Page 1 Epson Stylus Pro 3880 ® USER’S GUIDE...
Page 2 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...
Page 3 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.
Page 5: Table Of Contents
Mac OS X ......... . . 22 Guidelines for Using Epson Media ......27 Creating a Paper Configuration .
Page 6 Contents 3 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Printing With Mac OS X 10.6 and 10.5 ......46 Checking Ink and Maintenance Status .
Page 7 Managing Print Jobs ........92 Using the Progress Meter .
Page 8 Contents Solving Paper Problems ........138 A Specifications Printing .
Page 9: Warnings, Cautions, Notes, And Tips
This User’s Guide provides important information on setting up and using Introduction your printer, loading paper, using the Epson ink cartridges. It also tells you how to maintain your printer to keep it working at its best, and provides troubleshooting tips in case you have a problem.
Page 10: Macintosh System Requirements
Introduction Macintosh System Requirements To use your printer in either a stand-alone or peer-to-peer network environment, your Macintosh • • • • Caution: Using an improperly shielded • cable—especially a cable more than 10 feet (6 m) long—may cause the •...
Page 11: Options And Supplies
Your Epson Stylus You can purchase genuine Epson reseller. To find the nearest reseller, call 800-GO-EPSON (800-463-7766). Or you can purchase online at www.epsonstore.com (U.S. sales) or www.epson.ca (Canadian sales). For USB connection: a Windows-compliant USB Hi-Speed 2.0 port and a shielded USB “AB”...
Page 12: Where To Get Help
Before you call, make sure you have your Unit ID number, which is toll-free line or your included with the Epson Preferred Limited Warranty Plan information that Unit ID number, call came with your printer. You’ll also need your printer serial number and (562) 276-1305.
Page 13 • • • • • • Caution: Always turn the printer off using the P Power button. When you press this button, POWER OFF appears on • the LCD panel and the P • Power light flashes. Do not unplug the printer or turn off the power to the •...
Page 14: Ink Cartridge Safety Instructions
Introduction Ink Cartridge Safety Instructions • • • • Caution: Do not use too much force when you • shake cartridges that have been previously installed. • • • • • • Keep ink cartridges out of the reach of children and do not drink the ink.
Page 15: Setting Up The Printer On A Network
Chapter 1: Setting Up the Printer On a Network Note: You must use a Category 5 shielded twisted-pair cable to connect the network interface to prevent malfunction. You can use both 10Base-T and 100Base-TX networks. When you print a lot of data, we recommend using the highest speed available for your product with light...
Page 16: Configuring The Network Interface
Setting Up the Printer On a Network Configuring the Network Interface 1. Make sure that the printer is turned on and the LCD displays 2. Press the 3. Press d to highlight 4. Press r then d to highlight 5. Press 6.
Page 17: Printing A Network Status Sheet
Setting Up the Printer On a Network Network Status Sheet” below). Then use the arp command to set the IP address from a computer on the same segment of your network as the printer. Type the arp command on the command line using this format (where X is the IP address you want to assign and Y is the MAC address): arp -s XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX YY-YY-YY-YY-YY-YY...
Page 18: Installing The Printer Software
Setting Up the Printer On a Network 3. Press the 4. Press d to highlight 5. Press d to highlight 6. Press Installing the Printer Software To print to the network printer, you need to install the printer driver (printer software) on your computer. See the appropriate section below for your operating system.
Page 19: Mac Os X
See “Adding the Network Port” on page 20 to create a network port for your printer. Mac OS X 1. Insert the printer software CD in your CD or DVD drive. 2. Double-click the Epson 1-19 button. Manual and eject the CD. Restart your computer...
Page 20: Adding The Network Port
After installing the printer software on your computer, you need to add the network port. See the appropriate section below for your operating system. Windows 1. Click 2. Right-click the Epson Stylus Pro 3880 and select Install manuals, place a link to Special Offers on your desktop, and register your printer.
Page 21 Setting Up the Printer On a Network 3. Click the tab, then click Ports Add Port 4. Select , then click the button. Standard TCP/IP Port New Port 5. When the printer port wizard opens, click Next 1-21...
Page 22: Mac Os X
Setting Up the Printer On a Network 6. Enter the printer’s IP address, shown on the network status sheet, in the 7. On the next screen, click You can now use the printer on your network. Mac OS X See the section below for your printing method. Bonjour Printing 1.
Page 23 Setting Up the Printer On a Network 2. Open Print & Fax 3. Click the button to add a new printer. 4. Select the EPSON TCP/IP printer model. (If you don’t see it listed, click and select More Printers list.) 5.
Page 24 Setting Up the Printer On a Network 1-24...
