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Brother MP-21C Service Manual

Color inkjet printer
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  • Page 2 SERVICE MANUAL MODEL: MP-21C / 21CDX...
  • Page 3 © Copyright Brother 1999 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without permission in writing from the publisher. Specifications are subject to change without notice. Trademarks: The brother logo is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd. Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    1.1 Normal Interlace Processing (360dpi) ----------------------------------------------- II-1 1.2 Super Fine Interlace Processing (720dpi) ------------------------------------------ II-2 2. ELECTRONICS---------------------------------------------------------------- II-3 2.1 General Block Diagram (MP-21C/MP-21CDX) ------------------------------------ II-3 2.2 Electric Cofiguration ---------------------------------------------------------------------- II-4 2.3 Main PCB ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- II-5 2.4 Head PCB ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- II-9 2.5 Carriage PCB ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ II-9...
  • Page 5 PR99052 3. MECHANICS -----------------------------------------------------------------II-11 3.1 Overview of Printing Mechanism ---------------------------------------------------- II-11 3.2 Print Head -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- II-12 3.3 Ink Cartridge ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- II-14 3.4 Head Maintenance Mechanism ----------------------------------------------------- II-15 3.5 Sensors ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- II-16 3.6 Carriage Drive Mechanism ----------------------------------------------------------- II-20 3.7 Paper Feed Mechanism --------------------------------------------------------------- II-21 CHAPTER III DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY 1.
  • Page 6 PR99065 CHAPTER IV TROUBLESHOOTING 1. INTRODUCTION ------------------------------------------------------------- IV-1 1.1 Initial Check ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IV-1 1.2 Basic Procedure ------------------------------------------------------------------------- IV-2 2. TROUBLESHOOTING ----------------------------------------------------- IV-3 2.1 Troubleshooting Procedure ------------------------------------------------------ IV-3 3. INSPECTION MODE ----------------------------------------------------- IV-10 3.1 Extended Functions ------------------------------------------------------------------- IV-10 3.2 Hidden Functions ---------------------------------------------------------------------- IV-11 3.3 Error Codes ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- IV-13 APPENDIX A Appendix A1 Head PCB Circuit Diagram ------------------------------------------------ A-1...

  • Page 7: Chapter I Features And Specifications

    Chapter I FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS...
  • Page 8 PR99052 CONTENTS 1. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS ------------------------------------------------ I-1 2. FEATURES---------------------------------------------------------------------- I-1 3. CONFIGURATION ------------------------------------------------------------ I-3 3.1 Mechanics------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ I-3 3.2 Electronics ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I-4 4. SPECIFICATIONS ------------------------------------------------------------ I-5 4.1 Printing ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I-5 4.2 Functions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I-5 4.3 Electrical and Mechanical ---------------------------------------------------------------- I-6 4.4 Environment --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I-6 4.5 Dimensions and Weight ------------------------------------------------------------------ I-6 4.6 Recommended Paper -------------------------------------------------------------------- I-6 4.7 Paper Specifications ---------------------------------------------------------------------- I-7...

  • Page 9: System Requirement

    CHAPTER I FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS Minimum operation environment IBM PC or compatible with i486DX 66 Mhz or higher Parallel interface port PCMCIA card slot supporting PCMCIA 2.1 / JEIDA 4.2 or higher 8 MB or more memory on PC 40 MB free space available on your hard disk Microsoft Windows 3.1x/ 95/98/NT4.0 FEATURES...
  • Page 10 Low Running Cost You don't have to throw the print head of your printer away every time you have emptied an ink cartridge. When you run out of ink, you have to change only the ink cartridges. Straight Paper Path The printer can print on various types of paper - plain paper, coated paper, glossy paper, transparencies and envelopes with fewer paper jams.

  • Page 11: Configuration

    CONFIGURATION Mechanics < Overview > MP-21C MP-21CDX Fig. 1.1...

  • Page 12: Electronics

    Electronics The configuration diagram is as shown below. Fig. 1.2...

  • Page 13: Specifications

    PR99052, PR99062 SPECIFICATIONS Printing Print Method Piezotronic dot matrix ink jet Head Nozzle 32 x 4 nozzles Print Quality Super Fine / Normal / Draft Resolution (V x H) 720 x 720 dots/inch (Super Fine) 360 x 360 dots/inch (Normal) 180 x 360 dots/inch (Draft) Print Speed With Printer Interface Card:...

  • Page 14: Electrical And Mechanical

    Humidity Operating: 20 to 80% (without condensation) Storage: 5 to 95% (without condensation) Dimensions and Weight Dimensions (WxDxH) MP-21C: 50.8 x 300 x 106 mm (Without ACSF) MP-21CDX: 90 x 305 x 140 mm (With ACSF) Weight MP-21C: Approx. 1,000g (2.2 lbs) MP-21CDX: Approx.

  • Page 15: Paper Specifications

    DO NOT use ordinary transparencies designed for photocopiers or laser printers. Use the recommended transparencies for the MP-21C/CDX printers to obtain optimum print quality If the paper will not feed from the ACSF, try the manual feed.

  • Page 16: Printable Area

    Printable Area The table below shows the effective printable areas. Plain paper (Unit = mm) SIZE 210.0 297.0 203.2 282.5 11.5 (8.2”) (11.5”) (8.0”) (11.1”) (0.13”) (0.11”) (0.13”) (0.45”) Letter 215.9 279.4 203.2 264.9 6.35 6.35 11.5 (8.5") (11.0") (8.0”) (10.4”) (0.25”) (0.11”)
  • Page 17 The table below shows the recommended printable areas. Plain paper (Unit = mm) SIZE A’ B’ C’ D’ E’ F’ G’ H’ 210.0 297.0 203.2 265.5 11.5 (8.2”) (11.5”) (8.0”) (10.4”) (0.13”) (0.78”) (0.13”) (0.45”) Letter 215.9 279.4 203.2 247.9 6.35 6.35 11.5...

  • Page 18: Control Panel (Led And Buttons

    Control Panel (LEDs and Buttons) This printer is equipped with a minimal control panel. Settings and status indication are available on the printer driver status monitor. The control panel includes the following LEDs and buttons. < Buttons > < LEDs > Power LED Alarm LED Clean button...

  • Page 19: Ink Leds (Bc Led And My Led

    4.9.3 Ink LEDs (BC LED and MY LED) Each Ink LED indicates when the ink is low or empty with the Alarm LED on. Printer status Blinking The color ink cartridge is running out of ink. You should prepare a new ink cartridge for that color.

  • Page 20: Control Panel (Led And Buttons

    4.9.6 Printer Status The table below shows the details of the various printer status conditions. Status Description Not energized Power is not supplied. Power off Power is turned off (low power consumption mode). Online Ready to receive data. Operator call An operator call has occurred.
  • Page 21 4.9.8 LEDs The table below shows the LED indications. Status (Power) (Alarm) (Ink BC) (Ink MY) Not energized Energized/Power OFF Being initialized/Device being busy Online No alarm Ink near empty Ink empty Receiving No alarm data/Printing Ink near empty Ink empty Operator call Ink near empty Ink empty...

  • Page 22: How To Clean The Print Head - Purge

    The printer starts cleaning the print head automatically. When the cleaning is finished, the printer becomes online automatically. Note: You can clean the print head from the printer driver. Select [Control/Maintenance] tab from the MP-21C/MP-21CDX Windows printer driver and click the [Maintenance] button. I-14...

  • Page 23: Replacing The Ink Cartridges

    4.11 Replacing the Ink Cartridges When the LED(s) shows an ink empty or an ink near empty status, replace the indicated ink cartridge(s) with a new one. We strongly recommend you use Brother original ink cartridges for the best print quality. Using other ink may void the warranty for this printer. Black and Cyan No.

  • Page 24: Recovery Function - Purge

    PR99052 Close the Top cover. The printer will automatically start initial purge. When the initial purge is done, the Power LED comes on. Warning: If ink stains your body or clothing, wash with soap or detergent immediately. If ink gets in your eyes, irrigate them with water immediately and consult a doctor if you are concerned.

  • Page 25: Automatic Purge

    PR99052 4.12.2 Automatic Purge Date condition Condition Purge Time condition type type First ink cartridges are Just after the ink cartridges installed into a brand- installation. The IP is carried out new printer. only one time in the whole printer life.

  • Page 26: Purge Sequence

    PR99052 The number of automatic purges such as the date defined and cartridge purge are ignored. When the printer is in the following condition, the printer cannot detect that the Clean button is pressed. - The power is OFF. - The printer is in a printing operation. - The printer is performing a purge operation.

  • Page 27: Safety Information

    SAFETY INFORMATION Ink Safety Potential Health Effects EYE CONTACT: May cause slight irritation. SKIN CONTACT: Prolonged exposure may cause skin irritation. INGESTION: Small amounts swallowed during normal handling operations are not likely to cause injury; swallowing larger amounts may cause injury.

  • Page 28: Acsf And Parallel I/F Cable

    PR99052 AC Adapter, ACSF and Parallel I/F Cable AC Adapter and Parallel I/F cable No. PA21MP ASCF only No. SF21MP I-20...

