Epson Stylus Pro 9000 User Guide

EPSON Stylus® Pro 9000 Series

PRINTER GUIDE

Printed on recycled paper.

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

EPSON

printers.

SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION

is not responsible for any use of this information as applied to other printers.

EPSON

. The information contained herein is designed only for use

Trademarks

EPSON, EPSON

Stylus, ESC/P, and Micro Piezo are registered trademarks of

SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION

DX3, PhotoEnhance, SelecType, and EPSON Archival are trademarks and EPSON Preferred is a service mark of Epson America, Inc.

EFI, the EFI logo, Fiery, and the Fiery logo are U.S. registered trademarks of Electronics for Imaging, Inc.

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

disclaims any and all rights in those marks.

their respective owners.

The E

NERGY STAR

EPSON

emblem does not represent EPA endorsement of any product or service.

Legal Notices

Neither

SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION

nor its affiliates shall be liable to the purchaser of this product or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses incurred by purchaser or third parties as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or unauthorized modifications, repairs, or alterations to this product, or (excluding the U.S.) failure to strictly comply with

SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION

shall not be liable for any damages or problems arising from the use of any options or any consumable products other than those designated as Original Products by

SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION

’s operating and maintenance instructions.

EPSON

Products or

EPSON

Approved

Part Number: CPD-10847 8/00

FCC Compliance Statement

For United States Users

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

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

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

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

WARNING

The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels which exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment. It is the responsibility of the user to obtain and use a shielded equipment interface cable with this device. If this equipment has more than one interface connector, do not leave cables connected to unused interfaces. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

For Canadian Users

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le materiel brouilleur du Canada.

iii

Introduction

How To Use Your Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Using This Printer Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Warnings, Cautions, and Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Where To Get Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

ENERGY STAR Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Important Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Ink Cartridge Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

1 Handling Paper and Other Media

Selecting Paper and Other Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Printing on EPSON Paper and Other Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Printing Tips for EPSON Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Using Roll Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Attaching Paper to the Spindle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Removing Paper from the Spindle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Inserting the Spindle in the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Loading Roll Paper for Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10

Cutting Paper Manually with the Built-in Cutter . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Cutting Canvas and Other Media with the Utility Cutter . . . . . 1-14

Printing Trim Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

Using Cut Sheet Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

Using Cut Sheet Paper Longer than 19 Inches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Printing on Posterboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18

Adjusting the Platen Gap for Heavy Stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

Using the Paper Hammock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21

Catching Printouts in Front of the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21

Catching Printouts Under the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24

Setting Paper Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

Registering Paper Thickness, Drying Time, and Suction . . . . . . 1-25

Selecting Registered Paper Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

vi | Contents

2 Monitoring and Configuring the Printer

Using the Control Panel to Monitor the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Monitoring Normal Printer Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Pausing and Resetting the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Checking Printer Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Printing a Status Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Printing a Nozzle Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Checking Ink Levels and Component Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Responding to Control Panel Lights and Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Using the Control Panel to Configure the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Setting Default Roll Paper Margins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Turning Off Paper Monitoring Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Selecting the Printer’s Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Configuring the Parallel Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Changing the Printer’s Code Page Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Restoring Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Setting the Control Panel Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

3 Maintaining and Transporting the Printer

Running a Nozzle Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Running a Cleaning Cycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Aligning the Print Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Printing the Alignment Patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Completing the Alignment Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Replacing Ink Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Replacing the Paper Cutter Blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Removing the Used Cutter Blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Installing the New Cutter Blade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Cleaning the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15

Transporting the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

Setting Up the Printer After Transporting It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

Moving the Printer on the Stand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19

Replacing the Waste Ink System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20

-vi

Contents | vii

4 Resolving Problems

Diagnosing Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Using Hex Dump Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Improving Print Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Solving Operational Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Solving Miscellaneous Printing Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Solving Paper Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Solving Roll Paper Feed Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Clearing Paper Jams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12

5 Specifications

Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Printable Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Environmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Initialization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Safety Approvals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Ink Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Parallel Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Forward Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Reverse Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

ECP Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Serial Interface (RS-423 Standard) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

A Installing an Interface Card

-vii

viii | Contents

B Using EPSON Drivers and Utilities for

Macintosh

Connecting the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

Connecting to the Printer’s Parallel/USB Interface . . . . . . . . . . . B-2

Connecting to the Printer’s Built-in Serial Interface . . . . . . . . . . B-2

Setting Up Your Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3

Checking System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4

Installing the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4

Selecting Your Printer in the Chooser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5

