epson technology and operating principles

EPSONTOP

E P S O O L O G Y & O P E R A T I N G P R I N C I P L E S

4009705

R E V I S I O N C

N T E C H N

EPSON TOP Revision C

2

NoticeAll rights reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION.

All effort have been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this manual. However, should any errors be detected, SEIKO EPSON would greatly appreciate being informed of them.

The contents of this manual are subject to change without notice.

All effort have been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this manual. However, should any errors be detected, SEIKO EPSON would greatly appreciate being informed of them.

The above not withstanding SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION can assume no responsibility for any errors in this manual or the consequences thereof.

EPSON is a registered trademark of SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION.

General Notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purpose only and may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. EPSON disclaims any and all rights in those marks.

Copyright © 2003 SEIKO EPSON CORPORATIONImaging & Information Product DivisionTPCSQA DepartmentPrinter Technical Support Group


3

PrefaceThe purpose of this guide is to provide you with a head start on understanding the fundamental technologies developed by EPSON and other technologies that EPSON uses in manufacturing the best products available today. Before reading a service manual or attending technical training, you should read and fully comprehend this guide.

The information in this guide is divided into the following topics:

1. "Serial Impact Dot Matrix Printers"Explains concerning the SIDM print mechanism, operation theory, carriage mechanism and paper feed mechanism.

2. "Ink Jet Printers"Explains concerning the IJ print head mechanism, ink system, etc.

3. "Page Printers"Explains concerning toners used in PP, electrophotographic printing process, paper transport mechanisms, etc.

4. “Image Scanners”Explains concerning the SC CCD sensor mechanism and operating theory, the scanning system and quantization technologies.

5. “Digital Still Camera”Explains concerning the DSC’s CCD sensor mechanism and operating theory, the data processing system, video technology, etc.

6. “Color Imaging Essentials”Explains concerning color reproduction methods used in EPSON products.

7. “Adjustment”Explains concerning adjustment items and methods for EPSON products.

8. “Trouble Shooting”Explains concerning troubleshooting in SIDM and IJ printers.

9. “Glossary of Terms”Explains technical terms encountered when reading the service manual.


4

hange

ue

ent chapters; revised color SIDM, are explanations.

d (typographic error, unclear

Revision HistoryRevision Date Pages Nature of

A July 29, 1998 All First i

B May 17, 1999 All Added Color, Troubleshooting, and Adjucolor page, film scanner, and scanner so

C January 22, 2003 Chapter 1Chapter 3Chapter 5

The descriptions has been reviewed/revdescription).

c

ss

stmftw

ise

C

1.1

1.2

1.31.4

1.5

1.6

1.7

1.81.9

........................................................................... 39

........................................................................... 39ter Mechanism .................................................. 39........................................................................... 42ement ................................................................ 42........................................................................... 42........................................................................... 43........................................................................... 45ogy ................................................................... 46ology ................................................................. 47y ...................................................................... 47

re Control ......................................................... 47........................................................................... 48........................................................................... 48 Dye Based Inks and Pigment Based Inks and their ........................................................................... 48ment Based Inks and Dye Based Inks ............. 49sed Ink ............................................................. 49ased Inks .......................................................... 50ye Based Inks ................................................. 52

........................................................................... 53trol .................................................................... 55........................................................................... 57........................................................................... 57........................................................................... 59........................................................................... 60ion .................................................................... 60........................................................................... 62........................................................................... 63s ...................................................................... 63

CONTENTS

hapter 1 Serial Impact Dot Matrix Printers

Outline ................................................................................................................. 91.1.1 Features of Serial Impact Dot Matrix Printers ............................................. 91.1.2 Outline of the SIDM Printer Mechanism ..................................................... 9 Print Mechanism .............................................................................................. 131.2.1 Head Wire Array ........................................................................................ 131.2.2 Operating Principle of SIDM Printheads ................................................... 131.2.3 Heat Temperature Detection Mechanism .................................................. 14 Carriage Mechanism ........................................................................................ 15 Paper Feed Mechanism .................................................................................... 171.4.1 Friction Feed .............................................................................................. 171.4.2 Tractor Feed ............................................................................................... 18

1.4.2.1 Push Tractor Mode ............................................................................ 18 1.4.2.2 Pull Tractor Mode ............................................................................. 19 1.4.2.3 Push-Pull Tractor ............................................................................... 19

1.4.3 Paper Path .................................................................................................. 21 Ribbon Mechanism ........................................................................................... 221.5.1 Ribbon Feed Mechanism ........................................................................... 221.5.2 Ribbon Cartridge Mechanism .................................................................... 221.5.3 Ribbon Cassette Mechanism ...................................................................... 23 Platen Gap Mechanism .................................................................................... 241.6.1 Manual Platen Gap Type ........................................................................... 251.6.2 Auto Platen Gap System ............................................................................ 26 Color Printing Mechanism .............................................................................. 281.7.1 Ribbon Cartridge ....................................................................................... 281.7.2 Ribbon Cassette ......................................................................................... 29 Comprehension Test ......................................................................................... 31 Answers to the Comprehension Test .............................................................. 34

Chapter 2 Ink Jet Printers

2.1 Outline ....................................2.1.1 Ink Jet Printer Features ...2.1.2 Outline of the Ink Jet Prin

2.2 Print Mechanism ...................2.2.1 Print Head Nozzle Arrang2.2.2 Types of Head .................2.2.3 Print Head Mechanism ...

2.2.3.1 Printing Process ...... 2.2.3.2 Microweave Technol 2.2.3.3 Variable Shot Techn 2.2.3.4 Multi-shot Technolog 2.2.3.5 Printhead Temperatu

2.2.4 Types of Ink .................... 2.2.4.1 Ink Colors ............... 2.2.4.2 Differences BetweenFeatures ............................... 2.2.4.3 Printing States of Pig 2.2.4.4 Types of Pigment Ba 2.2.4.5 EPSON’s Pigment B 2.2.4.6 Light Resistance of D

2.2.5 Ink Cartridges ................. 2.2.5.1 Ink Service Life Con

2.3 Ink System Mechanism .........2.3.1 Cap Unit ..........................2.3.2 Pump Unit .......................

2.3.2.1 Pump Operation ...... 2.3.2.2 Head Cleaner Operat

2.3.3 Waste Ink Pad .................2.4 Ink System Control ...............

2.4.1 Basic Ink System Function

2.52.62.7

2.82.9

C

3.13.23.33.4

3.5

3.6

3.7

...................................................................... 103ing an Intermediate Transfer Belt .................. 104ods .................................................................. 110......................................................................... 111n Test ............................................................ 114

......................................................................... 118

......................................................................... 118

......................................................................... 119canner ............................................................ 119......................................................................... 120........................................................................ 121 ...................................................................... 122