  • Page 29: Chapter Ii Theory Of Operation

    Chapter II THEORY OF OPERATION...

  • Page 30: General

    1.1 Normal Interlace Processing (360dpi) ----------------------------------------------- II-1 1.2 Super Fine Interlace Processing (720dpi) ------------------------------------------ II-2 2. ELECTRONICS -------------------------------------------------------------- II-3 2.1 General Block Diagram (MP-21C/MP-21CDX) ------------------------------------ II-3 2.2 Electrical Configuration ------------------------------------------------------------------ II-4 2.3 Main PCB ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- II-5 2.3.1 Data Reception -------------------------------------------------------------------- II-5 2.3.2 Control Panel ----------------------------------------------------------------------- II-5...

  • Page 31: Normal Interlace Processing (360Dpi

    CHAPTER II THEORY OF OPERATION GENERAL Normal Interlace Processing (360dpi) Fig. 2.1 below shows the relationship between the printing area and the line feed amount for each print head pass. pass 4 pass 1 (Position to start printing) pass 2 (Line feed amount) pass 3 124/1440...

  • Page 32: Super Fine Interlace Processing (720Dpi

    Super Fine Interlace Processing (720dpi) This is a method to perform printing using nozzles moved at 4/360 inch pitch using nozzles spaced at 2/360 inch pitch. Fig. 2.2 below shows the relationship between the printing area and the line feed amount for each head print pass. pass2 pass1 (Position to start to printing) (Line feed amount)

  • Page 33: Electronics

    2. ELECTRONICS General Block Diagram (MP-21C/MP-21CDX) Fig. 2.3 II-3...

  • Page 34: Main Pcb

    PR99052 Electrical Configuration Main PCB The Main PCB controls the following functions : Data reception, Control panel control, Paper feed and carriage motor control, Paper sensing, Cartridge detection, Head voltage control, Data transmission to the head driver A one chip type CPU with a program of 128 KB is used. 2 buttons (the (On/Off) button and the Clean button) are on the Main PCB.

  • Page 35: Data Reception

    Main PCB 2.3.1 Data Reception IEEE1284 bi-directional nibble mode is supported. The data reception operation is performed by the gate array. The CINT-N signal from the gate array indicates the reception of data to the CPU and control data is processed by the CPU. The printing data is transmitted directly to the memory without being transmitted to the CPU.

  • Page 36: Paper Feed And Carriage Motor Drive Circuit

    2.3.3 Paper Feed and Carriage Motor Drive Circuit A PM-type stepper motor is used to feed paper and is driven at a constant voltage. A DC motor is used for the carriage. It uses the feedback signal (EINT-P) from the linear encoder and its speed is controlled via the gate array by the CPU using the PWM control method.

  • Page 37: Paper Sensor

    2.3.4 Paper Sensor The photo type sensor is contained on the Main PCB. The movable part of the mechanism detects if there is paper or not and turns the sensor on and off. When light is transmitted, there is no paper. The CH1 level of the sensor output is less than 2.5V without paper and 2.5V or more with paper present.

  • Page 38: Cartridge Detection

    2.3.5 Cartridge Detection The detection switch is on the Cartridge PCB and detects the placement of each cartridge separately. The detection signal is at a low level when a cartridge is fitted. Fig. 2.10 ACTRG and BCTRG are signals indicating the cartridges are fitted. SIN0-P, SIN1-P, SIN2-P, and SIN3-P are drive data (serial data) signals to the head driver.

  • Page 39: Carriage Pcb

    2.3.6 Head Voltage Control The head voltage varies with temperature and head ranks. The VSEL signal from the CPU generates the HVDSEL signal indicating the analogue value which is transmitted back to the power supply unit. The power supply unit outputs the head voltage (HVDD) corresponding to the voltage of the HVDSEL signal.

  • Page 40: Power Supply

    Power Supply The power supply uses the switching regulation system to generate the regulated DC power (+3.3V, +5V, +12V and HVDD), which are converted from the DC input. (When HVDSEL is open) Connector pin #1: NC Connector pin #2 - #4: PCM5V Connector pin #5 - #7: PCM5V RET Connector pin #8: +5V Connector pin #9: +3.3V...

  • Page 41: Mechanics

    MECHANICS Overview of Printing Mechanism Extension guide ACSF Pick-up roller ASSY Carriage ASSY Separation pad ASSY Paper eject roller ASSY Main roller ASSY Power supply PCB Bottom cover Fig. 2.12 II-11...

  • Page 42: Print Head

    Print Head This is an on-demand ink jet printer and ejects ink by the firing of a piezoelectric ceramic actuator. Refer to Fig. 2.13 for the print head structure. A narrow channel filled with ink is sandwiched between two actuators. When a voltage is applied to an electrode formed on the surface of the actuator, ink is pulled into the channel from the manifold with the actuator deformed as shown in the Fig.
  • Page 43 PR99052 Nozzle layout 160/360" 30/360" 30/360" Head Black Cyan Magenta Yellow FWD PRINT FWD FEED Fig. 2.14 (8) Driving voltage 13 V - 30 V (The driving voltage is controlled according to the head temperature see 2.3.6 Head Voltage Control.) (9) Driving pulse SP, SPT or SPIT (No droplet gradation control)

  • Page 44: Ink Cartridge

    PR99052 Ink Cartridge Ink Cartridge BC A liquid ink bag is placed inside the ink cartridge. By inserting the ink cartridge into the printer, an ink needle punctures the seal and is inserted into the ink bag. Ink is supplied to the print head through the ink needle and the ink tube.

  • Page 45: Head Maintenance Mechanism

    Head Maintenance Mechanism 3.4.1 Components and Functions (1) Suction Mechanism Components : Suction cap, Pump, Maintenance cam Functions : Guides ink to the head channel. Removes dry ink from around the nozzle. Removes air and waste in the head channel. Ejects sucked ink towards the ink absorber.

  • Page 46: Sensors

    Storage mechanism : The suction cap and the cap are pressed onto the nozzle plate by rotating the Maintenance cam. Carriage Lock Mechanism : The Maintenance cam rotates and the carriage lock pin goes up before the suction operation to lock the carriage and goes down again before the wiping operation. Sensor : The sensor is on during stand-by.

  • Page 47: Paper Feed Sensor, Paper Eject Sensor

    3.5.2 Paper Feed Sensor, Paper Eject sensor The Paper feed/eject sensor actuator and a photo sensor detect whether there is paper or not. The Paper feed/eject sensor actuator has a paper a sensing arm and the photo sensor operating arm. When paper hits the paper sensing part as paper is ejected the photo actuator arm goes up and detects the paper.
  • Page 48 During printing If the Paper feed sensor OFF states is detected (In case that a paper of different size from the one selected on the printer driver is fed.), the printer stops printing and ejects the paper. The remaining print data will be printed out on the next sheet. Ejecting the paper Upon finishing the print, the printer keeps the paper eject operation running until both the Paper feed sensor and the Paper eject sensor go into the OFF status.

  • Page 49: Maintenance Sensor (Purge Unit

    3.5.3 Maintenance Sensor (Purge Unit) The Maintenance sensor uses a photo sensor to detect the home position of the Maintenance cam. The sensor is on during stand-by ( home position ) and goes off when the Maintenance cam rotates and detects the Maintenance cam's position to start the suction operation. The sensor goes on after the purge, ejection, wiping and capping operations are completed.

  • Page 50: Carriage Drive Mechanism

    Carriage Drive Mechanism The carriage motor controls horizontal movement of the carriage unit. The motor rotation is transmitted to the timing belt via the motor pulley. The guide shaft supports the carriage. The carriage holds the timing belt. The direction of the carriage motor rotation corresponds to the direction of the carriage movement.

  • Page 51: Paper Feed Mechanism

    Paper Feed Mechanism ACSF (MP-21C option) When the line feed motor is driven in the reverse direction (reverse rotation) to the normal paper feeding direction, the change-over 1 frame moves to engage the separation roller gear via the idler gear. The separation roller rotates in the paper separation direction (normal rotation) and separates a sheet of paper.

  • Page 52: Chapter Iii Disassembly And Reassembly

    Chapter III DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY...
  • Page 53 CONTENTS 1. PRECAUTIONS-------------------------------------------------------------- III-1 1.1 Safety Precautions --------------------------------------------------------------------- III-1 1.2 Attention ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- III-1 2. TIGHTENING TORQUE LIST -------------------------------------------- III-2 3. DISASSEMBLY ORDER FLOW ---------------------------------------- III-3 4. DISASSEMBLING AND REASSEMBLING PROCEDURE------ III-4 4.1 Ink Cartridge, ACSF -------------------------------------------------------------------- III-4 4.2 Top Cover, Paper Guide, Front Cover, Release Plate, Rear Cover ------- III-5 4.2.1 Top Cover ------------------------------------------------------------------------ III-5 4.2.2 Paper Guide --------------------------------------------------------------------- III-5 4.2.3 Front Cover ---------------------------------------------------------------------- III-6...

  • Page 54: Precautions

    CHAPTER III DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY PRECAUTIONS Safety Precautions Always turn off the (On/Off and Online) button and unplug the power cord before accessing any parts inside the printer. Note: Even if you turn the (On/Off) button off, the power is not completely shut off.