Page 25: Handling Paper And Other Media
Epson Presentation Paper Matte Epson Photo Quality Ink Jet Paper The Epson Stylus Pro 3880 prints on a variety of cut-sheet media up to 17 inches wide. You can also use heavy stock, such as posterboard, up to 59 mil (1.5 mm) thick.
Page 26 Epson Premium Semigloss Photo Paper Epson Ultra Premium Presentation Paper Matte Epson Enhanced Matte Paper Epson Proofing Paper Commercial Semimatte Epson Watercolor Paper - Radiant White Size Number of sheets 8.5” × 11” 11.7” × 16.5” 13” × 19” 17” × 22”...
Page 27: Guidelines For Using Epson Media
Epson Singleweight Matte Paper Always test samples of paper stock in the printer before purchasing large quantities or printing large jobs. When you use non-Epson paper or other media, you may need to adjust various settings or create special paper configurations.
Page 28: Choosing The Correct Paper Path
Handling Paper and Other Media Choosing the Correct Paper Path The printer provides three paths for loading media: • • • It’s very important to use the correct paper path and to load the correct number of sheets. For example, you can load only one sheet at a time in the front and rear slots, and poster board can be inserted only in the front slot.
Page 29 The following table shows which path to choose for the type of media you are using and the maximum number of sheets you can load for the different types of special Epson media. The letter feed slot. Paper type Plain paper...
Page 30 Epson Proofing Paper Commercial Semimatte Epson Singleweight Matte Paper Epson Watercolor Paper - Radiant White Epson Velvet Fine Art Paper Epson UltraSmooth Fine Art Paper * Always load only 1 sheet at a time in the front or rear slot.
Page 31: Loading Paper In The Auto Sheet Feeder
Handling Paper and Other Media Loading Paper in the Auto Sheet Feeder Using the auto sheet feeder, you can load up to 120 sheets of plain paper and varying amounts of special media types. Refer to the table starting on page 29 to see how many sheets you can load for your paper type.
Page 32 Handling Paper and Other Media 4. Use both hands to pull out and extend the output tray, lifting it slightly 5. Pull out the output tray extensions to accommodate your paper size. 6. Squeeze the left edge guide and slide it to the left so that it is slightly 7.
Page 33 8. Load the paper against the right edge, face-up and short edge first. Insert Caution: Do not leave paper in the printer for a long period of time; its quality will deteriorate. Epson recommends that you remove the paper from the printer after printing. You’re ready to print.
Page 34: Loading Paper Into The Rear Manual Feed Slot
Handling Paper and Other Media Loading Paper Into the Rear Manual Feed Slot Use the rear manual slot to load special media one sheet at a time. (See the table on page 29 for a list of papers you can load in the rear slot.) 1.
Page 35 4. Insert one sheet face-up and short edge first into the rear sheet guide 5. Slide the edge guide against the left edge of the paper. 6. Gently guide the paper into the slot until it meets resistance. Maintain a Note: If you want to remove the paper, press the d Paper feed button...
Page 36: Loading Paper Into The Front Manual Feed Slot
7. Use both hands to pull out and extend the output tray, lifting it slightly Caution: Do not leave paper in the printer for a long period of time; its quality will deteriorate. Epson recommends that you remove the paper from the printer after You’re ready to print. printing.
Page 37 Handling Paper and Other Media Also keep the following in mind when using the front slot: Load only one sheet at a time and make sure the printable side is • face-up. If the paper is wider than 16.5 inches, use the auto sheet feeder or rear •...
Page 38 Handling Paper and Other Media 4. Insert a single sheet of paper, short edge first and face-up into the 5. Position the right edge of the paper against the right side of the tray and front tray. align the paper’s bottom edge with the white line on the tray. 2-38...
Page 39 7. Use both hands to pull out and extend the output tray, lifting it slightly Caution: Do not leave paper in the printer for a long period of time; its quality will deteriorate. Epson recommends that you remove the paper from the printer after You’re ready to print. printing.
Page 40: Adjusting The Platen Gap For Thick Or Thin Paper
When you switch media again, don’t forget to change the setting back to STANDARD. If you’re printing on non-Epson media, you may also need to create a paper configuration to optimize your results. See the next section for more information.
Page 41: Using Special Paper Configurations
Using Special Paper Configurations When you choose a media type in your Epson printer software, the driver automatically determines the best settings for your paper. However, you may want to fine-tune how the printer handles certain media—especially if you use non-Epson paper or a paper not supported by the driver. For these Tip: It’s a good idea to...
Page 42 Handling Paper and Other Media 9. Make sure the paper you are creating the configuration for is loaded in 10. Examine the printed pattern for the most evenly overlapping lines, and 11. After printing the pattern, 12. Press l and then d to select 13.
