Epson FX-980 User Manual

9-Pin Dot Matrix Printer

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, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, re cording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION. The information contained herein is designed only for use with this EPSON printer. EPSON is not responsible for any use of this information as applied to other printers.

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, or (excluding the U.S.) failure to strictly comply with SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION’s operating and maintenance instructions.

SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION shall not be liable for any damages or problems arising from the use of any options or any consumable products other than those design ated as Original EPSON Products or EPSON Approved Products by SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION.

EPSON and EPSON ESC/P are registered trademarks of SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION. Microsoft, Windows, and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.

General Notice:

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

Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and

User’s Guide

Declaration of Conformity

According to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and EN 45014

Manufacturer: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION Address: 3-5, Owa 3-chome, Suwa-shi,

Nagano-ken 392-8502 Japan 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 Model: P922A

Conforms to the following Directive(s) and Norm(s):

Directive 73/23/EEC:

EN 60950

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

March 1999

H. Horiuchi President of EPSON EUROPE B.V.

Printer Parts

paper guide

cover

printer cover

edge guides

paper guide base

paper release lever

front paper guide

(closed)

paper thickness lever

serial interface

shield plate

parallel interface

control panel

tractor

knob

ribbon cartridge

paper tension unit

front paper guide (open)

front edge guides

iii

Control Panel Buttons and Lights

Font button

Selects the font. See Chapter 5.

Font lights

Indicate which font is selected.

Pitch button

Selects the font size. See Chapter 5.

Pitch lights

Indicate what font size is selected.

Tear Off/Bin button

Advances continuous paper to the tear-off

position. Feeds continuous paper backward from the

tear-off position to the top-of-form position. Selects a cut-sheet feeder bin when the cut-

sheet feeder is installed. Turns on the card mode to print on

postcards and envelopes. See Chapter 3.

Tear Off/Bin lights

when continuous paper is in the tear-

f f

off position.

when bin 1 of the optional cut-sheet

o n

feeder is selected.

when bin 2 of the optional cut-sheet

n o

feeder is selected.

when the printer is in the card mode.

n n

Pause button

Stops printing

temporarily, and resumes printing when pressed again. When pressed for 3 seconds, turns on the *micro adjust mode. To turn off, press again.

Pause light

On when the printer is

paused. Flashes when the printer

is in the *micro adjust mode.

LF/FF button

Feeds paper line by

line when pressing shortly. Ejects a single sheet

or advances continuous paper to the next top-of-form position when held down.

Paper Out light

On when no paper is

loaded in the selected paper source or paper is not loaded correctly. Flashes when paper has

not been fully ejected or a paper jam has occurred.

Operate button

Turns the printer on and off. The printer is off when the top of this button is even with the button protectors.

Load/Eject button

Loads a single sheet of

paper. Ejects a single sheet of

paper if a sheet is loaded. Loads continuous paper

from the standby position. Feeds continuous paper

backward to the standby position in micro adjust mode.

n = On f = Flashing o = Off

*Micro Adjust mode

When you hold down the Pause button for three seconds, the printer enters the micro adjust mode. In this mode, you can press the LF/FF

and Load/Eject U buttons to adjust

the top-of-form or tear-off position. See Chapter 2.

Printer Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Control Panel Buttons and Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v

Getting to Know Your Printer

Easy-to-Use Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Available Paper Paths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Printing on continuous paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Printing on single sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Ribbon Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Important Safety Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Print Head Caution Symbol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

ENERGY STAR Compliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

How To Use Your Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Warnings, Cautions, and Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Chapter 1 Setting Up the Printer

Unpacking the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Choosing a Place for the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Positioning the continuous paper supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Installing or Replacing the Ribbon Cartridge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Attaching the Paper Guide Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

Plugging in the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

Installing the Printer Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Installing the printer software in Windows 98, 95,

or NT 4.0. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18

Installing the printer software in Windows 3.1

or NT 3.5x. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

For DOS programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

vii

Chapter 2 Printing on Continuous Paper

Setting the Paper Release Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2

Setting the Paper Thickness Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4

Using the Rear Push Tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6

Loading paper onto the rear push tractor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6

Removing a printed document from the rear

push tractor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10

Using the Front Push Tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-12

Loading paper onto the front push tractor. . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-12

Removing a printed document from the front

push tractor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-17

Removing the front push tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-18

Reinstalling the tractor in the front push position. . . . . . . .2-19

Using the Tractor in the Pull Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21

Installing the tractor in the pull position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21

Loading paper onto the pull tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-23

Removing the paper from the pull tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-28

Using two tractors in a push/pull combination . . . . . . . . .2-29

Removing the pull tractor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-31

Loading Multi-Part Forms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-33

Loading Continuous Paper With Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-34

Removing continuous paper with labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-35

Switching Between Printing on Continuous Paper

and Printing on Single Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-36

Switching to printing on single sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-36

Switching to printing on continuous paper . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-37

Adjusting the Top-of-Form Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-38

Advancing the Paper to the Tear-Off Edge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 -41

Using the Tear Off/Bin button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-41

Advancing the paper to the tear-off position

automatically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-42

Adjusting the tear-off position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-42

viii

Chapter 3 Printing on Single Sheets

Using Single Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Available paper types and paper slots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Loading single-sheet multi-part forms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Loading envelopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Loading postcards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Loading Single Sheets in the Top Paper Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Loading Single Sheets in the Front Paper Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Chapter 4 Using the Printer Software

About Your Printer Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Using the Printer Driver With Windows 95 or 98 . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Accessing the printer driver from

Windows applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Accessing the printer driver from the Start menu . . . . . . . 4-5

Printer driver settings overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Using the Printer Driver With Windows 3.1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Accessing the printer driver from

Windows applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Accessing the printer driver from the Control Panel . . . . . 4 -1 1

Printer driver settings overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Using the Printer Driver With Windows NT 4.0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

Accessing the printer driver from

Windows applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

Accessing the printer driver from the Start menu . . . . . . . 4-15

Printer driver settings overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Using the Printer Driver With Windows NT 3.5x. . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18

Accessing the printer driver from

Windows applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18

Accessing the printer driver from the Control Panel . . . . . 4 -2 0

Printer driver settings overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21

Using the EPSON Remote! Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23

Installing EPSON Remote!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23

Accessing EPSON Remote! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24

Chapter 5 Changing Printer Settings From the Printer’s Control Panel

Selecting a Built-In Font. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2

About Your Printer’s Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3

Changing default settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

Chapter 6 Using EPSON Status Monitor 2

About the EPSON Status Monitor 2 Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2

Installing EPSON Status Monitor 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3

Accessing EPSON Status Monitor 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5

Checking Printer Status Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 -5

Using the EPSON Status Monitor 2 window . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5

Using the Printer Status window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-11

Making Monitoring Preference Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-12

Turning on background monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-13

Background monitoring icon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14

Chapter 7 Troubleshooting

Using the Error Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-2

Problems and Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-4

Power supply problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-5

Single-sheet paper loading or feeding problems. . . . . . . . .7-6

Continuous paper loading or feeding problems . . . . . . . . .7-8

Wrong top-of-form position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-9

Wrong tear-off position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-10

Printing or printout quality problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-11

Clearing Paper Jams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-16

Aligning Vertical Lines in Your Printout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-17

Printing a Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-18

Printing a Hex Dump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-19

Appendix A Enhancing Your Printer With Options

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2

Paper handling options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2

Optional interface cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3

Using the Optional Cut-Sheet Feeders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4

Installing the high-capacity or double-bin

cut-sheet feeder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5

Loading paper in the high-capacity cut-sheet feeder. . . . . A-7

Selecting the paper source (bin 1 or bin 2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-11

Switching between continuous paper and

single-sheet paper in the cut-sheet feeder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-12

Using the Roll Paper Holder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-13

Assembling the roll paper holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-13

Installing the roll paper holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-15

Loading roll paper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-16

Removing roll paper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-19

Installing an Interface Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-19

Appendix B Cleaning and Transporting the Printer

Cleaning the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2

Transporting the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3

Appendix C Specifications

Printer Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2

Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2

Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-4

Environmental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-4

Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-5

Paper alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-8

Printable area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-10

Safety approvals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-13

CE marking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-13

Command Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-13

EPSON ESC/P control codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-14

IBM 2380 Plus emulation control codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-18

Character Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C-19

International character sets for the Italic table. . . . . . . . . . .C-30

Glossary

Index

xii

Getting to Know Your Printer

Your EPSON® FX-980 9-pin dot matrix printer provides

high-quality printing and great performance in a compact design.

