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 the
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 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.
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 be
trademarks of their respective owners.
Copyright 1997 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.
T Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
T Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
T Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected
T 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 Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian InterferenceCausing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le
matériel brouilleur du Canada.
Representative:EPSON EUROPE B.V.
Address:Prof. J. H. Bavincklaan 5 1183
AT Amstelveen
The Netherlands
Declares that the Product:
Product Name:Dot Matrix Printer
Type Name:DFX-8500
Model:P970A
Conforms to the following Directive(s) and Norm(s):
Directive 89/336/EEC:
EN 55022 Class B
EN 61000-3-2
EN 61000-3-3
EN 50082-1
IEC 801-2
IEC 801-3
IEC 801-4
Directive 73/23/EEC:
EN 60950
March 1998
Y. Ishii
President of EPSON EUROPE B.V.
iii
Safety Information
Important Safety Instructions
Before using the printer, read all of these instructions to make sure
you use the printer safely and effectively. Follow all warnings and
instructions marked on the printer.
TDo not place the printer on an unstable surface or near a
radiator or heat source.
TPlace the printer on a flat surface. The printer will not operate
properly if it is tilted or at an angle.
TDo not block or cover the openings in the printer’s cabinet. Do
not insert objects through the slots.
TUse only the type of power source indicated on the printer’s
label.
TConnect all equipment to properly grounded power outlets.
Avoid using outlets on the same circuit as photocopiers or air
control systems that regularly switch on and off.
TDo not let the power cord become damaged or frayed.
TIf you use an extension cord with the printer, make sure the
total ampere rating of the devices plugged into the extension
cord does not exceed the cord’s ampere rating. Also, make sure
the total ampere rating of all devices plugged into the wall
outlet does not exceed the wall outlet’s ampere rating.
TUnplug the printer before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth
only. Do not spill liquid on the printer.
TExcept as specifically explained in this guide, do not attempt
to service the printer yourself.
iv
TUnplug the printer and refer servicing to qualified service
personnel under the following conditions:
If the power cord or plug is damaged; if liquid has entered
the printer; if the printer has been dropped or the cabinet
damaged; if the printer does not operate normally or exhibits
a distinct change in performance. Adjust only those controls
that are covered by the operating instructions.
TIf you plan to use the printer in Germany, observe the
following:
To provide adequate short-circuit protection and over-current
protection for this printer, the building installation must be
protected by a 16 Amp circuit breaker.
Bei Anschluß des Druckers an die Stromversorgung muß
sichergestellt werden, daß die Gebäudeinstallation mit einem
16 A-Überstromschalter abgesichert ist.
ENERGY STAR Compliance
As an ENERGY STAR Partner, EPSON has
determined that this product meets the
S
TAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
E
NERGY
E
The International
a voluntary partnership with the computer and office equipment
industry to promote the introduction of energy-efficient personal
computers, monitors, printers, fax machines, and copiers in an
effort to reduce air pollution caused by power generation.
NERGY STAR Office Equipment Program is
v
For United Kingdom Users
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 the rating plate
for voltage and check that the appliance voltage corresponds to the
w
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
If you have to fit a plug:
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this appliance
may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in a plug, please 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 with the Earth
symbol (G).
The blue wire must be connected to the terminal in the plug
marked with the letter N.
The brown wire must be connected to the terminal in the plug
marked with the letter L.
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.
The EPSON DFX-8500 printer is an advanced dot matrix printer
designed for business applications. The printer combines high
performance and reliability with a wide range of features,
including high speed printing and automatic paper handling.
Features
THigh speed draft mode printing of up to 1120 characters per
second (cps) at 10 characters per inch (cpi).
TBuilt-in front and rear push tractors 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.
TEight barcode fonts, as well as three bit-map fonts.
TThe ability to print on multi-part forms consisting of one
original plus up to six copies at the front tractor.
TA convenient control panel that allows direct selection of fonts.
TSupport of advanced EPSON ESC/P
2380/2381 Plus emulation.
TA printer driver and a status monitor utility that let you
change printer settings easily.
TA paper memory utility that lets you register paper
information in the printer.
®
commands and IBM
Introduction 1
®
Options
The following options are available for your printer:
TThe Pull tractor (#8309) improves the handling of heavy
multi-part forms and labels. It also enhances printing
alignment on preprinted forms.
TThe Perforation cutter (C81507
make it easier to handle continuous paper by cutting off
printed documents for you.
TInterface cards are available to supplement the printer’s
built-in serial and parallel interfaces. Chaper 6 provides
guidelines for choosing the right interface and instructions
for installing an interface card.
@
) and Paper cutter (C81500@)
How to Use This Manual
This manual provides illustrated, step-by-step instructions for
setting up and operating your printer.
Chapter 1 contains information on unpacking, setting up, and
connecting the printer. Be sure to read this chapter first.
Chapter 2 explains how to set up your software, which includes
a printer driver for Microsoft
Chapter 3 includes important information on paper handling and
printing on various types of paper.
®
Windows® operating systems.
Chapter 4 describes how to use your printer’s control panel
functions, change DIP switch settings, and use the paper memory
feature.
Chapter 5 explains how to use the EPSON Status Monitor 2 for
Windows 95.
2 Introduction
Chapter 6 explains how to use optional accessories with your
printer.
Chapter 7 provides printer maintenance and transportation
guidelines.
Chapter 8 contains troubleshooting tips. If the printer does not
operate properly or the printed results are not what you expect,
see this chapter for a list of problems and solutions.
