Read Only Memory). See the section on

running the self test in Chapter 1.
By holding down both the

OFF

buttons while you turn on the printer,
you can turn on the hex dump mode. This
feature prints the codes that are sent to the
printer so that advanced users can find
the cause of communication problems
between the computer and printer. See the

section on the hex dump mode in
Chapter 5 for more information.

By holding down the
you turn on the printer, the printer prints
the current DIP-switch settings.

LF/FF

LF/FF

PAUSE

or

TEAR OFF

and

TEAR

button while

This printer has three sets of DIP switches. DIP switches
control a variety of printer functions such as page length and
printing speed. DIP-switch settings are shown in the
DIP-switch tables starting on page 3-10. Descriptions of all the
DIP-switch functions are provided beginning on page 3-14.

Because the factory (default) settings are designed to
accommodate the needs of most users, you may never need to
change the DIP-switch settings.

Using the Printer

3-7

Note:

You can print out the current DIP-switch settings by holding down
the

PAUSE

button while you turn on the printer.

Changing DIP-s witch settings

1.

Turn off the printer.

2.

Open the printer’s front cover by lifting the middle of its

bottom edge up until it locks in place.

3-8

3.

The DIP switches are located in a small compartment
front paper guide, behind the front tractor paper. If paper
is loaded on

the

front tractor, either remove it or lift it up

out of the way so you can reach the DIP switches.

Using the Printer

on

the

Open the DIP-switch cover.

4.

Use a pointed instrument, such as the tip of a ballpoint pen,

5.
to turn the switch either on or off. A DIP switch is on when
it is up, and off when it is down.

Note:

Always make sure that the printer is turned off before changing
the DIP-switch settings.

Using the Printer

3-9

6.

Close the DIP-switch cover and replace the paper.

7.

Next, close the front cover.

8.

Turn on the printer to initialize the new settings. When you
change a DIP-switch setting, the new settings take effect
only after you turn on or reset the printer.

DIP-switch tables

The following tables show the settings for each DIP switch. For
more information about each feature, see the explanations
following the DIP-switch tables.

DIP switch 1

Switch

1-1
1-2
1-3
1-4
1-5

1-6

1-7

1-8

* IBM Pro Printer II emulation.

Description

Printer mode

Draft printing speed
Character quality
Character table

(in Epson ESC/P mode)

(For setting in IBM* mode, see
table E.)

ON

IBM*

Normal

NLQ

See table A

OFF

ESC/P

High

Draft

3-10

Using the Printer

DIP switch 2

Switch

2-1

2-2

2-3

2-4

Description

Shape of zero

Input buffer enable No Yes

Auto line feed
Interface type/parity

ON

Slashed

Yes

2-5
2-6
2-7 Serial bit rate

2-8

DIP

switch

Switch

3-1
3-2

3

Description
Page lenght

3-3 Skip-over-perforation Skip

3-4

3-5

3-6
3-7

3-8

Paper memory (*)
Overlapping multi-part forms (*)

Multi-part forms with label (*)

Skip over binding

Automatic tear off

Not slashed

See table B

See table C

ON

See table D

Memory 2

Yes
Yes

Yes No

Yes

OFF

No

OFF

No skip

Memory 1

No

No

No

*

These switches are for paper memory settings.

Using the Printer

3-11

Table A (Epson ESC/P mode only)

* Available in the European version only.

PC437 is selected by all other switch combinations.

3-12

Using

the

Printer

Table B Interface type/parity

Interface/parity

Auto
interface
selection

Parallel
Serial odd parity
Serial even parity
Serial no parity

The printer waits this interval after a print job before it accepts data from
another interface.

Odd parity

for serial

No parity
for serial

Wait time: 30 sec.

Wait time: 10 sec.

Wait time: 30 sec.
Wait time: 10 sec.

2-4

OFF

OFF

OFF ON
OFF ON ON

ON OFF OFF
ON OFF ON
ON ON OFF

ON ON ON

SW

SW

2-5

OFF

OFF

Table C Serial bit rate

Bit rate

19200

9600

1200

300

SW 2-7

OFF
OFF

ON

ON

SW 2-8

OFF

ON

OFF

ON

SW

2-6

OFF

ON

OFF

Table D Page length

Page length

11 inches
12 inches

8.5 inches
70/6 inches

SW 3-l

OFF
OFF

ON
ON

Using the Printer

SW 3-2

OFF

ON

OFF

ON

3-13

Table E (IBM mode only)

Switch No.

1-4
1-5
1-6
1-7
1-8

I

Function

Automatic carriage return
Not used
80-9FH code handling
Not used
Character table

ON

No

Characters

PC865

Commands

DIP-switch functions

The different features you can control with the printer’s DIP
switches are described below.

Printer mode

When DIP switch 1-1 is on, the printer operates in IBM

ProPrinter II emulation mode. When this DIP switch is off, the
printer operates in Epson ESC/P mode. Table E shows the
functions of DIP switches l-4,1-5,1-6,1-7, and l-8 in IBM
mode. Table A shows the functions of those same DIP switches
in ESC/P mode.