Features include:

R a variety of paper paths to suit your printing needs

R the ability to handle a wide range of paper types, including

continuous paper, multi-part forms with one original and up to six copies, labels, single sheets, envelopes, and postcards

R high-speed printing of up to 569 characters per second at

12 characters per inch

R equipped with built-in parallel and serial interface board

Your printer also comes with printer driver software, the

EPSON Status Monitor 2 utility for Microsoft

98 that lets you check the status of your printer quickly and easily,

and other software. In addition, many options are available to suit

your individual needs.

Windows® 95 or

Easy-to-Use Features

This section highlights some easy-to-use features that you’ll

find helpful.

R Use the tear-off feature

Getting to Know Your Printer

to save paper

If you load paper in the rear or front push tractor, you can use the tear-off feature to advance your continuous paper to the printer’s tear-off edge when you finish printing. Then you can easily tear off printed sheets and save paper normally lost between documents. For more information, see Chapter 2.

R Use the paper release lever to change the paper path

without removing continuous paper from the tractors.

Using the paper release lever, you can easily switch to printing on single sheets without removing the continuous paper loaded in the rear or front push tractor. You can also easily switch to printing on continuous paper on a different tractor. For more information, see Chapter 2.

Getting to Know Your Printer

paper release lever

R Use the micro adjust feature to adjust the top-of-form and

tear-off positions. (See the Glossary for explanations of the top-of-form and tear-off positions.)

The micro adjust feature allows you to move the paper forward

or backward in 1/216 inch increments so that you can make

precise adjustments to the top-of-form and tear-off positions. For

more information, see Chapter 2.

Available Paper Paths

Your printer provides a variety of paper paths for printing on

continuous and single-sheet paper. As described below, paper

can be fed into the printer from the top, front, bottom, or rear. You

can select the paper path that best suits your current printing

needs.

Getting to Know Your Printer

Printing on continuous paper

You can choose from three tractor positions (front push, rear push, and pull) and three paper entry slots (front, rear, and bottom) for continuous paper printing. This section helps you determine which paper paths and tractor positions are best for your continuous paper printing needs. See the appropriate sections in Chapter 2 for tractor installation and paper loading instructions.

Using a push tractor

If you often need to tear off sheets of continuous paper (for example, if you are printing purchase orders or sales slips), it is best to use a push tractor. This allows you to use the printer’s tearoff edge to easily tear off printed sheets of continuous paper at the perforation. Also, when continuous paper is loaded on a push tractor, you can load single sheets of paper from the paper guide without removing the continuous paper from the tractor.

There are two push tractor positions: front and rear. The tractor is installed in the front push and rear push positions when the printer is shipped. See the table below for details about the push positions and the corresponding paper-feeding paths.

Note:

R Always load multi-part forms with seven parts (one original plus

six copies) from the front or bottom slot onto the pull tractor.

R The rear push tractor cannot be removed.

Getting to Know Your Printer

Tractor position Description

To use this tractor, load paper in the rear slot. When yo u print on multi-part forms that are bound on only one side by point gluing, load them in the rear paper slot; the front push tractor cannot feed this type of form.

Note:

Because thick multi part forms require a straight paper path, load them in the front slot.

rear push

Caution:

Do not load continuous paper with labels in the rear slot ; the labels may come off their backing sheet inside the printer and cause a paper jam.

To use this tractor, load paper in the front slot. If you print on thick paper such as multi-part forms or continuous paper with labels, use the front paper slot because this paper path from this slot is almost straight. This reduces the chance of paper jams.

front push

Using a pull tractor

If you often print on thick or heavy continuous paper, such as

multi-part forms or continuous paper with labels, use a tractor in

the pull position. The pull tractor provides you with the best

paper jam prevention, and allows you to load continuous paper

from the front, rear, or bottom of the printer. However, you cannot

use the tear-off feature with the pull tractor.

Note:

If you plan to use a tractor in the pull position, you can remove the tractor

from the rear push position and reinstall it in the pull position, or you

can purchase an optional additional tractor unit (C800332) and install

it in the pull position. See Chap t er 2 for instructions.

Getting to Know Your Printer

You can use the front, bottom, or rear paper slot with the pull tractor.

Paper slot Description

If you print on thick paper such as multi-part forms or continuous paper with labels, use the front paper slot because this paper path is almost straight. This reduces the chance of paper jams.

front

The bottom paper slot has the straightest paper path, so it is the best slot to use when printing on thick paper, such as multi-part forms or continuous paper with labels.

Note:

When loading paper in the bottom slot, be sure to use a printer stand with an opening large enough for the paper to feed through it without obstruction

bottom

You can also load continuous paper from the rear pull tractor position.

Note:

Paper loaded from the rear slot results in a curved paper path, which may affect loading performance, so use the front or bottom slot whenever possible.

rear

Caution:

Do not load continuous paper with labels in the rear slot; the labels may come off their backing sheet inside the printer and cause a paper jam.

Getting to Know Your Printer

Using the push and pull tractors in combination

You can improve paper feeding and reduce paper jams by using

two tractors at the same time. This is especially helpful for

printing on continuous pre-printed forms, multi-part forms, or

labels, and for printing high-quality graphics. When using two

tractors in combination, you can load paper either in the front

paper slot both the front push tractor and the pull tractor, or in

the rear paper slot with both the rear push tractor and the pull

tractor.

Combination Description

To use the rear push tractor with the pull tractor, you need to remove the standard tractor that comes in the front push position and install it in the pull position.

Note:

Because thick multi-part forms require a straight paper path, load them in the front slot.

rear push

and pull

Caution:

Do not load continuous paper with labels onto the rear push tractor even when it is used in combin ation with the pull tractor. If you load continuous paper with labels onto the rear push/pull tractor, the labels may come off their backing sheet inside the printer and cause a paper jam.

To use the front push tractor with the pull tractor, you need to purchase the optional pull tractor (C800332) and install it in the pull position.

front push

and pull

Note:

For more information on how to u s e two tractors in a push and pull

combination, see “Using two tractors in a push/pull combination” on

page 2-29.

Getting to Know Your Printer

Printing on single sheets

As shown below, you can load single sheets from the top or the front of the printer. You can load ordinary single sheets from either position, even with continuous paper already loaded in the front or rear push tractor.

This section helps you determine which paper slot best suits your single-sheet printing needs. See Chapter 3 for paper loading instructions.

Loading paper in the top slot

You can load ordinary single sheets, single-sheet multi-part forms, envelopes, or postcards in the top slot.

Note:

Load envelopes in the top slot only.

Getting to Know Your Printer

Loading paper in the front slot

You can load ordinary single sheets, single-sheet multi-part

forms, or postcards in the front slot.

Note:

Always use the front paper slot to load glue-fastened single-sheet multi-

part forms bound at the side of the form.

Options

Your printer comes with everything necessary to print on

continuous paper and single sheets using a variety of paper paths.

By adding options, such as a cut-sheet feeder, pull tractor unit, or

roll paper holder, you can further expand your printer’s

versatility. Optional interface cards are also available to

supplement your printer’s built-in parallel interface and built-in

serial interface. For more information on options for your printer,

see Appendix A, “Enhancing Your Printer With Options”.

Getting to Know Your Printer

Ribbon Cartridge

Your printer uses the following ribbon cartridge:

EPSON black ribbon cartridge S015091

When printing becomes faint, you need to replace the ribbon cartridge. Genuine EPSON ribbon cartridges are designed and manufactured to work properly with your EPSON printer. They ensure proper operation and long life of the print head and other printer parts.

To replace a used ribbon cartridge, follow the instructions in “Installing or Replacing the Ribbon Cartridge” on page 1-6.

Important Safety Instructions

Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the printer.

R Do not place the printer on an unstable surface or near a

radiator or heat source.

R Place the printer on a flat surface. The printer will not operate

properly if it is tilted or at an angle.

R Do not block or cover the openings in the printer’s cabinet. Do

not insert objects through the slots.

R Use only the type of power source indicated on the printer’s

label.

R Connect 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.

R Do not use a damaged or frayed power cord.

Getting to Know Your Printer

R If you use an extension cord with the printer, make sure the

total ampere rating of all devices plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the cord’s ampere rating. Also, make sure the total of all devices plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed the wall outlet’s ampere rating.

R Unplug the printer before cleaning, and clean it with a damp

cloth only.

R Do not spill liquid on the printer.

R Except as specifically explained in this guide, do not attempt

to service the printer yourself.

