Epson LQ-860 User Manual

User's Manual

EPSON

®

4008123

601-03

EPSON

LQ-860

User’s 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 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

•

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

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

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.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording,
or otherwise, without the prior written permission of 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 contained herein.

Epson America, Inc. shall not be liable against any damages or problems arising from the use of
any options other than thosedesignated as Original Epson Products by Seiko Epson Corporation.

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

General Notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and may
be trademarks of their respective companies.

Copyright © 1990 by Epson America, Inc.
Torrance, California

WARNING

FOR CANADIAN USERS

ii

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1.

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

2.

Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.

3.

Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not
use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for
cleaning the outside of the unit.

4.

Do not use this product near water.

5.

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

6.

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

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

7.

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.

8.

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

11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet
slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out
parts that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never
spill liquid of any kind on the product.

12. Except as specifically explained in this 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.

iv

D.

If the product does not operate normally when the operating
instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that
are covered by the operating instructions, since improper
adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will

often require extensive work by a qualified technician to
restore the product to normal operation.

E.

If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been
damaged.

F.

If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance,
indicating a need for service.

Contents

Introduction

Features ...........................................

Options

About This Manual
Application Notes
Where to Get Help.

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

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

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

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

Chapter 1 Setting Up the Printer

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

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

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

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

................................. l-16

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

................ l-32

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.

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

.................... 2-2

......

1

1
2
5
6
6

1-1

l-2
l-6
l-8

l-27

2-l

2-3
2-8

2-16
2-23

Chapter 3 Using the Printer

Operating the Control Panel

Setting the DIP Switches.

Adjusting the Loading Position.

Using Short Tear-off

Selecting Typestyles

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

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

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

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

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

Selecting a Character Set and Table
Using the Data Dump Mode

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

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

3-l
3-2

3-6
3-14
3-17
3-21
3-26

3-29

V

Chapter 4 Software and Graphics

Enhancing Your Printing
Graphics

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

User-defined Characters.

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

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

4-l
4-2

4-8
4-19

Chapter 5 Using the Printer Options

The Cut Sheet Feeder
The Pull Tractor

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

The Multi-Font Module
The Interface Boards

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

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

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

Chapter 6 Maintenance

Cleaning the Printer
Replacing the Ribbon
Transporting the Printer.

................................ 6-2

............................... 6-4

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

Chapter 7 Troubleshooting

Problems and Solutions
Power Supply.

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

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

Printing ...........................................

Paper Handling

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

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

Chapter 8 Technical Specifications

Printer Specifications

Interface Specifications.
Option Specifications
Initialization

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

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

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

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

5-1

5-2

5-25

5-37
5-44

6-1

6-9
7-l

7-2

7-4
7-5
7-16
7-27

8-l

8-2

8-11

8-16

8-18

vi

Chapter 9 Command Summary

Data Flow Process

.................................. 9-2

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

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

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

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

9-l

9-3
9-6

9-9

Appendix

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

Character Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Glossary

Index

A-l
A-2

A-6

vii

Introduction

The Epson® LQ-860 is an advanced 24-pin impact dot matrix printer,
combining high performance and reliability 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-860 offers the
following features:

•

Easy paper handling, featuring automatic single-sheet loading.

•

Color printing in seven colors with a color ribbon. With suitable
graphics software, you can mix colors within a line and print
screen dumps in color.

•

Compatibility with the Epson ESC/P® commands used by
the LQ-500, LQ-510, LQ-800, LQ-850, LQ-950, LQ-1000, LQ-1050,
LQ-1500, LQ-2500, and LQ-2550.

•

Fast draft printing of up to 300 characters per second at 10
characters per inch (cpi) in high-speed draft mode, and 295
characters per second at 12 cpi or 246 characters per second at

10 cpi in normal draft mode.

•

An improved control panel design that allows direct selection of
many of the printer’s main features including character fonts
and character spacing, as well as a choice of normal or
condensed printing.

•

The SmartPark

TM

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.

Introduction 1

l

Two built-in Letter Quality fonts, Roman and Sans Serif, for

producing high-quality documents.

l

A 360 x 360 dot per inch graphics mode.

•

A micro-adjustment feature that allows you to feed the paper
forward or backward in l/180-inch increments to finely adjust
the loading and short tear-off positions.

l

An auto-load feature lets you load a single sheet of paper
automatically when not using the optional cut sheet feeder.

l

The Epson Extended Graphics character table, 14 international
character sets, a legal symbol set, and an italic character table.

l

The ability to handle a wide range of paper types, including
envelopes and labels.

Options

A variety of printer options is available for use with your printer.
For detailed information on using these options, see Chapter 5.

l

Single-bin and Double-bin Cut Sheet Feeders

(C806271, C806281)

The cut sheet feeders make it possible to handle single-sheet
paper and envelopes more easily and more efficiently. Up to 150
sheets of standard bond paper can be automatically fed into the
printer without reloading. Only the double-bin cut sheet feeder

is shown below.

2

Introduction

Pull Tractor Unit (C800161)

l

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

l

Multi-Font Module (#7407)

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

Introduction 3

l

Film Ribbon Cartridge (#7764)

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

l Interface Boards

Optional interface boards are available to supplement the
printer’s built-in parallel and serial interfaces. 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 printer.

4

Introduction

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 day­to-day operation of your printer.

•

Chapter 4 shows you how to get the most from your printer. It
includes advice on the use of software commands and 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.

Introduction 5

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.

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 l-800-922-8911 for

the following:

l

The location of the nearest Epson dealer

l

The location of the nearest Customer Care Center

l

Information on Epson User Groups.

To locate or purchase accessories or supplies, contact your nearest
Epson dealer or call l-800-873-7766.

6

Introduction

Chapter 1

Setting Up the Printer

Unpacking the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Checking the Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the Protective Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Choosing a Place for the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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 Doesn’t Print.

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

The Parallel Interface
The Serial Interface

Setting Up Your Application Software

Choosing From a Menu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1-2
1-2

1-3
1-6
1-8

1-8
1-9
1-14

1-16

1-16

1-16

1-23

1-27
1-28
1-29

1-32
1-32

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.

Platen knob

Cross-head screwdriver

Color ribbon cartridge

Black ribbon cartridge

1-2

Setting Up the Printer

Connector lock nuts

After removing the parts, save the packing materials in case you
ever need to transport your printer.

The LQ-860 comes with one black ribbon cartridge (#7762) and one
color ribbon cartridge (#7763).

Removing the Protective Materials

The printer is protected during shipping by two locking brackets.
These protective items must be removed before you turn on the

printer. After removing these items, store them with the other
packing material in case you ever need to transport your printer.

1.

Open the printer cover.

Setting Up the Printer

1-3

2.

