Epson LQ-1010 User Manual

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR AMERICAN USERS

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

•

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

If necessary, the user should consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The user may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications Commission helpful: “Television Interference Handbook.” This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington DC 20402. Stock No. 004-000-

00450-7.

The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels that exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment. If this equipment has more than one interface connector, do not leave cable connected to unused interfaces.

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

transmitted, in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise,

without the prior written permission of Epson America, Inc. No patent liability is assumed with

respect to the use of the information contained herein. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, Epson America, Inc. assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information

and contained herein. This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital

apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

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

Epson and Epson ESC/P are registered trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation. IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation. SmartPark is a trademark of Epson America, Inc.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

2. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not

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

Do not use this product near water.

Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.

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

6. provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, these openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.

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

This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type plug, a plug

having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into a

grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are

unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the

grounding-type plug.

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

iii

10.

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

not

exceed the extension cord ampere rating.

that the

total of all products plugged into the wall

outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.

11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts

that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind

the product.

12. Except as specifically explained in the User’s Manual, do not

attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing

those

covers that are marked “Do Not Remove” may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing in those compartments to service personnel.

13. Unplug this product from

the

wall outlet and refer servicing to

qualified service personnel under the following conditions: A. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed. B.

If liquid has been spilled into the product.

C. If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

D. If the product does

not

operate normally when

the

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

the

product to normal operation.

the

product has been dropped or the cabinet has been

damaged.

the

product exhibits a distinct change in performance,

indicating a need for service.

operating

Contents

Introduction

Features Options and Supplies About This Manual Application Notes Where to Get Help

Chapter 1

Unpacking the Printer Choosing a Place for the Printer Assembling the Printer Testing the Printer Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

Setting Up Your Application Software

Chapter 2 Paper Handling

Selecting a Paper Feeding Method Using Single Sheets Using Continuous Paper

Switching Between Continuous and Single Sheets

Printing on Special Paper

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Setting Up the Printer

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1 2

4 5 6

1-2

1-2 1-5 1-7

1-14 1-23 1-26

2-1 2-2

2-3 2-7 2-16

2-24

Chapter 3

Operating the Control Panel

Setting the DIP Switches

Page Length

Skip Over Perforation Adjusting the Loading Position Using Short Tear-Off

Using the Printer

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3-1 3-2

3-6 3-10 3-11

3-12

3-15

Selecting Typestyles Selecting an International Character Set Choosing a Character Table

Using the Data Dump Mode

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3-19 3-22 3-24

3-26

Chapter 4

Enhancing Your Printing Graphics User-defined Characters

Chapter 5 Using the Printer Options

The Cut Sheet Feeder The Pull Tractor

The Multi-Font Module The Interface Boards

Chapter 6 Maintenance

Replacing the Ribbon

Transporting the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 7 Troubleshooting

Problems and Solutions Power Supply Printing Paper Handling Options

Software and Graphics

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4-1 4-2

4-9

4-20

5-1

5-2

5-21

5-34 5-40

6-1

6-5 6-11

7-1

7-2

7-4 7-5 7-14 7-24

Chapter 8 Technical Specifications

Printer Specifications Interface Specifications Option Specifications Initialization

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8-1

8-2

8-8

8-12

8-14

Chapter 9 Command Summary

Using the Command Summary Commands in Numerical Order Commands Arranged by Topic

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9-1 9-2

9-5 9-8

Appendix

Proportional Width Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Character Tables

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

Glossary

Index

A-1 A-2

A-6

vii

Introduction

The Epson® LQ-1010 is an advanced 24-pin dot matrix printer combining compact design and high performance with a wide range of features.

Features

In addition to the high-quality printing and ease of operation you have come to expect from Epson printers, the LQ-1010 offers the following features:

Easy paper handling, featuring automatic single-sheet loading. Compatibility with the Epson ESC/P® commands used by the

LQ-500, LQ-510, LQ-800, LQ-850, LQ-1000, LQ-1050, LQ-1500, LQ-2500, and LQ-2550.

Fast draft mode printing of up to 180 characters per second at 12 cpi (characters per second).

An improved control panel design that allows direct selection of character fonts, as well as a choice of normal or condensed printing.

The SmartPark™ paper handling system that lets you use single sheets of paper without removing the continuous paper, eliminates paper waste with short tear-off, and allows easy and accurate paper alignment.

Two built-in Letter Quality fonts (Roman and Sans Serif) for producing high-quality documents.

A 360 x 360 dot per inch graphics mode. A micro-adjustment feature that allows you to feed the paper

forward or backward to finely adjust the loading and short tear-off positions.

Introduction 1

Introduction

Fourteen international character sets, a legal symbol set, an italic character table, and the Epson Extended Graphics character table.