  • Page 55: Tightening Torque List

    TIGHTENING TORQUE LIST Location Screw type Q’ty Tightening Loosing torque torque (kgf cm) (kgf cm) Front cover Screw, bind M2.6x4 Min. 2.5 (Black) Rear cover Screw, bind M2.6x4 Min. 2.5 (Black) Bottom cover Screw, bind M2.6x4 Min. 2.5 (Black) I/F connector Precision screw, M16x4 Min.

  • Page 56: Disassembly Order Flow

    DISASSEMBLY ORDER FLOW 4.1 Ink Cartridge BC 4.1 ACSF 4.2 Top Cover Ink Cartridge MY Paper Guide Front Cover Rear Cover Release Plate 4.10.1 ACSF Support 4.3 Head PCB ASSY 4.10.2 Pick-up Roller Cover Cover Sensor Actuator 4.4 Ink Head Base Unit 4.10.3 ACSF Front Cover Print Head Pick-up Roller ASSY...

  • Page 57: Ink Cartridge, Acsf

    DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY PROCEDURE Note: Reassembly is the reverse of Disassembly unless otherwise stated. Please refer to the Notes relating to Reassembly information. Ink Cartridge, ACSF (For MP-21CDX Only) <Disassembly> For MP-21CDX, remove the ACSF. Connect the power cord to the printer, then turn the power on. Release the Carriage ASSY from the sealing cap using the Service software tool.

  • Page 58: Top Cover, Paper Guide, Front Cover, Release Plate, Rear Cover

    Top Cover, Paper Guide, Front Cover, Release Plate, Rear Cover 4.2.1 Top Cover <Disassembly> Remove the Top cover from the Front cover. Note: This is only necessary if the Top cover requires replacement, otherwise it should be removed with the Front cover as described in section 4.2.3. Front cover Top cover Fig.

  • Page 59: Front Cover

    4.2.3 Front Cover <Disassembly> Remove the screw securing the Front cover. Press the Front cover hook to release the lock, then remove the Front cover. Note: Check that the Top cover sensor lever is attached to the Front cover. Hook Rear cover Screw, bind M2.6x4 (Black) Front cover...

  • Page 60: Release Plate

    4.2.4 Release Plate <Disassembly> Lower the Release plate, then remove it by pulling it to the right. Release plate Fig. 3.5 4.2.5 Rear Cover <Disassembly> Remove the screw. Remove the Rear cover by releasing the two hooks by which the Rear cover is assembled onto the Bottom cover and then release the hook at the top of the Rear cover.

  • Page 61: Head Pcb Assy

    Head PCB ASSY <Disassembly> Unlock and remove the Head FFC cable (the other end is connected to the Main PCB ASSY) from the connector on the Head PCB ASSY. Unlock and remove the four Head FPC cables from the connectors one at a time. Remove the Cartridge sensor connector 3P from the connector on the Head PCB ASSY.

  • Page 62: Ink Head Base Unit, Print Head

    Remove the Cover sensor actuator from the Ink head base unit. Cover sensor actuator Cover sensor actuator spring Ink head base unit Fig. 3.9 Ink Head Base unit, Print Head Note: After replacing Print head, adjustment is need by using the Service software tool.
  • Page 63 Remove the two screws securing the Ink head base unit. Remove the Ink head base unit from the Chassis center ASSY by lifting the left hand end of the Ink head base unit then moving it to the left to release the hooks at the right hand end. Screw, bind M26x4 Ink head base unit Shutter...
  • Page 64 PR99066 <Reassembly> Note: Be sure to slightly push the Print head towards the front of the printer, when securing the Print head with the screws. < Back of the printer > PUSH < Front of the printer > Print head Insert the Print head into the Nozzle protector.

  • Page 65: Bottom Cover

    Bottom Cover <Disassembly> Remove the two screws from the Interface connector using a precision screwdriver. Bottom cover Interface connector Precise screw, M16x4 Fig. 3.14 Turn the printer upside down. Remove the four screws. Screw, bind M2.6x4 (Black) Bottom cover Screw, bind M2.6x4 (Black) Fig.
  • Page 66 Lift up the Bottom cover. Turn it over, then place it down next to the Paper feed frame ASSY Note: DO NOT apply any stress to the harnesses connected to the Main PCB ASSY. Bottom cover Main PCB ASSY Fig. 3.16 Remove the Carriage motor harness 2P, Paper feed motor harness 4P, Maintenance sensor FFC 3P, and Encoder FFC 5P from the Main PCB ASSY.
  • Page 67 Main PCB ASSY, Power Supply PCB ASSY Note: After replacing Main PCB ASSY, adjustment is need by using the Service software tool. <Disassembly> Remove the Power supply FFC cable (which is connecting the Main PCB ASSY and Power supply PCB ASSY) from the connector on the Main PCB ASSY. Remove the Main PCB ASSY from the Bottom cover by releasing the four hooks.
  • Page 68 Remove the Power supply PCB ASSY from the Bottom cover by releasing the four hooks. Unlock and remove the Power supply FFC from the connector on the Power supply PCB ASSY. Power supply PCB ASSY Hook Hook Bottom cover Power supply FFC Hook Hook Fig.

  • Page 69: Paper Feed Motor Assy

    Paper Feed Motor ASSY <Disassembly> Remove the Carriage motor harness 2P and Paper feed motor harness 4P from the two hooks of the Purge unit ASSY, then carefully unstick the harnesses from the double-sided adhesive tape. Carriage motor harness 2P Hook Double-sided adhesive Tape Paper feed motor harness 4P...
  • Page 70 Remove the two screws, then remove the Paper feed motor ASSY from the Paper feed motor holder. Chassis R Paper feed motor connector Taptite, bind M26x4 Paper feed motor ASSY Fig. 3.21 <Reassembly> Note: Mount the Paper feed motor ASSY on the Paper feed motor holder, with the Paper feed motor connector to the right.

  • Page 71: Purge Unit Assy

    Purge Unit ASSY, Flushing Form R1 and R2 <Disassembly> Unstick the Encoder FFC cable 5P from the double-sided adhesive tape attached to the Purge unit ASSY. Remove the four screws and the Support plate from the Purge unit ASSY. Taptite, bind B M3X6 Encoder FFC 5P Taptite, bind B M3X6 Support plate...
  • Page 72 <Reassembly> Important: Check that the Waste ink tube is fitted correctly in the guides and goes into the hole on the Purge unit ASSY Purge unit ASSY Purge unit ASSY Waste ink tube Waste ink tube Fig. 3.25 Important: Check that the Waste ink tube is fitted correctly into the three guides and two hooks on the Platen cover.

  • Page 73: Flushing Foam R1 And R2

    Important: Before reassembling the Purge unit ASSY to the Platen cover, be sure to; - Align the notches of the Purge cam and Purge unit frame. - Fit the protrusion of the Maintenance gear 10 in the notch of the Maintenance idle gear 20.
  • Page 74 <Reassembly> Note: When you replace the Flushing foam R1 and R2, the Flushing foam L1 and L2 must be replaced too. After replacing, the ink counter for these forms must be reset by using the Service software tool. III-21...

  • Page 75: Paper Feed Frame Assy

    Paper Feed Frame ASSY Note: The carriage speed adjustment must be done when the Paper feed frame ASSY is replaced. See 3.2.5 Carriage Control Parameter Adjustment Mode in Chapter 4. 4.9.1 Paper Feed Motor Holder <Disassembly> Remove the screw, then the Earth plate and Paper feed motor holder from the Chassis R.

  • Page 76: Arm Stopper

    4.9.2 Arm Stopper <Disassembly> Remove the Arm stopper from the Connection switching arms. Chassis R Connection switching arm Arm stopper Fig. 3.30 <Reassembly> Note: Fit the Arm stopper over the Connection switching arms, with its wider opening to the left. Narrower opening Arm stopper Wider opening...

  • Page 77: Paper Eject Idle Gear 25

    4.9.3 Paper Eject Idle Gear 25 <Disassembly> Remove the Paper eject idle gear 25 from the shaft on the Chassis R. Chassis R Paper eject idle gear 25 Fig. 3.32 4.9.4 Carriage Guide Note: The carriage speed auto-adjustment must be done when the Carriage guide is replaced.

  • Page 78: Paper Eject Roller Assy

    <Reassembly> Note: Fit the square holes of the Carriage guide onto the Platen cover, then secure it using the two screws. Release the two hooks securing the Star wheel roller ASSY to the Carriage guide, by rotating the Star wheel roller ASSY through 45 degrees. Star wheel roller ASSY Carriage guide Fig.

