Epson Stylus Color 500 User Manual
Epson Stylus Color 500 User Manual

Epson Stylus Color 500 User Manual

Color inkjet printer
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COLOR INK JET PRINTER
User's Guide
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 Seiko Epson Corporation.
No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein.
Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information
contained herein.
Neither Seiko Epson Corporation nor its affiliates shall be liable to the purchaser of this
product or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses incurred by purchaser or
third parties as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or unauthorized
modifications, repairs, or alterations to this product, or (excluding the U.S.) failure to
strictly comply with Seiko Epson Corporation's operating and maintenance instructions.
Seiko Epson Corporation shall not be liable against any damages or problems arising from
the use of any options or any consumable products other than those designated as
Original EPSON Products or EPSON Approved Products by Seiko Epson Corporation.
EPSON, EPSON Stylus, and EPSON ESC/P are registered trademarks and
EPSON ESC/P 2 is a trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.
EPSON Connection is a service mark of Epson America, Inc.
Windows printer driver copyright by Software 2000 Ltd Oxford, England.
General Notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and
may be trademarks of their respective owners. EPSON disclaims any and all rights in
those marks.
The Energy Star emblem does not represent EPA endorsement of any product or service.
Copyright © 1996 by Epson America, Inc.
3/96
Printed on recycled paper with at least 10% post-consumer content

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Summary of Contents for Epson Stylus Color 500

  • Page 1 Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. Neither Seiko Epson Corporation nor its affiliates shall be liable to the purchaser of this product or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses incurred by 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...
  • Page 2: Printer Parts

    Printer Parts sheet feeder control panel output tray extension paper thickness lever power switch paper thickness adjustment lever paper support extension left edge guide lock lever output tray paper support edge guides printer cover serial interface connector parallel interface connector...
  • Page 3 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.
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Installing a Driver for DOS Programs ... . 2-8 Accessing the Printer Driver ....2-9 Accessing the Driver From Windows Applications .
  • Page 5 Accessing the Driver From Windows 95 ... . 2-10 Using the Printer Driver ..... . . 2-11 Changing Settings .
  • Page 6 Removing and Installing Ink Cartridges ... 6-5 Cleaning the Printer ......6-8 Calibrating the Printer Calibrating the Printer Using Windows .
  • Page 7 ......B-2 EPSON ESC/P 2 Commands ....B-2 IBM X24E Emulation Codes .
  • Page 8 The printer’s ink jet technology allows it to operate quietly, keeping your workspace peaceful. The Stylus COLOR 500 is easy to install and use. You simply set it up and install the printer driver software as described in this book.
  • Page 9: Introduction

    EPSON ink cartridges (black and color) are specially formulated to work with EPSON papers and the printer driver software to deliver the best looking output. Always use genuine EPSON ink cartridges and do not refill them. Other products may cause damage not covered by EPSON’s warranty.
  • Page 10: If You Are New To Color Printing

    Chapter 3. Both drivers include online help to make using the driver as easy as possible. If You Are New to Color Printing Color printing with the EPSON Stylus COLOR 500 produces amazing images, whether you print text, graphics, line drawings, photographs, or documents containing many different image types.
  • Page 11: Energy Star Compliance

    The EPA estimates that if all desktop computers, printers, and other peripheral devices met Energy Star standards, energy cost savings would exceed $1 billion annually and carbon dioxide emissions would be reduced by 20 million tons. All of EPSON’s ink jet printers conform to Energy Star standards. Introduction...
  • Page 12: Energy-Saving Tips

    This manual contains all the information you need to set up and use your printer. Chapter 1, “Setting Up the Printer,” provides simple steps for setting up your printer, running a self test, and connecting the printer to your computer. Chapter 2, “Installing and Using the Windows Printer Software,”...
  • Page 13: Where To Get Help

    If you purchased your printer in the United States or Canada, EPSON provides customer support and service through a network of Authorized EPSON Customer Care Centers. EPSON also provides the following services when you dial (800) 922-8911: EPSON fax-on-demand technical information library...
  • Page 14: Electronic Support Services

    Info, and EPSON Contacts. Link to the EPSON Connection for the latest drivers and FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) and the EPSON Chat area. To get in touch with EPSON around the world, EPSON Contacts includes Contact Information for local EPSON subsidiaries.
  • Page 15 To receive information, you must provide a fax number. EPSON Download Service You can call the EPSON Download Service at (310) 782-4531. Make sure your communications software is set to 8 data bits with 1 stop bit, no parity bit, and a modem speed up to 28.8 Kbps.
  • Page 16: Important Safety Instructions

    Turn off and unplug the printer before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth only. Do not spill liquid on the printer. Do not place the printer on an unstable surface or near a radiator or heating vent. Do not block or cover the openings in the printer’s cabinet or insert objects through the slots.
  • Page 17 If the power cord or plug is damaged; if liquid has entered the printer; if the printer has been dropped or the cabinet damaged; if the printer does not operate normally or exhibits a distinct change in performance. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions.
  • Page 18: Setting Up The Printer

    Loading Paper ......Testing the Printer ..... . .
  • Page 19: System Requirements

    This chapter describes how to set up your printer, test it, and connect it to your computer. Refer to the illustrations on the inside front cover of this manual to identify the main components while setting up the printer. System Requirements See the appropriate section below (PC or Macintosh) to make sure your system meets the following minimum requirements.
  • Page 20: For A Macintosh