Page 43: Selecting A Paper Configuration
Handling Paper and Other Media 15. Press d or u to set the paper feed amount for the bottom margin area that is 0.79 or 1.18 inches (2 or 3 cm) from the bottom of the paper (labelled in the illustration to the right). Then press Enter.
Page 44 Handling Paper and Other Media 2-44...
Page 45: Printing With Epson Drivers For Macintosh
Your Epson Stylus Pro 3880 comes with drivers and utilities that let you Chapter 3: print and manage print jobs. For the best black-and-white photography Printing with output, the Epson Stylus Pro 3880 driver offers Advanced Black and White Epson Drivers mode.
Page 46: Printing With Mac Os X 10.6 And 10.5
The Epson driver offers automatic settings that optimize print you expect. quality and speed when you’re using Epson media. You can also choose additional settings for more control over your printer and color output. If your application has margin settings, make 1.
Page 47 File menu and selecting Page Setup. Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh drop-down menu and choose the size of the paper Paper Size you are using and one of the options listed below. Then continue with step 5.
Page 48 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Note: If you don’t see the Orientation or Scale settings in the Print window, check for them in your application before printing. For example, you may be able to select 5. Choose the appropriate...
Page 49 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh 6. Select Print Settings Printer Settings You see this screen: 7. Select the that corresponds to the paper you are printing Media Type on. See the table on page 75 for more information. 8. For the...
Page 50 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh 9. Set the 10. Choose one of the following Note: The Print Quality settings available depend on the Media Type you selected. Choose a lower print quality setting for faster printing or SuperFine - 2880 dpi for the best quality.
Page 51: Choosing Color Management Options
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Choosing Color Management Options Follow these instructions to use color management in the printer driver. 1. Select from the drop-down menu. You see this screen: Color Matching 2. Select one of the following settings: •...
Page 52: Choosing Advanced Media Control Options
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Choosing Advanced Media Control Options Follow these instructions if you are using non-Epson media and you need to fine-tune its performance. Note: You may need to 1. Select change the Color Density setting if your custom...
Page 53: Controlling Borderless Image Expansion
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh helps reduce vertical banding and creates a • Paper Thickness sharper image when printing on unusually thick or thin paper. lets you fine-tune the setting for various paper • Platen Gap thicknesses. Controlling Borderless Image Expansion...
Page 54: Choosing Advanced Black And White Photo Settings
Advanced Black and White Photo mode allows you to easily produce neutral from Photoshop, make and toned black-and-white prints using your Epson driver. This mode offers sure you do not use an alternative black and white workflow with settings for more advanced Photoshop’s color...
Page 55 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh 4. Uncheck for the best quality. High Speed 5. Click Advanced Color Settings 6. Choose the settings that are best for your photo. allows you to add tone (hue) to your black and white •...
Page 56: Creating A Custom Preset And Printing
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Creating a Custom Preset and Printing Once you’ve made the correct settings for your print job, create a custom preset. This will save you time when you use the same profile/printer/ink/media combination for future print jobs.
Page 57: Managing Print Jobs
JOB CANCEL, and pressing the OK button. 3. When you’re finished, close the print job window, then close your Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh drop-down menu. you can monitor the progress of your print job. Follow Print, your printer (and print queue) name.
Page 58: Checking Ink And Maintenance Status
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Checking Ink and Maintenance Status EPSON Printer Utility3 lets you check the status of ink in the printer and maintenance cartridge. (You can also run maintenance utilities from this screen. See pages 100 to 104 for instructions.) 1.
Page 59 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh The software checks the status of ink in the printer and maintenance cartridge, and displays a screen like this one: 4. For information on individual cartridges, click a cartridge icon. 5. To recheck the ink levels, click the 6.
Page 60: Printing With Mac Os X 10.4
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Printing With Mac OS X 10.4 Choosing Page Setup Options Before you print, make sure you have installed the Epson printer driver and Note: Many application settings override the utilities from the printer software CD-ROM. You also need to set up the printer’s page setup...
Page 61 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh 4. Click the pop-up menu and choose a size and option, then Paper Size go to step 4. The standard size setting prints with 0.12 in. (3.0 mm) margins • all around. • Borderless (Auto Expand) paper without borders.
Page 62 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Tip: To ensure that the image is centered on the page, make the top and bottom margins the same. 5. Choose the correct 6. Click You see a window like this one: Click to create a...
Page 63: Choosing Basic Print Options
Once you have selected your page setup options, you need to select printing options. The Epson driver offers automatic settings that optimize print quality and speed when you’re using Epson media. You can also choose advanced settings for more control over your printer and color management options, as described on page 66.