R Unplug the printer and refer servicing to qualified

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; or 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.

R Printer parts marked with this symbol may be hot.

Turn off the printer and let it cool for a few minutes before you touch any printer part marked with this symbol.

R If you plan to use the printer in Germany, observe the

following:

To provide adequate short-circuit protection and overcurrent protection for this printer, the building installation must be protected by a 16 Amp circuit breaker.

Note for German-speaking users:

Bei Anschluß des Druckers an die Stromversorgung muß sichergestellt werden, daß die G ebäudeinstallation mit einem 16 A-Überstromschalter abgesichert ist.

Getting to Know Your Printer

Print Head Caution Symbol

The symbol on the print head indicates that this part may be hot. Never touch the print head just after the printer has been used. Let the print head cool for a few minutes before touching it.

ENERGY STAR Compliance

As an

determined that this product meets the

TAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

The International

is a voluntary partnership with the computer and office equipment industry to promote the introduction of energy-efficient personal computers, monitors, printers, fax machines, copiers, and scanners, in an effort to reduce air pollution caused by power generation.

NERGY STAR Partner, EPSON has

NERGY STAR Office Equipment program

How To Use Your Manuals

This User’s Guide provides detailed information on setting up and using your printer.

Warnings, Cautions, and Notes

This guide uses the following conventions:

Warnings

must be followed to avoid bodily injury.

NERGY

Cautions

must be observed to avo id damage to your equipment

Notes

contain important information and useful tips on the operation

of your printer.

Getting to Know Your Printer

Chapter 1

Setting Up the Printer

Unpacking the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 -2

Choosing a Place for the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 -4

Positioning the continuous paper supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 -5

Installing or Replacing the Ribbon Cartridge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Attaching the Paper Guide Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

Plugging in the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 -14

Installing the Printer Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Installing the printer software in Windows 98, 95,

or NT 4.0. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18

Installing the printer software in Windows 3.1

or NT 3.5x. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

For DOS programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 -22

Setting Up the Printer

1-1

Unpacking the Printer

Besides this guide, your printer box should include an EPSON printer software disk, a Notice Sheet, and the following items:

printer

power cord

screwdriver

paper guide base

ribbon cartridge

Note:

Depending on your printer model, the power cord may be permane ntly attached to the printer. Also, the shap e of the power cord plug varies depending on the country of purchase; be sure the plug you have is the right one for your location.

1-2

Setting Up the Printer

Caution:

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 (packed with the

printer) to remove these materials. A screwdriver has been

provided for removing the transportation screw.

Save all packing and protective materials, including the

transportation screw and the protective locking clips on the paper

tension unit, in case you need to ship the printer in the future. It

should always be transported in its original packaging or

equivalent materials.

There are several models of the printer designed for different voltages, and it is not possible to adjust the printer for use with another voltage. If the label on the back of the printer does not show the correct voltage for your country, contact your dealer.

Setting Up the Printer

1-3

Choosing a Place for the Printer

Follow the guidelines below when selecting a location for your printer.

R Place the printer on a flat, stable surface. The printer will not

operate properly if it is tilted or at an angle.

R Place the printer where you can easily connect it to a network

interface cable, if necessary.

R Leave adequate room around the printer for easy operation

and maintenance.

R Avoid using or storing the printer in places subject to rapid

changes in temperature and humidity. Keep it away from direct sunlight, strong light, heat sources, or excessive moisture or dust.

R Avoid places subject to shocks and vibrations.

R Place the printer near a wall outlet where you can easily

unplug the power cord.

R Avoid electrical outlets controlled by wall switches or

automatic timers. An interruption in power can erase information in the memory of your printer or computer. Also avoid outlets on the same circuit as large motors or other appliances that can cause voltage fluctuations.

R Keep the entire computer system away from potential sources

of electromagnetic interference, such as loudspeakers or the base units of cordless telephones.

1-4

Setting Up the Printer

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

R Make sure the paper path is clear and unobstructed before

you print on continuous paper. (See the next section.)

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

R Use a stand that supports at least 22 kg.

R Never use a stand that tilts the printer. The printer should

always be kept level.

R Position 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.

Positioning the continuous paper supply

Before using continuous paper, make sure you line up your paper

supply with the tractor feeder so the paper feeds smoothly into

the printer, as shown below.

Setting Up the Printer

1-5

Installing or Replacing the Ribbon Cartridge

EPSON recommends the use of genuine EPSON ribbon cartridges (S015091). Products not manufactured by EPSO N may cause damage to your printer not covered by warranties.

Warning:

1. Make sure the printer is turned off. The printer is off when

You will need to move the print head by hand to install or replace the ribbon cartridge. If you have just used the printer, the print head may be hot; let it cool for a few minutes before touching it.

the surface of the Operate button is even with the button protectors as shown.

Caution:

2. If the printer is connected to an electrical outlet, unplug it from the outlet.

1-6

Setting Up the Printer

Moving the print head while the printer is on may damage the printer.

3. Lift the printer cover by its back edge and then pull it straight up and off.

4. Make sure that the print head is not hot; if it is, let it cool for a few minutes before touching it. Then slide the print head to the ribbon installation position (the indented portion of the paper tension unit) by hand.

Note:

When the pull tractor is installed, you can replace the ribbon cartridge when the print h e ad is not in the ribbon installation position.

Setting Up the Printer

1-7

5. If a used ribbon cartridge is installed, grasp it the cartridge and pull it slightly forward and up; the ribbon guide snaps away from the metal pins behind the print head. Properly dispose of the used ribbon cartridge.

ribbon guide

6. Remove the new ribbon cartridge from the package. Then remove the separator from the middle of the ribbon cartridge and discard the separator. Turn the ribbon-tightening knob in the direction of the arrow to remove any slack in the ribbon.

1-8

separator

ribbon-tightening knob

Setting Up the Printer

7. Hold the cartridge with the ribbon-tightening knob up. Fit the two front notches of the ribbon cartridge over the small pegs on each side of the printer as shown below. Then lay the cartridge flat.

8. Make sure that the two rear notches of the cartridge fit over the small pegs on each side of the printer. Then gently press down the cartridge until both ends click into place.

Setting Up the Printer

1-9

9. Lift the cartridge’s ribbon guide ({) and insert it firmly over the metal pins behind the print head (|). Make sure the ribbon is not twisted or creased and that it is in place behind the print head. Then press down the guide until it clicks into place.

ribbon guide

ribbon-tightening knob

10. Turn the ribbon-tightening knob in the direction of the arrow to remove any slack in the ribbon as shown in step 9. Then slide the print head from side to side to make sure it moves smoothly.

1-10

Setting Up the Printer

11. Replace the printer cover by first inserting the front tabs into the slots on the printer and then lowering the cover into place. Push it down until it clicks.

Setting Up the Printer

1-11

Attaching the Paper Guide Base

To install the paper guide base follow these steps:

1. Make sure the paper guide cover is open as shown below. Attach the paper guide base by sliding the slots on the bottom over the pegs located behind the paper tension unit, then tilt the guide back until it stops.

paper guide cover

paper tension unit

1-12

Caution:

Make sure to slide the slots on the bottom of the paper guide over the pegs located behind the paper tens ion unit on each side of the printer.

Setting Up the Printer

2. Close the paper guide cover.

Plugging in the Printer

1. Make sure the printer is turned off. The printer is off when

the surface of the Operate button is even with the button protectors as shown below.

Setting Up the Printer

1-13

2. Check the label on the back of the printer to make sure its voltage matches that of your electrical outlet. Also make sure the plug on your printer’s power cord matches your electrical outlet.

Warning:

3. If the power cord is not attached to the printer, plug the

4. Plug the power cord into a properly grounded electrica l

It is not possible to change the printer’s voltage. If the rated voltage and your outlet voltage do not match, contact your dealer for assistance. Do not plug in the power cord.

appropriate end into the AC inlet on the back of the printer.

outlet.

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

Your printer has three separate interface connections: an IEEE1284 compatible parallel interface, an EIA-232D serial interface and Type B optional interface. See page A-3 for more information.

If your computer requires a different type of printer interface, you should be able to use one of the optional interfaces described on page A-3.

Follow the steps below to connect the printer to your computer using a parallel or serial interface connector, or a ground wire connector.

1. Make sure both the printer and computer are turned off. The printer is off when the surface of the Operate button is even with the button protectors.

2. Plug the cable connector securely into the printer’s interface connector as shown.

1-14

Setting Up the Printer

Parallel interface

Plug the cable connector securely into the parallel interface connector.

parallel interface connector

Squeeze the wire clips together until they lock in place on both sides of the connector.