    A standard Apple System/Peripheral-8 cable (part number M0197) or equivalent (RS-422, 8-pin, mini DIN male/male). You can purchase the following serial cables from EPSON Accessories: F2V024-06 (Macintosh to ImageWriter II, 6-foot cable, mini-din 8 to male) or F2V024-10 (Macintosh to ImageWriter II, 10-foot cable, mini-din, 8 to male).
  • Page 21: Unpacking The Printer

    Unpacking the Printer In addition to this manual, your printer box should include four EPSON printer driver diskettes, a Quick Setup Guide, a Notice Sheet, a registration card, and these items: printer black ink cartridge Removing the Protective Materials You must remove all protective materials packed around and inside your printer before you set it up and turn on the power.
  • Page 22 1. Lower the output tray at the front of the printer. Then lift up the printer cover. 2. Loosen the transportation screw by turning its handle counterclockwise, as shown below. Then lift it off the carriage. Save the screw so you can reinstall it if you transport your printer later.
  • Page 23: Attaching The Paper Support

    Plugging In and Turning On the Printer Follow these steps to plug in and turn on the printer: 1. Make sure you have removed the transportation screw and all protective packing materials from around and inside the printer.
  • Page 24: Installing The Ink Cartridges

    2. Make sure the printer is turned off by checking the position of the POWER switch, as shown below. 3. Plug the power cord into a properly grounded electrical outlet. 4. Turn on the printer by pressing the POWER switch.
  • Page 25 2. Lower the output tray and lift up the printer cover. 3. Hold down the Load/Eject button on the control panel for about five seconds until the print head moves slightly left, to the ink cartridge install position. The Power light begins flashing.
  • Page 26 7. Lower the cartridges into their holders with the labels facing up and the arrow on the top pointing toward the back of the printer. The color cartridge, which is larger, goes on the right; the black ink cartridge on the left.
  • Page 27 Be sure to install both ink cartridges. The printer will not work if only one cartridge is installed. 8. Push down the ink cartridge clamps until they lock in place. Caution: Once you install the ink cartridges, do not open the clamps or remove the cartridges except to replace them with new ones.
  • Page 28: Loading Paper

    Ink out N N N lights are flashing or remain on. See Chapter 6 for instructions. Caution: When you need to replace ink cartridges, be sure to use only genuine EPSON ink cartridges and do not refill them. Other products may cause damage not covered by EPSON’s warranty. Loading Paper The following procedure explains how to load plain bond paper.
  • Page 29 1. Lower the output tray at the front of the printer and slide out the extension. 2. Before you load paper, make sure that the paper thickness lever, which controls the distance between the paper and the printer carriage, is set correctly. If necessary, move the lever to the plain paper setting.
  • Page 30 4. Make sure the left edge guide lock lever is in the down (unlocked) position and slide the left edge guide to the left as far as it will go. left edge guide Setting Up the Printer paper support extension 1-13...
  • Page 31 6. Slide the left edge guide against the left edge of the paper; then move the lock lever up to secure the left edge guide. 7. Remove the stack of paper and fan it. Then tap it on a flat surface to even the edges. 1-14 Setting Up the Printer...
  • Page 32: Testing The Printer

    8. Reinsert the stack of paper, printable side toward you (face up), straight into the printer and then rest it against the paper support. This ensures that the paper is properly loaded. You can load up to 100 sheets of plain paper. Do not load paper above the arrow printed on the inside of the left edge guide on the sheet feeder.
  • Page 33: Connecting The Printer To A Pc

    While it is paused, press the Load/Eject button to print the next page. 4. To end the self test, turn off the printer while it is paused. If the quality of the test output is not good, clean the print heads as described in Chapter 6.
  • Page 34 2. Plug the 36-pin end of the cable securely into the printer’s interface connector. Then squeeze the wire clips together until they lock in place on both sides. If your cable has a ground wire, attach it to the ground connector below the interface connector.
  • Page 35: Connecting The Printer To A Macintosh

    Connecting the Printer to a Macintosh To connect the printer to a Macintosh using the serial interface, you need an Apple System/Peripheral-8 cable (part number M0197) or equivalent. Do not use an AppleTalk cable; it will not work. 1. Make sure both your printer and Macintosh are turned off.
  • Page 36: Printer Software

    Accessing the Driver From Windows 95 ... 2-10 Using the Printer Driver ..... . 2-11...
  • Page 37: Installing The Printer Software

    Macintosh, see Chapter 3 instead. The printer software includes a printer driver, which allows your computer to control the printer; you must install it to use the printer. The printer driver lets you choose from a wide variety of settings to customize the appearance of your printed documents.
  • Page 38 OK to exit Setup. The installation program automatically selects the EPSON Stylus COLOR 500 printer as your default printer for Windows applications. It also assigns the printer driver to port LPT1. If this configuration matches your system, go on to page 2-9 for information on accessing the driver.
  • Page 39 Changing the default printer or printer port If you do not want to use the EPSON Stylus COLOR 500 printer driver as your default printer in Windows or if you want to use it on a different printer port, follow these steps: 1.
  • Page 40: Installing The Software For Windows 95