Page 64 If your paper is not listed, check the instructions included with the paper, or look on the Epson Pro Imaging website at proimaging.epson.com. If you are using non-Epson paper, choose the closest setting. You may have to experiment with different settings to determine which one is best for the media you’re using.
Page 65 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh • SuperPhoto - 2880dpi 9. Choose any of the following advanced options: for fast, bidirectional printing. For higher quality, • High Speed make sure this option is not selected. for printing a mirror image of your file. Use with •...
Page 66: Choosing Color Management And Paper Configuration Options
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Choosing Color Management and Paper Configuration Options Follow these instructions to use color management in the printer driver. If necessary, you can also control the ink density by using the paper configuration settings, as described on page 67.
Page 67 3. If you are using non-Epson media and you need to fine-tune its 4. Select the correct settings to match your ICC profile. These settings Note: You may need to change the Color Density setting if your custom color profile was created to optimize D-max and color gamut.
Page 68: Choosing Expansion Settings
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Choosing Expansion Settings If you need to adjust the amount of image enlargement when printing borderless photos, select an steps below: 1. Select 2. If necessary, adjust the Expansion slider to choose the Auto Expand from the pop-up menu.
Page 69: Creating A Custom Preset And Printing
4. When you’re ready to print, click the Print button. typing a name, or you will lose your settings. Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh from the pop-up menu. Summary Presets pop-up menu. You see the following screen: See page 72 for instructions on monitoring your print job.
Page 70: Choosing Advanced Black And White Photo Settings
Settings Advanced Black and White Photo mode allows you to easily produce neutral and toned black-and-white prints using your Epson driver and offers an alternative black-and-white workflow. Whether your photo is color or grayscale, you can use this unique screening and color management technology to create stunning black-and-white prints.
Page 71 It is just to be used to give you a level of feedback as you make changes. Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Printer Color Management screen like this one: Tone color circle preview image on the screen as a guide.
Page 72: Managing Print Jobs
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Managing Print Jobs After you click 1. Click the icon for your printer in the Dock. You see a screen like 2. From here you can monitor the progress of your print job or do one of 3.
Page 73: Checking Ink And Maintenance Status
Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh Checking Ink and Maintenance Status EPSON Printer Utility3 lets you check the status of ink in the printer and maintenance cartridge. (You can also run maintenance utilities from this screen. See pages 100 to 104 for instructions.) 1.
Page 74 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh 4. For information on individual cartridges, click a cartridge icon. 5. To recheck the ink levels, click the 6. To close the Status Monitor, click The software checks the status of ink in the printer and maintenance...
Page 75: Selecting The Correct Media Type Setting
If your paper is not listed, check the instructions included with the paper, or look on the Epson website www.proimaging.epson.com (U.S. sales), www.epson.ca (Canadian sales). If you are using non-Epson paper, consult the manufacturer for the best setting. You may have to experiment with different settings to determine which one is best for the media you’re using.
Page 76 Printing with Epson Drivers for Macintosh 3-76...
Page 77: Printing With Epson Drivers For Windows
Your Epson Stylus Pro 3880 comes with drivers and utilities that let you Chapter 4: print and manage print jobs. For the best black-and-white photography Printing with output, the Epson Stylus Pro 3880 driver offers Advanced Black and White Epson Drivers mode.
Page 78: Choosing Basic Print Options
Choosing Basic Print Options The driver offers automatic settings that optimize print quality and speed when you’re using Epson media. You can also choose advanced settings for more control over your printer and color management options. Follow these steps to make basic settings: 1.
Page 79 If your paper is not listed, check the instructions included with the paper, or check the Epson Pro Imaging website at www.proimaging.epson.com. If you are using non-Epson paper, choose the closest setting. You may have to experiment with different settings to determine which one is best for the media you’re using.
Page 80: Choosing Color Management Options
Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows 6. Set the Choosing Color Management Options The printer driver offers several methods for managing the color in your prints, including turning the driver’s color management settings off. If you are using color management settings in Photoshop or another application, it is very important to access the advanced settings and turn off color management in the printer driver, as described here.
Page 81 3. Choose one of the following settings (if you select Tip: If you turn off color management, you can still control the ink density, as described on page 87. Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows , or , click the PhotoEnhance™ the setting): •...
Page 82 Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows 4. Click allows you to automatically correct images and • PhotoEnhance choose from six Scene Correction settings. adjusts colors based on the printer’s ICC profile, using the • Image Color Matching system. You can choose the input profile and other settings as shown below.
Page 83: Choosing Paper And Layout Options
Choosing Paper Options 1. On the Main tab, you see a window like this one: 2. Select the paper source you’re using ( 3. Select the Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows ) from the Manual - Front Paper Source you loaded in the printer.