  • Page 79: Platen Cover, Flushing Foam L1 And L2

    <Reassembly> Fit the Bearing L in the Chassis L. Insert the left end of the Paper eject roller ASSY into the Bearing L. Fit the Bearing R to the right end of the Paper eject roller ASSY. Insert the right end of the Bearing R into the Chassis R.
  • Page 80 Turn the Platen cover upside down. While releasing the catches at the right end of the Chassis center ASSY using your fingers, move the Platen cover to the left then remove it. Boss Platen cover Boss Chassis center ASSY Fig. 3.37 Remove the PE sensor actuator from the Platen cover.
  • Page 81 Remove the Flushing foam L case from the bottom of the Platen cover by releasing the hook . Turn the Flushing foam L case upside down, remove the Flushing foam L1 and L2 from the Flushing foam L case. Flushing foam L1 Flushing foam L case Flushing foam L2 Flushing foam L case...

  • Page 82: Main Roller Assy

    Remove the ACSF sensor actuator by spreading the hooks. <Bottom view of the Platen cover> ACSF sensor actuator Platen cover Fig. 3.41 4.9.7 Main Roller ASSY Note: After replacing Main roller ASSY and Main roller gear 40, adjustment is need by using the Service software tool. <Disassembly>...
  • Page 83 <Reassembly> Note: Attach the Gear shaft 4 calking ASSY to the Chassis R, with the two grooves of the Gear shaft 4 calking ASSY fitting over the Chassis R. Secure it using the screw. Two grooves Chassis R Gear shaft 4 calking ASSY Fig.
  • Page 84 Remove the Retaining ring from the Main roller ASSY using a slotted screwdriver. Remove the Main roller gear 40 and Spring pin. Remove the Paper eject idle gear 25 from the Chassis R. Chassis R Paper eject idle gear 25 Main roller gear 40 (Black) Retaining ring Spring pin 1x5...
  • Page 85 Remove the Main roller ASSY from the Chassis R, with the Bearing R main attached. Note: DO NOT touch the rubber portion of the Main roller ASSY. Bearing R main Main roller ASSY Chassis R Chassis center ASSY Fig. 3.47 Turn the Release cam counterclockwise until its catch fits in the detented portion of the Chassis R, then remove the Release cam.

  • Page 86: Encoder Strip

    4.9.8 Encoder Strip Note: The carriage speed adjustment must be done when Encoder strip is replaced. See 3.2.5 Carriage Control Parameter Adjustment Mode in Chapter 4. <Disassembly> Push the Encoder hook using a precision screwdriver to unhook the Encoder strip. Encoder strip Chassis L Encoder hook...

  • Page 87: Acsf

    4.10 ACSF 4.10.1 ACSF Support <Disassembly> Remove the ACSF support from the ACSF while pulling both ends of the ACSF support outwards. ACSF ACSF support Fig. 3.50 4.10.2 Pick-Up Roller Cover <Disassembly> Remove the Pick-up roller cover from the ACSF by releasing the two hooks. Note: Use a slotted screwdriver to release the two hooks.

  • Page 88: Acsf Front Cover, Pick-Up Roller Assy, Gear Frame R

    4.10.3 ACSF Front Cover, Pick-Up Roller ASSY, Gear Frame R <Disassembly> Remove the ACSF front cover from the ACSF. ACSF front cover Fig. 3.52 Remove the two screws, then the Gear frame R and Pick-up roller ASSY together. Taptite, bind B M3x8 Pick-up roller ASSY Gear frame R Fig.

  • Page 89: Separation Pad Assy

    Remove the left hand end of the Pick-up roller ASSY from the Bearing by moving it to the right. Remove the Gear frame R from the Pick-up roller ASSY. Gear frame R Pick-up roller ASSY Fig. 3.54 4.10.4 Separation Pad ASSY <Disassembly>...

  • Page 90: Extension Guide L And R

    4.10.5 Extension Guide L and R <Disassembly> Remove the two screws, then Extension guide R and L from the ACSF . Tatptite, bind M3x8 Tatptite, bind M3x8 Extension guide L Extension guide R Fig. 3.56 III-37...

  • Page 91: Lubrication

    LUBRICATION Apply the following lubricants to the lubrication points as illustrated below. Lubricant amount Lubricant type Sesame-sized pinch of Rice-sized pinch of grease grease (Manufacturer) (6 mm (0.5 - 1 mm Molykote EM-30L (Dow Corming) Floil 946P ---------- (Kanto Kasei) Floil GE676 ---------- (Kanto Kasei)
  • Page 92 [2] Gears attached to the Paper feed motor holder Gear 10/30 Release plate Gear 10/20 Fig. 3.58 [3] Purge unit ASSY Maintenace gear 10 Maintenace idle gear 20 Maintenace driving gear 16 Maintenace gear 10 Maintenace idle gear 20 Fig. 3.60 Fig.
  • Page 93 [4] Main roller ASSY, Paper eject roller ASSY Fig. 3.61 III-40...
  • Page 94 PR99061 [5] Carriage guide < Left > 19 mm 35 mm Carriage guide 12 mm < Right > 35 mm Fig. 3.62 [6] ACSF Gear frame R Gear 35 On the teeth of the Paper feed gear 35 On the teeth of the Gear 12/30 Fig.
  • Page 95 Pick-up roller ASSY Fig. 3.64 III-42...

  • Page 96: Cleaning The Printer

    CLEANING THE PRINTER Note: Before cleaning the printer or printer platen, be sure to turn off the printer and remove the PC Card Cable from your computer and remove the AC Adapter (MP-21CDX or PA21MP users only) if connected and make sure that all the LEDs are off.

  • Page 97: Cleaning The Pick-Up Roller On The Acsf

    Cleaning the Pick-up roller on the ACSF Remove the Pick-up roller cover. Clean the Pick-up rollers with a cloth dampen with alcohol. Pick-up roller cover Pick-up roller Fig. 3.67 III-44...

  • Page 98: Packing

    PACKING MP-21C PC interface card cable Partition containerboard Carton Ink cartridge User's manual Quick setup guide Floppy disks PC interface card Styrofoam Spacer containerboard Styrofoam Carton Fig. 3.68 III-45...
  • Page 99 MP-21CDX PC interface card cable Printer interface cable Partition containerboard AC adapter Ink cartridge Carton User's manual Quick setup guide Floppy disks PC interface card Styrofoam Carton, SF-21 Spacer containerboard ACSF cushioning material Styrofoam SF-21 (ACSF) Carton Fig. 3.69 III-46...
  • Page 100 Chapter IV TROUBLESHOOTING...
  • Page 101 CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION------------------------------------------------------------- IV-1 1.1 Initial Check ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IV-1 1.2 Basic Procedure ------------------------------------------------------------------------- IV-2 2. TROUBLESHOOTING ---------------------------------------------------- IV-3 2.1 Troubleshooting Procedure ----------------------------------------------------------- IV-3 2.1.1 Malfunctions ----------------------------------------------------------------------- IV-3 2.1.2 Print-image Related ------------------------------------------------------------- IV-7 3. INSPECTION MODE ----------------------------------------------------- IV-10 3.1 Extended Functions ------------------------------------------------------------------- IV-10 3.1.1 EEPROM Reset Mode -------------------------------------------------------- IV-10 3.2 Hidden Functions (Inspection Mode) --------------------------------------------- IV-11 3.2.1 EEPROM All Area Reset Mode --------------------------------------------- IV-11...

  • Page 102: Introduction

    CHAPTER IV TROUBLE SHOOTING INTRODUCTION Initial Check If a malfunction or incorrect print appears, make an initial check, then follow the basic procedure below: Operating environment Check if: 1) The source voltage stays within ±10% from the rating voltage shown on the rating plate.

  • Page 103: Basic Procedure

    Print head Check if: 1) The print head is installed on the carriage correctly. 2) Repeat the head purging operation several times. Basic Procedure Check the error lamps according to the procedures in the inspection mode as described later in this section. If any incorrect image is found, refer to the image defect description in this section.

  • Page 104: Troubleshooting

    TROUBLESHOOTING Troubleshooting procedure 2.1.1 Malfunctions When carrying out the countermeasures for malfunctions described in this section, check connectors for contact failure before measuring the voltage at specified connector pins. (1) No DC power supplied from PCMCIA No AC power supplied from the AC adapter Possible cause Step Check...
  • Page 105 (2) No DC power generated Possible Step Check Result Remedy cause AC power Is DC power supplied between the Follow the same check supply DC jack (+ / -)when the power plug is procedure of 1) “No DC plugged into the outlet? power supplied from PCMCIA”...
  • Page 106 (3) The carriage motor does not rotate. Possible cause Step Check Result Remedy Connection Is the Carriage motor harness Connect it securely. failure of the P4 securely connected on the Carriage motor Main PCB? harness P4 Carriage motor Disconnect the Carriage motor Replace the Carriage harness P4 from the Main PCB.
  • Page 107 (6) No paper supplied from the paper feeding slot or the straight paper path slot Possible cause Step Check Result Remedy Foreign materials Are there any foreign materials in Remove it. on the paper path. the paper feed path? Film rib Is the Film rib correctly stuck to Unstick the Film rib the Rear cover?