    1. Make sure the printer is connected to the computer’s parallel port. 2. Turn off the printer and your computer, if they are on. 3. Turn on the printer first; then turn on the computer. Your computer begins loading Windows 95.
  • Page 41 9. At the next screen you can give the printer a unique name. We recommend that you keep the model name, but you can type a new one in the Printer name box, if desired. To use the printer as the default printer for all Windows 95 applications, select Yes (No is the default).
  • Page 42 5. Double-click the Setup icon. The EPSON Printer Utility Setup dialog box appears. 6. Select Stylus COLOR 500 in the Printer Model tab; then click OK to start the printer driver installation. 7. The program starts copying files from Disk 1. When you see the prompt to insert Disk 2, remove Disk 1 and insert Disk 2.
  • Page 43: Installing A Driver For Dos Programs

    Installing a Driver for DOS Programs Most DOS software programs include drivers for EPSON ESC/P 2 printers. If the Stylus COLOR 500 driver is not listed in your software, choose the first printer available in the lists below. Also check with your software manufacturer to see if a Stylus COLOR 500 driver is available or is included with a new version of your software.
  • Page 44: Accessing The Printer Driver

    Print or Print Setup from the File menu of your application. If you choose Print Setup, you access the printer driver directly and see the Main menu tab shown on page 2-11.
  • Page 45: Accessing The Driver From Windows 3.1

    1. Double-click the Control Panel icon in the Main program group. 2. Double-click the Printers icon. 3. Choose EPSON Stylus Color 500 from the list of Installed Printers. 4. Choose Setup. You see the Main menu tab, shown on page 2-11.
  • Page 46: Using The Printer Driver

    Using the Printer Driver However you accessed the printer driver, you see the Main menu tab: There are two menu tabs of printer driver settings: Main (shown above) and Graphics. These settings, which are listed in the tables on pages 2-13 and 2-14, let you control the appearance of your printed documents.
  • Page 47 Media Type–the type of paper or other media you are using Paper Size–the size of paper you have loaded. The best way to learn about your printer driver is to use the driver’s extensive online help. It explains all the options available for each setting and also describes how to use the printer driver.
  • Page 48: Main Menu Settings

    Executive 7 1/2 x 10 in A6 Index card (not used) User Defined Copies Number (1-99) Collate (On, Off) Reverse Page Order (On, Off) Orientation Portrait or Landscape Paper Source Auto Sheet Feeder Installing and Using the Windows Printer Software 2-13...
  • Page 49: Changing Settings

    Document Type setting. Changing Settings To change a setting in the printer driver, click the menu tab you want to see and click the setting you want to change. Use the scroll arrows or click the appropriate radio button to choose the desired option.
  • Page 50: Using Online Help

    Then select the topic you want help with. To access online help from Program Manager, open the EPSON program group and click the EPSON Stylus Help icon. You see the help contents window. If you need instructions on how to use help, click the Help button in the help screens.
  • Page 51 What’s This? prompt. To access online help from Start, click the Start button, point to Programs, Epson, and then click EPSON Stylus Help. You see the help contents window. If you need instructions on how to use help, click the Help button in the help screens.
  • Page 52 Using the Chooser to Select the Printer ....3-5 Using the Printer Driver ..... . 3-7 Accessing the Driver .
  • Page 53: Installing The Printer Driver Software

    Macintosh. (After installation, you can restart the computer without pressing Shift to use the virus protection programs.) 3. Insert the EPSON Macintosh Disk 1 into a diskette drive. 4. If necessary, double-click the Disk 1 icon to open the driver disk window.
  • Page 54 StylusCOLOR is the printer driver that lets you use the serial interface to connect the printer directly to your Macintosh. Epson Monitor2 manages print jobs that have been sent to the printer. You must turn on background printing in the Chooser to use this utility. For more information, see “Managing Print Jobs on the...
  • Page 55 9. After the installation is completed, click Restart to exit the installer and restart your Macintosh. The Installer places the Bi-D Calibration utility and the EPSON Status Monitor on the hard disk. Now follow the instructions in the next section to select the printer using the Chooser.
  • Page 56: Using The Chooser To Select The Printer

    After you install the printer driver, follow the steps below to select the printer before you begin printing. You need to choose the printer only the first time you use it or whenever you want to use another printer. (Your Macintosh always prints using the last printer selected.)
  • Page 57 5. If the Stylus COLOR 500 is shown, click OK . If the wrong printer is shown, the printer may be turned off or not connected properly. Turn on the printer, if necessary, and check the connections; then click RETRY . If the printer name is still wrong, change the port selection in the Chooser window and repeat steps 2 through 5.
  • Page 58: Using The Printer Driver

    3-9. The driver also includes an Automatic option (default) for the Method setting. This option lets the printer driver analyze each page of the document you will print and then select the appropriate halftoning settings automatically.
  • Page 59 You see a dialog box similar to the one shown below. (The dialog box you see depends on your software application.) To access the printer driver settings, choose the Options button. You see the following dialog box. Installing and Using the Macintosh Printer Software...
  • Page 60: Color/Halftone Setting