Page 84 Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows Note: If your application has margin settings, make sure they’re turned off for borderless printing. 4. If you want to print to the edges of the page, click Borderless printing takes longer than normal printing.
Page 85: Choosing Layout Options
Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows prints your image at the size you specify in your • Retain Size application. You need to size your image slightly larger than the paper if you want to print without borders. 5. If you want to reduce or enlarge your image or print on both sides of the...
Page 86 Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows 3. Click 4. If you are enlarging your image beyond the limits of your application to have the driver resize your image. You can Reduce/Enlarge select and select the paper size you loaded in the Fit to Page list.
Page 87: Choosing Paper Configuration Options
Choosing Paper Configuration Options 1. If you are using non-Epson media and you need to fine-tune its Note: You may need to change the Color Density setting if your custom profile was created to optimize D-max and color gamut. 2. Select the correct settings to match your ICC profile. These settings...
Page 88: Choosing Advanced Black And White Photo Settings
Advanced Black and White Photo mode allows you to easily produce neutral Note: If you are printing and toned black-and-white prints using your Epson driver. This mode offers from Photoshop, make an alternative black and white workflow with settings for more advanced sure you do not use control.
Page 89 Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows You see this screen: preview image on the screen as a guide. allows you to add tone (hue) to your black and white •...
Page 90: Saving, Exporting, And Importing Custom Settings
Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows 7. When you finish selecting settings, click Saving, Exporting, and Importing Custom Settings You can save groups of settings so you can reuse them for future print jobs with the same profile/printer/ink/media combination. You can also export them as a file that you can share with others, who can import them for printing.
Page 91: Importing A Custom Settings Group
Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows To save the settings to a file that you can share, click the • button again, click the name of the setting group in the list, click , select a location, enter a file name, and click...
Page 92: Editing Printer Driver Settings
Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows Editing Printer Driver Settings 1. Click the 2. Select the item you want to edit. You can do the following: 3. When you’re finished, click Managing Print Jobs Your printer comes with two utilities that let you check on your print jobs and cancel, pause, or restart them.
Page 93: Using The Progress Meter
If you don’t want the Progress Meter to appear, you can turn it off. See the next section for instructions. Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows Click to cancel printing button to cancel your print job or...
Page 94: Optimizing Print Speed
Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows Optimizing Print Speed You can use the Speed and Progress utility to improve printing speed. 1. Click the Note: If you want to disable display of the progress meter during printing, you can click the Show Progress Meter checkbox to deselect it.
Page 95 Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows • Page Rendering Mode page. Use this setting if print speed is extremely slow or the print head stops for a few minutes while printing. Printing will take longer to start. allows you to override the length or width •...
Page 96: Setting Monitoring Preferences
Printing with Epson Drivers for Windows Setting Monitoring Preferences You can choose when and how you want to be notified of problems, whether you want a Status Monitor 3 icon to appear on your Windows taskbar, and whether you want to allow monitoring by other users who share the printer.
Page 97 The Epson Stylus Pro 3880 requires little maintenance to keep working at its Chapter 5: best. This chapter describes the following routine procedures: Maintaining • Transporting • the Printer • • • • • • • • In addition to the features described in this chapter, you can also use the printer’s menu system to fine-tune a variety of printer settings.
Page 98: Maintaining And Transporting The Printer
Note: You can replace the ink cartridges and maintenance cartridge yourself. Other printer parts need to be replaced by an authorized Epson service technician. r button and then d to highlight Menu STATUS SHEET PRINT Enter button to start printing.
Page 99: Viewing Status Information
Viewing Status Information To view printer status information instead of printing it, follow these steps: Note: Some status information is a 1. Press the projection based on the last print made. 2. Press r to select 3. Do one of the following: Note: You can change the units of measurement from...
Page 100: Checking And Cleaning The Print Head
2. Do one of the following to access the printer utilities: auto sheet feeder. Macintosh: Open the • Applications . Select Printer Utility2 Stylus Pro 3880 Windows 7 and Windows Vista: Click • then Right-click your printer icon and select Printer. . Click the...
Page 101 3. Click the 4. Click Note: You must use at 5. Examine the nozzle check pattern to make sure it has no gaps or lines. × least a 10 eye loupe to check the pattern. 6. If the nozzles do not clear after a few cleaning cycles, run a Power Maintaining and Transporting the Printer icon.
Page 102: Running A Power Cleaning Cycle
If the pattern is still missing segments after a few power cleaning cycles, turn off the printer and let it sit overnight. Then clean the print head again the following morning with regular cleaning cycles. If you still see no improvement, contact Epson for assistance. described on page 100. flashing.