  • Page 108: Print-Image Related

    2.1.2 Print-image Related Trouble Action to be taken Completely blank Check the following: - If any cartridge have run out of ink. - The connection of the Head FFC cable between the Head PCB and Main PCB. - If there is any damage on the Head FFC CABLE. - The connection of the four Head FPC cables on the Head PCB.
  • Page 109 Print edges not aligned Check the following: - The alignment of vertical print lines. (Use the Service software tool software to check this.) Check the following components: - Encoder strip * If the Encoder strip is not hooked onto the mounting clips properly, correct it.
  • Page 110 Banding - Adjust the horizontal alignment from the printer driver. - Check the correct media setting is selected in the printer driver for the paper to be printed. - Adjust the amount of line feeding with the Service software tool software. - Replace the Print head.

  • Page 111: Inspection Mode

    INSPECTION MODE Extended Functions The following two extended functions will be available by holding down the specified button(s) until the all LEDs turn off while plugging in the AC adapter. 3.1.1 EEPROM User Area Reset Mode (Not necessary for service) The printer performs a reset of the user area by holding down the Power and Clean button for 3 seconds or more with the Top cover closed.

  • Page 112: Hidden Functions (Inspection Mode

    Hidden Functions (Inspection Mode) The printer goes into the inspection mode by plug in while holding down the Power and Clean button for 3 seconds or more with the Top cover open. Immediately after entering this mode, the all LEDs blink. By pressing the Power button, the below 7 inspection sub modes will be available.

  • Page 113: Sensor Check Mode 1

    3.2.2 Sensor Check Mode 1 After entering this mode, the functioning of the following sensors can be checked. The respective LED indicates the status of the following sensors. Sensor ACSF sensor This LED will be on when the ACSF is attached. Cover sensor This LED will be on when the Top cover is closed.

  • Page 114: Error Codes

    Error Codes There are 2 kinds of error code. Operator calls: Alarm LED and specific LED(s) blink alternately. Service calls: All the LEDs and specific LED(s) go ON alternately. The specific combination of ON or blinking indicates the type of the error. 3.3.1 Operator Calls : ON...

  • Page 115: Service Calls

    3.3.2 Service Calls You may need the Service software tool, which is a software utility that allows you to read out the service call information written on the EEPROM in order to find out the details of the service error. : ON : OFF Service calls...
  • Page 116 01 07 Carriage stop position Adjust the mechanical portion related error to the Carriage ASSY. There is foreign Replace the Encoder strip. material inside the printer. The Carriage ASSY cannot move smoothly. The Encoder strip is contaminated by dust. 01 08 Incorrect chassis width Adjust the mechanical portion related error...
  • Page 117 02 01 Maintenance sensor ON Check the Maintenance gear 10 is error assembled correctly. Refer to Fig. 3.27 in Chapter 3. The gears related to paper feeding are out Replace the Purge unit ASSY. of step with the Maintenance sensor OFF position.
  • Page 118 03 04 Head thermistor Replace the Print head, Head PCB 03 05 open/short error or the Main PCB. Hardware failure related to the head thermistor. 04 01 Flushing form L ink full Replace the Flushing form L1 & L2 error and the Flushing form R1 &...
  • Page 119 LED INDICATING THE ERROR Example: ROM error Power LED Alarm LED Ink BC LED Ink MY LED A lapse of time : ON : OFF IV-18...
  • Page 120 Appendix...

  • Page 121: Appendix A1 Head Pcb Circuit Diagram ------------------------------------------------

    PR99065 CONTENTS 1. Appendix A Appendix A1 Head PCB Circuit Diagram ------------------------------------------------ A-1 Appendix A2 Main PCB Circuit Diagram (1/3) ----------------------------------------- A-2 Appendix A3 Main PCB Circuit Diagram (2/3) ----------------------------------------- A-3 Appendix A4 Main PCB Circuit Diagram (3/3) ----------------------------------------- A-4 Appendix A5 Cartridge Sensor Circuit Diagram --------------------------------------- A-5 2.
  • Page 126 Appendix 5. Cartridge Sensor Circuit Diagram CODE UJ7061000 MPCTRG-SCH01 NAME A - 5...
  • Page 127 Head Cleaning The procedure of the Head cleaning might change later. Note: When refurbishing the MP-21C/CDX, please note that the print head should be cleaned in accordance with the following procedure. The preparation for this refurbishing procedure needs another 1 unit of the MP printer.

  • Page 128: Cleaning The Print Head

    Put the IL tubes into the bottle containing the Initial liquid. Put the Waste ink tube into the Waste ink bottle. Run the MOBILEPAD on the PC. Click [Tool] > [Control]. Tick the check box for each 4 color and click [P-Purge] button in order to bring the Initial liquid up to the Seal rubber.
  • Page 129 Reinstall them into the printer to be cleaned. Connect the power cord and the parallel I/F cable to the printer. Turn the power on while holding down the Power and Clean button for 3 seconds or more to go into the Printer setting mode. Note: See 3.2 Hidden Functions (Inspection Mode) for details of the Printer setting mode.
  • Page 130 (11) MOBLEPAD instructs you to replace the IL cartridges BC and MY with the Ink ejection cartridges BC and MY. Then click the OK button on the MOBLEPAD in order to drain the Initial liquid out of the printer. Ink ejection cartridge MY Ink ejection cartridge BC Waste ink tube Waste ink bottle...
  • Page 131 (14) Move the Print head by hand towards the left hand side. Clean wiper head Carriage Print head Clean wiper head Print head Clean wiper head Fig. B.8 Fig. B.9 Note: When the carriage runs over the Clean wiper head, it is likely to push the Clean wiper head out of its position.
  • Page 132 (15) Remove the Clean wiper head from the printer. Wipe the ink around the ribs on the Platen cover and the rib which is placed between the Ink suction cap and the Head protector cap with a Head cleaner stick. Note: Slightly damp the Head cleaner, which is a white sponge portion of the Head cleaner stick with water.
  • Page 133 Note: Do not touch the Seal rubbers. Use rubber globes when you handle them. Insert a new Seal rubber into the adapter and refit the adapter into position in the IL cartridge. Note: To avoid unnecessary air bubble, replacement should be done below the level of the Initial liquid so that initial liquid comes up to the position of the Seal rubber.
  • Page 134 Mar. ’99 5H1002BE0...
  • Page 135 Mobile Full Color Inkjet Printer MP-21C/CDX Quick Setup Guide Read this guidebook first to set up your printer and prepare your computer for the printer. Be sure to save all packing materials and the outer carton. The steps required for setting up the printer varies by model. Follow the order of setting up as shown in the chart below.
  • Page 136 UJ5394001 A Printed in Japan...

  • Page 137: Setting Up The Printer

    SETTING UP THE PRINTER UNPACKING YOUR PRINTER Setting Up Note After you have unpacked your printer, save the carton box and packing materials in case you want to move or ship the printer. 1. After unpacking the printer, remove the protective parts. Fig.

  • Page 138: Parallel Interface Cable

    Be sure to follow the steps below in the correct order to ensure correct printer operation. The steps required for setting up the printer varies by model. Follow the order of setting up as shown in the chart below. MP-21CDX MP-21C Printer Interface Card Parallel Cable Optional Page...