......................................................................... 123

......................................................................... 124

......................................................................... 125

......................................................................... 126

......................................................................... 126

......................................................................... 126

......................................................................... 126

......................................................................... 127y ..................................................................... 128ent Operating Theory ..................................... 128r Operating Theory ........................................ 129......................................................................... 131n Test ............................................................ 132

era

......................................................................... 136

......................................................................... 137

......................................................................... 137

......................................................................... 137

......................................................................... 138

......................................................................... 138

2.4.2 Ink Sequence .............................................................................................. 642.4.3 Initial Ink Charge ....................................................................................... 642.4.4 Ink Cartridge Replacement Cleaning ......................................................... 652.4.5 Manual Cleaning ........................................................................................ 662.4.6 Timer Cleaning .......................................................................................... 672.4.7 Periodic Flushing ....................................................................................... 67 Paper Feed Mechanism .................................................................................... 68 Detectors ............................................................................................................ 69 Media ................................................................................................................. 702.7.1 Dye Based Print Media .............................................................................. 712.7.2 Pigment Based Media ................................................................................ 722.7.3 Structural Outline of Exclusive Print Media ............................................. 73 Comprehension Test ......................................................................................... 74 Answers to the Comprehension Test .............................................................. 79

hapter 3 Page Printers

Outline ............................................................................................................... 88 Basic Configuration of Page Printers ............................................................. 89 Toner .................................................................................................................. 90 Printing Process ................................................................................................ 913.4.1 Charging Process ....................................................................................... 923.4.2 Exposure Process ....................................................................................... 93

3.4.2.1 Laser System Exposure ..................................................................... 943.4.3 Development Process ................................................................................. 963.4.4 Transfer Process ......................................................................................... 983.4.5 Fusing Process ........................................................................................... 993.4.6 Cleaning ................................................................................................... 1003.4.7 Pre-exposure ............................................................................................ 100 Mechanism Operating Theory ...................................................................... 1013.5.1 Outline of Mechanism ............................................................................. 1013.5.2 Paper Path ................................................................................................ 1013.5.3 Paper Ejection .......................................................................................... 101 Electric Components ...................................................................................... 1023.6.1 Safety Switch and Each Sensor ............................................................... 102 Color Page Printers ........................................................................................ 1033.7.1 Outline ..................................................................................................... 103

3.7.2 Multiplex Transfer System3.7.3 Color Printing Process Us3.7.4 Color Reproduction Meth

3.8 Comprehension Test ..............3.9 Answers to the Comprehensio

Chapter 4 Image Scanners

4.1 Outline ....................................4.1.1 Scanning (Reading) ........

4.2 Flat Bed Scanner ...................4.2.1 Reduced Optical System S4.2.2 Close Contact Scanner ....4.2.3 Moving Lens, CCD Type 4.2.4 Fixed Lens and CCD Type

4.3 Sheet Feed Type .....................4.4 Handy Type ............................4.5 Film Scanner .........................4.6 CCD ........................................

4.6.1 CCD Construction ..........4.6.2 Types of CCD .................

4.6.2.1 Linear CCD ............4.6.3 CCD and Resolution .......

4.7 Linear CCD Operating Theor4.7.1 CCD Photosensitive Elem4.7.2 CCD Analog Shift Registe

4.8 Comprehension Test ..............4.9 Answers to the Comprehensio

Chapter 5 Digital Still Cam

5.1 Outline ....................................5.2 CCD ........................................

5.2.1 CCD Sensor .................... 5.2.1.1 CCD Area Sensor ...

5.3 Transfer Method ....................5.3.1 Frame Transfer ...............

5.4

5.5

C

6.1

6.2

6.3

C

7.17.2

......................................................................... 159

......................................................................... 160

......................................................................... 160

......................................................................... 161

......................................................................... 162ounter ............................................................ 163

......................................................................... 163

......................................................................... 165

......................................................................... 165

......................................................................... 169

s

5.3.2 Interline Transfer ..................................................................................... 139 Digital Still Camera Operating Theory ........................................................ 1405.4.1 Storing the Image ..................................................................................... 142 Comprehension Test ....................................................................................... 143

hapter 6 Color Imaging Essentials

Basic Knowledge about Color ....................................................................... 1456.1.1 What is Color? ......................................................................................... 145

6.1.1.1 Three Factors Enabling Color to be Seen ........................................ 145 6.1.1.2 Relationship Between Color and Wavelength ................................. 145 6.1.1.3 Way of Thinking on Primary Colors ............................................... 145 6.1.1.4 Mixed Colors ................................................................................... 146 6.1.1.5 Color Mixing Methods .................................................................... 146

6.1.2 Types and Attributes of Color ................................................................. 1486.1.3 Methods of Transmitting Color ............................................................... 149

6.1.3.1 Color Name ..................................................................................... 149 6.1.3.2 Symbols ........................................................................................... 149 6.1.3.3 Proper Use of Color Expression ...................................................... 151

6.1.4 Color Measurement Methods .................................................................. 151 Color Printer Printing Methods .................................................................... 1526.2.1 Color ........................................................................................................ 152

6.2.1.1 Primary Colors ................................................................................ 152 6.2.1.2 Printing Colors ................................................................................ 152 6.2.1.3 Inks .................................................................................................. 152

6.2.2 Gradiation ................................................................................................ 152 6.2.2.1 Gradiation ........................................................................................ 152

Comprehension Test ....................................................................................... 154

hapter 7 Adjustment

Outline ............................................................................................................. 156 Ink Jet Printer Adjustments .......................................................................... 1577.2.1 Parallelism Adjustment (PG Adjustment) ............................................... 1577.2.2 Backlash Adjustment ............................................................................... 157

7.2.2.1 Cases in which Backlash Adjustment is Necessary ........................ 158 7.2.2.2 Backlash Adjustment Control Method ............................................ 158

7.2.3 Inputting the Print Head ID ..................................................................... 1587.2.4 Head Inclination Adjustment ................................................................... 159

7.2.5 Head Height Adjustment 7.2.6 Head Gap Adjustment ....7.2.7 Uni-D Adjustment ..........7.2.8 Bi-D Adjustment .............7.2.9 Inputting the USB ID ......7.2.10 Clearing the Protection C7.2.11 Ink Charge ....................

Chapter 8 Trouble Shooting

8.1 Outline ....................................8.1.1 SIDM ..............................8.1.2 Ink Jet Printer ..................

Chapter 9 Glossary of Term

C H A P T E R

S

1ERIAL IM T DOT MATRIX PRINTERS
PAC


S 9

1.

1.Sead

M Printer Mechanismowing mechanisms.

red from the following major parts.

k Holder

reel the ink ribbon off inside the ink ribbon d the mechanism is included which circulates the artridge. This mechanism is configured from the

arriage)from the following major parts, and the CR ht by the CR motor’s driving and is the mechanism

arts assembling the print head.