OFF

Yes

PC437

I

Draft printing speed

When DIP switch l-2 is off, high-speed draft mode is selected.
When this switch is on, normal draft mode is selected. This
switch affects the printer only if DIP switch l-3 is set to draft
mode (turned off) or if draft mode is selected in your software.
In high-speed draft mode, you can print up to 560 characters
per second at 10 cpi (characters per inch). In normal draft
mode, you can print up to 420 characters per second at 10 cpi.
Normal draft mode produces characters that are more fully

formed than characters produced in high-speed draft mode.

3-14

Using the Printer

Note:

High-speed draft mode is available only for 10 cpi printing. Also,
underlining and double-width are the only print enhancements that
work in high-speed draft mode. If you use a feature such as emphasized

or

double-strike in high-speed draft mode, the printer temporarily
sloivs to normal draft speed until the feature is turned off. This allows
you to use any print enhancement with out canceling high-speed draft
mode.

Character qualify

When DIP switch l-3 is on, the printer prints in near letter
quality (NLQ)

mode. When this DIP switch is off, it prints in

draft mode.

This is NLQ printing.

This is normal draft printing.

Character table

When DIP switch l-l is off and DIP switches l-4 through 1-8

are set on and off in various combinations, you can select the
character tables available in the Epson ESC/P mode. When

DIP switch l-l is on and DIP switches l-6 or l-8 are on or off,

you can select character table settings in IBM emulation mode.
See Appendix B for complete character tables.

Shape of zero

When DIP switch 2-l is on, the printer prints slashed zeros (0).
When the DIP switch is off, the printer prints open zeros (0).
This feature is useful for clearly distinguishing between an
uppercase O and zero when printing documents such as
program lists.

Using the Printer

3-15

input buffer

The printer’s input buffer provides additional memory to free

up the computer more quickly when you print large amounts
of text or graphics. The input buffer is enabled when DIP
switch 2-2 is off. To disable the buffer, turn DIP switch 2-2 on.

Auto line feed

When DIP switch 2-3 is on, the printer adds a line feed (LF)
command to every carriage return (CR) code sent by the
application program software. When the switch is off, line
feeds occur only when the software sends line feed commands
to the printer. Since most computers and application programs
automatically add line feeds to carriage returns, you should
use this feature only if your text is printing all on one line.

Note:

If you select auto line feed but your text still prints on one line, you
need to disable the AUTO FEED XT signal. See your Epson dealer for
assistance.

Interface type/parity

You may need to change DIP switches 2-4, 2-5, and 2-6 so that
your printer and computer can communicate properly. These
three DIP switches control the interface type and parity. (You

may also need to select a different serial bit rate. See the
following section on serial bit rate.)

3-16

Using the Printer

Table B (shown earlier) has the DIP-switch settings for auto

interface selection, parallel interfaces, and for serial interfaces

with odd or no parity. When the auto interface selection is

selected, the printer determines which interface receives data
and then switches to that interface until the end of the print

job. (A print job ends when no data is received from the

selected interface for the amount of time specified by the auto
interface wait time setting.) If you don’t know what type of
interface your computer requires, check your computer
manual. Also check your computer manual to make sure your
computer and printer have the same parity setting.

Serial bit rate

Besides selecting the interface and parity, if your computer is

set up for serial communications you may also need to change
the serial bit (also known as baud) rate setting. The serial bit
rate is the rate at which the printer receives data from the

computer.
Table C (shown earlier) has the DIP-switch settings for the

printer’s four bit rate settings. Check your computer manual or

application program for the correct serial bit rate setting. Your

computer and printer should always be set to the same bit rate.

Page length

To set page lengths other than those listed in Table D (shown

earlier), see the printer commands in Appendix B. Be sure to

set the page length to match the paper you plan to use.

Using the Printer

3-17

Skip-over-perforation

When DIP switch 3-3 is on, the printer inserts a one-inch
margin between the last line printed on one page and the first
line printed on the next page. By adjusting your top-of-form
position, you can get half the margin at the bottom of one page
and half at the top of the next page. See the section on adjusting
the top-of-form position in Chapter 2. Since most application
programs insert their own top and bottom margins, you should
use this feature only if your program does not provide them.

Paper memory, overlapping multi-part forms, multi-part
forms with labels

By setting DIP switches 3-4 through 3-6, you can print on
multi-part forms that vary in thickness. See the section on
using the paper memory feature later in this chapter.

Skip over binding

When DIP switch 3-7 is on, the print head avoids the binding

area along the right and left edges of multi-part forms during
paper feeding, thus avoiding paper jams.

Automatic fear off

When DIP switch 3-8 is on, the printer automatically feeds the
paper to the printer’s tear-off edge. To adjust the tear-off
position, use the
perforation with the printer’s tear-off edge. See the section on
adjusting the automatic tear-off position in Chapter 2.