    Detailed descriptions of each setting follow the table. Box title Color/Halftone Setting Print Visual Effects Color/Halftone Setting The following settings control the ink the printer uses and the halftone method. Installing and Using the Macintosh Printer Software Setting Options Inks Color (CMYK) Monochrome...
  • Page 61 No halftoning , Error Diffusion , Dithering A , Dithering B, ColorSync , and Video/Digital Camera ( Error Diffusion ). To take advantage of EPSON’s intelligent color correction feature, select Automatic so your printer driver can analyze the data for each page of your document and automatically adjust the settings.
  • Page 62 Then save your profile with the appropriate driver profile filename. Installing and Using the Macintosh Printer Software Printing Mode Best - 360 dpi...
  • Page 63: Print Settings

    MicroWeave is automatically turned on and High Speed mode is turned off. For best results at 720 dpi, load EPSON special coated paper for 720 dpi or high-quality glossy paper. For most color printing, select Best -360 dpi . This printing mode produces good-quality, full-color images using less memory and in less time than 720 dpi.
  • Page 64 Note: Printing at lower resolutions conserves ink. Media Type Selecting the media type sets up the printer for the type of paper you loaded. Depending on your Printing Mode setting, Media Type can be one of the following: Plain Paper...
  • Page 65 Super - 720 dpi printing mode is selected and is switched off automatically for Economy printing. High Speed Mode When you turn on High Speed mode, the printer uses bidirectional printing, reducing the time it takes to print an image. Bidirectional printing is fast, but for the best quality, turn off High Speed mode.
  • Page 66: Visual Effects Settings

    Monochrome ink and No Halftoning . Screen pattern determines how shaded patterns are printed. When Screen pattern is on, the printer prints shaded areas as they appear on your computer screen. If you turn it off (the default setting), shaded patterns are converted to halftones.
  • Page 67 It is best to select the image orientation using your application, not the driver. To reduce or enlarge the image, click the Reduce or Enlarge box and enter a percentage. 3-16 Installing and Using the Macintosh Printer Software Legal (Centered) Statement (5 inches) Executive (7...
  • Page 68 Width and Height boxes. Click Inches or cm (centimeters) to change the measurement units, if necessary. Click OK to save the new paper size and return to the Page Setup dialog box. 3-17 Installing and Using the Macintosh Printer Software...
  • Page 69 3-18 Installing and Using the Macintosh Printer Software...
  • Page 70 Chapter 4 Paper Handling Choosing Paper and Other Media ....Setting the Paper Thickness and Adjustment Levers ..Setting the Paper Thickness Lever ....Setting the Thickness Adjustment Lever .
  • Page 71: Choosing Paper And Other Media

    EPSON ink jet printers. These papers include the following: EPSON special coated paper for 360 dpi. Use this paper for best results when printing at 360 dpi. EPSON special coated paper for 720 dpi. Use this paper for best results when printing at 720 dpi.
  • Page 72: Setting The Paper Thickness And Adjustment Levers

    Caution: Before you change the lever settings, make sure the printer is not loading paper, printing, or ejecting paper. Setting the Paper Thickness Lever...
  • Page 73: Setting The Thickness Adjustment Lever

    You need to change the position of the thickness adjustment lever when you print on thick paper (such as envelopes or labels) or if your documents smear. To access the lever, open the printer cover; the lever is in the left back corner. thickness adjustment lever If a document is smeared, set the thickness adjustment lever to the + position (regardless of the paper type) and print it again.
  • Page 74: Loading Special Papers And Other Media

    Set the thickness adjustment lever to the position that best suits the paper or other media you plan to use, as shown in the following table. Paper type Standard paper (plain, coated, or glossy) Transparencies Envelopes or labels Previously smeared documents Loading Special Papers and Other Media This section describes how to load coated paper, glossy paper, transparencies, and envelopes.
  • Page 75: Loading Special Papers And Transparencies

    Make sure each sheet is dry before stacking. You can print on sheets of labels in your printer; just follow the instructions for loading plain paper in Chapter 1. Return unused sheets and envelopes to their original package as soon as possible after you finish printing.
  • Page 76 Follow these steps to load special paper or transparency film: 1. Lower the output tray at the front of the printer and slide out the extension. If you are going to load long paper (legal size, for example), pull up the paper support extension.
  • Page 77 2. Insert the stack of paper into the printer and adjust the left edge guide to the paper’s width while the lock lever is in the down position; then set the lock lever up to secure the left edge guide.
  • Page 78: Loading Envelopes

    5. Change the Media Type and other printer driver settings so they are appropriate for the paper or transparency film you loaded. (For instructions, see Chapter 2 for Windows or Chapter 3 for Macintosh.)
  • Page 79 3. Adjust the left edge guide so the envelopes feed straight into the paper path. 4. Change the Media Type and other printer driver settings so they are appropriate for the envelopes you loaded. (See Chapter 2 for Windows or Chapter 3 for Macintosh.)
  • Page 80 Controlling the Printer Using the Printer’s Control Panel ....5-2 Lights ....... 5-2 Buttons .
  • Page 81: Using The Printer's Control Panel

    Control additional printer functions using the Default setting mode. Using the Printer’s Control Panel The printer’s control panel contains lights for displaying the printer status and buttons for controlling certain functions, as described in this section. Since most printer settings can be controlled from your software, you do not often need to use the control panel.
  • Page 82: Buttons