Setting Up Printer Sharing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6

Setting Print Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8

Choosing Page Setup Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8

Choosing Basic Print Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-10

Selecting the Correct Media Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-12

Choosing Advanced Print Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-14

Managing Print Jobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-17

Setting Up Background Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-18

Using Monitor3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-19

Cancelling Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-21

Checking Printer Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-21

Selecting Configuration Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-22

Running Print Head Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-24

Running Nozzle Check and Head Cleaning Utilities . . . . . . . . . B-24

Running the Print Head Alignment Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-25

C Using EPSON Drivers and Utilities for

Windows

Connecting the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1

Setting Up Your Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2

Checking System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-3

Installing the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-3

Setting Up Printer Sharing in Windows 95 and 98 . . . . . . . . . . C-5

Setting Up Printer Sharing in Windows NT 4.0 and 2000 . . . . . C-8

-viii

Contents | ix

Setting Print Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-10

Choosing Basic Print Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-11

Selecting the Correct Media Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-13

Choosing Paper and Layout Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-15

Choosing Advanced Print Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-16

Managing Print Jobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-20

Using the Progress Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-20

Using the Spool Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-21

Checking Printer Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-21

Using Status Monitor 2 (EPSON Stylus Pro 9000) . . . . . . . . . . C-22

Status Monitor 3 (EPSON Stylus Pro 9500) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-23

Setting Monitoring Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-24

Running Printer Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-26

Running Nozzle Check and Head Cleaning Utilities . . . . . . . . . C-26

Running the Print Head Alignment Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-27

Running the Speed and Progress Configuration Utility . . . . . . . C-29

Index

-ix

x | Contents

-x

ntroduction

The EPSON Stylus

Pro 9000 series printers are the ultimate wide-format color ink jets. Setting new standards in image quality, media handling, and performance, the EPSON Stylus Pro 9000 has redefined the wide format printing industry. The breakthrough EPSON Stylus Pro 9500 gives you photographic quality with EPSON Archival

™

ink technology—for images

that last a lifetime.

EPSON’s Micro Piezo

dual density droplet (DX3™) print technology includes a precise and consistent dot size and an innovative six-color, high-capacity, quick-drying ink system. EPSON Archival ink achieves the widest color gamut available in a pigment solution, with color performance approaching EPSON dye-based ink.

With resolutions up to 1440 dpi, the EPSON Stylus Pro 9000 series printers support two 44-inch media rolls and cut sheets up to 1.5 mm thick. Both printers incorporate EPSON’s DC-based motor technology, which allows for superior print engine accuracy, even during bidirectional printing modes at some of the fastest production speeds in the industry.

For network productivity, a high performance EFI

Fiery® X2 RIP server may be purchased. The EPSON RS-5100 server supports a variety of network configurations and protocols, with full compatibility for Macintosh, Windows NT, multitasking for simultaneous spooling, Adobe

Microsoft® Windows®2000, Windows 98, Windows 95,

and UNIX® computers. The Fiery X2 RIP provides full

PostScript® 3 processing,

and printing.

The printers may also be equipped with an optional 44-inch auto take-up reel that is compatible with most lamination systems and lets you run long print jobs unattended. For complete flexibility, the EPSON Stylus Pro 9000 series printers also support many third-party RIPs and come with custom EPSON

drivers and utilities for photographs and other non-PostScript

printing.

2 | Introduction

How To Use Your Manuals

This guide is part of a set, which also includes the documentation listed below.

•

The EPSON Stylus Pro 9000/9500 Assembly and Setup Instructions describe how to unpack and assemble the printer, install ink cartridges and paper, and prepare for printing.

•

The EPSON Stylus Pro 9000 Series Quick Reference Guide provides a handy summary of the procedures for daily use and printer maintenance—loading paper, replacing ink cartridges, running cleaning cycles, aligning the print head, and preparing the printer for transportation. Attach it to your printer for easy reference.

•

The electronic Reference Guide on the EPSON printer driver CD-ROM provides additional information about the printer, drivers, and utility software. You can read the guide using a web browser, such as Netscape later.

Navigator® or Microsoft Internet Explorer, versions 3.0 or

If you have the RIP Station 5100, your documentation set includes additional manuals for users and system administrators.

•

The RIP Station 5100 Getting Started describes how to unpack the RIP, install user software and printer files from the User Software CD-ROM, and set up printing. It also describes how to install printer files via the Internet.