Setting Up the Printer

1-15

Serial interface

Plug the cable connector securely into the serial interface connector.

serial interface connector

Tighten the screws on the both sides of the connector.

1-16

Setting Up the Printer

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

4. Plug the other end of the cable into the computer.

After you connect the printer to your computer, install the printer software as described in the next section.

Installing the Printer Software

After you connect the printer to your computer, you need to install the software included on the EPSON printer software CDROM shipped with your printer.

Your printer software includes:

R Printer driver

The printer driver is the software that runs, or "drives," your printer. With it, you can make printer settings such as print quality, resolution, and paper size.

R EPSON Status Monitor 2 (Windows 95 or 98 only)

The EPSON Status Monitor 2 notifies you of printer errors and displays printer status information.

Setting Up the Printer

1-17

R EPSON Remote! (a DOS-based printer setup utility)

The EPSON Remote! utility allows you to easily change the printer’s default settings from the computer screen. To use the EPSON Remote! utility with DOS, see page 4-23.

To install the printer software, see "Installing the printer software in Windows 98, 95, or NT 4.0" or "Installing the printer software in Windows 3.1 or NT 3.5x" in this section. If you are using DOS, see “For DOS programs” on page 1-22.

Installing the printer software in Windows 98, 95, or NT 4.0

If you're using Windows 95 or 98, there are two ways to install the printerdriver: via Plug & Play or via the cd-rom-player.

Plug & Play

This function allows you to install hardware and software components such as printers and printerdrivers. This functionality represents an extension which has not or not yet been integrated into other Microsoft operating systems.

In order to provide a uniform installation procedure for Epson printerdrivers under the various Microsoft operating systems Epson has developed a specific program which simplifies the installation of printerdrivers and other software programs, guaranteeing an easy setup and configuration of your printer. The various steps in the program are detailed below. It is advisable not to use the Windows 95 and 98 Plug-and-Play function.

1-18

Setting Up the Printer

Installing the printerdriver using the EPSON installation program

The installation program is on the cd-rom that came with the printer. EPSON recommends the use of the program for the printerdriver installation.

Note:

If you're installing the printerdriver in a Windows NT 4.0 environment, you may need certain network rights. See your network administrator for more information.

Follow these steps to install the printerdriver:

1. Make sure that the printer and computer are switched off.

2. Switch the PC on. Windows starts automatically.

3. Insert the CD-ROM containing the printer software into the CD-ROM drive. The AutoPlay function of the CD-ROM drive automatically starts the installation program on the CD-ROM.

Note:

If your system does not have a CD-ROM drive, you can make a floppy disk version from which to install the printer software.

If the installation program does not start automatically, click on Start and then on Run. In the Run dialog box, enter the command E:\START and click on the OK button.

Note:

If your CD-ROM drive has a drive letter other than "E", substitute the appropriate letter.

The installation program starts. The subsequent procedure is menu-driven, i.e., you can select the relevant options from a list simply by clicking with the mouse. The remainder of the installation is automatic and you do not need to enter any more information.

Setting Up the Printer

1-19

4. Select te desired options and follow the on-screen instructions.

Note:

R EPSON Status Monitor 2 installation starts automatically.

Click Cancel want to install it later, see “Installing EPSO N Status Monitor 2” on page 6-3.

R If you install EPSON Stat us Monitor 2, you need to reboot your

computer.

R Installation time varies depending on your computer.

5. After the printer software has been successfully installed, click on the button identified by a door icon to exit the installation program.

if you don’t want to install this utility. If you

Installing the printer software in Windows 3.1 or NT 3.5x

Note:

If you're installing the printerdriver in a Windows NT 4.0 environment, you may need certain network rights. See your network administrator for more information.

Follow these steps to install the printerdriver:

1. Make sure Windows is running and the Program Manager window is open.

2. Insert the EPSON printer software CD shipped with your printer in the CD-ROM drive.

Note:

If your system does not have a CD-ROM drive, you can make a floppy disk version from which to in stall the printer software.

3. From the File menu, choose Run.

1-20

Setting Up the Printer

4. In the Command Line box, type E:\START and click OK.

Note:

If your CD-ROM drive has a drive letter other than “E”, substitute the appropriate letter.

5. Select the desired options and follow the on-screen instructions.

6. After the printer software has been successfully installed, click on the button identified by a door icon to exit the installation program.

The installation program automatically selects this printer as the default printer for Windows applications. To change this setting, open the Printer dialog box in the Main window.

Setting Up the Printer

1-21

For DOS programs

To control the printer from DOS application programs, you must select the printer you are using or another available printer from the printer list of your application.

Choose the EPSON FX-980 printer at the appropriate step in the setup or installation procedure. If the list in your application does not include the FX-980 printer, choose the first available printer from this list:

FX-880 FX-870 FX-850 FX-800 FX-85 FX-80+ FX-80

If none of these printers is listed, choose the first one available from the following:

FX LX RX MX EPSON printer Standard printer Draft Printer ASCII printer

Note:

If your application does not list a suitable alternative, contact the software manufacturer to see if an update is available.

1-22

Setting Up the Printer

Chapter 2

Printing on Continuous Paper

Setting the Paper Release Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Setting the Paper Thickness Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Using the Rear Push Tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Loading paper onto the rear push tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Removing a printed document from

the rear push tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Using the Front Push Tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Loading paper onto the front push tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Removing a printed document from

the front push tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Removing the front push tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18

Reinstalling the tractor in the front push position . . . . . . . 2-19

Using the Tractor in the Pull Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Installing the tractor in the pull position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Loading paper onto the pull tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23

Removing the paper from the pull tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28

Using two tractors in a push/pull combination . . . . . . . . 2-29

Removing the pull tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31

Loading Multi-Part Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33

Loading Continuous Paper With Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34

Removing continuous paper with labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

Switching Between Printing on Continuous Paper

and Printing on Single Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

Switching to printing on single sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

Switching to printing on continuous paper . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37

Adjusting the Top-of-Form Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-38

Advancing the Paper to the Tear-Off Edge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-41

Using the Tear Off/Bin button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-41

Advancing the paper to the tear-off position

automatically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-42

Adjusting the tear-off position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-42

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-1

Setting the Paper Release Lever

You can load continuous paper in the printer from several paper sources, including the rear push tractor or the front push tractor. Use the paper release lever to indicate the paper source you want to use, as described in the table below.

Note:

To decide which paper source and paper path best suits your printing needs, see “Available Paper Paths” on page 3.

paper release lever

The table below describes each paper release lever position.

2-2

Paper release lever position

Printing on Continuous Paper

Description

Single-sheet position

For loading single-sheet paper from the top or front slot. For information on loading single sheets, see Chapter 3.

Paper release lever position

Description

Rear push tractor position

For loading continuous paper from the tractor installed in the rear push position. Also set the lever to this position when using the rear push and pull tractors in combination.

Front push tractor position

For loading continuous paper from the tractor installed in the front push position. Also set the lever to this position when using the front push and pull tractors in combination.

Pull tractor position

For loading continuous paper from the tractor installed on top of the printer in the pull position. When the tractor is in the pull position, you can load paper in the front, rear, or bottom slot.

Note:

You can load two different types of continuous paper onto the front and

rear push tractors, and easily switch between them using the paper

release lever. Before moving the p a per release lever, always press the

Load/Eject button to feed the paper in the paper path backward to the

standby position.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-3

Setting the Paper Thickness Lever

Setting the paper thickness lever allows the printer to accommodate various thicknesses of paper. The paper thickness lever is located under the printer cover. You can select one of nine positions identified by the scale next to the lever.

paper thickness lever

Use the following table to set the paper thickness lever to match the thickness of your paper.

2-4

Paper type* Lever

Ordinary (single sheets or continuous paper) 0 Thin paper -1 or 0 Carbonless multipart forms with:**

2 parts (original + 1 copy) 3 parts (original + 2 copies) 4 parts (original + 3 copies) 5 parts (original + 4 copies) 6 parts (original + 5 copies) 7 parts (original + 6 copies)****

Continuous paper with labels*** 2 Postcard 3 Envelopes 4 or 5

position

1 3 4 5 6 6

Printing on Continuous Paper

* See Appendix C for complete paper specifications.

** It is recommended that multi-part forms be used in the front push or

pull position.

*** Continuous paper with labels cannot be used with the rear push tractor.

To use them, install the optional tractor unit in the front push or pull position.