Page 103: Aligning The Print Head
Epson Premium Glossy Photo Paper • Epson Premium Photo Paper Glossy • Epson Premium Luster Photo Paper • Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper Luster • Enhanced Matte Paper • Epson Ultra Presentation Paper Matte • Epson Photo Quality Ink Jet Paper •...
Page 104: Aligning The Print Head Manually
If you want to verify or fine-tune the alignment process, you can perform a manual head alignment. Aligning the print head manually When you want to use the non-Epson special media, you can perform the head alignment manually. To perform head alignment manually, follow the steps below.
Page 105: Replacing Ink Cartridges
Maintaining and Transporting the Printer 6. Press Enter, and the printer starts printing. Head alignment pattern examples: 7. After printing is finished, the pattern number and current set number are displayed. Select the set that has the smallest gaps, and then press the Paper Feed/Down d or Ink Cover Open/Up u button to display the number for that set.
Page 106 You can purchase genuine Epson ink and paper from an authorized Epson reseller. To find the nearest reseller, call 800-GO-EPSON (800-463-7766). Or you can also purchase online at www.epsonstore.com (U.S. sales) or www.epson.ca (Canadian sales).
Page 107 Before you start, make sure the printer is turned on. Then follow these steps Caution: Leave the low to replace an ink cartridge: or expended cartridge in the printer until you are 1. Note the color of the cartridge whose icon and abbreviation is on or ready to replace it.
Page 108 Maintaining and Transporting the Printer 4. Press the ink eject button above the cartridge you need to replace. The 5. Carefully pull the cartridge straight out of the slot and dispose of it WARNING: Do not shake the expended cartridge, or ink may leak out.
Page 109 Maintaining and Transporting the Printer 7. Shake the ink cartridge well before installing it. 8. Hold the ink cartridge with the arrow mark facing up and pointing to the back of the printer, and then insert it into the slot until it clicks. Arrow mark The printer has a protection system to prevent improper cartridge insertion.
Page 110: Performing Additional Maintenance Tasks
Maintaining and Transporting the Printer 9. Close the ink cover and press it until it clicks. When you see on the LCD, the printer is ready to print. READY Performing Additional Maintenance Tasks In addition to running a power cleaning cycle, you can use the Maintenance menu to switch between Matte Black and Photo Black, set the printer’s date and time, and adjust the contrast on the LCD screen.
Page 111: Changing The Black Ink Cartridge
The Photo Black cartridge is ideal for printing photographic images on all media types. It is optimized for traditional photographic and ink jet-coated papers, such as Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper Luster and Epson Photo Paper Semi-gloss, etc. The Matte Black cartridge is optimized for printing photographic images on matte or plain papers, such as Epson Ultra Premium Presentation Paper Matte and Epson Velvet Fine Art Paper.
Page 112: Adjusting The Lcd Contrast
Maintaining and Transporting the Printer 2. Press d until 3. Press d to select 4. Use u or d to set each item in the date and time, displayed in the 5. Press + Cancel/Reset when you finish. Adjusting the LCD Contrast Follow these steps to change the LCD contrast: 1.
Page 113: Using Maintenance Mode
Maintaining and Transporting the Printer Using Maintenance Mode Maintenance mode allows you to change the language or units of measurements used in the printer’s menus and return all the menu settings to their default values. Follow these steps to use maintenance mode: 1.
Page 114: Replacing The Maintenance Cartridge
(see page 99) or by printing a nozzle check sheet (see page 100). Replacement cartridges are available from Epson (product code T582000). You can purchase replacement items for your printer from an authorized Epson reseller.
Page 115 3. Open the maintenance cartridge cover. 4. Grasp the handle of the maintenance cartridge, then push it up while WARNING: If ink gets on your hands, wash them thoroughly with soap and water. If ink gets into your eyes, flush them immediately with water.
Page 116 Maintaining and Transporting the Printer 5. Remove the replacement cartridge from its package. Then put the used Caution: Be careful not to tilt the used cartridge or spill ink from it when removing it. Hold it upright at all times and dispose of it carefully.
Page 117: Cleaning The Printer
Contact Epson if you think the printer needs lubrication. Maintaining and Transporting the Printer disconnect the printer from your system. Let the printer sit for a minute. mild detergent. Keep the ink cartridge compartment closed to prevent water from getting inside.
Page 118: Transporting Or Storing The Printer
To ship the printer, you must repack it using the original box and packing WARNING: The printer weighs about 43 lb (20 kg), materials. If you do not have these items, contact Epson to request them. and should be lifted by two Otherwise, the printer may be damaged beyond repair.
Page 119: Uninstalling And Reinstalling The Printer Driver
Macintosh 1. Open the 2. Double-click 3. If you want to reinstall your printer software, restart your Macintosh. Tip: Check the Epson Pro Imaging website at proimaging.epson.com for updated drivers and utilities that may become Windows available.