•

The RIP Station 5100 User Guide describes how to set printing options and print to the RIP from Windows and Mac

•

The RIP Station 5100 Administrator Guide explains basic configuration

OS computers.

and administration of the RIP for the supported platforms and network environments. It also includes guidelines for setting up UNIX, Windows NT, and NetWare

servers to provide PostScript printing

services to clients.

•

The RIP Station 5100 Color Guide provides instructions for using ColorWise

Pro Tools, including color calibration and workflow recommendations. It also includes practical color printing tips, application-specific instructions, and an introduction to color theory.

•

Release Notes provide last-minute product information and workarounds for some of the problems you may encounter.

Introduction | 3

Using This

This guide contains the following information:

Chapter 1 gives instructions for loading roll paper and cut sheets, printing on various media, and using the paper hammock.

Chapter 2 explains how to monitor the printer’s status, respond to error messages on the control panel, and configure printer settings.

Chapter 3 gives instructions for cleaning and aligning the print head, replacing ink cartridges and the cutter blade, and cleaning and transporting the printer.

Chapter 4 provides troubleshooting tips and solutions for problems involving print quality, printer operation, and paper handling.

Chapter 5 provides the technical details on your printer, paper requirements, and ink cartridges.

Appendix A gives instructions for installing an optional Ethernet interface card.

Appendix B covers the installation and use of EPSON printer drivers and utilities for Macintosh computers.

Printer Guide

Appendix C covers the installation and use of EPSON printer drivers and utilities for Windows computers.

An Index is included at the end of the book.

4 | Introduction

Warnings, Cautions, and Notes

You’ll find this information throughout this guide:

Warning

Caution

Note

Warnings must be followed carefully to avoid bodily injury.

Cautions must be observed to avoid damage to your equipment.

Notes contain important information about your printer.

Where To Get Help

EPSON provides technical support and information on the installation, configuration, and operation of professional graphics arts products through the EPSON Preferred

P.M

., Pacific Time, Monday through Friday, and 7

Protection Plan. Dial (888) 377-6611, 6

A.M.

to 4

Time, Saturday.

Before you call, make sure you have your Unit ID number, which is included with the EPSON Preferred Protection Plan information that came with your printer. You’ll also need your printer serial number and proof of purchase.

A.M.

P.M.

, Pacific

Introduction | 5

EPSON also provides technical assistance 24 hours a day through the electronic support services listed in the following table:

Service Access

World Wide Web From the Internet, you can reach EPSON’s Professional Graphics Home Page

at http://prographics.epson.com.

EPSON Internet FTP Site If you have Internet FTP capability, use your Web browser (or other software

for FTP downloading) to log onto ftp.epson.com with the user name anonymous and your e-mail address as the password.

EPSON E-Mail Technical Support

To receive technical advice through e-mail, go to http://support.epson.com and complete the form under the troubleshooting tab, as requested.

You can purchase ink cartridges, paper, manuals, and accessories from EPSON at (800) 873-7766. Or visit our web site at: www.epson.com (U.S. sales only). In Canada, please call (800) 873-7766 for dealer referral.

ENERGY STAR Compliance

As an ENERGY STAR Partner, EPSON has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

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

6 | Introduction

Caution

Always turn the printer off using the Power button. When you press this button, the Operate light flashes briefly then goes out. Do not unplug the printer or turn off the power to the printer until the Operate light is off. This ensures that the print head is safely capped.

Important Safety Instructions

Before using your printer and RIP Station 5100, read the following safety instructions to make sure you use the equipment safely and effectively.

•

Turn off and unplug the printer (and RIP Station 5100) before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth only. Do not spill liquid on the printer (or RIP Station 5100).

•

Do not place the printer (or RIP Station 5100) on an unstable surface or near a radiator or heating vent. Avoid areas subject to rapid changes in temperature and humidity or shock and vibrations.

•

Do not place the printer near a window or in direct sunlight. Bright light can interfere with the paper sensors, causing paper jams and related problems.

•

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

•

Place the printer (and RIP Station 5100) on a flat surface. They will not operate properly if they are tilted or at an angle.

•

Do not block or cover the openings in the printer case (or RIP Station 5100 case) or insert objects through the slots.

•

Use only the type of power source indicated on the label.

•

Connect all equipment to properly grounded power outlets. Avoid using outlets on the same circuit as photocopiers or air control systems that regularly switch on and off. Do not use outlets controlled by wall switches or timers.