  • Page 139: About Your Printer

    ABOUT YOUR PRINTER Printer Overview Top Cover PC Card Cable Printer Interface Card (CI-100) Fig. 3 Front View AC Adapter Connector Straight Paper Path Slot Auto Cut Sheet Feeder -1 Paper Feeding Slot Guide Parallel Interface Cable -2 Printer Stand AC Adapter- 2 Fig.
  • Page 140 A: INSTALLING THE PRINTER INTERFACE CARD If you are not going to use the printer through the Printer Interface Card, skip sections ‘A’and ‘B’ and go straight to section ‘C’. However, we recommend that you install the Printer Interface Card Driver at this point whether or not you intend to use the printer through the Printer Interface Card.
  • Page 141 4. Insert the supplied disk (Printer/PC Card Driver disk1) into your floppy disk drive A (or drive B). 5. Choose Run from the File menu in the Program Manager. 6. Type A:\CARDINST (or B:\CARDINST for drive B) in the Command Line box.
  • Page 142 Installing the Printer Interface Card Driver in Windows 95 / 98 1. Make sure that the computer is turned off. 2. Connect the PC Card Cable to the Printer Interface Card. Insert the Printer Interface Card into your computer’s PC Card slot with the label side face up.
  • Page 143 B: CONNECTING THE CABLES - PC Card Cable Connect Your Printer To Your Computer You can connect the printer through the Printer Interface Card or through the Parallel Interface cable (MP-21CDX or PA-21MP users only). How to connect the PC card cable to your computer and printer 1.
  • Page 144 C: CONNECTING THE CABLES - Parallel Interface Cable How to connect the AC Adapter and Parallel Interface Cable to your computer and printer (MP-21CDX or optional PA-21MP users only) Note Only the MP-21CDX model is shipped with an AC Adapter and Parallel Interface Cable.
  • Page 145 See your PC’s manual for how to change the printer port. 1. Click 'Start' and select 'Printer' from the 'Setting' tab. 2. Click the right mouse button on the 'MP-21C' icon and click 'Properties'. 3. Click the 'Details' tab and select 'LPT1' from the 'Print to the...
  • Page 146 D: INSTALLING THE INK CARTRIDGES Installation How to install the ink cartridges Caution When you connect the printer through the Printer Interface Card, make sure that the PC Card Cable is connected securely and your PC is on. 1. Turn the Printer Stand at the bottom of the printer outwards so that the printer will be stable.
  • Page 147 4. Insert the new LC03BC ink cartridge, making sure it is inserted in the correct position referring to the indications on the label. Push it fully (BC)LED turns into the slot using both hands. Make sure that the off. Fig. 12 Install BC Ink Cartridge Caution Be sure to insert the ink cartridge securely.
  • Page 148 6. Close the top cover. Your printer will automatically carry out head cleaning and become ready to print. When the printer is carrying out head cleaning, all the LEDs blink alternately. It takes about 8 minutes to finish the head cleaning, wait until the LEDs stop blinking. Caution Once you have installed a cartridge, DO NOT take it out until you need to replace it with a new one, otherwise the print quality may be...
  • Page 149 E: INSTALLING THE PRINTER DRIVER Installing the Windows 95/98 Printer Driver You need to configure Windows 95/98 for the printer by installing the printer driver from the supplied disks into Windows 95/98. 1. Make sure that your computer is on. 2.
  • Page 150 5. Type A:\SETUP and choose the OK button or press the Enter key. Note If you use a drive other than drive A, type the drive name in the “Copy manufacturers files from” box on the screen. 6. Follow the instructions that appear on the screen. 7.
  • Page 151 Installing the Windows 3.1 Printer Driver You need to set up this printer by installing the printer driver into Windows 3.1. Since the supplied printer driver is compressed on the disks, be sure to use the supplied Setup program to install them as follows : 1.
  • Page 152 When the color level and balance does not match exactly, select the ones that are the closest. Test Print 1. Select ‘Maintenance’ from the MP-21C series group in Windows . 2. Click ‘Test Print’. Note When you do the Test Print, insert A4 or Letter size plain paper into the printer.
  • Page 153 When you do this, load A4 or Letter size plain paper. For how to load paper, see Chapter 2 in the User’s Guide. 1. Select ‘Maintenance’ from the MP-21C series group in Windows . 2. Click 'Vertical Alignment.'. If you are using the printer through the Printer Interface Card, the printer will carry out adjustment for slow speed mode.
  • Page 154 Brother Mobile Full Color Inkjet Printer MP-21C/CDX User’s Guide Please read this manual thoroughly before using the printer. Keep this manual in a convenient place for quick and easy reference at all times.

  • Page 155: Shipment Of The Printer

    Shipment of the Printer If for any reason you must ship your Printer, carefully package the Printer to avoid any damage during transit. It is recommended that you save and use the original packaging. The Printer should also be adequately insured with the carrier. Warning When shipping the Printer, DO NOT remove the INK CARTRIDGES from the Printer.
  • Page 156 In USA Printer Customer Support Brother International Corporation 15 Musick Irvine, CA 92618 In Canada Brother International Corporation, Ltd. 1, Rue Hôtel De Ville Dollard-des-Ormeaux P.Q. Canada H9B3H6 For downloading drivers from our Bulletin Board Service, call: In USA 1-888-298-3616...
  • Page 157 UJ5351001 Printed in Japan...
  • Page 158 Printer Customer Support Brother International Corporation 15 Musick Irvine, CA 92718 In CANADA Brother International Corporation (Canada), Ltd. - Marketing Dept. 1, rue Hôtel de Ville Dollard-des-Ormeaux, PQ, Canada H9B 3H6 For downloading drivers from our Bulletin Board Service, call:...

  • Page 159: Compilation And Publication Notice

    Trademarks The brother logo is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd. Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation. All other brand and product names mentioned in this User’s Guide are registered trademarks of their respective companies. Compilation and Publication Notice Under the supervision of Brother Industries Ltd., this manual has been compiled and published, covering the latest product’s descriptions and specifications.

  • Page 160: To Use The Printer Safely

    Definitions of Warnings, Cautions, and Notes The following conventions are used in this User’s Guide: Warning Indicates warnings that must be observed to prevent possible personal injury. Caution Indicates cautions that must be observed to use the printer properly or prevent damage to the printer.
  • Page 161 Warning Before cleaning the printer platen, be sure to turn off the (On/Off) button and make sure that all the LEDs are off. Remove the Printer Interface Card Cable and AC Adapter if connected (MP-21CDX or optional PA-21MP users only) from the printer. Warning DO NOT put your hands into the printer or move the carriage by hand.
  • Page 162 Caution DO NOT touch the flat cable and Ink Tube. Fig. 0-2 The Flat Cable and Ink Tube Caution Keep the printer on a flat surface. Caution DO NOT move or shake the printer while it is printing. Caution Do not disassemble the printer. Caution DO NOT remove the Printer Interface Card, PC card cable or AC Adapter if connected (MP-21CDX or optional PA-21MP users only) while the...
  • Page 163 Caution If the printer get wet, wait until it dries out completely before attempting to print. Caution If you drop the printer, check that there are no broken parts. If you find some parts broken, consult your dealer or our authorized service representative.
  • Page 164 Printer Do's and Don't When Traveling Caution DO NOT leave the printer inside your car. Caution DO NOT shake or damage the printer. Caution When you carry the printer keep it upright. Caution When you travel by air, do not put the printer in your suitcase. Carry the printer onto the aircraft as hand baggage.
  • Page 165 USER’S GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION ABOUT THE GUIDEBOOKS ABOUT YOUR PRINTER Printer Overview Features Operating and Storage Environment CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING PAPER SPECIFICATIONS ABOUT BROTHER SPECIAL PAPER About Brother Special Coated Paper About Brother Special Glossy Paper LOADING PAPER How to Load Paper in the Paper Feeding Slot How to Load Paper in the Straight Paper Path Slot...
  • Page 166 TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 5 TROUBLE SHOOTING ALARM INDICATIONS AT A GLANCE Operator Calls Service Calls PAPER JAMS How to clear paper jams Q & A Setting Up the Printer Hardware Setting Up the Printer for Windows Paper Handling Printing Print Quality APPENDIX PRINTER SPECIFICATIONS...
  • Page 167 Bridgewater, NJ 08807-0911, USA TEL : (908) 704-1700 declares, that the products Product Name: Brother Mobile Inkjet Printer MP-21C/CDX, Printer Interface Card CI-100 AC Adapter AD-100MP, AD-200MP (for MP- 21CDX or optional PA-21MP user) complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the...
  • Page 168 REGULATIONS Industry Canada Compliance Statement (For Canada only) This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada. Radio Interference (220-240 V model only) This printer complies with EN55022(CISPR Publication 22)/Class B. Before this product is used, ensure that you use a double-shielded interface cable with twisted-pair conductors and that is marked “IEEE1284 compliant”.
  • Page 169 USER’S GUIDE IMPORTANT - Wiring Information (For U.K. only) If the power cord supplied with the AC Adapter (for MP-21CDX or option) is not suitable for your electrical outlet, remove the plug from the mains cord and fit an appropriate three pin plug. If the replacement plug is intended to take a fuse then fit the same fuse as the original.
  • Page 170 REGULATIONS DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY (EUROPE) Brother International Europe Ltd., Brother House 1 Tame Street, Guide Bridge, Audenshaw, Manchester M34 5JE, UK. declare that this product is in conformity with the following normative documents: EMC: EN 55022 Class B, EN 50082-1...

  • Page 171: Chapter 1 Introduction

    CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION ABOUT THE GUIDEBOOKS You have two guidebooks for this printer. Read each guidebook in the following order: 1. Read the Quick Setup Guide to set up your printer and connect it to your computer. It also contains information about setting up your computer for your printer by installing the printer driver.
  • Page 172 USER’S GUIDE ABOUT YOUR PRINTER Printer Overview Top Cover PC Card Cable Printer Interface Card (CI-100) Fig. 1-1 Front View AC Adapter Connector Straight Paper Path Slot Paper Feeding Slot Guide Auto Cut Sheet Feeder -1 Parallel Interface Cable -2 Printer Stand AC Adapter -2 Fig.
  • Page 173 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Features This printer has the following features: Small and Light InkJet Printer This printer weighs about 1kg (2.2 lbs.) and the footprint is very small. You can take the printer with you anywhere, any time you want. Lowest Power Consumption in the World Power consumption is so small (2.5-3.0 W: printing, 0.5 W: waiting ) that it is possible to take power from a Notebook PC through the...

  • Page 174: Operating And Storage Environment

    USER’S GUIDE Operating and Storage Environment Please take note of the following before using the printer. Power Supply Use the printer within the specified power range. AC power: ±10% of the rated power voltage Frequency: 50/60 Hz (100-120V or 220-240 V) The power cord, including extensions, should not exceed 5 meters (16.5 feet).