    If color ink runs out during printing, the printer stops. You can continue to print with the black ink cartridge by switching to monochrome printing. To do this, turn off the printer, turn it on again, and resend your print job. Paper Out On when the printer runs out of paper.
  • Page 83 Power-on functions The button combinations below perform additional functions to control your printer. Paper must be loaded in the printer for all these operations. Cleaning N N N + POWER switch Checks the paper length and performs a printer self test.
  • Page 84: Managing Print Jobs In Windows

    Note: In Windows 3.1, you may not see the EPSON Spool Manager icon in the bottom portion of your screen if the Windows Program Manager window or an application window is maximized. Reduce the window size to reveal the icon.
  • Page 85 Manager, open the View menu, and select Show Despool Popup to turn it off; the check mark next to the option disappears. Other options in the EPSON Spool Manager allow you to hold and cancel print jobs, choose what information to display in the Spool Manager window, and manage print queues and print jobs on a network.
  • Page 86: Using The Status Monitor In Windows 95

    It includes a gauge representing the amount of ink left in the cartridge and an icon that reports the current status of your printer. The icon alerts you to any printer error conditions. Controlling the Printer...
  • Page 87: Managing Print Jobs On The Macintosh

    Managing Print Jobs on the Macintosh If you have a Macintosh, you can use the Epson Monitor utility to check the status of print jobs that are queued for printing. The utility also allows you to cancel any print job in the queue.
  • Page 88: Using The Statusmonitor Utility

    (The shape of the icon depends on the software you are using.) 4. Select Epson Monitor2 from the menu. You see a dialog box similar to the following: The print job listed under Printing is currently being printed.
  • Page 89 Follow these steps. 1. Double-click the EPSON StatusMonitor icon on your hard disk. You see the following dialog box. 2. Click Serial and then specify whether your printer is connected to the printer port or modem port of your Macintosh.
  • Page 90 Click OK. After the printer finishes receiving data, click Execute to start the Ink monitor. The Paper monitor is not available with this printer. To close the StatusMonitor, click the Quit button in the EPSON StatusMonitor window. Controlling the Printer...
  • Page 91: Using The Default Setting Mode

    Because the printer’s factory defaults are designed to meet the needs of almost all users, you rarely need to change the printer functions listed below. If necessary, however, you can turn on the Default setting mode and change the settings using the control panel buttons.
  • Page 92 Software. Specifies the printer control language to use: EPSON ESC/P 2 (default) or IBM X24E. If your software allows you to select EPSON ESC/P 2, choose it for the most advanced fonts and graphics. Auto CR. Specifies that the printer perform a carriage return and line feed operation if the print positions exceed the right margin of the paper.
  • Page 93 Thick paper. Select Index card (portrait) or Envelope (default) if you print on these media. Economy. When Economy mode is on, the printer uses less ink by printing fewer dots per character. Use this mode for rough drafts only. (The default setting is off.)
  • Page 94: Changing The Default Settings

    To change the printer’s default settings, you use the control panel buttons; the control panel lights show your selections. 1. Make sure the printer is turned off and paper is loaded. 2. Hold down the Load/Eject button and turn on the printer, continuing to hold down the button until the printer starts printing an instruction sheet.
  • Page 95 5-16 Controlling the Printer...
  • Page 96 Removing and Installing Ink Cartridges ... 6-5 Cleaning the Printer ......6-8 Calibrating the Printer .
  • Page 97: Cleaning The Print Heads

    To clean the color print head, make sure the printer is turned on but is not printing. Press the Cleaning N N N button. The cleaning cycle begins.
  • Page 98: Replacing Ink Cartridges

    EPSON servicer. Replacing Ink Cartridges The printer’s Ink Out O (black) and Ink Out N N N (color) lights tell you when your ink cartridges are low on ink and when you need to replace them. If one of these lights flashes, the indicated cartridge is low on ink;...
  • Page 99: Selecting The Correct Ink Cartridges

    When you need new ink cartridges, contact your dealer or call EPSON Accessories at (800) 873-7766 (U.S. only). In Canada, call (800) BUY-EPSON for sales locations. Caution: Use only genuine EPSON ink cartridges and do not refill them. Other products may cause damage not covered by EPSON’s warranty. Maintenance...
  • Page 100: Removing And Installing Ink Cartridges

    Removing and Installing Ink Cartridges Follow these steps to replace either or both ink cartridges: 1. Make sure the printer is on and not printing, and that one of the Ink Out lights is flashing or turned on. 2. Lower the output tray on the front of the printer (if necessary) and then lift up the printer’s cover.
  • Page 101 5. Lift the cartridge out of the printer and dispose of it carefully so any excess ink does not spill out. Do not take the used cartridge apart or try to refill it. Warning: If ink gets on your hands, wash them thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Page 102 7. Lower the ink cartridge into its holder with the label facing up and the arrow pointing to the back of the printer. 8. Push down the ink cartridge clamp until it locks in place.
  • Page 103: Cleaning The Printer

    If you want to clean the printer, follow these steps: 1. Turn off the printer and disconnect any cables connected to it. Be sure to keep the printer cover closed as you clean it. 2. Remove any paper or other media from the sheet feeder.
  • Page 104: Calibrating The Printer

    4. Clean the exterior of the printer with a soft cloth dampened in mild detergent. Keep the printer cover closed to prevent water from getting inside. 5. To clean ink out of the printer’s interior, wipe it gently with a damp cloth. Caution: Never use alcohol or thinner to clean the printer;...
  • Page 105: Calibrating The Printer Using Windows