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Outline

1 Outline

1.1 Features of Serial Impact Dot Matrix Printersrial impact dot matrix printers (hereafter, called SIDM) have the following vantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

Can print on multi-part copying paper.

Exclusive papers are not necessary as with ink-jet printers, but stable printing is possible on various types of paper.

A paper path is provided which makes this type of printer compatible with continuous paper and cut sheet paper.

Disadvantages

The noise is great during printing.

There are limitations to the response of print heads and wires, thus limiting printing speeds.

It is not suitable for high quality printing such as photographs and graphics.

In order to prevent overheating of the print head, the print speed has to be suppressed or printing has to be stopped according to the print head tempreture, thus influencing print speed.

1.1.2 Outline of the SIDA SIDM is configured from the foll

Print MechanismThe print mechanism is configu

Print Head

Ink Ribbon Cartridge

Ribbon Mask, Ribbon Mas

Ribbon Feed MechanismThe Ribbon Feed Mechanism cartridge as printing is done anribbon in a loop in the ribbon cfollowing parts.

Ribbon Winding Gears

CR Timing Belt Pulley

Carriage Return Mechanism (CThis mechanism is configured Assembly is moved left and rigthat carries out printing.

CR AssemblyThis assembly is the base p

CR Motor

CR Shaft

CR Timing Belt

HP Sensor


S 10

echanism)ge the gap between the Platen roller and the surface with a thickness of various kind of paper used on of the PG mechanism, One is manual setting type ten gap manually. And another one is the automatic is changed automatically according to the

ure each type of mechanism are shown below.

nism

chanism

n Sensor

e


CSF Mechanism (Cut Sheet Feeder)This is a paper feed mechanism for cut sheets. Such a mechanism is categorized into two type of CSF mechanism. One of the mechanism can be set and load only a single sheet. And other mechanism can be set and load a large quantity of cut sheets.

Sheet GuideIn the case where there is a mechanism that enables one cut sheet only to be set, the part which generally called as a sheet guide; is used to guide a single sheet of paper when loading it on the printer mechanism.

CSF UnitThere are some printer models on which a CSF unit can be installed, and there are some models on which it cannot be installed. The CSF unit enables setting of large quantities of paper, and includes a mechanism that separates the sheets of paper and feeds them. Depending on the model, there are units that have an exclusive CSF drive motor built in, and there are types that use the driving force of the Paper Feed (PF) motor.

Tractor MechanismThis is a mechanical unit in which continuous paper is set, and which transports the paper to the paper feed unit. There are three types of tractor mechanism, the push type, the pull type and the push-pull type, and it is mainly configured from the following major parts.

Tractor Unit

PF Motor

Gear Train that transmits the power from the PF Motor

Paper Feed MechanismThis mechanism feeds paper from the CSF mechanism or the tractor mechanism in such a way as to match the printing image.

Platen Roller

PF RollerThere is a front, rear or lower PF roller corresponding to the paper path.

PF Motor

Paper Eject Unit

Paper Detection Sensor There is a rear and front sensor corresponding to the paper path.

PG Mechanism (Platen Gap MThis mechanism allows to chanof the printhead in accordance the printer. There is two kinds and the user can change the plasetting type and the platen gap measured paper thickness. The major parts used to config

Manual Platen Gap Mecha• Adjust Lever• PG Sensor• CR Guide Shaft

Automatic Platen Gap Me• PG Motor• Paper Thickness Detectio• Each type of gear

Circuit boards

Power Supply Board

Main Circuit Board

Control Panel

Mechanism Frame / Outer Cas


S 11

pact Printer Configuration 2

P

P

Control Panel

Release Lever

PF Motor

CR Motorlder


Figure 1-1. Impact Printer Configuration 1 Figure 1-2. Im

Sheet Guide

Push Tractor

Paper Eject Unit

G Adjust Lever

Print Head

Front Paper Feed / Paper Eject Port

Release Lever

laten Knob

Ribbon Mask Ho

Print Head

Platen Roller

PG Adjust Lever


S 12

Amin bupr


ong varisou Epson SIDM printers, there are straight loading type printers, as shown the figure below. The feature of this type of printer is that the paper path is minimal, t the paper feed accuracy is better compared with the printers described on the evious page.

g26

Figure 1-3. Impact Printer Configuration 3

Adjust Lever

Release leverPower Switch

Control Panel

Sheet Guide

Edge Guide

Print Head

Ribbon CartridgePrinter Cover

Paper Feed Knob


S 13

1.

1.Th

Thofvefothe

le of SIDM Printheadsom wires, wire resetting springs, actuating plates, s shown in the following figure.e ribbon mask holder and prevents non-printed ing contact with the paper during printing.

. Printhead Mechanism

e control circuit to the head drive circuit, they are

mitted to the print head drive coil .

tic force between its iron core and the actuating g plate to the Iron core.

Platen

Ribbon mask

bbon

Thermistor

Iron coreMedia

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Print Mechanism

2 Print Mechanism

2.1 Head Wire Arraye SIDM print mechanism is configured from the head, ink ribbon and ribbon mask.

e print head is basically configured from wires, called pins, either 9 pins (in the case a 9-pin printer) or 24 pins (in the case of a 24-pin printer). The 9-pin head has one rtical row of wires and a 24-pin head has 2 staggered rows of 12 wires each. The llowing figure shows the arrangement of wires in the print head when viewed from back of the head and looking toward the paper.

Figure 1-4. Print Head Wire Arrangement (Viewed from the Back of the Head)

1.2.2 Operating PrincipA SIDM print head is configured frhead driving coils and other parts, aThe ribbon mask is assembled in thportions of the ink ribbon from mak

Figure 1-5

1. If print signals are sent from thconverted to head drive pulses.

2. The head drive pulses are trans

3. The drive coil generates magneplate, ,magnetizing the actuatin

0.14mm (1/180”)

Head center

0.2mm

0.29m

m

0.353mm(1/72”)

9 pin 24 pin

#1

Head center

#2

#3#4#5

#6

#7

#8

#9

#1#2

#3#4#5

#7

#9

#11#13

#15

#17

#19

#21#23

#24

#22

#20

#18

#16

#14#12#10

#8

#6

Ri

WireWire resetting spring

Stopper

Actuating plate

Actuating spring

Head driving coil


S 14

4.

5.

6.

7.

1.A in

Thto thiThprAnwi

Thprtem

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Print Mechanism

The wire is connected to the actuating plate and when the actuating plate is magnetized by the head drive coil, the wire jumps out in the direction of the platen.

The hitting of the wire against the ribbon, causes it to tap against the paper which is backed up by the platen, printing a dot on the paper.

When transmission of the print head drive pulses to the head drive coil end, the magnetic force dissipates from the iron core.

The springiness of the platen, the spring force of the actuating spring and the wire resetting spring cause the actuating plate to be returned to its original position, in readiness for the next print operation.