The ability to handle a wide range of paper types, including

envelopes, labels, and wide carriage computer paper.

Options and Supplies

A variety of printer options is available for use with your LQ-1010 printer. For detailed information on installing and using these options,

see Chapter 5.

To locate or purchase accessories or supplies, contact your nearest

Epson dealer or call

Single-bin Cut Sheet Feeder

The cut sheet feeder makes it possible to handle single-sheet paper easily and efficiently. Up to be fed automatically into the printer without reloading.

1-800-873-7766.

(C806241)

150

sheets of standard bond paper can

Introduction

Pull Tractor Unit This option improves the performance of continuous paper handling. It is especially useful with continuous multi-part forms.

Multi-Font Module

The optional Multi-Font module adds to the number of fonts available in the Letter Quality mode.

(C800141)

(#7407-A)

Film Ribbon Cartridge

(#7770)

The optional film ribbon cartridge provides you with even higher quality printing than the standard fabric ribbon.

Introduction 3

Introduction

l Interface Boards

Optional interface boards are available to supplement the printer’s built-in parallel interface. Guidelines for choosing the right interface

and instructions on installing the boards are given in Chapter 5.

About This Manual This user’s manual provides fully illustrated, step-by-step instructions

on setting up and operating your Epson LQ-1010 printer, Finding your way around

• Chapter 1 contains information on unpacking, setting up, testing, and connecting the printer. Be sure to read and follow these instructions first. Inside the back flap of this manual are illustrations of the printer in which all of the major parts are identified.

•

Chapters 2 and 3 cover paper handling and general printer operation. This important information is necessary for the day-to-day operation of your printer.

4 Introduction

Introduction

Chapter 4 shows you how to get the most from your printer. It includes advice on the use of software commands, graphics, and creating your own user-defined characters. See Chapter 9 for a useful summary of printer commands.

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

instructions.

Other chapters and the appendix contain information on printer

options, general maintenance, and specifications. You will also find

a glossary of printer terms.

At the back of this manual is a handy Quick Reference card that

contains the information you are most likely to need.

Conventions used in this manual

WARNINGS

must be followed carefully to avoid damage to

your printer and computer.

CAUTIONS

should be followed carefully to ensure that your

printer operates correctly.

Notes contain important information and useful tips on the operation of your printer.

Application Notes Also included in the box with your printer is a booklet called

Application

Notes. It contains information on using specific software applications with your printer. Be sure to look at the booklet after you set up your printer.

Introduction 5

Introduction

Where to Get Help

Customer support and service for Epson products are provided by a network of authorized Epson dealers and Customer Care Centers throughout the United States. Epson America provides product information and support to its dealers and Customer Care Centers.

Therefore, we ask that you contact the business where you purchased your Epson product to request assistance. If the people there do not have the answer to your question, they can obtain it through our dealer support program.

Epson is confident that this policy will provide you with the assistance you need. Call the Epson Consumer Information Center at

1-800-922-8911

The location of the nearest Epson dealer

The location of the nearest Customer Care Center

Information on Epson User Groups.

for the following:

Introduction

Chapter 1

Setting Up the Printer

Unpacking the Printer

Checking the Parts

Removing the Protective Materials

Choosing a Place for the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Assembling the Printer

Installing the Platen Knob

Installing the Ribbon Cartridge

Attaching the Paper Guide Testing the Printer

Plugging in the Printer Running the Self Test If the Self Test Does Not Work

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

The Parallel Interface

Setting Up Your Application Software

Choosing From a Menu

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1-2 1-2

1-3

1-7 1-7

1-8

1-12

1-14 1-14 1-15 1-22

1-23 1-23

1-26 1-26

Setting Up the Printer

1-1

Unpacking the Printer

Checking the Parts

When you unpack the printer, make sure that you have all the parts shown below and that none have been damaged.

1-2

Setting Up the Printer

Unpacking the Printer

Removing the Protective Materials

The printer is protected during shipping by a locking clip. You must remove this clip before turning on the printer.

WARNING:

tuning is attached may seriously damage the mechanism.

Follow these steps to remove the locking clip.

Remove the printer cover.

Be sure you have removed the locking clip before

your printer. Turning on the printer while the clip

Setting Up the Printer

1-3

Unpacking the Printer

Remove the paper tension unit as shown below.

3. Remove the locking clip. Note: Store the clip with the other packing material in case you

ever need to transport your printer.

1-4 Setting up the Printer

Choosing a Place for the Printer

There are several important things to consider when selecting a place to

set up your printer. Keep the following in mind:

Place the printer on a flat, hard, stable surface. A soft surface, such

as a padded counter or carpeted area, will block the ventilation

slots and may cause overheating. Place the printer close enough to the computer for the printer cable

to reach. Leave adequate room around the printer to allow for easy printer

operation and maintenance, and for unrestricted flow of air around the printer.