**** Always load multi-part forms with 7 parts (one original plus 6 copies)

from the front or bottom slot onto the pull tractor.

Note:

R If the printed image is smeared, you may need to set the paper

thickness lever one position higher to improve print quality.

R If the printed ima ge is fa in t o r has many ga ps , you ma y ne ed t o s et

the paper thickness lever one position lower to improve print quality.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-5

Using the Rear Push Tractor

To use the rear push tractor, load continuous paper in the rear slot. For information on when to use the rear push tractor, see “Available Paper Paths” on page 3.

Note:

The tractors are installed in the front push and rear push positions when the printer is shipped. The rear push tractor cannot be removed.

Loading paper onto the rear push tractor

If a tractor is installed in the pull position, you need to remove it and install the paper tension unit as described on page 2-32 before using the rear push tractor.

Note:

To avoid paper jams, it is best to load thick multi-part forms using the front or bottom slot and the pull or front push tractor.

Caution:

Do not load continuous paper with labels in the rear paper slot; the labels may come off their backing s heet inside the printe r and cause a paper jam.

To load paper onto the rear push tractor, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the printer is turned off.

2-6

Printing on Continuous Paper

2. Open the paper guide cover and remove the paper guide base by holding the both edges and lifting it up.

3. Set the paper release lever to the rear push tractor position. Set the paper thickness lever (located under the printer cover) to the proper position for your paper’s thickness.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-7

4. Release the left and right sprockets by pulling the sprocket lock levers forward.

front of the printer

5. Slide the left sprocket to the left margin of the paper using the scale on the printer. (Printing starts at the “0” mark.) Then push the lever back to lock it in place.

front of the printer

Note:

See “Paper alignment” an d “Printable area” in Appendix C for more information on the left margin position.

6. Slide the right sprocket to match the width of your paper, but do not lock it. Move the paper support midway between the two sprockets as shown above.

2-8

Printing on Continuous Paper

7. Make sure your paper has a clean, straight edge. Then open both sprocket covers and fit the first three holes of the paper, printable side down, over the tractor pins. Then close the sprocket covers.

front of the printer

8. Slide the right sprocket to remove any slack in the paper; then lock it in place by pushing the sprocket lock down.

9. Attach the paper guide base as described on page 1-12. After installing the paper guide, grab the center section of the paper guide, lift it up and lay it flat.

10. Slide the edge guides to the middle of the paper guide base. Then close the paper guide cover.

Note:

The printer cannot print when the cover is open.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-9

11. Turn on the printer. You may need to check and change the printer driver settings as described in Chapter 4. When the printer receives data, it automatically loads the paper and starts printing. The printed pages are fed over the paper guide toward the back of the printer.

12. After you finish printing, follow the steps in the next section to tear off your printed document. If the first printed line on your page appears too high or low, you can change its position by using the micro adjust feature. See “Adjusting the Top-ofForm Position” on page 2-38.

Caution:

Never use the knob to adjust the top-of-form position; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the top- of-form position.

Removing a printed document from the rear push tractor

To remove the printed document, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the Tear Off/Bin lights are flashing. (This indicates your paper is at the current tear-off position.) You may need to press the Tear Off/Bin button.

2-10

Printing on Continuous Paper

2. Open the paper guide cover, and tear off the printed document using the tear-off edge of the printer.

Note:

If your paper’s perforation is not properly aligned with the tear-off edge, you can adjust the tear-off position using the micro adjust feature. See “Adjusting the tear-off position” on page 2-42.

Caution:

Never use the knob to adjust the tear-off p osition; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the tear-off position.

3. Close the paper guide cover.

When you resume printing, the printer automatically feeds the paper back to the top-of-form position and starts printing.

To feed continuous paper to the standby position where you can remove the paper, press the Load/Eject button. (See the Glossary for an explanation of the standby position.) Then open the sprocket covers of the tractor and remove the paper.

Caution:

Always tear off your printed document before you press the Load/

button. Reverse feeding several pages at a time may cause

Eject

a paper jam.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-11

Using the Front Push Tractor

To use the front push tractor, load continuous paper in the front slot. For more information on when to use the front push tractor, see “Available Paper Paths” on page 3.

Note:

The tractors are installed in the front push and rear push positions when the printer is shipped. The rear tractor c annot be removed.

If a tractor is not installed in the front push position, go to “Reinstalling the tractor in the front push position” on page 2-19.

Loading paper onto the front push tractor

To load paper onto the front push tractor, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the printer is turned off.

2. Open the front paper guide by pulling the tab at the center of the guide. Then remove the guide by grasping both sid es and pulling it straight out of the printer. Check that the tractor is installed in the front push position.

2-12

Printing on Continuous Paper

3. Set the paper release lever to the front push tractor position. Also set the paper thickness lever (located under the printer cover) to the proper position for your paper’s thickness.

4. Release the left and right sprockets by pushing the sprocket lock levers backward.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-13

5. Slide the left sprocket to the left margin of your pa per using the arrow mark inside the printer. (Printing starts at the arrow mark.) Then pull the lever forward to lock it in place.

Note:

See “Paper alignment” an d “Printable area” in Appendix C for more information on the left margin position.

6. Slide the right sprocket to match the width of your paper, but do not lock it. Move the paper support midway between the two sprockets as shown above.

2-14

Printing on Continuous Paper

7. Make sure your paper has a clean, straight edge. Then open both sprocket covers and fit the first three holes on each side of the paper, printable side up, over the tractor pins. Then close the sprocket covers.

8. Slide the right sprocket to remove any slack in the paper; then lock it in place by pushing the sprocket lock down.

9. Attach the front paper guide by sliding it along the printer’s mounting slots as shown below. Then close the front paper guide.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-15

10. Slide the edge guides to the middle of the top pape r g uide base. Lift the center section of the paper guide base up and lay it flat. Make sure that the printer cover and the paper guide cover are closed.

Note:

The printer cannot print when the printer cover is open.

12. After you finish printing, follow the steps in the next section to tear off your printed document.

2-16

Printing on Continuous Paper

If the first line on your page appears too high or low, you can change its position by using the micro adjust feature. See “Adjusting the Top-of-Form Position” on page 2-38.

Caution:

Removing a printed document from the front push tractor

To remove the printed document, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the Tear/Off Bin lights are flashing. (This indicates

2. Open the paper guide cover, and tear off the printed

Never use the knob to adjust the top-of-form position; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the top- of-form position.

your paper is at the current tear-off position.) You may need to press the Tear Off/Bin button.

document using the tear-off edge of the printer.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-17

Note:

Caution:

3. Close the paper guide cover.

When you resume printing, the printer automatically feeds the paper back to the top-of-form position and starts printing.

To remove the remaining paper from the printer, press the Load/

Eject

(See the Glossary for an explanation of the standby position.) Then open the sprocket covers of the tractor and remove the paper.

Never use the knob to adjust the tear-off position ; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the tear-off position.

button to feed the paper backward to the standby position.

Caution:

Always tear off your printed document before you press the Load/ Eject

button. Reverse feeding several pages at a time may cause

a paper jam.

Removing the front push tractor

To remove the tractor from the front push position, follow these steps:

1. Remove any paper from the tractor as described in the previous section.

2. Turn off the printer.

3. Open the front paper guide by pulling the tab at the center of the guide. Then remove the guide by grasping both sides and pulling it straight out of the printer.

2-18

Printing on Continuous Paper

4. Press the tractor’s lock tabs, tilt the tractor up, and lift it out of the printer.

5. Replace the front paper guide by sliding it along the printer’s mounting slots until it locks in place. Then close the front paper guide.

Reinstalling the tractor in the front push position

If a tractor is installed in the pull position, you need to remove it and install the paper tension unit as described on page 2-32 before using the front push tractor.

To reinstall the tractor in the front push position, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the printer is turned off.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-19

2. Open the front paper guide by pulling the tab at the center of the guide. Then remove the guide by grasping both sid es and pulling it straight out of the printer.

tab

3. Insert the tractor into the printer’s mounting slots and press down both ends of the tractor to make sure that it is firmly seated.

You are now ready to load continuous paper onto the front push tractor as described in the next section. To remove the tractor, see “Removing the front push tractor” on page 2-18.

2-20

Printing on Continuous Paper

Using the Tractor in the Pull Position

Using the tractor in the pull position is ideal for printing on thick and heavy continuous paper, such as multi-part forms or continuous paper with labels. However, you cannot use the tearoff feature with the pull tractor.