Page 120: Updating Your Printer Firmware
Maintaining and Transporting the Printer Updating Your Printer Firmware You can check for a newer version of firmware on the Epson support site and update your printer, if necessary. Downloading the Firmware 1. Navigate to epson.com/support in your browser. 2. Choose your printer.
Page 121 Select the file and click firmware update process. (If it is the same, you don’t need to update it.) the LFP Remote Panel window. 5-121 icon. , and it is Ready Stylus Pro 3880 Choose to start the Update in the...
Page 122 Maintaining and Transporting the Printer 5-122...
Page 123: Solving Problems
Solving Problems • • • • • • Diagnosing Problems The Epson Stylus Pro 3880 includes a number of ways to help you diagnose problems: • • • • Diagnosing problems Checking error messages and lights Improving print quality Solving operational problems...
Page 124: Checking Error Messages And Lights
Solving Problems Checking Error Messages and Lights The control panel includes various lights and an LCD panel to indicate the status of the printer: When your ink is low or expended, or paper runs out, or a problem occurs, a message appears on the LCD, and the lights on the control panel come on or flash.
Page 125 Message Explanation BORDERLESS The installed paper is not ERROR supported for borderless printing or the PAPER SIZE PRESS THE DOWN CHECK setting is off. BUTTON. LOAD THE CORRECT SIZE PAPER CANNOT OPEN Something may have been COVER placed on top of the printer (ink cover).
Page 126 Solving Problems Message Explanation FRONT FEED SLOT The front manual feed slot OPEN is open, but no paper is loaded. LOAD MEDIA PRESS THE DOWN BUTTON FRONT FEED SLOT Paper is loaded in the front OPEN manual feed slot. PRESS THE DOWN BUTTON AND REMOVE PAPER FRONT SLOT...
Page 127 CARTRIDGE Solving Problems Response Select NO (press the Menu replace the ink cartridge with a genuine Epson ink cartridge. See “Replacing Ink Cartridges” on page 105. Otherwise, select YES (press the Replace the ink cartridge with a genuine Epson ink cartridge.
Page 128 See “Replacing the Maintenance Cartridge” on page 114. Close the maintenance cartridge cover Note the code and contact Epson. See “Where To Get Help” on page 12. Replace the maintenance cartridge with a genuine Epson maintenance cartridge. See “Replacing the Maintenance Cartridge”...
Page 129 FROM THE REAR Solving Problems Response Replace the maintenance cartridge with a genuine Epson maintenance cartridge. See “Replacing the Maintenance Cartridge” on page 114. Replace the ink cartridge with a new one. See “Replacing Ink Cartridges” on page 105. Press the d Paper feed button, then remove the printout.
Page 130 Solving Problems Message Explanation PAPER SENSOR The loaded paper is not the ERROR same as the paper type selected for the Automatic PRESS THE Head Alignment. BUTTON. LOAD THE CORRECT PAPER PAPER SENSOR The loaded paper does not ERROR match the paper type selected.
Page 131 Remove all protective materials from the print head to release it. Turn the printer off, leave it for awhile, then turn it on again. If message appears again, note the code and contact Epson. See “Where To Get Help” on page 12. 6-131...
Page 132: Improving Print Quality
◗ Make sure the printable side of your media is loaded face-up. ◗ Choose a higher resolution, such as SuperPhoto - 2880dpi. ◗ If you’re using a third-party RIP and non-Epson media, see if the RIP provides a method for adjusting the paper feed.
Page 133 Problem Solution ◗ Check the ink indicators and light to see if you are low on ink. Replace ink Your print is grainy, or has misregistration or cartridges if necessary, as described on page 105. ghosting. ◗ Run a nozzle check and cleaning cycle. See page 100 for instructions. ◗...
Page 134 (Macintosh) or page 80 (Windows). ◗ Adjust the Color Density setting in the Paper Configuration utility. ◗ If you’re using a third-party RIP or non-Epson media, custom color profiles will give you the best color reproduction. ◗ Make sure the printable side of your media is loaded face-up.
Page 135: Solving Operational Problems
◗ Make sure the Media Type setting in your printer software is correct for the media you’re printing on. ◗ If you’re printing on non-Epson media, you may need to adjust the paper thickness setting or drying time. See page 40.
Page 136 ◗ Make sure the interface cable meets the required specifications. See page 10 or 11. ◗ Your Epson printer is not selected as the default printer. Install the printer driver if it is not installed yet, and follow the instructions below to select your Epson printer as the default printer.
Page 137: Solving Miscellaneous Printing Problems
Solving Miscellaneous Printing Problems If your printouts are not what you expected, try the suggestions below: Problem Solution ◗ Make sure your software is installed correctly and the printer is selected in your Your print has incorrect or garbled characters. application.