•

Place the printer (and RIP Station 5100) near a wall outlet where the plugs can be easily unplugged.

Placez l’imprimante près d’une prise de contacte où la fiche peut être débranchée facilement.

•

Do not let the power cords become damaged or frayed.

Introduction | 7

•

If you use an extension cord with the printer, make sure the total ampere rating of the devices plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the cord’s ampere rating. Also, make sure the total ampere rating of all devices plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed the wall outlet’s ampere rating.

•

Except as specifically explained in the documentation, do not attempt to service the printer (or RIP Station 5100) 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.

•

Power down the printer from the control panel, unplug the printer (or RIP Station 5100) and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

If the power cord or plug is damaged; if liquid has entered the printer (or RIP Station 5100); if the equipment has been dropped or the case damaged; if the printer (or RIP Station 5100) does not operate normally or exhibits a distinct change in performance. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions.

Ink Cartridge Safety Instructions

•

Do not put your hand inside the printer or touch the cartridges during printing.

•

To avoid damaging the printer, do not move the print head by hand.

•

Under normal circumstances, ink will not come out of the cartridge. If it does get on your skin, wash it off with soap and water. If it gets in your eyes, flush them immediately with water.

•

Keep ink cartridges out of the reach of children and do not drink the ink.

•

Do not store ink cartridges at high or freezing temperatures. Keep cartridges away from direct sunlight.

•

Do not dismantle the ink cartridges or try to refill them. This could result in damage to the print head.

•

Install the ink cartridge immediately after you remove it from its package. Leaving the cartridge unpacked for a long time before use may result in reduced print quality.

8 | Introduction

•

Do not use an ink cartridge beyond the date printed on the cartridge package. For best results, use cartridges within six months of installation.

•

Before transporting the printer, remove the ink cartridges, close the ink valves, and install the carriage restraint (packing material). See page 3-16 for complete instructions.

Chapter 1: Handling Paper and Other Media

The EPSON Stylus Pro 9000 and 9500 print on a variety of media, including roll paper and cut sheets up to 44 inches wide. The straight-through paper path allows you to use heavy stock, including posterboard up to 59 mil (1.5 mm) thick.

Unless otherwise noted, the instructions in this chapter apply to both the EPSON Stylus Pro 9000 and 9500 printers.

•

Selecting paper and other media

•

Printing on EPSON paper and other media

•

Using roll paper

•

Using cut sheet paper

•

Using the paper hammock

•

Setting paper configurations

Selecting Paper and Other Media

You can print on most types of coated, glossy, plain paper, and other media. The printer comes with two spindles, so you can have two types of roll paper available for printing at all times (with manual switching). You can also purchase an optional 3-inch spindle, which allows you to use roll paper with a 3-inch core.

High-tension spindles are also available (in both 2-inch and 3-inch diameters), recommended for media such as EPSON Synthetic Paper and Fine Art Paper.

The following table shows the requirements for paper you can use in the printer:

Paper requirements

Roll paper Cut sheets

Size 13 to 44 in. wide

(330 to 1118 mm)

Maximum roll diameter

Thickness 3.15 to 19.7 mil (0.8 to 0.5 mm) 3.15 to 59 mil

4.05 in. (103 mm) when using 2 rolls

5.90 in. (150 mm) when using 1 roll

11 × 17 in. to 44 × 62.2 in. (up to 1118 × 1580 mm)

—

(0.8 to 1.5 mm)

1-2 | Handling Paper and Other Media

Always test samples of paper stock in the printer before purchasing large quantities or printing large jobs. When you use non-EPSON papers or other media, you may need to “profile” their thickness and ink drying time. See page 1-25 for instructions.

Printing on EPSON Paper and Other Media

EPSON papers, which are specially formulated for the inks used in the printer, ensure high-quality results. The following tables list the product codes for the EPSON media available for your printer.

Note

Check the EPSON web site (http://prographics. epson.com) or your authorized EPSON dealer for new papers and other media that may be available. Some media may not be available in your location.