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

WARNING:

excessive heat, moisture, or dust.

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

Avoid using outlets that share a circuit with large motors or electrical appliances; this could cause fluctuations in line voltage.

Keep the entire computer system away from potential sources of

electromagnetic interference such as loudspeakers or the base units

of cordless telephones.

Avoid locations that are subject to direct sunlight,

Setting Up the Printer

1-5

Choosing a Place for the Printer

The illustration below shows a good printer location.

Note: Before using a printer stand, read these requirements and suggestions.

The stand should be able to support at least twice the weight of the

LQ-1010

printer, or approximately 36 pounds

(16

kilograms).

Never use a stand that supports the printer at an angle of more than 15 degrees from horizontal.

With a cut

If your paper supply is positioned below sure there is enough

sheet

feeder, your printer must be kept level.

the

printer stand, make

clearance

to keep the paper from catching on

the underside of the stand. Also, make sure the distance between

the

stand supports is wide enough for the paper you are using.

Position your printer’s cables

so that

they do

not

interfere with

paper feeding. If possible, secure the cables to the printer stand.

1-6

Setting Up the Printer

Assembling the Printer

After you’ve decided on the best place to set up your printer, the next

step is to install the platen knob.

WARNING: Be sure to remove the locking clip as described in the Removing the Protective Materials section of this chapter

before proceeding.

Installing the Platen Knob

The platen knob is used to feed the paper manually in the event of a paper jam or other paper feeding problem. The platen knob is packed

in an indentation in the printer’s white foam packing material.

1. Insert the knob into the hole on the printer’s side and rotate it slowly until it slips onto the shaft.

Setting Up the Printer

1-7

Assembling the Printer

2. Push firmly on the platen knob until it fits against the printer case.

CAUTION: Do not use the platen knob to adjust the position of the paper. This interferes with the automatic paper loading

system and may cause a paper jam.

Installing the Ribbon Cartridge

Your printer’s ribbon cartridge is designed for easy installation and removal. Before installing the ribbon cartridge, make sure the printer is turned off.

1-8 Setting Up the Printer

Install the ribbon cartridge as follows.

Slide the print head to the middle of the printer.

Assembling the

Printer

CAUTION:

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

Turn the ribbon-tightening knob in the direction of the arrow. This removes slack in the ribbon and makes it easier to install.

Setting Up the Printer

1-9

Assembling the Printer

Hold the ribbon cartridge by its handles and push it firmly down

3. into position, making sure the plastic hooks fit into the slots.

Note: Press

plastic hooks are properly seated.

Use a pointed object, such as a ball point pen, to guide the ribbon between the print head and ribbon guide while you turn the ribbon-tightening knob to help feed the ribbon into place.

lightly on both ends of the cartridge to make sure the

1-10

Setting Up the Printer

Assembling the Printer

5. Slide the print head from side to side to make sure it moves smoothly. Also check that the ribbon is not twisted or creased.

6. Fit the rear notches of the paper tension unit over the pins of the printer. Lower the unit, pressing on both sides to lock it in place.

Setting Up the Printer

1-11

Assembling the Printer

Attaching the Paper Guide

When you use single sheets, the paper guide helps to feed the paper smoothly and efficiently into the printer. Attach the paper guide using the following procedure.

Place the paper guide on the printer as shown below.

Raise the paper guide until it locks into place.

1-12

Setting Up the Printer

Assembling the Printer

Note:

its locked position; then gently lower it down onto the printer.

3. Attach the printer cover by fitting the hooks on the cover into notches at the front of the printer and tilting the cover back into place.

To lower the paper guide, lift up slightly to release it from

the

Setting Up the Printer

1-13

Testing the Printer

Now that your printer is fully assembled, you can use its built-in self test function to see that the printer is working correctly before you connect it to a computer. You should perform this test to make sure that your printer was not damaged during shipping and that the ribbon is correctly installed.

Before running the self test, you need to connect the printer to an electrical outlet and load a sheet of paper.

Plugging in the Printer

Make sure that the printer is turned off.

1-14

Setting Up the Printer

Testing the Printer

Plug the power cable into a properly grounded electrical outlet.

Running the Self Test

The self test can be run in the draft or Letter Quality mode, depending on which button you hold down as you turn on the printer. Although the self test can be run with continuous paper, use single-sheet paper now because single-sheet loading is easier.

Make sure the printer is turned off.

2. Push the paper release lever back to the single-sheet position.

Setting Up the Printer

1-15

Testing the Printer

While holding down the

FEED

button (Letter Quality mode), turn on the printer. The printer

beeps several times and

Move the left edge guide

4. mark.

LINE FEED

POWER

and

so that

button (draft mode) or

PAPER OUT

it locks in place

lights come on.

next to the

FORM

guide

1-16

Setting Up the Printer

+ 278 hidden pages