3-18

Using the Printer

MICRO FEED

buttons to align the paper’s

Using Automatic Interface Selection

Automatic interface selection lets you connect computers to
more than one interface at a time. The printer receives data
from the interfaces on a first-come, first-serve basis. Once the
printer prints the data from one interface, it becomes idle after
10 or 30 seconds, depending upon the DIP-switch setting. Then
the printer receives and prints data from the first interface that
sends data.

Note:

Do not use your built-in serial interface if you have installed an
optional serial interface card (C82305*/C82306*); the optional card
overrides the built-in interface. If the DIP switch

on

the optional card

is set to disable, you can use the built-in serial interface.

Using the Paper Memory Feature

When you use multi-part forms that overlap, or forms with

labels on them, use the paper memory feature for better print
quality. This feature achieves better print quality by
automatically adjusting the gap between the print head and
the platen based upon the type of paper set in memory.

Overlapping multi-part forms

Multi-part forms with labels

Using the Printer

3-19

Note:

The paper memory feature is available only with the front tractor.

Caution:

When using overlapping multi-part forms, do not press the

TEAR OFF, FRONT/REAR, TOP OF FORM or

reverse-feeding (bottom)

MICRO FEED

button or a
may result. To remove these forms, tear off the fresh supply at a
perforation below front tractor and press the LF/FF button
to eject the remainingforms.

Saving paper memory settings

This procedure requires setting several DIP switches. See the

section on changing DIP-switch settings earlier in this chapter.

1.

Make sure the printer is turned off.

2.

Turn DIP switch 3-4 off to save your settings for memory
number 1 or on for memory number 2.

3.

Select the page length by turning DIP switches 3-1 and 3-2

on or off as shown below.

paper jam

3-20

Page length

11 inches
12 inches

8.5 inches
70/6 inches

4.

Select the paper type by turning DIP switches 3-5 and 3-6 on

SW 3-1

OFF OFF
OFF ON

ON OFF
ON ON

SW 3-2

or off as shown below.

Using the Printer

Page type

Normal paper
Multi-part forms with labels
Overlapping multi-part forms
Overlapping multi-part forms with labels

5.

For overlapping multi-part forms without a label, hold
down both

MICRO FEED

buttons and turn on the printer.

SW 3-5

OFF OFF
OFF

ON
ON ON

SW 3-6

The printer saves the overlapping form information in the
memory area you selected. When the information is saved,
the printer beeps and is then ready to print. You have now
finished all steps for saving information on overlapping
multi-part forms without a label.

For regular and overlapping multi-part forms with a label,
hold down both
printer. The printer beeps. Press the

MICRO FEED

buttons and turn on the

LF/FF/LOAD

button to
load the forms. The printer loads and checks the forms.
When the check is finished, the printer beeps continuously
until you open the top cover in the next step.

6.

Open the printer cover.

ON

OFF

7.

Move the pointer (the point where the two lines intersect) to
the label’s upper left comer. Use the

MICRO FEED

buttons
to move the paper up or down and manually move the
print head left or right.

Using the Printer

3-21

Press the TOP OF FROM button.

8.

Move the pointer to the label’s lower right comer. Use the

9.
MICRO FEED buttons to move the paper up or down and

manually move the print head left or right.

10. Press the

11. Close the printer cover.

12. If the printer beeps one or two times, the settings were
saved. If the printer beeps ten times, the settings were not
saved. In this case, turn off the printer and repeat steps 5
through 11.

TOP OF FORM

button.

Loading paper memory settings

Make sure the printer is turned off.

1.
To recall the memory 1 setting, hold down the top

2.

FEED

button while you turn on the printer. To recall the

3-22

memory 2 setting, hold down the bottom
button while you turn on the printer.

Using the Printer

MICRO FEED

MICRO

Note:

If you don’t want to use paper memory settings 1 or 2 for a
particular job, simply hold down

the FRONT/REAR

you turn on the printer.
A one-inch skip over perforation is automatically included for

overlapping multi-part forms.

button while

Using the Printer

3-23

Chapter 4

Using the Printer

Using the Pull Tractor

Installing the pull tractor
Using the pull tractor with the front tractor
Using the pull tractor with the rear tractor
Removing the pull tractor

Optional Interface Cards

Installing an interface card

........................

Options

....................

...................

......................

...................

.........

..........

4-2
4-2

4-5
4-9
4-12

4-14
4-15

Using the Printer Options

4-1

Using the Pull Tractor

The optional pull tractor (#8309) provides optimum continuous
paper handling. The pull tractor is especially useful with
continuous multi-part forms and labels. When the pull tractor is
installed, the tear-off feature is not available. For best results, use
the pull tractor with either the printer’s front or rear built-in
tractor, as described in this section.

Installing the pull tractor

To install the pull tractor, you need a cross-head screwdriver.

Note:

If you are going to be using the pull tractor with the built-in rear tractor,

you should load paper onto the rear tractor before installing the pull
tractor. See the section on loading paper onto the rear tractor in Chapter

2.

1.

Turn off the printer and open the paper separator cover.

4-2

Using the Printer Options