2.3 Heat Temperature Detection Mechanism24-pin print head has a head temperature detection mechanism that includes a built-thermistor for monitoring the head temperature.

e head temperature is converted by the thermistor to electrical signals and fed back the control circuit. The print head’s drive mode is changed according to the paper ckness and head temperature. This is due to keep a constant print quality at all times. e drive coil inside the print head is prevented from burning or degradation when the

int head temperature rises due to continuous high duty printing. d, when the head tempreture is extremely low, the printer controls to improve the res’ response according to the head tempreture.

erefore, when the temperature inside the print head reaches the specified value, the inter reduces the head speed or causes printing to stop temporarily until the head

perature drops to the specified value.


S 15

1.ThdrThis the

Thmo

of sensing the HP position of the CR. el, but Generally, either the photocoupler type or

sor is used for the HP sensor.

rom a combination of a LED (Light Emitting r. The light output from the LED is detected by the f the light path between the HP sensor’s LED and

flag on the CR assembly turns the sensor ON or on to be detected. CR position control is performed reference point.

contact with the mechanical contact type of HP P position to be detected.

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Carriage Mechanism

3 Carriage Mechanisme CR mechanism is configured from the CR assembly, CR motor, CR timing belt

ive pulley, HP (CR home position) sensor, CR guide shaft and other parts. e rotation of the CR motor is transmitted to the CR timing belt and the CR assembly moved left and right along the CR guide shaft. These CR mechanisms are shown in following figure.

Figure 1-6. Carriage Mechanism

ere are differences depending on the model, but generally, the following sensors are unted in the CR mechanism.

HP SensorThe HP sensor has the functionIt differs depending on the modmechanical contact type of sen

Photocoupler TypeThis device is configured fDiode) and photo transistophototransistor. Blocking othe phototransistor by the OFF, causing the HP positiwith the HP position as the

Mechanical Contact TypeThe flag of the CR makes sensor, thus causing the H

Carriage motor

Ribbon mask holder

Carriage assembly

Ribbon maskCR Timing belt

Home position sensor

Carriage guide shaftCR timing belt drive pulley

Flag


S 16

h a paper top edge sensor use a paper detection etect the paper’s top edge and feed it back to the ults, the control board controls the number of steps r to the paper top edge position.

M

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Carriage Mechanism

Paper Width / Paper Front End Detection SensorA reflective type photosensor is used for this sensor. Light generated by the LED is reflected on the paper and the phototransistor in the light receptor detects it. This sensor is mounted on the ribbon mask holder. In many cases, it has the following two functions.

Paper Top Edge Detection.When paper is fed, the CR unit is moved to near the center of the CR shaft and the top of form of the paper being fed into the printer is detected. This is fed back to the control circuit and controls the paper’s top of form position by the PF motor.

Paper Width DetectionWhen feeding paper, the CR unit moves left and right over the CR scanning range, measuring the paper’s width, then feeding it back to the control circuit. Printers which have this function will not run over the measured edge of the paper and end up printing on the platen, even if the PC sends data that exceed the paper width.

Figure 1-7. Paper Width / Paper Front End Detection Sensor

Printers which are not equipped witsensor located in the paper path to dcontrol board, then based on the resthe PF motor turns to feed the pape

Ribbon Mask Holder

icro-photosensor

Paper Width / Paper Top Edge Detection Sensor


S 17

1.Thcuus

Frlev

1.Thbycocowh

oller works to press the paper against the platen the cut sheet paper position, the PF roller is

he paper is to be released for the tractor feed, the d position.

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Paper Feed Mechanism

4 Paper Feed Mechanisme paper feed mechanism in the SIDM printers has two main functions, one is to feed t sheets using the friction feed mechanism and the other is to feed continuous paper ing a tractor feeder.

iction feed and tractor feed are switched by operating the lever called the release er.

4.1 Friction Feede paper is fed between the platen and the paper feed rollers and then eject the paper the paper eject roller in the Paper eject unit. The pinion gear drives all of the mbination gears as shown by the black arrows in the illustration below. Through the mbination gears, platen gear, and paper eject roller, the paper is fed as shown by the ite arrows in the illustration.

Figure 1-8. Friction Feed

When in the friction mode, the PF rroller. By setting the release lever inpushed against the platen roller. If trelease lever is set in the tractor fee

PF motor, Pinion gear

Cut sheet

PF motorCombination gear

Platen gear

Platen

Paper eject roller

Paper feed roller


S 18

1.Thtra

1.Inenfu

front push tractor position, the driving of the PF tractor gear via the PF motor pinion gear, nd the gear train in the front of the printer. direction of rotation (black arrow direction) to the pinion gear and the operation of transmitting and feeding paper. The PF motor’s rotation is also platen via the gear train, feeding the paper. Just as or, in the rear push tractor mode, in order to lighten ler and the platen, the release lever is set in the rear paper is fed to the printer by the driving force of the

0. Front Push Tractor

r


4.2 Tractor Feedere are three types of tractor feed, push tractor feed, pull tractor feed and push-pull ctor feed.

4.2.1 Push Tractor Mode the push tractor mode, the paper feed port is Generally either at the rear or the front d of the printer. The push tractor is installed at the paper insertion port and has the nction of transporting paper to the printer.

Rear Push TractorDriving force transmitted from the PF motor is transmitted to the push tractor gear via the PF motor pinion gear, combination gear and spur gear. The following figure shows the direction of rotation transmitted from the PF motor pinion gear to the tractor gear (black arrow direction in the figure) and the operation where the tractor gear feeds the paper into the printer. The rotation of the PF motor is also transmitted to the platen and paper eject roller via the gear train, and carries out paper feeding. In the rear push tractor mode, the release lever is set in the rear tractor position to reduce the pressure between the PF roller and the platen. Therefore, the paper is fed to the printer by the diving force of the push tractor.

Figure 1-9. Rear Push Tractor

Front Push TractorIf the release lever is set in the motor is transmitted to the pushcombination gear, platen gear aThe following figure shows thetransmitted from the PF motor that rotation to the tractor gear transmitted to the PF roller andin the case of the rear push tractthe pressure between the PF roltractor position. Therefore, the push tractor.

Figure 1-1

Rear push tractor

Continuous paper

Front push tracto


S 19

1.Inat ThfroreleitThpawhsh

the paper is fed through the printer using the push on. Feeding of paper into the printer and ejecting d out simultaneously by both tractors. By using the cy of paper feed of continuous paper is generally

n paper is being inserted into the printer from the e.

Push/Pull Tractor (Rear)

Pull tractor

push tractor


4.2.2 Pull Tractor Mode the case of the paper feed method in the pull tractor mode, the pull tractor is installed the paper eject unit, which is the opposite of the push tractor.erefore, paper must be set in the pull tractor through the paper transport pathway m the paper feed inlet. Also, if used in the pull tractor mode, it is necessary to set ease lever in the pull tractor position. The paper feed inlet in the pull tractor mode is her the rear, front or bottom of the printer.e pull tractor has the function of pulling paper out of the printer mechanism, so a per eject unit is not necessary. In the following figure, the paper eject operation, en the paper inserted from the front or the bottom of the printer is being ejected, is

own.