EPSON Stylus Pro 9000 media product codes

44-inch

Paper type

Presentation Matte Paper

Glossy Paper Heavyweight

Semigloss Paper Heavyweight

Photo Glossy Paper SP91002 SP91001 SP91021 —

Photo Semigloss Paper SP91004 SP91003 SP91022 —

Backlight Film SP91008 SP91007 SP91023 —

Posterboard Semigloss — — — 20.25 × 28.75"

DuPont/EPSON Publication Proofing Paper

DuPont/EPSON Commercial Proofing Paper

roll

S041220 S041221 S041295 —

S041226 S041227 S041291 —

S041228 S041229 S041292 —

— S041249 S041320 13 × 19" (A3+)

— S041251 S041296 13 × 19" (A3+)

36-inch roll

24-inch roll

Sheet sizes

S041237 28 × 40" S041236

S041207, S041205

S041160

DuPont/EPSON Commercial Matte Proofing Paper

Premium Luster Photo Paper

* Not available at time of printing. Check the EPSON web site for product codes

and availability.

— S041247 S041319 13 × 19" (A3+)

S041201, S041203

***—

1-2

Handling Paper and Other Media | 1-3

EPSON Stylus Pro 9500 media product codes

Note

Check the EPSON web site (http://prographics. epson.com) or your authorized EPSON dealer for new papers and other media that may be available. Some media may not be available in your location.

44-inch

Paper type

Doubleweight Matte Paper S041387 S041386 S041385 —

Glossy Paper Photo Weight S041389 — S041388

Premium Semigloss Photo Paper

Smooth Fine Art Paper S041433 S041432 S041431 24 × 30"

Backlight Film for Archival Ink

Synthetic Paper S041401 S041400 S041399 —

Adhesive Synthetic Paper S041404 S041403 S041402 —

Photo Glossy Paper SP91002 SP91001 SP91021 —

Photo Semigloss Paper SP91004 SP91003 SP91022 —

Adhesive Vinyl S041438 S041437 S041436 —

Canvas *** —

Premium Luster Photo Paper

roll

— — — 13 × 19" (A3+)

*** —

36-inch roll

24-inch roll

(22" roll)

Sheet sizes

—

S041327

S041434

36 × 44" S041435

Semimatte Paper Photo Weight

Posterboard for Archival Ink * * * 20.25 × 28.75"

Textured Fine Art Paper S041449 S041448 S041447 24 × 30"

Translight * * * —

™

Tyvek

Scrim Vinyl * * * —

* Not available at time of printing. Check the EPSON web site for product codes

and availability.

*** —

28 × 40"

S041450

36 × 44" S041451

*** —

1-3

1-4 | Handling Paper and Other Media

Printing Tips for EPSON Media

Follow these tips for using and storing printing materials:

•

Avoid touching the printable surface of the paper or other media with bare hands. Fingerprints may affect print quality. Handle media by the edges or use cotton gloves.

•

Always choose the correct print mode or media type setting in your print options before you send your job.

•

Always select the correct paper source (roll or sheet) from the printer’s control panel.

•

Keep unused media in its original packaging and store it in a cool, dry place to avoid a decline in quality. Avoid storing media or printouts where they will be exposed to high temperature, humidity, or direct sunlight.

Using Roll Paper

The printer comes with two spindles, so you can have two types or sizes of roll paper available for printing. You can use any roll paper with a 2-inch core, up to 44 inches wide. With the optional 3-inch spindle, you can also use roll paper that has a 3-inch core (one roll at a time). Manually switching from one paper roll to another is a simple process.

This section covers the following:

•

Attaching and removing paper from the spindle

•

Inserting the spindle in the printer

•

Loading the paper for printing

1-4

Handling Paper and Other Media | 1-5

Attaching Paper to the Spindle

Follow these steps:

1. Open the roll paper cover and lift out the spindle.

2. Slide the movable paper stop (flange) off the left end of the spindle.

3. Position the roll so the paper unwinds as shown:

4. Slide the roll onto the spindle so it fits securely over the paper stop.

paper stop

1-5

1-6 | Handling Paper and Other Media

5. Slide the movable paper stop back onto the spindle and insert it firmly into the end of the roll.

Removing Paper from the Spindle

If you need to remove the paper roll from the spindle, follow these steps:

1. Open the roll paper cover and lift out the roll and spindle.

Caution

To avoid damage, do not tap the end of the spindle on the floor.

Note

Store unused roll paper in its original package— including the bag, end caps, and box—to protect the paper.

If the paper is loaded for printing, first raise the paper set lever and roll up the paper before you remove the spindle.