Page 138: Solving Paper Problems
Make sure the platen gap setting is correct for the paper or media you’re printing on. See page 40 for more information. If you’re not using Epson media, make sure you use a paper configuration to adjust for the paper’s thickness and drying time (see page 43).
Page 139: Paper Skews When Printing On Large Format Media
Make sure the platen gap setting is correct for your paper (see page 40). • If you are using a custom paper configuration for non-Epson special • media, check the paper type selected in the printer’s menu (see page 43).
Page 140 Solving Problems Clearing a paper jam from the auto sheet feeder 1. Turn off the printer. 2. Carefully remove the jammed paper from the output tray. If necessary, open the top cover, and remove any jammed paper from the area shown below. 6-140...
Page 141 Solving Problems Clearing a paper jam from the front manual feed slot 1. Turn off the printer. 2. If necessary, press the d Paper feed button to eject the sheet. 3. Remove the jammed paper from the front or back of the printer. Front Back 6-141...
Page 142 Solving Problems Clearing a paper jam from the rear manual feed slot 1. Make sure the printer is turned on. 2. Press the Paper feed button to feed the paper backward. 3. Remove the jammed paper from the back. 6-142...
Page 143: Printing
17.39 inches (441.8 mm) 2880 dpi 17.39 inches (441.8 mm) Maximum 2880 × 1440 dpi Bidirectional ESC/P ® Raster 64MB PC 437 (US, Standard Europe) PC 850 (Multilingual) Epson Courier 10 cpi Printing column Available dots 6262 12524 25047 50094...
Page 144: Environmental
Specifications Environmental Electrical Check the label on the back of your printer for voltage information. Dimensions and Weight Specification Operation Temperature 50 to 95 °F (10 to 35 °C) Print quality guarantee: 59 to 77 °F (15 to 25 °C) Humidity 20 to 80% RH (without...
Page 145: Printer Interfaces
Printer Interfaces USB (1.1 and 2.0 compatible) • Ethernet (10/100Base-TX) • Safety Approvals Safety standards UL 60950-1, CSA 22.2 No. 60950-1 FCC part 15 subpart B, class B, CSA C108.8 class B Media Sizes 3.5 × 5 inches 4 × 6 inches 5 ×...
Page 146: Printable Area
Since the quality of any particular brand or type of paper may be changed by the manufacturer at any time, Epson cannot attest to the quality of any non-Epson brand or type of paper. Always test samples of paper stock before purchasing large quantities or printing large jobs.
Page 147 Index Accessories, 11, 106 Adding printer (Macintosh), 22 to 23 Advanced Black and White Photo Mac OS X 10.4, 71 to 73 Mac OS X 10.6 & 10.5, 55 to 57 Windows, 88 to 90 Aligning print head, 103 Always spool RAW datatype setting, Banding, 132 Black and white photos Mac OS X 10.4, 71 to 73...
Page 148 Mac OS X 10.6 & 10.5, 51 Mac OS X 10.4, 66 problems, 137 Head Alignment menu, 103 Height of printer, 144 Help, Epson, 12 High Speed Copies setting, 94 High Speed setting Mac OS X 10.6 & 10.5, 51 Mac OS X 10.4, 66...
Page 149 Mac OS X 10.6 & 10.5 advanced media control settings, basic print options, 46 to 51 black and white photos, 55 to 57 canceling print jobs, 58 color management, 52, 55 to 57 ColorSync settings, 52 custom preset, 57 to 58 Media Type setting, 49, 76 monitoring print jobs, 58 Mac OS X 10.4...
Page 150 139 to 142 loading, 28 to 39 Mac OS X 10.6 & 10.5 options, 48 Mac OS X 10.4 options, 61 to 63 non-Epson, 41 to 43 printable area, 146 problems, 138 to 142 Windows options, 83 to 86...
Page 151 136 to 137 printing stops, 135 smeared prints, 134 to 135 Progress Meter, 93, 94 Quality Options, Windows, 79 to 80 Registering non-Epson media, 41 to 43 Requirements, system, 10 to 11 Resolution Mac OS X 10.6 & 10.5, 51 Mac OS X 10.4, 65...
Page 152 Index Utility menu Macintosh, 59, 74 Windows, 94, 100 Waste ink, 114 to 116 Waste ink system, 98 to 99 Width of printer, 144 Windows adding network port, 20 to 22 Advanced Black and White mode, basic print options, 78 to 80 black and white photos, 88 to 90 borderless printing, 84 canceling print jobs, 93...

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Ca61201-vm Stylus pro 3880 graphic arts edition Stylus pro 3880 signature worthy edition