Figure 1-11. Pull Tractor

1.4.2.3 Push-Pull TractorWith the push-pull tractor method, tractor and pull tractor in combinatithe paper from the printer are carriepush pull tractor system, the accurahigh.The push-pull tractor operation wherear is shown in the following figur

Figure 1-12.

Pull tractor

Continuous paper


S 20

Thpr

ed method are shown in the following table.

. Features of Tractors

ching from continuous paper to cut sheet eeds the continuous paper to the paper feed

in which the position where the continuous n is set, then when printing is completed, the

to the paper cut position.

Advantage Disadvantage

r parking: Available-off: Availablefeed: Available

Paper feed accuracy : Inferior. Particulary in case where the last pages comes off the tractor. However, that is out of the specifications.

feed accuracy: or

• Backfeed: Not available• Paper Parking: Not available• Tear-off: Not availableThe first page is wasted.

r feed accuracy: orfeed: Availabler Parking: Availablever, the paper comes pull tractor for a brief

• Tear-off: Not availableThe first page is wasted.• Two sets of tractor are necessary.


e push-pull tractor operation when paper is being inserted from the front of the inter is shown in the figure below.

Figure 1-13. Push-pull Tractor (Front Insertion)

The features of each tractor paper fe

Table 1-1

NOTE: Paper parking: When switpaper, this function back finlet.

NOTE: Tear Off: This is a functionpaper’s cutting line positiopaper is fed automatically

Pull TractorContinuous Paper

Push Tractor

Tractor

Push Tractor• Pape• Tear• Back

Pull Tractor Paper Superi

Push-Pull Tractor

• PapeSuperi• Back• PapeHoweoff thetime.


S 21

1.Heof(frpa

A respr

r path have the following construction. Printers feed both cut sheet and continuous paper from the

-15. Straight Loading

Tractor Drive Transmission Gear

Printer Mechanism Frame

Tractor

Rear PE SensorPF Motoren Roller

nsor

oller

PF Roller


4.3 Paper Pathre the printer’s paper path is explained. The paper path differs depending on the type

printer, but depends on the insertion port used when paper is fed into the printer ont, rear, top or bottom), the paper path is categorized into maximum four different per paths.

PE (Paper End) sensor is installed in the front, bottom and rear paper paths, pectively, which detects the top edge and bottom edge of the paper and prevents

inting on the platen when the printer is out of paper.

Figure 1-14. Paper Path

Printers with a straight loading papewith the following construction canfront or the rear.

Figure 1

Top path

Platen

Rear path

Paper eject rollerFront PF roller

Print head

Paper drive roller

Front path

Bottom path Front paper end sensor

Lower PF roller

Rear PF roller

Rear paper end sensor

Plat

Front PE SePaper Eject Roller

Paper Eject Sub Roller

Print Head

Sub PF R


S 22

1.

1.ThmoinsGelon

1.Thpralothasinmothe

Thanmu Apr

ibbon Cartridge Mechanism

Fd

Fd

Carriage guide shaft

Carriage assembly

Ribbon mask holder

Ribbon maskng belt

3)

ller

Ribbon

Ribbon brake spring

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Ribbon Mechanism

5 Ribbon Mechanism

5.1 Ribbon Feed Mechanismere are two types of ink ribbon used, one of the type is the ribbon cassette that is unted into the CR unit, and other is the ribbon cartridge type which is installed ide the printer and not mounted on the CR unit.nerally, the ribbon length in the ribbon cartridge type is longer and the ink life is g, so it is the type that is used the most.

5.2 Ribbon Cartridge Mechanisme ribbon is held between the ribbon feed roller (ribbon drive gear) and ribbon

essure roller. If the CR unit moves from right to left, or in the opposite direction ng the CR guide shaft, the timing belt turns the belt drive pulley. At the same time, t rotation is transmitted to the ribbon drive gear via the gear train. Furthermore, ce the gear is connected through a planetary gear, whichever direction the CR ves, left or right, the ribbon drive gear’s rotational direction is always constant, in counterclockwise direction.

Table 1-2. Ribbon Feed and Gear Connections

e ribbon brake spring installed in the outlet of the cartridge case works to maintain appropriate tension on the ribbon so that it is not pulled out of the cartridge too ch.

lso, a ribbon mask is used to prevent the ribbon from making direct contact with the inted surface.

Figure 1-16. R

CR Moving Direction Gear Connection

rom left to right (black arrow irection in the figure below).

Belt drive pulley -> Gear (1) -> Gear (2) -> Ribbon Drive Gear

rom right to left (white arrow irection in the figure below).

Belt drive pulley -> Gear (1) -> Gear (3) -> Gear (4) -> Ribbon Drive Gear

Timi

Gear (

Gear (4)

Ribbon drive gear

Gear (2)

Gear (1)

Belt drive pulley

Ribbon pressure roller

Ribbon feed ro


S 23

1.Thunatt Wis to Th

AtraTh

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Ribbon Mechanism

5.3 Ribbon Cassette Mechanisme ribbon cassette mechanism is configured from a rack attached to the mechanical it’s CR guide frame and a pinion, planetary gear, combination gear and RD ratchet ached to the CR unit.hen the CR guide of the CR unit is moved left and right by the CR motor, the pinion

turned by the rack and power is transmitted to the planetary gear. If the CR is moving the left, the power of the planetary gear is transmitted directly to the RD ratchet.e Ribbon feed roller winds the ribbon via RD ratchet.

lso, if the CR unit is moving to the right, the drive power of the planetary gear is first nsmitted to the combination gear, then the combination gear drives the RD ratchet. e Ribbon feed roller winds the ribbon via RD ratchet.

Figure 1-17. Ribbon Cassette Mechanism

Rack

PinionCarriage guide unitPlanetary gear

Combination gear

Ribbon drive ratchet

Ribbon feed roller

Ribbon brake spring

Ink ribbon

Ribbon cassette

Carriage unit


S 24

1.AsPrag Tmmanam

Ththewethethe

tely, the following phenomena will occur.

ght between the print head and the paper, the unit will stop.

ainst the paper surface and the paper will be t will be smeared).

et caught between the print head and the ribbon esired color will not be possible. Also, the colors oration).

print head, the head’s pins break and this causes

l be thin in appearance.

ght on the wires and the wires will break.s will travel will be long and the time it takes to ribbon will be long. During printing, the CR moves n winding operation is carried out, so if the and the CR’s direction of movement are opposite, n hang-up and the wires could be broken.

p on the edges of the paper, and this could cause

es, it is necessary to adjust the platen gap to the thickness or paper type, etc. of the paper being nisms are classified into two types, the manual gap type.