Because thick paper requires a straight paper path to avoid paper jams, you should load paper in the front or bottom slot when using the pull tractor.

Caution:

To further reduce the chance of paper jams and improve the performance of continuous paper, you can use two tractors in combination. When using this printing method, load the paper onto both the front push tractor and the pull tractor, or both the rear push tractor and the pull tractor. See “Using two tractors in a push/pull combination” on page 2-29.

Do not load continuous paper with labels in the rear paper slot; the labels may come off thei r backing sheet inside the printe r and cause a paper jam.

Installing the tractor in the pull position

To install a tractor in the pull position, you must either remove the front push tractor or purchase the optional pull tractor (C80033 front push tractor” on page 2-18.

Note:

The tractor in the rear push position cannot be removed.

To install a tractor in the pull position, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the printer is turned off. Then lift the printer cover

2).

To remove the front push tractor, see “Removing the

up and off the printer.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-21

2. Push up the tabs on each side of the paper tension unit and lift the unit up and off the printer. Store the paper tension unit in a safe place.

3. Lower the tractor into the printer’s mounting slots and press down both ends of the tractor to make sure that it is firmly seated.

2-22

Printing on Continuous Paper

You are now ready to load continuous paper onto the pull tractor as described in the next section. To remove the pull tractor, see “Removing the pull tractor” on page 2-31.

Loading paper onto the pull tractor

When using the pull tractor, load continuous paper in the front or bottom slot, if possible; loading paper in the rear slot may increase the chance of a paper jam.

Caution:

To load paper onto the pull tractor, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the printer is turned off, and the printer cover is

2. Slide the edge guides to the middle of the paper guide. Lift

3. Set the paper release lever to the pull tractor position. Set the

Do not load continuous paper with labels in the rear paper slot; the labels may come off thei r backing sheet inside the printe r and cause a paper jam.

removed. Also check that the tractor is installed in the pull position.

the center section of the paper guide up and lay it flat.

paper thickness lever to the proper position for your paper’s thickness.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-23

4. Release the left and right sprockets by pulling the sprocket lock levers forward.

5. Slide the left sprocket to the left margin of the paper using the scale on the paper guide as a guide. (Printing starts at the arrow mark.) Then push the lever back to lock it in place.

Note:

See Appendix C, “Paper alignment” and “Printable area” for more information on the left margin position.

6. Slide the right sprocket to match the width of your paper, but do not lock it. Move the paper support midway between the two sprockets as shown above.

2-24

Printing on Continuous Paper

7. Make sure your paper has a clean, straight edge. Then open both sprocket covers.

8. Insert the paper into the front, bottom, or rear paper slot as described below until it emerges between the platen and the ribbon guide. Then pull up the paper until the perforation between the first and second pages is even with the top of the printer’s ribbon.

Before you load paper in the front slot, remove the front paper guide. Then load paper printable side up.

Load paper in the bottom slot printable side up (forward).

Before you load paper in the rear slot, remove the paper guide base. Then load paper in the rear slot, printable side down and attach the paper guide base.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-25

9. Fit three holes on each side of the paper over the tractor pins on both sprockets. Then close the sprocket covers.

10. Slide the right sprocket to remove any slack in the paper, then lock it in place by pushing the sprocket lock down.

11. If you use the front slot, attach the front paper guide with the continuous paper positioned as shown below. Then close it.

12. If you use the rear slot, replace the paper guide base and make sure the edge guides are together in the middle of the paper guide base and lift the center section of the paper guide base up and lay it flat.

13. Turn on the printer.

14. Remove any slack in the paper and adjust the top-of-form position (the position where the printer will start printing) by pressing the LF/FF button or using the micro adjust featu re. (To use the micro adjust feature, see “Adjusting the Top-ofForm Position”.) The printer will start printing at the current position without advancing the paper.

2-26

Printing on Continuous Paper

Caution:

R Never use the knob to remove slack in the paper or to

adjust the top-of-form position; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the top-of-form position.

R Always remove any slack from the paper; otherwise print

quality may be reduced.

15. Attach the printer cover and close the paper guide cove r.

Note:

The printer cannot print when the printer cover is open.

16. You may need to check and change the printer driver settings as described in Chapter 4. Then send a print job to the printer. The printer starts printing from the current position without advancing the paper. The printed pages are fed over the paper guide toward the back of the printer.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-27

17. After you finish printing, open the paper guide cover; then tear off the printed document at the perforation nearest the paper exit slot.

Removing the paper from the pull tractor

1. After you finish printing, tear off the supply of paper at the perforation nearest the paper entry slot.

2. To eject the paper, hold down the LF/FF button.

2-28

Printing on Continuous Paper

Using two tractors in a push/pull combination

To improve continuous paper feeding and reduce paper jams, you can use two tractors at the same time. When using two tractors in combination, you can load paper in the front paper slot onto both the front push tractor and the pull tractor, or in the rear paper slot onto both the rear push tractor and the pull tractor.

To use the front push tractor with the pull tractor, you need to purchase the optional pull tractor (C800332). The tractor in the rear push position cannot be removed. Install the optional pull tractor as described in “Installing the tractor in the pull position” on page 2-21.

To use the rear push tractor with the pull tractor, you can remove the tractor from the front push position as described on page 2-18 and install it in the pull position as described on page 2-21.

Note:

The tractor in the rear push position cannot be removed.

To load paper onto two tractors, follow these steps:

1. Remove the printer cover and paper guide base.

2. Make sure one tractor is in the front or rear push position and one tractor is in the pull position as described earlier in this chapter.

3. Set the paper release lever to either the front push or rear push tractor position, depending on which push tractor you are using. Set the paper thickness lever to the proper position for your paper’s thickness.

4. Load continuous paper onto the front or rear push tractor as described earlier in this chapter.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-29

5. Turn on the printer. Press the Load/Eject button to advance the paper to the top-of-form position. Then press the LF/FF button until the perforation between the first and second page is even with the top of the printer’s ribbon.

Caution:

6. Load the paper onto the pull tractor’s sprockets as described in “Loading paper onto the pull tractor” on page 2-23.

7. Set the paper release lever to the pull tractor position. Then remove any slack in the paper between the push and pull tractors using the micro adjust feature (described on “Adjusting the Top-of-Form Position” on page 2-38) if necessary.

8. Move the paper release lever back to the push tractor position you set in step 2.

9. When the printer receives data, it will start printing at the current position without advancing the paper. If necessary, follow the steps in “Adjusting the Top-of-Form Position” on page 2-38 to adjust the current position of the paper.

Never use the knob to move the paper; this may damage t he printer or cause it to lose the top-of-form position.

Caution

10. Attach the paper guide base. Then slide the edge guides to the middle of the paper guide. Lift the center section of the paper guide up and lay it flat.

2-30

Printing on Continuous Paper

R Never use the knob to remove slack in the paper or to

adjust the top-of-form position; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the top-of-form position.

R Always remove any slack from the paper; otherwise print

quality may be reduced.

11. Attach the printer cover and close the paper guide cove r.

Note:

The printer cannot print when the printer cover is open.

12. You may need to check and change the printer driver settings as described in Chapter 4. Then send a print job to the printer. The printer starts printing from the current position without advancing the paper. The printed pages are fed over the paper guide toward the back of the printer.

13. After you finish printing, open the paper guide cover; then tear off the printed document at the perforation nearest the paper exit slot.

To remove the paper from the tractors, follow the steps under “Removing the paper from the pull tractor” on page 2-28.

Removing the pull tractor

To remove the tractor from the pull position, follow these steps:

1. Remove any paper loaded on the pull tractor as described on page 2-28.

2. Turn off the printer. Then remove the printer cover and lift the paper guide up and off the printer.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-31

3. Press the tractor’s lock tabs, tilt the tractor toward you, and lift it off the printer.

4. Store the tractor in a safe place, or install it in the front push position as described on page 2-12.

5. To replace the paper tension unit, lower it onto the printer’s mounting pegs. Then press down both ends of the unit until it clicks into place.

2-32

Printing on Continuous Paper

6. Replace the paper guide base and the printer cover. Then close the paper guide cover.

Loading Multi-Part Forms

You can use carbonless multi-part forms of up to seven parts (six copies in addition to the original). Make sure you set the paper thickness lever to the proper position based on the number of layers in your form.

For best results with thick paper, such as multi-part forms, select a straight or almost straight paper path. It is best to load multipart forms using:

R the front slot and the front push tractor

R the front or bottom slot and the pull tractor

Except for setting the paper thickness lever, you load multi-part forms the same way you load ordinary continuou s paper. For details, see the sections on loading continuous paper earlier in this chapter.