    If you installed the Windows printer driver, the Calibration utility is installed on your hard disk. 1. If you are using Windows 3.1, select the EPSON Printer Calibration icon in the EPSON program group to start the utility.
  • Page 106: Calibrating The Printer Using Dos

    Calibration utility (or set the path to the directory). The default directory is C:\CALIBRAT. Then type ECALIB and press Enter. You see the EPSON Printer Calibration screen. 5. Make sure your printer is selected. If not, follow the instructions on the screen to select the correct printer from the list shown.
  • Page 107: Calibrating The Printer Using A Macintosh

    6. Follow the instructions on the screen to choose the print head you want to calibrate. Then select Next. 7. Make sure the printer is on and paper is loaded. Then select Next to print the Current Alignment Sheet. 8. Select the misaligned pattern. (If more than one pattern is misaligned, select a misaligned pattern now.
  • Page 108 Caution: Make sure that the printer name you selected and the actual printer to be calibrated are the same, and confirm that this printer is connected to the port you selected. Otherwise, the printer will be damaged. 4. In the next screen, click the Preview button to print the calibration patterns in the Choose pattern pull-down menu.
  • Page 109: Calibrating The Printer From The Control Panel

    This is called the Printer adjustment mode. Follow these steps: 1. Make sure the printer is turned off and paper is loaded. 2. Hold down the Cleaning O and Load/Eject buttons and turn on the printer to enter the Printer adjustment mode.
  • Page 110 Notice Sheet that was packed with the printer. 9. Repack the printer and attachments in the original box. Be sure to keep the printer flat as you transport it. If you notice problems with your printed output after transporting the printer, clean the print heads as described on page 6-2.
  • Page 111 6-16 Maintenance...
  • Page 112 Chapter 7 Troubleshooting Error Indicators ......7-2 Print Quality Problems ..... . . 7-4 Problems With Printing Paper Handling Problems .
  • Page 113: Error Indicators

    Check the appropriate section and follow all suggestions that apply to your problem. Be sure to check the ReadMe icon in the Windows EPSON group or the README icon on the Macintosh for the latest information. Also check the driver’s online help.
  • Page 114 The Paper Out light is flashing . Paper may have jammed in the printer. Turn off the printer and gently pull all the paper out of the printer. If it tears and pieces remain inside the printer, open the printer cover and remove the pieces of paper.
  • Page 115: Print Quality Problems

    For color or complex grayscale images, turn on MicroWeave and turn off High Speed mode. Use a higher quality paper. For best print quality, use EPSON special coated papers for 360 and 720 dpi or EPSON high-quality glossy paper (720 dpi only). Troubleshooting...
  • Page 116 If you are using 720-dpi resolution, you get better results when you use EPSON special coated paper for 720 dpi or EPSON high-quality glossy paper.
  • Page 117 If you still see light banding, clean the print heads as described in Chapter 6. The printout contains incorrect or garbled characters. Make sure EPSON Stylus COLOR 500 is selected as the default Windows printer driver (Windows driver) or is the last printer selected in the Chooser (Macintosh driver).
  • Page 118 EPSON dealer or an authorized EPSON servicer. You see incorrect colors in your printout. Make sure EPSON Stylus COLOR 500 is selected as the default Windows printer driver or is the last printer selected in the Chooser (Macintosh driver).
  • Page 119 If you are printing from a DOS application using Economy mode, black text or graphics will appear gray on your printout; turn off Economy mode using the printer’s Default setting mode to achieve deeper blacks. See Chapter 5 for instructions.
  • Page 120: Problems With Printing

    Problems With Printing If you cannot get the printer to print, first check that paper is loaded in the printer. Then check that the printer is plugged into a working electrical outlet that is not controlled by a switch or timer. Verify that the interface cable is securely connected to the printer and computer.
  • Page 121 2. Open the EPSON program group or folder and double-click Spool Manager icon. 3. Make sure Epson Stylus COLOR 500 is selected, and then open the Queue menu. 4. Select Setup. In the Queue Setup dialog box, change the spool directory to the one you created in step 1.
  • Page 122 1. Then select OK. 8. Close the Spool Manager. The printer prints blank pages. Make sure EPSON Stylus COLOR 500 is selected as the default Windows printer driver or is the last printer selected in the Chooser (Macintosh driver).
  • Page 123 The printer does not seem to receive print jobs. On a PC, release any print jobs that may be held in the EPSON Spool Manager. Start Spool Manager and click any job marked pending or held.
  • Page 124 Monitor2 from the menu. Click any print job shown under Waiting and click Cancel Printing. Make sure EPSON Stylus COLOR 500 is selected as the default Windows printer driver or is the last printer selected in the Chooser (Macintosh driver).
  • Page 125: Paper Handling Problems

    Use a higher quality paper that is suitable for ink jet printers and is not too thin, too thick, or rough. For best quality, use EPSON special coated and high-quality glossy papers. See Appendix A for paper specifications. Fan the stack of paper before you load it.
  • Page 126: Other Paper Handling Problems