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Platen Gap Mechanism

6 Platen Gap Mechanism described in the print head operating theory (“Operating Principle of SIDM intheads” on page 13), the wires which jump out from the print head on the SIDM hit ainst the ink ribbon and print dots on the paper with the platen as the base.he distance between the print head and the platen is set at approximately 0.5 ~ 0.7

. Since the thickness of the paper, the thickness of the cloth base of the ink ribbon d the thickness of the ribbon mask, etc. are actually included in the platen gap, the ount of actual travel of the wires has these values subtracted from it.

Figure 1-18. Platen Gap

e impact force of the wires that jump out from the print head is strong at first, but at end, it is restricted by the wire resetting spring and actuating spring, so it becomes ak. Also, the influence of the platen gap is such that, if the platen gap becomes large, time it takes for a round trip of the wires will get long and will have an influence on printing speed (that is, the head’s response characteristics will worsen).

If the platen gap is not set appropria

If the platen gap is too small

The ink ribbon will get cauribbon will jam and the CR

The ink ribbon will rub agsmeared with ink (the prin

The color ink ribbon will gmask and printing in the dwill become mixed (discol

A load is generated in the breakdown.

If the platen gap is too large

The printed characters wil

The ink ribbon will get cauThe distance the print wiremake contact with the ink left and right and the ribboribbon’s winding directionthere will be marked ribbo

The wires could get hung uthe wires to break.

In order to prevent the above troublcorrect value according to the paperused for printing. Platen gap mechaplaten gap type and the auto platen

Paper

PlatenPlaten Gap

Wire

Print Head


S 25

1.Th(pac

T Tthecato ofho

If theThofgugu

e a certain number of steps, the PG sensor feeds it e platen gap is set for thick paper (copy paper), the eaking of the print head wires.

(52)

anual Platen-gap Adjustment

here the print head is removed, but also when CR unit is removed, it is necessary to adjust the assembly is completed.

Adjust lever carriage guide shaft mounting hole

arriage guide shaft

Adjust lever

Platen gap detector


6.1 Manual Platen Gap Typee manula platen gap type is a system whereby the user can operate the adjust lever

aper thickness adjust lever or PG adjsut lever) manually to set the platen gap in cordance with the thickness of the paper.

he LQ-670, with its manual platen gap system, will be used as an example. he manual platen gap adjustment mechanism is configured from the CR assembly, CR guide shaft which guides the CR assembly when it is moved left and right to

rry out printing, the parallelism adjustment bushings which fasten the CR guide shaft the printer’s mechanism and the adjust lever. The center axis of the CR guide shaft is f-center with respect to the center of the adjust lever’s CR guide axis installation le, and it is therefore eccentric.

Figure 1-19. Manual Platen Gap Adjustment

the adjust lever is turned, the CR guide rotates in a circular direction. At that time, center axis of the CR guide shaft moves nearer to or farther from the platen. rough this movement, the platen gap can be changed. Furthermore, as for movement

the parallelism adjustment bushings, the angle of rotation in the direction of the CR ide shaft’s circumference is set in advance so that the platen roller shaft and CR ide shaft become parallel to each other.

Also, if the adjust lever is set abovback to the control circuit side. If thprint speed is reduced to prevent br

Figure 1-20. M

Carriage guide shaft Print head Carriage assembly

Adjust lever

Parallelism adjustment bushing

Platen roller

� � � � �

� � � �

Not only in cases wthe platen roller or platen gap after all

C

Platen roller

Carriage guide shaft center

Print heads


S 26

1.Inauau

ThtoranslitheseCRheTh

C

S


6.2 Auto Platen Gap System this system, the printer itself measures the thickness of the paper fed into it, then tomatically sets the platen gap automatically to correspond to that thickness. The to platen gap mechanism is described below using the DLQ-3000+ as an example.

Figure 1-21. Auto Platen Gap Mechanism

e auto platen gap mechanism is configured from the PG motor, which generates que that changes the platen gap, the slit disc that outputs the PG motor’s rotational gle, the paper thickness sensor that detects the PG motor’s rotational angle from the t disc, the combination gear that transmits the PG motor’s torque to the sector gear, sector gear that changes the platen gap by rotating the CR guide shaft, the PGHP

nsor that detects the sector gear’s home position, the CR guide shaft that guides the unit as it moves left and right to carry out printing and the CR unit where the print

ad is mounted.e operating theory of the auto platen gap mechanism is shown on the next page.

Ink ribbon

Ribbon mask

Paper

Carriage Unit

Carriage guide shaft

Paper thickness sensorSlit disc

PG motor gear

ombination gear

ector gear

PGHP senso

Platen roller


S 27

1.

2.

3.

PG Motor Stop Detection

rement presses the ink ribbon, ribbon mask and paper per thickness is detected from the difference

al angle when the PG motor was stopped and the asurement value to the platen surface and the laten surface was detected.

ected, the printer returns the print head a little to the out printing.

print head is returned to the standby position for perations.

Pl

here the print head is removed, but also when n roller or CR unit is removed, it is necessary gap after all assembly is completed.

T

PG Motor: Stopped


Figure 1-22. Platen-gap Operation

When the power is turned OFFWhen the power is turned OFF or when not printing, the print head is in the proper standby position. When not printing, in consideration of the paper feed operation, the print head waits in the standby position to avoid impacts between the paper and the print head.

When sensing the PGHP If the power is turned ON, the print head returns briefly to the PGHP (platen gap home position). The PGHP sensor detects the PGHP position. This position becomes the reference when the print head moves to the platen side.

When sensing the platen surfaceAfter PGHP detection, after the printer confirms that paper has not been fed, the print head presses against the platen. The printer monitors the paper thickness sensor’s output signal and after a predetermined period of time (T) has passed after the point when detection of the output pulse stops, it judges that the PG motor has stopped, then from the motor’s rotational angle at that time, it measures the rotational angle from the PGHP to the platen surface. Then the print head returns to the PGHP position.

Figure 1-23.

4. During Paper Thickness MeasuAfter paper feed, the print headagainst the platen roller. The pabetween the PG motor rotationPG motor’s rotational angle memeasurement value when the p

5. During PrintingAfter the paper thickness is detPGHP position side and carries

6. After printing is completed, thethe paper eject and paper feed o

Ready to print

<Ready to print><Paper thickness determined>

<Platen surface detection>

<PGHP detection><Power OFF>

aten roller

Print head

Platen surface

Paper thickness detection

Standby position

PGHP

PG m

otor

dir

ectio

n

Paper

� � � � �

� � � �

Not only in cases wthe PG motor, plateto adjust the platen

PG Motor ON Signal

Paper Thickness Sensor Output


S 28

1.Socodema

SIMToan

1.Tameribrib

ide and has four color stripes running horizontally;

gear. The ribbon shift cam and color shift cam ar’s rotary motion to the up-down motion of the own motion of the color cartridge holder shifts the

amount of up and down shift motion is determined ction and printing is executed in that color. The CS the shift amount.