Note:

R Be sure your multi-part fo rms do not exceed 0.46 mm (0.018 inches)

in thickness for the printable area and 0.9 mm (0.035 inches) for the perforated edges.

R Use multi-part forms only under normal temperature and humidity

conditions, as follows:

Temperature 15 to 25 Humidity 30 to 60% RH

R Do not load paper that is damaged, curled, or wrinkled.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-33

Loading Continuous Paper With Labels

When printing on labels, use only the type of labels that are mounted on continuous backing sheets with sprocket holes for use with a tractor feeder. Do not try to print on single sheets with labels because the printer may not feed labels on a shiny backing sheet properly.

Thick paper, such as continuous paper with labels, requires a straight or almost straight paper path. You can load labels in the front (push tractor or pull tractor) or bottom (pull tractor) paper slot; however, for best results, use the tractor in the pull position and load paper in the front or bottom paper slot.

You load labels the same way you load ordinary continuous paper, except you must set the paper thickness lever to 2 before printing on labels. See “Loading paper onto the pull tractor” on page 2-23 for more information.

Caution:

R Do not load continuous paper with labels in the rear paper

slot because the paper path from the rear slot is curved; labels may come off their backing sheet insi de the printer and cause a paper jam.

R Never use the tear-off feature (by pressing the Tear Off/Bin

button or turning on the auto tear-off mode as described in “About Your Printer’s Default Settings” in Chapter 5) to feed continuous paper with labels backward; they may come off their backing sheet and jam the printer.

R Because labels are sensitive to temperature and humidity, use

them only under normal operating conditions, as follows:

Temperature 15 to 25 Humidity 30 to 60% RH

R Do not load continuous paper with labels that is damaged,

curled, or wrinkled.

R Do not leave labels loaded in the printer b etween jobs; they

may curl around the platen and jam when you resume printing.

2-34

Printing on Continuous Paper

Removing continuous paper with labels

To avoid peeling labels off the backing sheet and jamming the printer, follow the steps below when you remove continuous paper with labels from the printer.

1. Tear off the supply of continuous la bels at the perforation nearest the paper entry slot.

2. Hold down the LF/FF button to eject the remaining labels from the printer.

Caution:

Never press the Load/Eject or Tear Off/Bin button. When fed backward, labels can easily come off the backi ng sheet and caus e a paper jam.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-35

Switching Between Printing on Continuous Paper and Printing on Single Sheets

You can easily switch back and forth between printing on continuous paper with a push tractor and printing on single sheets without having to remove or reload the continuous paper.

Switching to printing on single sheets

To switch from printing on continuous paper with the rear or front push tractor to printing on single sheets, follow these steps:

Note:

R If continuous paper with labels is load ed in the printer, remove it

before switching to single-sheet printing. See “Removing continuous paper with labels” on page 2-35.

R If a tractor is in the pull position, remove any continuous paper from

it before switching to single-sheet printing. See “Removing th e paper from the pull tractor” on page 2-28.

1. If any printed pages remain in the printer, press the Tear Off/ Bin button to advance the paper to the tear-off position. Then

tear off the printed pages.

2-36

Caution:

Printing on Continuous Paper

R Tear off your printed document before you press the

Load/Eject button in the next step. Reverse feeding several pages at a time may cause a paper jam.

R Never use the knob to eject paper while the printer is on;

this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the tearoff position.

2. Press the Load/Eject button to feed the continuous paper

backward to the standby position. The paper is still attached to the push tractor but is no longer in the paper path.

3. Load single sheets in the top or front paper guide as described in Chapter 3.

Switching to printing on continuous paper

To switch from printing on single sheets to printing on continuous paper with the front or rear push tractor, follow these steps:

1. If a single sheet remains in the printer, press the Load/Eject button to eject it.

Caution:

2. Make sure that the tractor is installed in the front or rear push position. To install the tractor in the front position, see “Reinstalling the tractor in the front push position” on page 2-19.

Never use the knob to eject paper while the printer is on; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the top-of-form position.

3. Load continuous paper onto the front or rear push tractor as described earlier in this chapter.

The printer loads your continuous paper automatically when you begin printing.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-37

Adjusting the Top-of-Form Position

The top-of-form position is the position on the page where the printer starts printing. If your printing appears too high or low on the page, you can use the micro adjust feature to adjust the topof-form position. Follow these steps:

Caution:

Note:

R Your top-of-form position setting remains i n effect until you change

R The top margin setting made in some application software overrides

1. Make sure the printer is turned on.

2. If necessary, load paper as described earlier in this chapter. If

Never use the knob to adjust the top-of-form position; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the top- of-form position.

it, even if you turn off the printer.

the top-of-form position setting you make with the micro adjust feature. If necessary, adjust the top-of-form position in your software.

you load paper onto a push tractor, press the Load/Eject button to advance the paper to the current top-of-form position.

3. Lift the printer cover up and off the printer.

4. Hold down the Pause button for about three seconds. The

Pause light starts flashing and the printer enters the micro adjust mode.

2-38

Printing on Continuous Paper

5. Press the LF/FF on the page, or press the Load/Eject top-of-form position down on the page.

button to move the top-of-form position up

U button to move the

Caution

Note:

R The printer has a minimum and a maximum top-of-form

Never use the knob to adjust the top-of-form position; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the top-of-form position.

plastic ribbon cover

position. If you try to adjust it beyond these limits, the printer beeps and stops moving the paper.

R When the paper reaches the default top-of-form position, the

printer also beeps and stops movi ng the pape r brie fly. You can use the default setting as a reference point when adjusting the top-of-form position.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-39

To adjust the top-of-form position for continuous paper loaded on the pull tractor, see the following example:

First mark a point 6.5 mm above the paper’s perforation; then position the paper so that the mark is even with the top edge of the plastic ribbon cover. This gives you an 8.5 mm margin on the next page, meaning the printer starts printing 8.5 mm below the perforation. If you mark a point 5.5 mm above the perforation, you get a 9.5 mm margin on the next page.

6. After you set the top-of-form position, press the Pause button

to exit micro adjust mode.

2-40

Printing on Continuous Paper

Advancing the Paper to the Tear-Off Edge

If you use the front or rear push tractor, you can use the tear-off feature to advance your continuous paper to the printer’s tear-off edge when you finish printing. You can then easily tear off the printed document. When you resume printing, the printer automatically feeds the paper back to the top-of-form position so that you can save the paper normally lost between documents.

As described below, you can use the tear-off feature in two ways: manually by pressing the printer’s Tear Off/Bin button, or automatically by turning on the auto tear-off mode.

If the perforation between pages is not aligned with the tear-off edge, you can adjust the position of the perforation using the micro adjust feature. See “Adjusting the tear-off position” on page 2-42.

Caution:

Never use the tear-off feature (by pressing the Tear Off/Bin button or turning on the auto tear-off mode as described below) to feed continuous paper with labels ba ckward; they may come off their backing sheet and jam the printer.

Using the Tear Off/Bin button

After the printer finishes printing your document, check that the Tear Off/Bin lights are not flashing. Then press the Tear Off/Bin button. The printer advances the paper to the tear-off edge.

Note:

If the Tear Off/Bin lights are flashing, the paper is in the tear-off position. If you press the Tear Off/Bin button again, the printer feeds your paper to the next top-of-form position.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-41

Advancing the paper to the tear-off position automatically

To automatically advance your printed documents to the tear-off position, you need to turn on the auto tear-off mode and select the appropriate page length for continuous paper in the defa ultsetting mode. For instructions, see “Changing default settings” on page 5-9.

When auto tear-off is on, the printer automatically advances the paper to the tear-off position whenever it receives a full page of data or a form feed command followed by no more data.

Adjusting the tear-off position

If your paper’s perforation is not aligned with the tear-off edge, you can use the micro adjust feature to move the perforation to the tear-off position. Follow these steps:

Caution:

Note:

Your tear-off positio n setting remains in ef fect until you change i t, even if you turn off the printer.

Never use the knob to adjust the tear-off position; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the tear-off position.

1. Make sure the Tear Off/Bin lights are flashing (the paper is at the current tear-off position). You may need to press the Tear Off/Bin button to advance the paper to the tear-off position.

2. Open the paper guide cover.

3. Hold down the Pause button for about three seconds. The Pause light begins flashing and the printer enters the micro adjust mode.