  • Page 175: Chapter 2 Paper Handling

    CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING PAPER SPECIFICATIONS The output quality of Inkjet printers depends on the paper type being used. Before you print, be sure to check the information below. Note It is recommended that you test paper, especially special sizes and types of paper, on this printer before purchasing large quantities.
  • Page 176 USER’S GUIDE Note To get the best output quality and to avoid any damage, use Brother special coated paper and glossy paper. Quality Coated Paper for 360 dpi Color InkJet printing BP36CL (Letter), BP36CA (A4) High Quality Coated Paper for 720 dpi Color InkJet printing BP72CL (Letter), BP72CA (A4) Color InkJet Glossy Paper (Super Fine mode) BPGLL (Letter), BPGLA (A4)
  • Page 177 CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING Printable area The Printable area depends on the settings in your application. The figure below shows the physically printable area and non guaranteed print area of various paper types with this printer. Cut Sheet 3.4mm(0.13"):A4, A5 3.4mm(0.13"):A4, A5 User Defined 6.4mm(0.25"):Let, Leg...

  • Page 178: About Brother Special Paper

    USER’S GUIDE ABOUT BROTHER SPECIAL PAPER Caution When you print on coated paper, transparencies and glossy paper, be sure to select the correct media in the ‘Quality/Color’ tab in the printer driver. About Brother Special Coated Paper We recommend you use Brother special coated paper, depending on the resolution you are using, for you to get the brilliant color output you expect.

  • Page 179: About Brother Special Glossy Paper

    CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING About Brother Special Glossy Paper When you print on glossy paper, you can get a very clear and crisp output. We recommend you use Brother special glossy paper for you to get the best output, as the paper is especially designed to be used for Brother Inkjet printing.

  • Page 180: Loading Paper

    USER’S GUIDE LOADING PAPER How to Load Paper in the Paper Feeding Slot 1. Open the Paper Feeding Slot Guide. Fig. 2-2 Open the Paper Feeding Slot Guide (On/Off) LED is on. Take a sheet of paper and 2. Make sure that the insert it into the Paper Feeding Slot.

  • Page 181: How To Load Paper In The Straight Paper Path Slot

    CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING How to Load Paper in the Straight Paper Path Slot Make sure that the (On/Off) LED is on. Take a sheet of paper and insert it into the Straight Paper Path Slot. Be sure to insert the paper to the right hand side of the Paper Feeding Slot Guide looking at the printer from the front.

  • Page 182: How To Load Envelopes In The Straight Paper Path Slot

    USER’S GUIDE How to Load Envelopes in the Straight Paper Path Slot Take an envelope and insert it into the Straight Paper Path slot. Be sure to adjust the paper to the mark below. Fig. 2-5 Loading Envelopes Note When you load envelopes, insert the envelope carefully so that it won't skew.
  • Page 183 CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING How to Load Paper in the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder (MP-21CDX or optional SF-21MP users only) Make sure that the Latches on both sides of the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder are closed. Fit the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder onto the printer. Push the latches securely until you hear them click into the lock position.
  • Page 184 USER’S GUIDE 4. Pull the wire up. Fig. 2-11 Pull the Wire up 5. Fan the stack of paper before loading. 6. Load the paper stack with the printing (coated) side upwards. Align the right side of the paper against the right hand side of the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder.
  • Page 185 CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING Caution You can load glossy paper only from the Paper Feeding Slot or from the Straight Paper Path Slot. When you load glossy paper, load only one sheet at a time. Make sure the paper loaded in the Feeder is all the same type. When adding paper, first remove any remaining paper from the Feeder and stack it with the new paper, then insert the new paper stack into the Feeder.
  • Page 186 USER’S GUIDE How to Remove the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder from the Printer 1. Open the Feeder Cover and remove the paper. 2. Move the Paper Guide to the left. 3. Fold the wire back in the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder, and close the Feeder Cover and then tilt the Feeder forwards.

  • Page 187: Chapter 3 Control Panel

    CHAPTER 3 CONTROL PANEL CHAPTER 3 CONTROL PANEL LED AND BUTTONS This section refers to the following LEDs and buttons on the printer control panel. Fig. 3-1 Control Panel LEDs (On/Off) LED (On/Off) LED indicates the current power status of the printer. Printer status The printer is turned on and ready to print.
  • Page 188 USER’S GUIDE Ink LEDs ( (BC) LED and (MY) LED) Each Cartridge LED indicates when the ink is low or empty. Printer status Blinking The color ink cartridge is running out of ink. You should prepare a new ink cartridge for that color. The color ink cartridge is empty.
  • Page 189 CHAPTER 3 CONTROL PANEL Buttons (On/Off) Button (Retry) (On/Off) LED comes on, the When you press this button and the printer becomes ready to operate. (On/Off) LED goes off, the When you press this button and the printer is turned off. (Alarm) LED is on and the (On/Off) LED is off, When the...

  • Page 190: Chapter 4 Maintenance

    Do not remove cables when the printer is cleaning its print head. Note You can also clean the print head from the printer driver. Select ‘Maintenance’ from the ‘MP-21C series’ group in Windows. REPLACING THE INK CARTRIDGES (BC) LED and/or...
  • Page 191 USER’S GUIDE How to replace the ink cartridges (On/Off) LED is on. Open the top cover. 1. Make sure that the 2. Remove the ink cartridge you need to replace. Fig. 4-1 Removing the Cartridge Warning DO NOT push the shutters in the ink cartridge slot. There are sharp pins inside the Ink Cartridge Slot.
  • Page 192 CHAPTER 4 MAINTENANCE 4. Insert the new cartridge, making sure to insert it into the correct position. Push it in until you hear a click as it locks into position. (BC) LED and/or (MY) Make sure that the Ink LED(s) ( LED) turn off.
  • Page 193 USER’S GUIDE Caution Once you install an ink cartridge, use it up within 6 months. Use ink cartridges within 2 years of the production date. Caution DO NOT remove the Ink Cartridges when the printer is off. If you have replaced ink cartridges while the printer is turned off, reset the ink counter from the maintenance tool in the printer driver.
  • Page 194 CHAPTER 4 MAINTENANCE CLEANING THE PRINTER Cleaning the Printer 1. Before cleaning the printer or printer platen, be sure to turn off the printer and remove the PC Card Cable from your computer and remove the AC Adapter (MP-21CDX or PA-21MP users only) if connected and make sure that all the LEDs are off.

  • Page 195: Repacking The Printer

    USER’S GUIDE REPACKING THE PRINTER Caution Whenever you transport the printer, use the packing materials which are provided with your printer. Also, follow the steps below to repack the printer, or the printer may be damaged. This will void the printer’s warranty.
  • Page 196 CHAPTER 4 MAINTENANCE 4. Place any documents (manual and any documentation describing the reason for returning the printer) in the carton box as shown below. Fig. 4-6 Repacking the printer 5. Close the carton box and tape it securely. Caution Make sure that the printer has the ink cartridges fitted to it when shipping.

  • Page 197: Alarm Indications At A Glance

    CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING CHAPTER 5 TROUBLE SHOOTING ALARM INDICATIONS AT A GLANCE Operator Calls If a recoverable error occurs, the printer indicates an ‘operator call’ by blinking or turning on the (Alarm) LED. Find the error and take the appropriate action to correct it. The printer automatically recovers from most errors, but you may need to reset the printer with the button as described below.
  • Page 198 USER’S GUIDE Service Calls If an unrecoverable error occurs, the printer indicates the need for a service call by lighting all the LEDs and then the following combination of lamps alternately: Service Call Service 1 Service 2 Service 3 Service 4 (On/Off) (Alarm) (BC)

  • Page 199: Paper Jams

    CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING PAPER JAMS How to clear paper jams 1. Open the Top Cover and pull the Release Lever. Fig. 5-1 Pulling the Release Lever 2. Pull out the jammed paper carefully with the top cover open. Fig. 5-2 Pulling the Jammed Paper Out 3.
  • Page 200 USER’S GUIDE How to clear a paper jam when using the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder (MP-21CDX or SF-21MP users only) If a paper jam occurs when you are using the Feeder, try to remove the jammed paper as shown in ‘How to clear paper jams’ section of this chapter.

  • Page 201: Setting Up The Printer Hardware

    (Alarm) LED is blinking or on, refer to the Operator Call section of this manual. In Windows, the MP-21C/CDX printer is selected in the printer settings in your application. The host is configured correctly: check printer port, print manager etc. (clear stored job or ‘use print manager’...

  • Page 202: Setting Up The Printer For Windows

    USER’S GUIDE Setting Up the Printer for Windows Question Recommendation I cannot print from my Make sure the supplied Windows printer driver is application software. installed correctly and selected in your application software. I cannot print the entire page. Check to see if the size of paper in the feeder is the same as the one that you have selected in your application or the printer driver Computer indicates a device...

  • Page 203: Paper Handling

    CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING Paper Handling Question Recommendation The printer does not load When you feed paper from the Paper Feeding paper. Slot, make sure to push the paper fully down into the slot with the paper straight. (For MP-21CDX and optional SF-21MP users only) (Alarm) LED is on.
  • Page 204 USER’S GUIDE Printing Question Recommendation The printer prints unexpectedly Cancel the print job from your computer. Then, or it prints incorrect images. turn the printer off and on. Make sure your application software is correctly set up to use this printer and check the printer driver settings or printer settings in your application software.