    If you still have paper handling problems, see the following suggestions. The printer loads more than one sheet at a time. Remove the stack of paper and fan it. Tap it on a flat surface to even the edges. Then reload the paper.
  • Page 127 Paper does not fully eject. Use the Load/Eject button to eject the page. The paper may be too long. Use paper that is within the specified size. See “Technical Specifications” in Appendix A. Ejected paper is wrinkled. The paper is too thin or damp. Do not store paper in damp or humid places.
  • Page 128: Technical Specifications

    Appendix A Technical Specifications Printing ....... . Paper ....... . . Ink Cartridges .
  • Page 129: Printing

    Printing Printing method: Nozzle configuration: Printable columns and printing speed: * Character pitch (characters per inch) 17 (10 condensed) 20 (12 condensed) Print speeds vary depending on system configuration, software application, resolution, and amount of page covered. Figures based on letter-size paper with color printing.
  • Page 130: Paper

    Since the quality of any particular brand or type of paper may be changed by the manufacturer at any time, EPSON cannot guarantee the use of any particular brand or type of paper. Always test samples of paper stock before purchasing large quantities or printing large jobs.
  • Page 131 (High-quality glossy paper can be stored at 20 to 60% relative humidity.) Do not load folded or curled paper, envelopes, and transparencies. The following EPSON genuine papers are available: S041062 Special coated paper for 720 dpi printing (Letter) S041048 Special coated paper for 720 dpi printing (Legal)
  • Page 132 Printable area: Single sheets Envelopes The minimum top margin is 0.12 inch (3.0 mm). Note: When printing multiple sheets of glossy paper, the minimum top margin is 1.2 inches (30 mm). BL The minimum left margin is 0.12 inch (3.0 mm). BR The minimum right margin is: 0.12 inch (3.0 mm) for Statement and Executive paper 0.38 inch (9.7 mm) for Letter and Legal paper and transparencies...
  • Page 133: Ink Cartridges

    Ink Cartridges Black ink cartridge (S020093): Color Print capacity* Cartridge life* Temperature Dimensions Color ink cartridge (S020097): Colors Print capacity* Cartridge life* Temperature Dimensions Print capacity and ink cartridge life may vary. If you often print large graphics and dense text with little white space, you use ink faster than if you print pages with lots of white space.
  • Page 134: Mechanical

    Caution: Use only genuine EPSON ink cartridges and do not refill them. Other products may cause damage not covered by EPSON’s warranty. Do not use an ink cartridge after the expiration date on the package. Mechanical Paper feed method: Total print volume:...
  • Page 135: Environmental

    RFI: Fonts The printer comes with an installed set of fonts, which are selectable using the Default setting mode. However, the printer always uses the fonts you select with your software program. The only time you need to select the printer’s installed fonts is when your software program does not allow...
  • Page 136: Interface Specifications

    Fonts EPSON Roman EPSON Sans Serif EPSON Roman T EPSON Sans Serif H Font samples Interface Specifications This printer is equipped with an 8-bit parallel interface and a serial interface. Parallel Interface Data format: Synchronization: Handshake timing: Signal level: Connector:...
  • Page 137: Pin Assignments

    1) During data entry 2) During initialization 3) During self test, 4) During a printer-error state A HIGH signal indicates the printer is in a paper-out state or in an error state SLCT Always at high when printer is AUTO...
  • Page 138 0.2 microseconds. Data transfer must be carried out by observing the ACKNLG or BUSY signal. Data transfer to this printer can be carried out only after receipt of the ACKNLG signal or when the level of the BUSY signal is LOW.
  • Page 139: Reverse Channel

    Refer to the IEEE-1284 specification Refer to the IEEE-1284 specification IEEE-1284 level 1 device Refer to the IEEE-1284 specification The printer responds to the extensibility request in the affirmative when the request is 00H or 04H, which means: 00H: Request nibble mode of reverse channel...
  • Page 140 PtrClk (nAck) low pulse to re-enter reverse data transfer phase. Not used. This signal is LOW when the printer is in an error state. 1284 active signal Pulled up to +5V through 3.9 k resistance. Pulled up to +5V through 3.3 k...
  • Page 141: Serial Interface

    Transition time (the rise and the fall) of every signal must be less than 0.2 s. Serial Interface The printer’s built-in serial interface is based on the RS-422 standard so you can connect the printer to an Apple Macintosh. Standard:...
  • Page 142: Initialization

    Start bit Stop bit Connector: Recommended cable: Initialization The printer can be initialized (returned to a fixed set of conditions) in these ways: Hardware initialization Software initialization Each initialization method resets the font according to the default settings selected using the control panel. However, ESC @ does not initialize the printer mechanism, clear the input data buffer, or clear the user-defined character set.
  • Page 143: Default Settings

    Default Settings The table below shows the default settings that take effect when the printer is initialized. Item Top-of-form position Page length Left and right margins Line spacing Character pitch Vertical tab position Horizontal tab positions Font selection Special printing effects User-defined character In addition, hardware initialization erases any text in the data buffer.
  • Page 144 Command List ......B-2 EPSON ESC/P 2 Commands ....B-2 IBM X24E Emulation Codes .
  • Page 145: Command List

    This printer works with the two sets of commands described in this section. EPSON ESC/P 2 Commands Select the EPSON ESC/P 2 printer commands in your software programs for the most advanced fonts and graphics available. If you need more information about using printer commands, you can purchase the ESC/P 2 Reference Manual (ESCP2REF) from EPSON Accessories by calling (800) 873-7766 (in the U.S.
  • Page 146: Ibm X24E Emulation Codes