Lift the paper guide cover and slide it back until the tabs on the
cover fit into the raised slots on the printer. Leave the paper

guide cover resting in this open position.

3.

Remove any pieces of white packing material you find inside the
printer.

1-4

Setting Up the Printer

4.

Use the cross-head screwdriver that came with the printer to
unscrew and remove the two transport locking brackets. Look
straight down inside the printer to find the locking brackets. The
brackets are orange and their screws are red.

5.

Lower the paper guide cover and close the printer cover.

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

Setting Up the Printer

1-5

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.
Avoid locations that are subject to direct sunlight, excessive

heat, moisture, or dust.
Avoid electrical outlets controlled by wall switches or automatic

timers. Accidental interruption of power can wipe out

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

Avoid using outlets
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.

1-6

Setting Up the Printer

that

share a circuit with large motors or

The illustration below shows a good printer arrangement.

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

l

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

the printer.

l

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

l

With a cut sheet feeder, your printer must be kept level.

l

If your paper supply is positioned below the printer stand,
make sure there is enough 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.

l

Position your printer’s cables so that they do not interfere with
paper feeding. If possible, secure the cables to the printer stand.

Setting Up the Printer

1-7

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.

Installing the Platen Knob

You use the platen knob 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 platen knob into the hole on the printer’s side and
rotate it slowly until it slips onto the shaft.

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.

1-8

Setting Up the Printer

Installing the Ribbon Cartridge

Your printer’s ribbon cartridges are designed for easy installation
and removal. You install the standard ribbon cartridge, the color
ribbon cartridge, and the optional film ribbon cartridge in the same
way. A standard ribbon cartridge and color ribbon cartridge come
with your printer.

Install the ribbon cartridge as follows:

1.

Make sure the printer is turned off.

2.

Open the printer cover.

3.

Open the paper guide cover.

Setting Up the Printer

1-9

4.

Slide the print head approximately three inches toward the
middle of 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.

5.

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

1-10

Setting Up the Printer

6.

Hold the ribbon cartridge while gently squeezing the two ridged
plastic tabs together; then lower it until it snaps into place. The
side hooks in the printer fit into the slots on each side of the
ribbon cartridge, as shown below.

Note: Press lightly on both sides of the cartridge to make sure the
plastic hooks are properly seated.

Setting Up the Printer

1-11

7.

Turn the ribbon-tightening knob again to make sure the ribbon

moves freely.

8.

Grasp the print head and slide it from side to side to make sure
it moves smoothly. Do not try to slide the print head by grasping

the ribbon cartridge.

Note: Make sure the paper thickness lever on the left is set to
position 2. See The Paper Thickness Lever in Chapter 2 if you
are printing on special paper.

1-12

Setting Up the Printer

CAUTION:

Film ribbon cartridges must be used and

stored within the following temperature ranges:
Operation: 60° F to 95° F (15° C to 35° C)

Storage: -22° F to 104° F (-30° C to 40° C)
Storing and using a film ribbon at high temperatures

shortens the ribbon’s life expectancy, which is normally
100,000 characters (#7764). Film ribbon prints in red near
the end of the ribbon. Replace the film ribbon at this point.
If you continue to use the ribbon beyond its life
expectancy, printing suddenly becomes faint and the
ribbon may snap.

Setting Up the Printer

1-13

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.

1.

Open the paper guide cover.

2.

Place the paper guide on the printer, as shown below.

1-14

Setting Up the Printer

3.

Raise the paper guide until it locks into place.

Note: To lower the paper guide, lift up slightly to release it from
its locked position; then gently lower it down onto the printer.

4.

Close the paper guide cover.

Setting Up the Printer

1-15

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

1.

Make sure that the printer is turned off.

2.

Plug the power cable into a properly grounded electrical outlet.

WARNING: Whenever you turn off the printer, wait at
least five seconds before turning it back on. Rapid

switching on and off can damage the printer.

Running the Self Test

The self test prints out the settings of the printer’s DIP switches and
the characters in the printer’s memory. The test can be run in either
high-speed draft, normal draft, or Letter Quality (LQ) mode.

You select the draft mode or Letter Quality mode, depending on

which button you hold down as you turn on the printer. You choose
between the high-speed draft and the normal draft mode by
changing your printer’s DIP switch settings. The default setting is
high-speed draft mode. To run the test in normal draft mode, see
Setting the DIP Switches in Chapter 3 before following the steps
below.

1-16

Setting Up the Printer

With the color ribbon cartridge installed, the self test prints in seven
colors: black, magenta, cyan, violet, yellow, red, and green.

With the black ribbon cartridge installed, some lines of the test print
twice, making some lines darker than others.

CAUTION:

Never run the self test using paper that is
narrower than 8.27 inches (210 mm). This prevents the
print head from printing directly onto the platen, which
can damage the print head.

Although the self test can be run with continuous paper, use single­sheet paper now because single-sheet loading is easier. Be sure to
use paper that is wide enough for the self test to print. If you need to
load continuous paper to print the self test, see Loading Continuous
Paper in Chapter 3.

1.

Make sure the printer is turned off.

2.

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

Setting Up the Printer

1-17

3.4.While holding down the

FORM FEED

button (Letter Quality mode), turn on

LINE FEED

The printer beeps three times and
lights

come

on.

Open the paper guide cover.

button (draft mode) or

the

printer.

the POWER

and

PAPER OUT

1-18

Setting Up the Printer

5.

Move the left edge guide to the right or left until it lines up with

the triangular guide mark on the paper guide.

6.

Adjust the right edge guide to match the width of your paper.

Setting Up the Printer

1-19

7.

Next, slide a sheet of paper down between the edge guides until
it meets resistance. After about two seconds, the printer loads
the paper automatically and then starts the self test.

A list of DIP switch settings is printed first, followed by a series
of characters. The self test continues until the paper runs out or
until you press the

8.

Close the paper guide cover.

9.

If the test results are satisfactory and you wish to stop the test,
press the

ON LINE

ON LINE

button.

button.

1-20

Setting Up the Printer

If the test results are not satisfactory, see If the Self Test Doesn’t
Print later in this chapter for possible causes and solutions.

Note: To resume the test, press the

10.

To end the self test, press the

LOAD/EJECT

button to eject any paper

the printer.

WARNING: After turning the power off, always wait at
least five seconds before turning it back on. Turning the
power on and off rapidly can damage the printer.

ON LINE

ON LINE

button once more.

button. Then press

that

is still loaded. Turn off

the

Setting Up the Printer

1-21

Here are parts of typical self tests.