Color Printing Operation

rovides four colors, it is possible to print up to the color home position (black band) is referred to hrough the rotation of the CS motor. The home r of CS motor step pulses.inting sequence (color sequence). Generally, in

r ribbon, the bright colors are printed first, then the he intermediate colors are created by nother one, as shown in the table.

Color ribbon cartridge

Black

Cyan

Magenta

Yellow

Holder, cartridge, color

CS motor

Ribbon shift cam

n shift gear

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Color Printing Mechanism

7 Color Printing Mechanismme dot matrix printers can print color documents but because the dot size is mpletely dependent on the size of the printhead pin, SIDM printers cannot print fine tail like ink jet or laser printers. Therefore, the color print capability for impact dot trix printers is considered as a kind of supplemental feature.

DM printers produce color documents using subtractive colors (see “Color Mixing ethods”, for details). print color, an SIDM printer needs two special components; a color ribbon cartridge d a color-ribbon shift motor.

7.1 Ribbon Cartridgeking the LQ-300 as an example, we will explain the ribbon cartridge type color print chanism. The color print mechanism is configured from a color ribbon cartridge and bon shift mechanism. The ribbon shift mechanism is configured from the CS motor, bon shift gear, cam and color ribbon sensor.

Figure 1-24. Color Printing Mechanism

The color ribbon is about an inch wblack, cyan, magenta, and yellow.The CS motor turns the ribbon shiftfollower convert the ribbon shift gecolor cartridge holder. The up and dribbon cartridge up and down. The by the color ribbon’s color band selelever carries out fine adjustment of

Figure 1-25.

Although the color cartridge only pseven colors. Whichever the color, as the initial position and selected tposition is recognized by the numbe The table below shows the color prorder to avoid smearing of the colodark colors are printed afterward. Tsuperimposing one color on top of a

Ribbon shift motor

Ribbon cartridge

RibboColor shift cam follower

Lever, CS


S 29

lor-ribbon cassette for the DLQ-3000+.

olor bands, black, red, blue and yellow. The ribbon t shifts the ribbon cassette up or down on the CR motor, ribbon shift gear train and color HP sensor. sette in the CR causes the color ribbon sensor to set, and the printer switches to the color printing in 7 colors.

Color Printing Mechanism

Color HP sensor

CS drive cam

CS drive lever

Color ribbon sensor

Carriage unit

Ribbon cassette

or


Table 1-3. Color Sequence 1.7.2 Ribbon CassetteThe illustration below shows the co

A color ribbon is divided into four cshift mechanism is a mechanism thaunit. It is configured from the ribbonsimply by setting a color ribbon casdetect that a color ribbon cassette ismode, enabling printing to be done

Figure 1-26.

Color First Dot Second Dot

Black Black -

Magenta Magenta -

Cyan Cyan -

Yellow Yellow -

Green Yellow Cyan

Orange Yellow Magenta

Purple Magenta Cyan

Ink ribbon

Ribbon drive gearCS speed-reduction gear

Ribbon planetary gear

Ribbon mot


S 30

Threddrantim

Imthebrrib

Tbarescatim

Thcoalsthe

p


e ribbon motor drives the ribbon planetary gear, ribbon follower gear, CS speed uction gear and CS drive cam. The CS drive lever is moved up and down by the CS

ive cam, causing the ribbon cassette to move up and down. By the positioning pin d positioning spring pushing the ribbon cassette against the CS drive lever at all es, the ribbon cassette follows the movements of the CS drive lever.

Figure 1-27. Color Printing Operation

mediately after the printer’s power is turned on and after case open detection, when printer advances to the next operation, the printer shifts to the black color band

iefly, then shifts to the target color band in order to prevent mixed colors by the bon getting caught on the print head.

he shift amount is changed by 1/4 the width of the ribbon, the width of one color nd. With the home position as the reference, the ribbon motor turns to each pective position on the color ribbon to switch to each color band in the color ribbon

ssette. Furthermore, the color home position is detected by the color HP sensor at this e. It becomes the reference each time a color band is selected.

e color sequence is the same as for a ribbon cartridge. Expression of intermediate lors is expressed by printing two colors one on top of the other. The bright colors are o printed first in the ribbon cassette in order to avoid smearing of the color ribbon, n the dark colors are printed afterward.

Color ribbon cassette

Black

Cyan

Magenta

Yellow

CS drive lever

ositioning spring

Positioning pin


S 31

1.1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

er feed system. Select the three correct items from

ll tractor system from among the following choices.

ff function.

ossible.

g choices the operation of a SIDM printer if the detects the specified temperature.

of the print wires in accordance with the detected

ing speed.

if the temperature doesn’t drop from the specified .

the paper width / paper top edge detection sensor ors.

at should be used to fill in the blank ( ) in the

p edge detection sensors control the paper’s top detection results of the ( ) sensor and the e PF motor.

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Comprehension Test

8 Comprehension TestSelect one advantage which SIDM printers have as compared to other printers from among the choices below.

• Printing noise is low.

• Print speed is fast.

• It can be used to print multiple copy forms.

Name the part that drives the print wires inside the print head. Select one of the following.

• Drive Coil

• Wire

• Platen

In a SIDM printer, what is it that the print wires strike against that causes the print image to appear on the paper? Select the one item that is correct from the choices below.

• Ink ribbon

• Ink

• Toner

Give the name of the parts that prevent the ink ribbon from making contact with the parts of the paper that are not printed during printing. Select one from the following.

• Ribbon mask + Ribbon mask holder

• Platen

• Timing belt

Give the name of the unit used to feed continuous paper. Select one from the following.

• Tractor unit

• CSF

• Platen

6. Name the 3 types of tractor papthe choices below.

• Push system

• Push/Push system

• Pull system

• Push/Pull system

7. Select one advantage of the pu

• Paper feed accuracy is high.

• It is possible to use the tear-o

• Back feeding of the paper is p

8. Select from among the followinthermistor inside the print head

• It changes the operating forcetemperature.

• It reduces the ink ribbon wind

• It lowers the print speed, and temperature, it stops printing

9. Select which sensor is used as from among the following sens

• Mechanical contact type

• Photocoupler type

• Reflective photosensor type

10. Select the description below thfollowing sentence.Printer models without paper toedge position according to the number of steps specified for th

• Paper detection (rear) sensor

• HP detection sensor

• PG detection sensor


S 32

11

12

13

14

15

16

e ink ribbon cartridge that controls the amount of lect one from the following.

istance between the print head and the platen.

cur when the platen gap is small from among the

e thin.

pins to break.

ibbon to become jammed.

position is set wider, it will increase the printing t or incorrect?

rrect for ink charge in the blank ( ) in the

ten gap, when the setting position of the PG adjust etween the CR guide shaft and the platen is

he CR guide shaft moving in linkage with the lever.

detected when the gap is detected by the auto the three parts which are correct.

nsor


. Give the general name for the paper feed mode that feeds cut sheet paper. Select the correct item from among the choices below.