2. Lay the roll down on a flat surface.

3. Loosen the movable paper stop by tapping it with your hand.

4. Slide the paper stop off the end of the spindle.

5. Remove the roll from the spindle.

1-6

Handling Paper and Other Media | 1-7

Inserting the Spindle in the Printer

After you have loaded the paper roll onto the spindle, you need to insert it into the printer. You can have two rolls of paper in the printer at the same time, and print on either one. (If you’re using the optional 3-inch spindle, you can only have one roll of paper in the printer.)

Follow these steps to place the spindle and paper into the printer:

1. Open the roll paper cover.

2. Make sure the movable paper stop is firmly fixed into the left end of the paper roll.

3. Position the spindle so that the white end (with the fixed paper stop) is on the right.

black

white

1-7

1-8 | Handling Paper and Other Media

4. Insert the white end into the right mounting bracket inside the printer. You can use either the upper or lower bracket.

5. Place the black end of the spindle into the left mounting bracket inside the printer.

1-8

Handling Paper and Other Media | 1-9

6. To keep the paper wound when you’re not printing, use one of the roll paper belts included with your printer.

When you’re not using the roll paper belt, keep it wound around the end of the spindle.

Note

To remove the spindle (and paper roll) from the printer, first lift out the left end and then the right end.

roll paper belt

7. See the next section to load the paper for printing.

1-9

1-10 | Handling Paper and Other Media

Loading Roll Paper for Printing

Once the roll paper is attached to the spindle and inserted in the printer, you’re ready to load it for printing. First, open the roll paper cover and make sure the spindle is inserted correctly. Then follow these steps:

Caution

To avoid feeding excess paper through the printer, make sure you don’t select Sheet when you’re using roll paper.

Caution

If you’re using canvas, vinyl, or heavy stock, choose Roll Cutter Off. Media that is too thick may damage the cutter.

1. Make sure the printer is turned on. Then press the button until one of the

•

Choose

Roll Auto Cut

Roll

lights comes on.

Paper out

SelecType

Paper Source

Roll Auto Cut

Roll Cutter Off

if you want the paper to be cut automatically

after each page is printed.

•

Choose

Roll Cutter Off

if you’re printing on canvas, vinyl, or other heavy media, if you’re using the optional auto take-up reel, or if you want to print a series of pages and keep them together for later cutting.

•

If you’re using the auto cut setting, you can have a trim line printed on the right edge of your images or pages. If you’re not using auto cut, you can have the line printed on the right and bottom edges of your pages. See page 1-15 for instructions.

Paper Source

Item

You can also select roll paper settings through your print options, which will override the control panel settings. See the RIP Station 5100 User Guide or Appendix B or C in this manual for more information.

1-10

Handling Paper and Other Media | 1-11

Caution

To avoid damaging the printer, never move the paper set lever while the Operate or Pause light is flashing.

Caution

Avoid touching the printable surface of the paper with bare hands. Fingerprints may affect print quality.

2. Make sure the

Operate

light and

pull the paper set lever all the way up.

3. Feed the paper into the paper slot.

Pause

light are not flashing. Then

1-11

1-12 | Handling Paper and Other Media

4. Pull the paper down so it extends all the way through the slot.

5. Turn the roll back to remove the slack. Then align the paper with the two rows of holes.

1-12

Handling Paper and Other Media | 1-13

Caution

To avoid damaging the printer, never move the paper set lever while the Operate or Pause light is flashing.

6. Push the paper set lever all the way down, then close the roll paper

PRESS PAUSE BUTTON

cover.

appears on the control panel display.

If you’re using Auto Cut and the edge of the paper is uneven, press

Cut/Eject

7. Press the printing position automatically. display. (Even if you don’t press

to recut the edge.

Pause

button. The print head moves and the paper feeds into

READY Pause

appears on the control panel

, the paper and printer will move

into printing position automatically after 10 seconds.)

Cutting Paper Manually with the Built-in Cutter

When you’re not using the manually after your print job is finished. If you’re printing on canvas, vinyl, or other heavy media, you should use scissors or a utility cutter rather than the built-in cutter. See page 1-14 for instructions. Follow these steps to cut manually with the built-in cutter:

1. If the paper is not positioned correctly, press one of the buttons to adjust the paper position. Normally, you don’t need to do this after a print job is finished.

2. Press the

3. Press the

Paper Source

Cut/Eject

Auto Cut

setting, you need to cut the paper

button until the

button. The paper is cut.

1-13

Roll Auto Cut

Paper Feed

light comes on.

+ 135 hidden pages