Normal draft mode

Count t-y

USA

France

Germany

U.K.
Denmark

Sweden

Italy

Spain

CG table

Italic

SW1-1 1-2 1-3

on on on

on on off
on off
on off off
off on
off on
off off on
off off off

on

on
off

SW1-4

off

Page

Length

SW2

11"

12”

1"Skip

SW2

Invalid

Valid

Interface

SW2

Parallel

Serial even
Serial odd
Serial none

Baud Rate

9600 BPS

19200 BPS

SW2

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

()*+,-./0123456789:;
)*+,-./0123456789:;

*+,­+,-./0123456789:

-./0123456789;;
/0123456789:;

./0123456789:

,-./0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXY

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

./0123456789:;

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTU

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUV

;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVW

;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWX

0123456789:;<=>?@@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]

123456789:;

1-22

Setting Up the Printer

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]'

Letter Quality mode

!“#$%&'()*+,-./0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKL
!“#$%&'()*+,-./0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLM

“#$%&'()*+,-./0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMN

#$%&'()*+,-./0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNO

$%&'()*+,-.
%&'()*+,-.
&’()*+,-.

'()*+,-.
()*+,-.

)*+,-./0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTU
*+,-./0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUV

+,-./0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVW

Notes:

l

With a black ribbon installed, some lines of the self test print

/0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOP

/0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQ

/0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQR

/0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRS

/0123456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRST

twice, making some lines darker than others.

l

When using the optional cut sheet feeder, the first page of the
self test printout is slightly different. For details, see The Cut
Sheet Feeder in Chapter 5.

If the Self Test Doesn’t Print
If the self test does not print properly, check the control panel and

the print head area. If paper is jammed, turn off the printer and
remove the paper using the platen knob. See that all packing
material and shipping restraints have been removed from inside the
printer. Then load a new sheet. (You can also see Chapter 7 for
further information.)

Setting Up the Printer

1-23

Problem Solution

The printer does not
print.

The printer sounds like
it is printing, but

nothing is printed.

The test did not print.

The ribbon may not be installed properly.

Turn off the printer, reinstall the ribbon
cartridge, and then tighten the ribbon by
turning the ribbon-tightening knob. Make
sure the ribbon passes between the print
head and ribbon guide.

The ribbon may be worn. Replace the
ribbon cartridge. See Replacing the
Ribbon in Chapter 6.

Turn off the printer and repeat the self
test. Make sure you hold down the

FORM FEED

or

LINE FEED

button the entire

time you are turning on the printer.
Turn off the printer and disconnect the

cable from the host computer. Try the self

test again.
If

the

printer still does not print the self

test correctly,

contact

your Epson dealer

or Epson authorized service center.

1-24

Setting Up the Printer

Problem Solution

The print is faint or
uneven.

Printed characters
have part missing at

the bottom as shown
here.

ABCD

The printout is faint.

Dots are missing in
the printed
characters or
graphics.

The ribbon cartridge may not be properly

installed. Remove the ribbon cartridge
and reinstall it; make sure the cartridge
hooks are inserted securely into the
printer.

The ribbon may be worn out. A worn
ribbon can damage the print head and
should be replaced. Install a new ribbon
cartridge as soon as possible. See
Replacing the Ribbon in Chapter 6.

The paper thickness lever may not be set
correctly for the paper you are using. Set
the paper thickness lever to match the
thickness of your paper. See The Paper
Thickness Lever in Chapter 2.

A line of dots is missing
in the printout.

ABCD

The print head is damaged. Stop printing
and contact your Epson dealer to have the
print head replaced.

Setting Up the Printer

1-25

Problem

Dots are missing in
the printed

characters or

graphics.

(continued)

Solution

Dots are missing in
random positions.

There is either too much slack in the
ribbon or the ribbon has come loose and
caught on something. Stop printing, turn

ABCD

off the printer, and reinstall the ribbon

cartridge.

If the printer still does not print the self test correctly, contact your
Epson dealer or Epson authorized service center.

1-26

Setting Up the Printer

Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

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

serial interface

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

to most computers immediately. If you have one of the few

computers that require a different type of interface, you need to

install an optional interface board. See The Interface Boards in

Chapter 5.
The parallel interface is the printer’s default setting. If you need to

use the built-in serial interface, be sure to change the DIP switch
setting as shown in Chapter 3.

WARNING: Do not plug more than one interface cable into

the printer at one time. This may damage the printer.

Setting Up the Printer

1-27

The Parallel Interface

Connect the parallel interface cable as described below:

1.

Make sure that both your printer and computer are turned off.

2.

Plug the cable connector securely into the printer.

3.

Squeeze the wire clips together until they lock in place on either
side of the connector.

1-28

Setting Up the Printer

4.

If your cable has a ground wire, connect it to

beneath

5.

Plug the other end of

the

interface connector.

the

cable into the computer. If there is a

ground wire at the computer end of the cable,

the

ground screw

attach

ground connector at the back of the computer.

The Serial Interface

Connect the serial interface cable as described below:

it to

the

1.

Make sure both your printer and computer are turned off.

Setting Up the Printer

1-29

2.

Plug the connector securely into the printer.

WARNING:

Do not plug more than one interface cable into

the printer at once. This may damage the printer.

3.

Using a screwdriver, secure the connector by tightening the
screw on each side of the connector.

Note:

If the screws that come with the cable do not fit into the
connector lock nuts on the interface, you need to replace these
lock nuts with the connector lock nuts provided with the printer.

1-30 Setting Up the Printer

4.

If your cable has a ground wire, attach it to the ground
connector beneath the interface connector.

5.

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

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

Setting Up the Printer

1-31

Setting Up Your Application Software

Now that you have set up and tested the printer, you should make
sure that it works with your application programs.

Most application programs let you specify the type of printer you
are using so that the program can take full advantage of the
printer’s features. Many of these programs provide an installation or
setup menu that presents a list of printers to choose from.

If your application program has a printer selection menu, use the
instructions below.

Choosing From a Menu

Because the family of Epson printers shares a great many
commands, you can use an application program even if it does not
list the LQ-860 on its printer selection menu. If the printer is not
listed, choose one of the following printers. They are listed in order

of preference.

LQ-2550

LQ-2500
LQ-850 (LQ-950, LQ-1050)
LQ-800 (LQ-1000)

LQ-51O/LQ-500

LQ-1500
If you plan to print in color, choose the LQ-860, LQ-2550, or

LQ-2500.
If none of these printers is listed, select the first one available on the

following list: LQ, EX, JX (color), FX, LX, RX, MX, Epson printer,

Standard printer, Draft printer.

To use all of the features of the printer, however, it is best to use a
program with the LQ-860 on its menu. If your program does not list
the printer, contact the software manufacturer to see if an update is
available that supports your model.

1-32

Setting Up the Printer

Chapter 2

Paper Handling

Selecting a Paper Feeding Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using Single Sheets .................................

Loading Paper ...................................