2-42

Printing on Continuous Paper

4. Press the LF/FF the Load/Eject paper perforation is aligned with the tear-off edge.

button to feed the paper backward, or press

U button to feed the paper forward, until the

tear-off edge

Note:

The printer has a minimum and a maximum tear-o ff position. If you try to adjust the tear-off position beyond these limits, the printer beeps and stops moving the paper.

5. After you set the tear-off position, press the Pause button to turn off the micro adjust mode.

6. Tear off the printed pages.

When you resume printing, the printer automatically feeds the paper back to the top-of-form position and begins printing.

Printing on Continuous Paper

2-43

Chapter 3

Printing on Single Sheets

Using Single Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Available paper types and paper slots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Loading single-sheet multi-part forms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Loading envelopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Loading postcards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Loading Single Sheets in the Top Paper Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Loading Single Sheets in the Front Paper Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Printing on Single Sheets

3-1

Using Single Sheets

Available paper types and paper slots

As shown below, you can load single-sheet paper one sheet at a time using the paper guide on top of the printer or the front paper guide. You can print on ordinary single sheets, single-sheet multi-part forms, postcards, and envelopes. Your single-sheet paper may be from 100 to 257 mm wide.

Note:

R To load a stack of single-sheet paper, use the optional cut-sheet

feeder. See Appendix A, “Enhancing Yo ur Printe r Wit h Options”.

R For detailed specifications on the types of single-sheet paper you can

use, see Appendix C.

Loading single-sheet multi-part forms

You can load single-sheet multi-part forms one at a time in the top or front paper slot as described in “Loading Single Sheets in the Top Paper Slot” on page 3-8 or “Loading Single Sheets in the Front Paper Slot” on page 3-11. Be sure to follow these guidelines:

R Use only carbonless multi-part forms bound as shown below.

fastened only at the top by line gluing

fastened only at the side by line gluing

R You can use the top or front paper slot to load single-sheet

multi-part forms that are fastened at the top.

Insert the of form in the top slot, bound edge first and the printable side down, as shown below.

printable side down

3-4

Printing on Single Sheets

Insert the of form in the front slot, bound edge first and printable side up, as shown below.

printable side up

R You can load single-sheet multi-part forms bound at the side

only in the front slot. Insert the of form in the front slot, top edge first and printable side up, as shown below.

printable side up

R Before printing, set the paper thickness lever (located under

the printer cover) to the proper position for your paper. See the table on page 3-3, for details.

R Be sure your multi-part forms do not exceed 0.46 mm in

thickness.

R Use multi-part forms only under normal temperature and

humidity conditions, as follows:

Temperature 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F) Humidity 30 to 60% RH

Printing on Single Sheets

3-5

Loading envelopes

You can load envelopes in the top paper slot only, as described in “Loading Single Sheets in the Top Paper Slot” on page 3-8. Also follow these guidelines:

R Load envelopes one at a time in the top slot, with the flap fold

first and the flap side up.

flap side up, printable side down

R Set the paper thickness lever (located under the printer cover)

to position 4 or 5 to match the thickness of the envelope.

R Before printing, turn on the card mode by pressing the

Tear Off/Bin button until both Tear Off/Bin lights are on. After you finish printing on envelopes, press the Tear Off/Bin button once to exit the card mode. (Bin 1of the optional cutsheet feeder is selected.)

R Do not use envelopes that are curled or folded. Also avoid

using envelopes that are too thin; they may curl during printing and become jammed.

R If you are using No. 6 envelopes, align the left edge of the

envelope with the arrow mark on the printer.

3-6

Printing on Single Sheets

R Use envelopes only under normal temperature and humidity

conditions, as follows:

Temperature 15 to 25°C Humidity 30 to 60% RH

Caution:

Because printing on the edge of an envelope may damage the print head, make sure the printing stays entirely within the printable area of your envelopes. See Appendix C for details on the printable area of envelopes.

Loading postcards

You can load postcards one at a time in the top or front paper

slot as described in “Loading Single Sheets in the Top Paper Slot”

on page 3-8 or “Loading Single Sheets in the Front Paper Slot” on

page 3-11. Also follow these guidelines:

R When you are loading postcards long edge first, always load

them in the top slot.

R Set the paper thickness lever (located under the printer cover)

to position 3.

Printing on Single Sheets

3-7

R Before printing, turn on the card mode by pressing the

Tear Off/Bin button until both Tear Off/Bin lights are on. After you finish printing on postcards, press the Tear Off/Bin button once to exit the card mode. (Bin 1 of the optional cutsheet feeder is selected.)

R Use postcards only under normal temperature and humidity

conditions, as follows:

Temperature 15 to 25°C Humidity 30 to 60% RH

Loading Single Sheets in the Top Paper Slot

To load paper in the top slot, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the paper guide base is installed properly. If not, attach it as described on page 1-12.

2. Open the paper guide cover. Slide the left edge guide until it locks in place next to the arrow on the paper guide. Next adjust the right edge guide to match the width of your paper.

3-8

Printing on Single Sheets

3. Set the paper release lever to the single-sheet position. Also set the paper thickness lever (located under the printer cover) to the proper position for your paper’s thickness. (See the table on page 3-3.)

4. Close the paper guide cover.

Printing on Single Sheets

3-9

5. Press the Operate button to turn on the printer, if necessary.

6. Insert a sheet of paper, printable side down, between the edge guides until it meets resistance. The printer feeds the paper automatically and is ready to print.

Note:

The printer cannot print when the printer cover is open.

7. Check the printer driver settings as described in Chapter 4, and change them if necessary. Then send a print job to the printer.

When the printer receives data, it prints the page and ejects it back onto the paper guide. To continue printing your document, remove the printed page and insert a new sheet of paper. If you need to eject a sheet, press the Load/Eject button.

If the first line on your page appears too high or low, you can fix this using the micro adjust feature. See “Adjusting the Top-ofForm Position” on page 2-38.

Caution:

3-10

Never use the knob to adjust the top-of-form position or eject a sheet when the printer is on; this may damage the printer or cause it to lose the top-of-form position.

Printing on Single Sheets

Loading Single Sheets in the Front Paper Slot

To load paper in the front paper slot, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the paper guide base is installed properly. If not, attach it as described on “Attaching the Paper Guide Base” on page 1-12.

2. Make sure the paper guide cover is closed.

3. If the front paper guide is closed, open it by pulling the tab at the center of the guide. Slide the left edge guide until it locks in place next to the arrow on the paper guide. Next adjust the right edge guide to match the width of your paper.

Printing on Single Sheets

3-11

Epson FX-980 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Printer Parts

Control Panel Buttons and Lights

Contents

Getting to Know Your Printer

Easy-to-Use Features

Available Paper Paths

Printing on continuous paper

Printing on single sheets

Options

Ribbon Cartridge

Important Safety Instructions

Print Head Caution Symbol

ENERGY STAR Compliance

How To Use Your Manuals

Warnings, Cautions, and Notes

Setting Up the Printer

Unpacking the Printer

Choosing a Place for the Printer

Positioning the continuous paper supply

Installing or Replacing the Ribbon Cartridge

Attaching the Paper Guide Base

Plugging in the Printer

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

Installing the Printer Software

Installing the printer software in Windows 98, 95, or NT 4.0

Installing the printer software in Windows 3.1 or NT 3.5x

For DOS programs

Printing on Continuous Paper

Setting the Paper Release Lever

Setting the Paper Thickness Lever

Using the Rear Push Tractor

Loading paper onto the rear push tractor

Removing a printed document from the rear push tractor

Using the Front Push Tractor

Loading paper onto the front push tractor

Removing a printed document from the front push tractor

Removing the front push tractor

Reinstalling the tractor in the front push position

Using the Tractor in the Pull Position

Installing the tractor in the pull position

Loading paper onto the pull tractor

Removing the paper from the pull tractor

Using two tractors in a push/pull combination

Removing the pull tractor

Loading Multi-Part Forms

Loading Continuous Paper With Labels

Removing continuous paper with labels

Switching Between Printing on Continuous Paper and Printing on Single Sheets

Switching to printing on single sheets

Switching to printing on continuous paper

Adjusting the Top-of-Form Position

Advancing the Paper to the Tear-Off Edge

Using the Tear Off/Bin button

Advancing the paper to the tear-off position automatically

Adjusting the tear-off position

Printing on Single Sheets

Using Single Sheets

Available paper types and paper slots

Loading single-sheet multi-part forms

Loading envelopes

Loading postcards

Loading Single Sheets in the Top Paper Slot

Loading Single Sheets in the Front Paper Slot