    IBM X24E Emulation Codes This printer emulates the IBM Proprinter with the following commands. (For detailed information, see the IBM X24E reference manual.) General operation: NUL, DC3, ESC j, BEL, CAN, DC1, ESC Q, ESC [ K, ESC U Paper feeding:...
  • Page 147: Character Tables

    Note: You never need to select the printer’s character tables or fonts when using the printer with a Macintosh. These character tables are selected using the printer’s Default setting mode or by using software commands.
  • Page 148 PC850 (Multilingual) PC861 (Icelandic) PC860 (Portuguese) PC863 (Canadian-French) Commands and Character Tables...
  • Page 149 PC865 (Nordic) Abicomp BRASCII Commands and Character Tables...
  • Page 150 Italic No characters are available for hex code 15 in the italic character table Commands and Character Tables...
  • Page 151: International Character Sets

    International Character Sets You can select one of the following international character sets using the printer’s Default setting mode or the ESC R command. For example, when you select “Italic France,” the characters in the “France” row on the table below are used in the italic character table.
  • Page 152: Characters Available With The Esc

    Characters Available With the ESC ( ^ Command To print the characters in the table below, use the ESC ( ^ command. Commands and Character Tables...
  • Page 153 B-10 Commands and Character Tables...
  • Page 154: Glossary

    The range of difference between the darkest and lightest colors in an image. The greater the difference, the higher the contrast. control code A special code used to control a printer function such as performing a carriage return or line feed. default A value or setting that takes effect when the equipment is turned on, reset, or initialized.
  • Page 155 ESC/P ® EPSON Standard Code for Printers. The system of commands sent by the computer to control the printer. It is standard for all EPSON printers and supported by most application software for personal computers. ESC/P 2 Enhanced version of the ESC/P printer command language, including scalable fonts and enhanced graphics.
  • Page 156 A printing method in which images are printed in finer increments to reduce the possibility of banding and to produce laser-like images. printable area The area of a page on which the printer can print. It is smaller than the physical size of the page due to margins. printer driver A software program that sends commands for using the features of a particular printer.
  • Page 157 Glossary...
  • Page 158: Index

    Bottom margin, 7-8, A-5 Buffer, input, A-2 Bulletin board service, see Download Service Buttons, control panel, 5-2 to 5-4 Cable, printer, 1-3, 1-16, 1-18, 7-9 Calibrating the printer, for color, Intro-4 from control panel, 6-14 printing instructions for, 5-5, 6-9 to...
  • Page 159 Default printer, 2-4 Default settings at initialization, A-15 to A-16 changing, 5-15 mode, 5-12 to 5-14 printer driver, 2-13 to 2-14, 3-9 Demonstration page, 5-4, 6-3, 7-4, 7-7, 7-13 Despooler, 5-5 to 5-7 Dialog box, printer driver, 2-13 to 2-14...
  • Page 160 High Speed mode, 2-13, 3-9, 3-12, 3-14 Horizontal tab positions, A-16 Humidity, 1-3 for paper, 4-6, 7-15, A-3 to A-4 for printer, A-8 IBM compatible PC connecting to, 1-16 to 1-17 system requirements, 1-2 IBM X24E commands, 5-13, B-3 Image quality, 7-5 to 7-8...
  • Page 161 4-5 to 4-9 plain paper, 1-11 to 1-15 transparencies, 4-5 to 4-9 Loading position, adjusting, 5-14 Location, choosing for printer, 1-3 Index Macintosh, see Apple Macintosh Managing print jobs, see Print jobs Manuals, how to use, Intro-5 to...
  • Page 162 7-14 to 7-16 height, 3-17 jams, preventing, 7-14 legal size, 1-13, 4-6 loading, see Loading ordering EPSON, Intro-2, 4-2 to 4-3 orientation, 2-13, 3-16 plain, see Plain paper printable area, 3-16, A-5 printable surface, 1-11, 4-5 size, 2-13, 3-15 to 3-17, A-3...
  • Page 163 1-11, 6-2 to 6-3 connecting, 1-16 to 1-18 default, specifying, 2-4 default settings, 5-12 to 5-14 dimensions, A-7 driver, see Printer driver software hex dump mode, 5-4, 7-13 initializing, A-15 to A-16 installing, 1-1 to 1-18 plugging in, 1-6, 7-2 to 7-13...
  • Page 164 Intro-8 Temperature, 1-3 for ink cartridges, A-6 for paper, 4-6, A-4 for printer, A-8 Testing the printer, 1-15 to 1-16, 5-4 Thickness adjustment lever, 4-3 to 4-5, 7-5, 7-15 Timing chart, A-14 Top margin, 5-14, 7-8, A-5 Transparencies, 2-13, 3-9, 3-13...
  • Page 165 Vertical lines, aligning, see Calibrating the printer Vertical tab position, A-16 VGA monitor, 1-2 Video/Digital Camera, 3-12 Video option, 2-13 Virus protection, 3-2 Visual effects, 3-9, 3-15 Wait time, auto interface, 5-13 Weight paper, A-3 printer, A-7 White banding, 3-14, 7-6...

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