Reloading During Printing ........................ 2-7

Using Continuous Paper ............................ 2-8

Positioning Your Continuous Paper Supply. ......... 2-8

Loading Continuous Paper ........................

Switching Between Continuous and Single Sheets ......

Switching to Single Sheets .........................

Switching Back to Continuous Paper. ...............

Printing on Special Paper. ...........................

The Paper Thickness Lever ........................

Multi-part Forms ................................. 2-27

Labels .......................................... 2-28

Envelopes .......................................

2-2
2-3

2-3

2-9
2-16

2-16
2-20

2-23
2-23

2-30

Paper Handling 2-l

Selecting a Paper Feeding Method

The paper release lever on the LQ-860 has three positions for use

with the various methods of paper feeding. When you switch the
paper path, you must change the lever to the correct position to
ensure smooth operation.

The lever has three icons beside it. Each icon indicates its paper
feeding method.

PULL

2-2

Single-sheet position: When you want to load single
sheets from both the paper guide and the optional cut
sheet feeder, set the lever in this position (all the way back).

Push tractor position: When you load continuous paper
with the built-in push tractor, set the lever in this
position (in the middle).

Pull tractor position: When you load continuous paper
with the optional pull tractor, set the lever in this
position (all the way forward). Even when you use the
built-in push tractor at the same time, you must set the
lever to this position. Only select this position if you are
using the optional pull tractor.

Paper Handling

Using Single Sheets

Your printer can accommodate single sheets up to a maximum
width of 10.1 inches (257 mm).

If you do most of your printing on single sheets, you may find it
more convenient to install the optional cut sheet feeder. This option
automatically inserts a new sheet and can hold up to 150 pages. For
more details, see Chapter 5.

Loading Paper

1.

Make sure the printer is turned off.

2.

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

Note: For normal use, the paper thickness lever is set to position

2. See The Paper Thickness Lever later in this chapter if you are
printing on special paper.

Paper Handling 2-3

3.

Turn on the printer. The

POWER

and

PAPER OUT

lights come on.

Note: Do not insert paper in the printer before turning on the
printer.

4.

Open the paper guide cover.

2-4

Paper Handling

5.

Move the left edge guide until it lines up with the guide mark.
(You may want to change this position later, depending on the
margin

6.

Adjust the right edge guide to match the width of your paper.

settings

of your application program.)

Paper Handling 2-5

7.

Slide the paper down between the edge guides until it meets

resistance and the

PAPER OUT

light goes off. After about two

seconds, the printer loads the paper automatically and is set

ON LINE

8.

Close the paper guide cover.

so that it can accept data from your computer.

WARNING: Never advance the paper using the platen
knob except in the case of a paper jam or other paper feed
problem. Using the platen knob while the printer is on
may damage the printer and affect

the

loading and short

tear-off positions.

Note: If the platen turns without loading the paper, press the

ON LINE

button to take the printer off line and completely remove

the paper. Then re-insert the paper more firmly.

If you need to adjust the position of

the

micro-adjustment feature described in Adjusting the Loading

the

paper after it is loaded, use

Position in Chapter 3.

2-6

Paper Handling

You are now ready to begin printing.
To eject the paper, press the

line; then press the

LOAD/EJECT

ON LINE

button.

button to take the printer off

Reloading During Printing

When you print a document of more than one page using single-

sheet paper, the printer stops printing when it reaches
the page. Your application program may take
automatically. However, if the
thing you do is press the

Once the

ON LINE

light is off, remove the sheet that has just been
printed (if necessary, press the
Then load a new

sheet to

ON LINE

ON LINE

light remains on, the first

button to take the printer off line.

LOAD/EJECT

start printing the next page and follow

the

button to eject the page).

the

bottom of

printer off line

any

additional prompts from your software.

Paper Handling 2-7

Using Continuous Paper

The tractor built into your printer is remarkably easy to load and
operate. Its low-profile design takes up little space and can handle
paper up to 10.1 inches or 257 mm wide.

Positioning Your Continuous Paper Supply

An important consideration for achieving smooth and trouble-free
paper feeding is the position of your paper supply. Three ways of
positioning your printer and continuous paper supply are shown

below.

Be sure to align the paper supply with the paper loaded in the

tractor so that the paper feeds smoothly into the printer.

2-8

Paper Handling

Loading Continuous Paper

1.

Be sure that the printer is turned off.

2.

Pull the paper release lever forward to the push tractor position,
which is the middle position.

3.

Open the paper guide cover and remove the paper guide.

Paper Handling

2-Y

4.

Release the sprocket units by pulling the sprocket lock levers
forward as

5.

Slide the left sprocket unit all

shown

below.

the way to the left and press the

lever back to lock it in place.

2-10

Paper Handling

6.

Slide the right sprocket unit so that it roughly matches the width

of your paper, but do not lock it.

7.

Move the paper support midway between the two sprocket
units.

Paper Handling

2-11

8.

Open both sprocket covers.

CAUTION: Make sure that the first sheet of paper has a
clean, straight edge before inserting it into the printer.

9.

Fit the first four holes in the paper over the pins of both
sprockets.

2-12

Paper Handling

10. Close the sprocket covers.

11. Slide the right sprocket unit to a position where the paper is

straight and has no wrinkles. Then lock it in place.

Paper Handling

2-13

12. Reattach the paper guide on top of the paper as shown below.

Note: For normal use, the paper thickness lever is set to position

2. If you are using special paper, see The Paper Thickness Lever
later in this chapter for details.

13. Close the paper guide cover and turn on the printer.

2-14

Paper Handling

14. Press the
position. Then press the
so that it can accept data. (Or, simply press
printer loads

LOAD/EJECT

the

paper and then goes on line.)

button to feed paper to the loading

ON LINE

button to set the printer on line

ON LINE,

and the

The printer remembers the loading position and advances each page
to the same position. If you need to adjust the loading position, use

the

micro-adjustment feature. See Adjusting the Loading Position in

Chapter 3.

CAUTION: Never adjust the loading position using the
platen knob and never

turn the

platen knob while the

printer is turned on.

When using continuous paper, you can choose

the

short tear-off
feature to give you added paper handling capabilities. This feature
makes it easier to detach printed pages and saves the blank pages
that are usually lost between printing jobs. See Using Short Tear-off
in Chapter 3 for details.

Paper Handling

2-15

Switching Between Continuous and Single Sheets

Even with continuous paper loaded in the printer, the SmartPark
feature allows you to easily switch to single-sheet printing without
removing the continuous paper from the tractor.

Switching to Single Sheets

To switch from continuous paper to single sheets, follow the steps
below.

1.

If the printer is on line, press the
off line.

ON LINE

button to set the printer

2-16

Paper Handling

2.

Tear off any outgoing
print head, you need to press the

sheets.