  • Page 205: Print Quality

    CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING Print Quality Note You can clear a print quality problem by replacing an ink cartridge with a new one if the Ink LED ( (BC) LED or (MY) LED) is on or blinking. Question Recommendation Printed pages contain white You may clear the problem by cleaning the print horizontal lines or the image is head several times.
  • Page 206 USER’S GUIDE Question Recommendation Colors are light. You may have printed in Draft mode. Set to Normal mode or Super Fine mode in the printer driver. Some colors are missing. Clean the print head several times. Ink may have run out. Check to see if you have run out of certain ink colors.
  • Page 207 Printer Customer Support Brother International Corporation 15 Musick Irvine, CA 92718 In CANADA Brother International Corporation (Canada), Ltd. - Marketing Dept. 1, rue Hôtel de Ville Dollard-des-Ormeaux, PQ, Canada H9B 3H6 For downloading drivers from our Bulletin Board Service, call:...

  • Page 208: Printer Specifications

    APPENDIX APPENDIX PRINTER SPECIFICATIONS Printing Print Method Piezo with 32 X 4 nozzles Resolution 720 X 720 dots per inch (DPI) - Super Fine 360 X 360 dots per inch (DPI) - Normal 180 X 360 dots per inch (DPI) - Draft Print Speed (with Printer Interface Card) 107 cps at 10 cpi...

  • Page 209: Print Media

    USER’S GUIDE Electrical and Mechanical Power Source <Printer Interface Card mode> Power Save Mode: 0.6 W Stand-by: 1.0 W Printing-average: 2.5 W or less <AC Adapter mode> Power Save Mode: 0.7 W Stand-by: 1.1 W Printing-average: 3.2 W or less Noise Printing: 40 dB A or less...
  • Page 210 APPENDIX Paper Output 1 sheet, face up It is recommended that printed sheets are taken from the paper output slot immediately after printing. Twin cartridge system: separate from the print head Service Life of Ink Cartridge Approx. 250 page / LC03BC at 5% coverage Approx.
  • Page 211 ININDEX INDEX —A— —M— misfeed (Alarm) LED 3-2, 5-1 Auto Cut Sheet Feeder (MY) LED —B— —N— No Cartridge (BC) LED —O— —C— Clean Button (On/Off) Button clean the print head (On/Off)LED Coated paper operator call Color InkJet Glossy Paper 2-2, 2-5 Organizer Cover Open...
  • Page 212 USER’S GUIDE —W— —T— Windows Transparencies Index-2...

  • Page 213: Parts Reference List

    COLOR INKJET PRINTER PARTS REFERENCE LIST MODEL:MP-21C/21CDX...
  • Page 214 NOTE FOR USING THIS PARTS REFERENCE LIST 1. In the case of ordering parts, it needs mentioning the following items: (1) Code (2) Q'ty (3) Description (4) Symbol ( PCB No., Revision , and Parts location mounted on the PCB.) Note : No orders without Parts Code or Tool No.
  • Page 215 CONTENTS CARRIAGE / FRAME ATTACHMENT / CHASSIS / CR DRIVE / PAPER FEED DRIVE................1 PURGE UNIT ..................3 PCB & HARNESS ................. 3 INK HEAD BASE................... 5 ACSF..................... 5 COVERS ....................7 PACKING MATERIALS................. 7 ATTACHMENTS ................... 9 LUBRICANT & TOOLS ............... 11...

  • Page 216: Paper Feed Drive

    1 . CARRIAGE / FRAME ATTACHMENT / CHASSIS / CR DRIVE / PAPER FEED DRIVE 1-12 MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002/004/011/020...
  • Page 217 UJ5114001 MAIN ROLLER GEAR 40 UJ5122001 PAPER EJECT ROLLER ASSY UJ5124001 PAPER EJECT SENSOR ACTUATOR UJ5141001 PAPER FEED MOTOR ASSY 060260416 SCREW, BIND M26X4 UJ5145000 ARM STOPPER UJ5150000 PAPER BOTTOM SUPPORT T/I No. PR99060 MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002/004/011/020 - 2 -...

  • Page 218: Purge Unit

    2 . PURGE UNIT MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002-025 3 . PCB & HARNESS MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002-450...
  • Page 219 FLUSHING FOAM R1 UJ5188001 FLUSHING FOAM R2 085310616 TAPTITE, BIND B M3X6 UJ5190001 FLUSHING FOAM L1 UJ5191001 FLUSHING FOAM L2 T/I No. PR99060 MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002-025 3. PCB & HARNESS REF.NO. CODE Q'TY DESCRIPTION SYMBOL REMARK UJ7002001 MAIN PCB ASSY...

  • Page 220: Ink Head Base

    4 . INK HEAD BASE MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002-520 5 . ACSF (MP-21CDX only) MODEL MP-21CDX 5H1-002-5911...
  • Page 221 INK HEAD BASE UNIT (SP) 085210816 SCREW, BIND M2X8 060260416 SCREW, BIND M26X4 UJ5303001 COVER SENSOR ACTUATOR UJ5304001 COVER SENSOR SPRING TI No. PR99060 MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002-520 5. ACSF (MP-21CDX only) REF.NO. CODE Q'TY DESCRIPTION REMARK UJ5511001 PICK-UP ROLLER ASSY UJ5517001...

  • Page 222: Covers

    6 . COVERS MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002-025 7 . PACKING MATERIALS MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002-930...
  • Page 223 UJ5447001 CARTON, MP-21CDX EU UJ5492001 CARTON, MP-21C CANADA UJ5491001 CARTON, MP-21CDX CANADA UJ5430000 STYROFOAM, MP-21 UJ5432001 CARTON, C (MP-21C only) UJ5433001 PARTITION CONTAINERBOARD (MP-21C only) UJ5486001 PARTITION CONTAINERBOARD (MP-21CDX only) UJ5476001 CARTON, CDX (MP-21CDX only) UJ5478001 CARTON, SF-21 (MP-21CDX only)

  • Page 224: Attachments

    8 . ATTACHMENTS MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002-910...
  • Page 225 SETUP GUIDE, ITA UJ5402001 SETUP GUIDE, SWE UJ7042001 IF CABLE, MP-21 PCMCIA UJ7045001 PCMCIA CARD, MBH2PR01 UJ7048001 POWER CORD, VDE UJ7049001 POWER CORD, BS UJ7050001 POWER CORD, SAA UJ7053001 POWER CORD, ZAF UJ7054001 POWER CORD, ISRAEL MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002-910 - 10 -...

  • Page 226: Lubricant & Tools

    SEAL RUBBER ASSY (20 PCS) ZA0728001 IL CARTRIDGE BC ASSY ZA0737001 IL CARTRIDGE MY ASSY LK2024001 CLEAN WIPER HEAD (500 PCS/1 BAG) PRT-001a,c PRT-002b ZA0310001 ZA0543001 ZA0546001 ZA0726001 ZA0728001 ZA0737001 LK2024001 T/I No. PR99060 MODEL MP-21C/21CDX 5H1-001/002-99A - 11 -...
  • Page 227 Mar. '99 54H1002BE0...
  • Page 228 PR99052, PR99072 Close the Top cover. The printer will automatically start initial purge. When the initial purge is done, the Power LED comes on. Warning: If ink stains your body or clothing, wash with soap or detergent immediately. If ink gets in your eyes, irrigate them with water immediately and consult a doctor if you are concerned.
  • Page 229 PR99072 Purge Unit ASSY, Flushing Foam R1 and R2 <Disassembly> Unstick the Encoder FFC cable 5P from the double-sided adhesive tape attached to the Purge unit ASSY. Remove the four screws in the instructed order and the Support plate from the Purge unit ASSY.
  • Page 230 PR99072 <Reassembly> Note: Secure the four screws in the reverse order to attach the Purge unit ASSY and the Support plate. Important: Check that the Waste ink tube is fitted correctly in the guides and goes into the hole on the Purge unit ASSY Purge unit ASSY Purge unit ASSY Waste ink tube...
  • Page 231 SEAL RUBBER ASSY (20 PCS) ZA0728001 IL CARTRIDGE BC ASSY ZA0737001 IL CARTRIDGE MY ASSY LK2024001 CLEAN WIPER HEAD (500 PCS/1 BAG) PRT-001a,c,d PRT-002b ZA0310001 ZA0543001 ZA0546001 ZA0726001 ZA0728001 ZA0737001 LK2024001 T/I No. PR99060, PR99080 MODEL MP-21C/21CDX 5H1-001/002-99A - 11 -...
  • Page 232 1 . CARRIAGE / FRAME ATTACHMENT / CHASSIS / CR DRIVE / PAPER FEED DRIVE 1-12 T/I NO. PR99082 MODEL MP-21C/CDX 5H1-001/002/004/011/020...
  • Page 233 UJ5492001 CARTON, MP-21C CANADA REV. CHNG UJ5491001 CARTON, MP-21CDX CANADA REV. CHNG UJ5430000 STYROFOAM, MP-21 UJ5432001 CARTON, C (MP-21C only) UJ5433001 PARTITION CONTAINERBOARD (MP-21C only) UJ5486001 PARTITION CONTAINERBOARD (MP-21CDX only) UJ5476001 CARTON, CDX (MP-21CDX only) UJ5478001 CARTON, SF-21 (MP-21CDX only)

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