Appendix A gives the printer’s specifications.
Appendix B lists ESC/P emulation commands and the printer’s
built-in character tables.
Appendix C explains how to contact customer support if you
need assistance.
A glossary and an index are provided at the end of this manual.
Warnings, Cautions, and Notes
This guide uses the following conventions:
Warnings must be followed to avoid bodily injury.
w
Cautions must be observed to avoid damage to your equipment.
c
Notes contain important information and useful tips on the operation
of your printer.
Introduction
3
If You Need Help
If you need assistance in setting up or using your printer, see
Appendix C for guidelines on how to get customer support.
Connecting the Printer to Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
1
Setting Up the Printer 1-1
Unpacking the Printer
Because the printer weighs approximately 29 kg (64 lbs), you
should not lift or carry it alone. Two people should carry it
by the bottom, as shown here:
1-2 Setting Up the Printer
In addition to this guide, your printer box should include two
EPSON printer driver diskettes, two Status Monitor software
diskettes, a Notice Sheet, and the following items:
power cord
printer
screwdriver
ribbon cartridge
optional connector
lock nuts
1
Note:
Depending on your printer model, the power cord may be
permanently attached to the printer. Also the shape of the power
cord plug varies depending on the country in which you bought
your printer; be sure the plug you have is right for your location.
Setting Up the Printer 1-3
You must remove all protective materials packed around and
inside your printer before you set it up and turn on the power.
Follow the directions on the Notice Sheet to remove these
materials. A screwdriver has been included for removing the
transportation screw.
Save all packing and protective materials, including the
protective locking clips on the paper tension unit and the
transportation screw, in case you need to ship the printer
in the future. It should always be transported in its original
packaging, or equivalent materials.
Caution:
There are several versions of the printer designed for different
c
voltages, and it is not possible to adjust the printer for use at
another voltage. If the label on the back of the printer does not
show the correct voltage for your country, contact your dealer.
Choosing a Place for the Printer
When selecting a place to set up your printer, be sure to follow
these guidelines:
TPlace the printer on a flat, stable surface, close enough to
the computer for the interface cable to reach it.
TLeave adequate room around the printer for easy operation
and maintenance.
TAvoid locations that are subject to direct sunlight, excessive
heat, moisture, or dust.
TUse a properly grounded electrical outlet; do not use an
adapter plug.
TPlace the printer where you can easily unplug the power
cord.
1-4
Setting Up the Printer
TAvoid electrical outlets controlled by wall switches or
automatic timers. An interruption of power can erase
information in the memory of your printer or computer.
TAvoid outlets on the same circuit as large motors or
other appliances that can cause voltage fluctuations.
TKeep the entire computer system away from potential
sources of electromagnetic interference, such as
loudspeakers or the base units of cordless telephones.
If you plan to use a printer stand, follow these guidelines:
TUse a stand that supports at least 58 kg (128 lbs).
TNever use a stand that tilts the printer. The printer should
always be kept level.
TIf you plan to load continuous paper through the bottom of
the printer, choose a stand that provides an unobstructed
paper path.
TPosition your printer’s power cord and interface cable so
they do not interfere with paper feeding. If possible, secure
the cables to a leg of the printer stand.
1
Setting Up the Printer 1-5
Installing the Ribbon Cartridge
Before installing the ribbon cartridge, make sure that the
protective packing materials have been removed and that the
power cord is not plugged into an electrical outlet. Remove the
ribbon cartridge from the box and plastic bag. Then follow
these steps:
1.Open the top cover as shown below.
Warning:
Never move the print head while the printer is turned on
w
unless instructed to 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 it.
1-6 Setting Up the Printer
2.Slide the print head to the open section of the paper bail as
shown below.
Position the print
head here.
3.Remove the separator from the middle of the ribbon
cartridge and discard it. Then detach the ribbon guide
from the cartridge (but not from the ribbon) and turn
the ribbon-tightening knob in the direction of the arrow
to take up any slack in the ribbon.
ribbon guide
1
separator
Setting Up the Printer 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 notches nearest you over the two
corresponding 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.
5.Press lightly on both sides of the cartridge to make sure
it is locked in place.
1-8 Setting Up the Printer
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.
ribbon guide
7.Slide the print head from side to side to see that it moves
smoothly and that the ribbon is not twisted or creased.
1
print head
Setting Up the Printer 1-9
8.Close the top cover.
Plugging in the Printer
1.Make sure the printer is turned off. (The “” symbol on the
power switch located on the lower right side of the printer
should be pressed down.)
2. Check the label on the back of the printer to make sure the
voltage matches that of your electrical outlet.
Caution:
If the rated voltage and your outlet voltage do not match,
c
contact your dealer for assistance. Do not plug in the
power cord.
3.If the power cord is not attached to the printer, connect the
appropriate end to the AC inlet on the printer’s rear panel.
4.Plug the power cord into a properly grounded electrical
outlet.
1-10 Setting Up the Printer
Connecting the Printer to Your Computer
Your printer has two separate interface connections:
a Centronics
compatible serial interface. If you are not sure which one is
required by your computer, check your computer manual.
Note:
Your printer has an auto interface mode function that allows you
to connect to more than one interface at a time. See “Using DIP
Switches” in Chapter 4.
®
compatible parallel interface and an RS-232C-
serial interface
parallel interface
1
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
need to use an optional interface card. See Chapter 6.
Setting Up the Printer 1-11
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