If the paper has advanced past the

FORM FEED

button to advance

your document to a point where it can be easily removed.

CAUTION: Make sure you tear off your printed document
before pressing the
several pages at a time

LOAD/EJECT

may

result in a paper jam. This is

button. Reverse-feeding

especially true for narrow paper (less than 6 inches or

152.4 mm wide).

Paper Handling

2-17

3.

Press the

LOAD/EJECT

button to feed the continuous paper
backward out of the printer and into the standby position. The
paper is still attached to the tractor but no longer in the paper
path. The

PAPER OUT

light comes on when the paper is

completely out of the paper path.

CAUTION: Pressing the

LOAD/EJECT

button once may not
feed the paper far back enough to reach the standby
position. If the
the

LOAD/EJECT

continuous paper, you can press

PAPER OUT

light does not come on, press

button again. With normal-width

the LOAD/EJECT

button up
to three times. If, however, you are using narrow paper
(between 4 and 6 inches or 101.6 and 152.4 mm), you can
press the

LOAD/EJECT

button only once. Also, do not use

this button to eject labels.

WARNING: Never feed labels backward through the
printer. Labels can easily come off the backing sheet and
jam the printer.

2-18

Paper Handling

4.

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

5.

Open the paper guide cover and lift the paper guide until it
locks into place.

Paper Handling

2-19

6.

Move the left edge guide until it aligns with the guide mark.
Adjust the right edge guide to match the width of your paper.

7.

Slide a sheet of paper down between the edge guides until it
meets resistance and the
two seconds, the printer loads
itself

ON LINE.

PAPER OUT

the

paper automatically and sets

light goes off. After about

8.

Close the paper guide cover.

Switching Back to Continuous Paper

It is also easy to switch back to printing with continuous paper.
Before switching to continuous paper, make sure

that the

single

sheet is ejected and the printer is off line.

2-20

Paper Handling

1.

Open the paper guide cover.

2.

Lift up slightly on the paper guide and then lower it onto the

back of the printer.

Paper Handling

2-21

3.

Pull the paper release lever forward to

the

push tractor position

(the middle position), then close the paper guide cover.

4.

Press

the LOAD/EJECT

loading position. Then, press the

button to feed the continuous paper to

ON LINE

button to set the

printer on line so that it can accept data. (Or, simply press

ON LINE,

and the printer loads the paper and then goes on line.)

the

2-22

Paper Handling

Printing on Special Paper

In addition to printing on single sheets and continuous paper, your
printer can also print on a wide variety of paper types, including
multi-part forms, labels, and envelopes.

If you are printing preprinted or multi-part forms or labels, it is
recommended that you use the optional pull tractor. See The Pull
Tractor in Chapter 5.

Before printing on special types of paper, you need to change the
paper thickness setting.

WARNING:

envelopes, make sure that your application program
settings keep the printing entirely within the printable
area.

For multi-part forms and labels, you should not print any
closer than one-half inch (13 mm) from either side of the
paper.

For information on the printable area for envelopes, see
Envelopes later in this chapter.

The Paper Thickness Lever

To accommodate various thicknesses of paper, the printer is
equipped with a paper thickness lever that can be set to eight
positions. These positions are identified by a scale on the printer
next to the lever.

When printing on multi-part forms, labels, or

Paper Handling

2-23

Note: For normal use, set the paper thickness lever to position 2
on the scale.

If you have installed the optional film ribbon cartridge, and you

want

to use single sheets or continuous paper, set

the

paper

thickness lever to position 1.

The following table gives you general guidelines for selecting the
right paper thickness lever position for the type of paper you are
using:

Paper type

Paper (single sheets or continuous

paper with film ribbon installed)

Thin paper
Paper (single sheets or continuous

paper with standard ribbon installed)
24 lb paper (single sheets)
Multi-part forms

2-sheet
3-sheet
4-sheet

Labels

Envelopes

Air mail
Plain
Bond (20 lb.)
Bond (24 lb.)

Note: If the lever is set to position 4 or higher, the printing speed may be reduced
slightly.

Lever position

1

2 or 1

2
3

3
4
5

4

4 or 5

6
6
7

2-24

Paper Handling

To change the paper thickness setting, follow these steps.

1.

Make sure that the printer is turned off. Then open the printer
cover and the paper guide cover.

WARNING: If the printer has just been in use, the print
head may be hot. Be careful not to touch it.

2.

Make sure the print head is cool; then slide the print head to the

middle of the printer.

Paper Handling

2-25

3.

Select the paper thickness you want according to

the

table
beginning of this section. For normal use, the lever should
always be set to position 2 on the scale.

Close the printer cover and the paper guide cover.

4.

at

the

To help you check the position of the paper thickness lever, the

orange

MULTI-PART

light on the control panel comes on if the

lever is set to position 4 or higher.

2-26

Paper Handling

WARNING: Always return the lever to position 2 when

you go back to printing on ordinary paper. Continuous
printing with the lever set at a position higher than 2 can

shorten the life of the print head.
Printing past the edge of envelopes, multi-part forms, labels,

or thicker-than-normal paper can damage the print head.

Multi-part Forms

With the built-in tractor unit, your printer can print on continuous

multi-part forms. You can use multi-part forms that have up to four
parts including the original. Make sure you set the paper thickness
lever to the proper position.

Except for the paper thickness lever setting, you load multi-part
paper the same way as continuous paper. For details, see Loading
Continuous Paper in this chapter. Also see Adjusting the Loading
Position and Page Length in Chapter 3.

When you set the paper thickness lever to position 4 or above, the

MULTI-PART

light comes on and the printer reduces its printing speed.

CAUTION: Do not use multi-part forms with the single-

sheet

feeding system or the optional cut sheet feeder.

Paper Handling

2-27

Labels

If you need to print labels, always use labels mounted on a
continuous backing sheet with sprocket holes for use

with

a tractor.
Do not try to print labels as single sheets because labels on a shiny
backing sheet almost always slip a little.

You load labels the same way that you load continuous paper
except that the paper thickness lever must be adjusted for printing
labels. See Loading Continuous Paper earlier in this chapter. For the
correct paper thickness setting, see The Paper Thickness Lever
earlier in this chapter.

WARNING: When loading labels, use the

LINE FEED

button
to feed the sheet of labels beyond the rollers of the paper
tension unit. (The loading position should be set at least

1.8 inches or 45 mm from the top edge of the sheet.)
Never feed labels backward through the printer. Labels

can easily peel off the backing and jam the printer.
Therefore, never use the

LOAD/EJECT

button to eject labels.
Also, never use the short tear-off function with labels. (Be
sure to set DIP switch 2-7 to OFF.) If a label does become
stuck in the printer, contact your Epson dealer.

Because labels are especially sensitive to temperature and
humidity, always use them under normal operating
conditions. Don’t leave labels loaded in the printer
between jobs; they curl around the platen and may jam
when you resume printing.

2-28

Paper Handling

To eject labels from the printer, follow these steps:

Open the paper guide cover and remove the paper guide.

1.

2.

Tear off the sheet of labels at the perforation behind the push
tractor.

Paper Handling

2-29

3.

Press the

FORM FEED

ON LINE

button to set the printer off line. Then press the

button to eject the labels.

Envelopes

You can feed envelopes individually using the single-sheet loading
feature. Before loading envelopes, adjust the position of the paper
thickness lever according to the Paper Thickness Lever table earlier
in this chapter. For details on paper handling, see Using Single

Sheets earlier in this chapter. See Chapter 5 for a description of how

to use envelopes with the optional cut sheet feeder.
When manually feeding an envelope, you may have to push it down

slightly to get it to feed properly. After about two seconds, the
envelope loads automatically.

2-30

Paper Handling

CAUTION:

The printable area for envelopes is shown
below. The print head must not go past the left or right
edge of the envelope or other thick paper. Make sure the
page setup of your application program keeps the printing

entirely within this printable area.

Always keep the longer side of the envelope horizontal.
If you use No. 6 envelopes, make sure the left edge guide

is aligned with the arrow on the paper guide.

0.39 inch
(10 mm) or more

0.12 inch

(3 mm) or more

CAUTION:

Envelope printing is available only at normal

0.87 inch
(22 mm) or more

temperature (41” F to 95° F or 5° C to 35° C).

To make sure that the printing fits within the printable area, always

print a test sample using a normal sheet of paper before printing on
envelopes.

Paper Handling

2-31

Chapter 3

Using the Printer

Operating the Control Panel

Lights
Buttons
SelecType
Other Control Panel Features

Setting the DIP Switches.

Changing a DIP Switch Setting

The DIP Switch Tables ............................

The DIP Switch Functions

Adjusting the Loading Position.

The Loading Position
Using Micro-adjustment.

Using Short Tear-off

Using the DIP Switch
Using the

Adjusting the Tear-off Position

Selecting Typestyles

Character Fonts ..................................

Character Spacing

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

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

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

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

TEAR OFF

Button.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3-6
3-6

3-7

3-10
3-14

3-14
3-15

3-17
3-17
3-19
3-20

3-21
3-21
3-24

Selecting a Character Set and Table

Selecting an International Character Set

Choosing a Character Table.

Using the Data Dump Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

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

Using the Printer

3-26
3-26
3-28

3-29

3-1

Operating the Control Panel

The indicator lights give you the current status of the printer. The
buttons let you control many of the printer settings.

Lights

POWER

On when the POWER switch is on and power is supplied.

READY

On when the printer is ready for input data. Flickers during printing.

PAPER OUT

On when the printer is out of paper or when continuous paper is in
the standby position.

ON LINE

On when the printer is on line and ready to accept data.

MULTI-PART

On when the paper thickness lever is set to position 4 or higher.

(For regular paper, this light should not be on.) When this light is

blinking, you can use the micro-adjustment function.

TEAR OFF

On when the printer is in the tear-off mode.

3-2

(green)

(green)

(red)

(green)

(orange)

(orange)

Using the Printer

Buttons

ON LINE

This button controls the printer’s on line and off line status. Press

this button to put the printer on line or to take it off line. When the
printer is on line, the

ON LINE

light is on and the printer can receive

and print data from the computer.

FORM FEED

When the printer is off line, press this button to eject a single sheet
of paper or to advance continuous paper to the top of the next page.

LINE FEED

When the printer is off line, press this button to advance the paper
one line, or hold it down to advance the paper continuously.

LOAD/EJECT

When the printer is off line, press this button to feed paper to the
loading position or to eject paper that is already loaded. Paper is
ejected forward if the paper release lever is set to the single-sheet
position and backward (out of the paper path) if the release lever is
set to the continuous paper position.

BIN 1/BIN 2

When the printer is on line, press this button to select either bin 1 or
bin 2 of the double-bin cut sheet feeder. The beeper sounds once if
you select bin 1 and twice if you select bin 2.

Using the Printer

3-3

TEAR OFF

Press this button to feed the perforation of continuous paper to the
tear-off edge of the printer. After tearing off the paper, press this
button again to feed the paper backward to the loading position.

SelecType

FONT

Press this button to select LQ
or a cartridge font (if installed). The indicator light shows

ROMAN,

LQ SANS

SERIF, DRAFT

the

mode,

font

you select. See Selecting Typestyles later in this chapter.

PITCH

Press this button to select the character spacing. You can choose

10 CPI, 12 CPI, 15 CPI, 17 CPI, 20 CPI,

or

PROPORTIONAL

spacing. The
orange indicator light shows the spacing you select. You cannot
select proportional spacing with draft mode. (Draft mode overrides
proportional spacing.)

3-4

Using the Printer

Other Control Panel Features

The control panel of your printer also gives you access to several
special functions.

Self test:

Micro-adjustment:

Data dump:

Both a draft and Letter Quality self test
function are built into the printer. The self test
printout lets you check the current DIP switch
settings and operating status of the printer.
You can start the printer’s self test by holding
down the
the

FORM FEED

LINE FEED

button (for draft mode) or

button (for Letter Quality
mode) while turning on the printer. See
Running the Self Test in Chapter 1 for more
information.

By pressing the

FORM FEED

or

LINE FEED

button immediately after loading paper or

when

using short tear-off, you

can

make fine
adjustments to the loading and short tear-off
positions. These positions can only be
adjusted while the

MULTI-PART

light is
blinking. See Adjusting the Loading Position
and Using Short Tear-off later in this chapter.

By holding down both the

FORM FEED

buttons while you switch on the

LINE FEED

and

printer, you turn on the data dump mode.
This feature allows advanced users to locate
the source of communications problems
between the computer and printer. See Using
the Data Dump Mode later in this chapter for
more information.

Input buffer control:

To enable or disable the input buffer, press

LOAD/EJECT

button while you turn on the

the

power. The beeper sounds once if the input
buffer is disabled and twice if it is enabled.

Using the Printer

3-5

Setting the DIP Switches

The printer has two sets of DIP (Dual Inline Package) switches
located inside the printer cover to the left of the control panel. By
changing the settings of these switches, you can control various
printer features, such as the character set and page length. The new
settings become effective when you turn on, reset, or initialize the
printer.

Changing a DIP Switch Setting

To change a DIP switch setting, follow these steps:

1.

Turn off the printer.

2.

Open the printer cover.

3-6

Using the Printer

3.

Use a pointed object, such as a pen, to change the DIP switch
settings. A DIP switch is on

when

it is set toward the back of the

printer, and off when it is set toward the front of the printer.

4. Close the printer cover.
The new DIP switch settings take effect when you turn the printer on.

The DIP Switch Tables

The tables below describe the DIP switch settings.

DIP Switch 1

SW Description

International character set

l-l
l-2 Code page table
1-3

l-4 Character table

Print direction for graphics

l-5
l-6 High-speed draft

Cut sheet feeder mode

l-7
l-8 Skip over perforation

ON

See tables 1, 4

Graphics

Unidir. Bidir.

OFF

ON
ON

Italics

Using the Printer

OFF

ON
OFF
OFF

3-7

DIP Switch 2

Table 1 International character sets

See Selecting an International Character Set later in this chapter for

other character sets.

International character sets are selectable only when DIP switch 1-4
is off.

3-8

Using the Printer

Table 2 Interface/parity selection

Table 3 Baud rate selection

Interface type Parity SW 2-3 SW 2-4

Parallel
Serial
Serial
Serial None ON ON

Even ON
Odd

OFF OFF

OFF

OFF ON

Baud rate

9600 bps
19200 bps ON
1200 bps

300

bps

SW 2-5 SW 2-6

OFF OFF

OFF
OFF ON
ON ON

Table 4 Code page tables

Code page tables are selectable only when the DIP switch 1-4 is

Table 5

Page

length selection

on.

Using the Printer

3-9

The DIP Switch Functions

Character sets and tables

DIP switches l-1, 1-2, and l-3 select an international character set or
a code page table based on the setting of DIP switch 1-4. When DIP
switch l-4 is off, DIP switches l-l, 1-2, and l-3 select an international
character set. When DIP switch l-4 is on, DIP switches 1-1, l-2, and

l-3 select a code page table.

Also, when DIP switch l-4 is off, the italics character table is
selected. When DIP switch l-4 is on, the Epson Extended Graphics
character table is selected.

These character sets and code page tables are in the appendix.

Printing direction

With unidirectional printing, the print head prints in one direction

only. This allows for precise vertical alignment, making it ideal for
printing graphics such as lines and boxes. When DIP switch l-5 is
on, the printer prints unidirectionally; when it is off, the printer
prints bidirectionally. Either setting can be overridden by a software
command (ESC U). To achieve precise vertical alignment without
the slower printing speed caused by unidirectional printing, see
your authorized service dealer for adjustment of your bidirectional
print settings.

High-speed draft

When DIP switch l-6 is off, high-speed draft is selected. When the

DIP switch is on, normal draft is selected. High-speed draft prints at

300 characters per second but produces characters that are not as

fully formed as the ones produced with normal draft. If you select a
feature such as emphasized, double-strike, or condensed in high-

speed draft mode, the printing speed temporarily switches to

normal draft speed until the enhancement is turned off. This allows
you to use any print enhancement without canceling high-speed
draft.

3-10

Using the Printer

Skip over perforation

By changing the setting of DIP switch

l-8, you

can set skip over
perforation to on or off. If this feature is on when using continuous
paper, a one-inch margin is provided between the last printable line
on one page and the first printable line on the next page. This
feature is very convenient if your application program does not
provide for top and bottom margins.

If you adjust your loading position correctly, you can get half of the
margin at the bottom of one page and half at the top of the next

page, as shown in the following illustration.

DIP switch l-8 off (Skip over perforation off)

l

23456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]

3456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^

l

456789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_
56789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_'

6789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_'a

l

789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_'ab

89:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_'abc

9:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_'abcd

:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\l^_'abcde

l

DIP switch l-8 on (Skip over perforation on)

l 23456789:;

3456789:;

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]'

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_

l

l

456789:;

l

56789:;<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_'a
6789:;

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_

<=>?@ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[\]^_'ab

Using the Printer

3-11

Note:

Most application programs take care of top and bottom
margins. Use skip over perforation only if your program does not
provide these margins.

The skip over perforation setting can be set to values other than
one inch by using the ESC N command. See the Command
Summary in Chapter 9 for details.

Page length

To obtain one of the four page lengths, set DIP switches 2-1 and 2-2
according to the Page length selection table. The page lengths are:

8.5 inches (216 mm), 11 inches (279

mm),

11.7 inches (296 mm), and

12 inches (305 mm).

Page length selection

Page length

11 inches
12 inches

8.5 inches

11.7 inches

Note:

If you are using the cut sheet feeder, the page length is

SW 2-l SW 2-2

OFF OFF

ON
OFF ON
ON ON

OFF

automatically set when you run the printer’s self test. For details,

see The Cut Sheet Feeder in Chapter 5.

Other page lengths can be set using the commands ESC C and
ESC C 0. See the Command Summary in Chapter 9 for details”

3-12

Using the Printer

Interface selection and communications parameters

DIP switches 2-3, 2-4, 2-5, and 2-6 select communications parameters

that you need to set if you are using the serial interface on the

printer.

DIP switches 2-3 and 2-4 select the type of interface you are using
and the parity setting for the serial interface. DIP switches 2-5 and
2-6 select the baud rate at which the serial port will transmit and
receive data.

Tear-off mode

When DIP switch 2-7 is on, the short tear-off mode is on. This
feature automatically advances continuous paper to the tear-off
position so you can tear off the page. Then it reverse-feeds the paper
to the loading position before printing the next document. See the
section on using short tear-off later in this chapter.

CAUTION:

Auto line feed

Do not use the short tear-off mode with labels.

When auto line feed is on (DIP switch 2-8 on), each carriage return
code (CR) is automatically followed by a line feed code (LF).

Using the Printer

3-13

Adjusting the Loading Position

The Loading Position
The loading position is the position of the paper when it has been

automatically loaded by the printer.
This position is important because it determines where the printing

begins on the page. If the printing is too high or too low on the page,
change the loading position using the micro-adjustment feature
described in the next section.

You can set separate loading positions for single sheets, continuous
paper, and sheets loaded by the cut sheet feeder.

CAUTION:

in case of a paper jam or other paper feeding problem. (If
you need to use the platen knob, make sure the power is
off.) If you need to adjust the loading position, always use
the micro-adjustment feature.

Until the loading position is reset, the printer remembers this position
even if it is turned off, and uses it as a reference point for feeding paper.

The micro-adjustment feature moves the paper in l/180-inch

increments to make fine adjustments to the loading position. You

can use this feature to adjust the loading position immediately after

loading paper only.
Once you have used micro-adjustment to change the loading

position of continuous paper, the printer remembers that position
even after it is turned off. When you use micro-adjustment to

change the loading position of single-sheet paper, however, the

printer does not remember this position after the power is turned
off. When the power is turned back on, the loading position returns
to its factory setting.

Never use the platen knob to feed paper except

3-14

Using the Printer

Using Micro-adjustment

1.

Make sure that the printer is turned on and

that

either a single

sheet or continuous paper is ready to be loaded.

2.

If you are using the cut sheet feeder or continuous paper, press

the LOAD/EJECT

Then press the

button to feed paper to the loading position.

ON LINE

button. (Or, simply press

ON LINE,

and
the printer loads the paper and then goes on line.) If you are
using single sheets, wait two seconds; the printer loads paper
and then goes on line automatically. In both cases,

PART

light begins to blink.

LOAD

EJECT

the MULTI-

ON LINE

MULTI-

PART

Note: You can use the FORM FEED and LINE FEED buttons for
micro-adjustment only

while

the

MULTI-PART

light is blinking.

Using the Printer

3-15

3.

The dots on the clear plastic ribbon mask show you where the
bottom edge of your first line of text will print. This position is
based on the first printable line of text. Press the
button to feed the paper backward or the

LINE FEED

FORM FEED

button to

feed the paper forward.

Note: When the paper reaches the factory-set loading position,
the printer beeps and micro-adjustment feeding pauses for a

moment before continuing. You can use

this

factory setting as a

reference point when adjusting the printer’s loading position.
When the paper reaches either
margin,

the

printer beeps and the paper stops moving.

the minimum

or maximum top

Once you have adjusted your paper, the printer remembers this new
loading position. When the printer receives data, the

light

stops flashing.

3-16

Using the Printer

MULTI-PART

Using Short Tear-off

You can use the short tear-off feature in one of two ways. If DIP
switch 2-7 is on and the printer does not receive data for three
seconds after it
feed, the short tear-off feature automatically feeds
the continuous paper to the tear-off edge of the printer cover so that
you can tear off the last sheet. When you resume printing, the paper
feeds backward to the loading position. This feature lets you save
the paper normally lost between documents.

has

reached the bottom margin or received a form

the

perforation of

You can also use the short tear-off feature by pressing the

TEAR OFF

button on the control panel to feed the perforation of the paper to
the tear-off edge of the printer. After tearing off

TEAR OFF

Note:

again to feed the paper backward to the loading position.

You can use the tear-off feature only with the built-in

the

paper, press

tractor feeding system.

Using the DIP Switch

1.

Set DIP switch 2-7 to on.

2.

Load continuous paper in the normal way. Leave the paper
guide cover open so that you can use the cover’s tear-off edge.

You can leave the short tear-off feature on (DIP switch 2-7 on) even
when using single

sheets.

Moving the paper release lever to the

single-sheet position disables the short tear-off feature.

WARNING:

Otherwise, labels may

Never use short tear-off with labels.

come

off their backing and jam the

printer.

Using the Printer

3-17

When you have finished printing, and if the perforation is at the top

of form position, the printer automatically feeds the perforation of
the continuous paper to the tear-off edge of the printer cover. You

can then tear off the page using the tear-off edge as shown below.

If the page perforation is not properly aligned with the tear-off edge,
you can adjust the tear-off position using micro-adjustment, as
described later in this section.

Note:

Short tear-off is performed whenever the printer receives a
full page of data or a form feed and no more data is received for
three seconds.

When you resume printing after tearing off the sheet, the paper
automatically feeds backward to the loading position before
printing begins.

3-18

Using the Printer

Using the TEAR OFF Button

1.

When you

once. The orange

have

finished printing, press the

TEAR OFF

light comes on and the printer feeds

TEAR OFF

button

the paper’s perforation to the tear-off edge of the printer cover.

2.

Tear off the page using the tear-off edge.

3.

Press the

TEAR OFF

button again to feed the paper back to its

loading position.

Using the Printer

3-19

Adjusting the Tear-off Position

If the paper’s perforation does not meet the tear-off edge, you can
adjust the tear-off position using

1.

Make sure the printer feeds the paper to the tear-off position
after printing
and the

the

document. The

MULTI-PART

light should begin blinking, indicating that

the

micro-adjustment feature.

TEAR OFF

light should be on

you can now use the micro-adjustment feature to make fine
adjustments to the tear-off position.

2.

To make fine adjustments to the tear-off position, press the

FORM FEED

button to feed the paper backward or the

LINE FEED

button to feed it forward.

You can now tear off your document from the perforation and
resume printing. The printer remembers this new tear-off position
even after the printer is turned off and on again.

3-20

Using the Printer

Selecting Typestyles

You can produce a wide range of typestyles by selecting different
character fonts, widths, and other enhancements from the SelecType
control panel or by using software commands. This section
describes only the features controlled by SelecType. To use software
commands, see the Command Summary in Chapter 9.

You can use the SelecType section of the control panel to choose

fonts and character spacings. Orange lights indicate which features

you have chosen.

Note: The settings you select using the SelecType panel remain
valid even after you turn off, reset, or initialize the printer.
However, commands from your application program temporarily
override the SelecType settings.

Some application programs are designed to control all typestyle
functions. These programs cancel all previous typestyle settings
by sending certain software commands before printing. Because
these commands override SelecType settings, you should use the
program’s print options instead of SelecType to select your
typestyles. If SelecType does not work with a particular
application, check your software manual for instructions on
selecting typestyles.

Character Fonts

The printer has six built-in fonts: high-speed draft, draft, Roman,
Roman proportional, Sans Serif, and Sans Serif proportional.

Using the Printer

3-21

To select a font, press the

indicator light comes on. Note that font selection skips over
or

SLOT B

if no optional font module is installed in that slot.

FONT

button until the font’s orange

SLOT A

DRAFT

ROMAN

SANS SERIF

There are two printing speeds for the

and normal draft. These printing speeds are controlled by DIP
switch 1-6.

The following samples show the character set available for each
font.

DRAFT

We’ve just seen your excellent ad for

miniature zebras in a recent back issue of

Trader's Times.

for quantities over one gross?

SLOT A

SLOT B

DRAFT

What is the price schedule

font, high-speed draft

FONT

3-22

Using the Printer

ROMAN

We’ve just seen your excellent ad for

miniature zebras in a recent back issue of

Trader’s Times.

for quantities over one gross?

SANS SERIF

We’ve just seen your excellent ad for
miniature zebras in a recent back issue of
Trader’s Times. What is the price schedule
for quantities over one gross?

What is the price schedule

The DRAFT mode uses fewer dots per character for high-speed
printing, which makes it ideal for rough drafts and editing work.

ROMAN

and

SANS SERIF

are Letter Quality (LQ)

fonts. Letter Quality

fonts take a little longer to print, but produce nicely formed
characters suitable for most documentation requirements.

Other fonts are available on optional font cartridges. See The Multi­Font Module in Chapter 5.

Using the Printer

3-23