• Push Tractor

• Pull Tractor

• Friction Feed

. In friction feed, paper is transported by which of the following parts? Select one from the following.

• Platen Roller and PF Roller

• Tractor Unit

• Platen Roller

. Give the name of the lever that switches between friction feed and tractor feed. Select one from the following.

• Release Lever

• PG Lever

. Give the name of the function that sets the position of the continuous paper cutting line and transports the paper automatically to the paper cutting position after printing is completed.

• Tear-off function

• APG function

. Select the correct name for the paper feed system that enables paper to be fed without being bent from among the choices below.

• Friction Method

• Straight Loading method

• Push / Pull Method

. What is the force that drives the winding of the ink ribbon. Select one from the following.

• CR motor (movement of CR)

• PF motor (rotation of platen roller)

17. Give the name of the part in think ribbon that is pulled out. Se

• Ribbon Brake Bar

• Ribbon Pressure Roller

• Ribbon Mask

18. Give the general name for the dSelect one from the following.

• Ribbon Cap

• Platen Gap

19. Select two phenomenon that ocfollowing choices.

• The printed characters becom

• It becomes easier for the head

• It becomes easier for the ink r

20. If the PG adjust lever’s setting speed. Is this statement correc

21. Select the item below that is cofollowing sentence.In manual adjustment of the plalever is changed, the distance bchanged by the ( ) on t

• Eccentric Shaft

• Shaft

• Hook

22. Which of the following parts isplaten gap mechanism? Select

• CR Motor

• PG Motor

• CR HP Sensor

• Slit Disc

• Paper Thickness Detection Se


S 33

23

24

25


. What colors is it possible to print with SIDM printers which are capable of color printing? Select one from the following.

• 3 colors

• 7 colors

• 6 colors

. Give the name of the motor that is necessary in order to perform color printing.

• Ribbon Motor

• CR Motor

• PF Motor

. Select two adjustments that are necessary if the print head, platen roller or CR unit, etc. are removed from among the choices below.

• PG Adjustment

• Bi-D Adjustment

• Head Inclination Adjustment

• Head Height


S 34

1.1.

2.

3.

4.

to feed continuous paper. Select one from the

is necessary when feeding continuous paper.

it is necessary when feeding continuous paper.

er feed system. Select the three correct items from

The type of tractor which is a combination of two ull type.

ll tractor system from among the following choices.

orrect

ff function: Incorrect.

here the paper is fed automatically to the paper cut by the user, printing starts automatically from the tor is used, if it advances the paper tot he paper cut

d from the tractor in order for it to be cut, then it is again and set, and thus the tear-off function loses

ossible: Incorrect. If paper is backfed using a pull am, so it is prohibited.

erial Impact Dot Matrix Printers Answers to the Comprehension Test

9 Answers to the Comprehension TestSelect one advantage which SIDM printers have as compared to other printers from among the choices below.

• Printing noise is low: Incorrect. A SIDM printer strikes the paper with wires, so the printing noise becomes great.

• Print speed is fast: Incorrect. There are limits to the response of the head’s wires, and printing speed is thus limited.

• It can be used to print multiple copy forms: Correct

Name the part that drives the print wires inside the print head. Select one of the following.

• Drive Coil: Correct

• Wire: Incorrect. The wires operate via the operation plate in accordance with drive coil control.

• Platen: Incorrect. The platen functions as the paper feed roller for transporting the paper and as a reference for determining the gap between the print head and the paper.

In a SIDM printer, what is it that the print wires strike against that causes the print image to appear on the paper? Select the one item that is correct from the choices below.

• Ink ribbon: Correct

• Ink: Incorrect. In a SIDM, it is the print wires striking the ink ribbon that transfers ink from the ribbon to the paper and thus carries out printing.

• Toner: Incorrect. In a SIDM, it is the print wires striking the ink ribbon that transfers ink from the ribbon to the paper and thus carries out printing.

Give the name of the parts that prevent the ink ribbon from making contact with the parts of the paper that are not printed during printing. Select one from the following.

• Ribbon mask + Ribbon mask holder: Correct

• Platen: Incorrect. It is prevented by the ribbon mask and the ribbon mask holder.

• Timing belt: Incorrect. It is prevented by the ribbon mask and the ribbon mask holder.

5. Give the name of the unit usedfollowing.

• Tractor unit: Correct.

• CSF: Incorrect. A tractor unit

• Platen: Incorrect. A tractor un

6. Name the 3 types of tractor papthe choices below.

• Push system: Correct

• Push/Push system: Incorrect. kinds of tractor is the push / p

• Pull system: Correct

• Push/Pull system: Correct

7. Select one advantage of the pu

• Paper feed accuracy is high: C

• It is possible to use the tear-o

The tear-off function is a function wposition, then after the paper is cut print start position. When a pull tracposition, the paper must be removenecessary for the paper to be pulledits convenience.

• Back feeding of the paper is ptractor, it may cause a paper j


S 35

8.

9.

10

aper feed mode that feeds cut sheet paper. Select e choices below.

ush tractor mode is the mode where continuous

ull tractor mode is the mode where continuous

orted by which of the following parts? Select one

orrect.

iction feed mode is the mode where cut sheet paper it is a unit that transports continuous paper. Cut the platen roller and PF roller.

cut sheet paper can be transported with the platen with the platen roller and PF roller.

switches between friction feed and tractor feed.

lever is a lever that changes the platen gap.

hat sets the position of the continuous paper cutting tomatically to the paper cutting position after

APG function is a function that measures the

paper feed system that enables paper to be fed the choices below.

he friction method is the name given to the et paper.

rrect.

. The push / pull method is the name given to the ous paper through the printer.


Select from among the following choices the operation of a SIDM printer if the thermistor inside the print head detects the specified temperature.

• It changes the operating force of the print wires in accordance with the detected temperature: Incorrect. The printing speed drops and if the temperature does not drop lower than the specified temperature, printing stops.

• It reduces the ink ribbon winding speed: Incorrect. The printing speed drops and if the temperature does not drop lower than the specified temperature, printing stops.

• It lowers the print speed, and if the temperature doesn’t drop from the specified temperature, it stops printing: Correct.

Select which sensor is used as the paper width / paper top edge detection sensor from among the following sensors.

• Mechanical contact type: Incorrect.

If the paper’s thickness is small, then it is difficult to detect it with mechanical contacts. Therefore, a reflective photosensor which uses a light emitting diode and detects differences in the reflection rate is used.

• Photocoupler type: Incorrect. A photocoupler is an element combined with commonly used light emitting diodes and transistors on power supply boards.

• Reflective photosensor type: Correct.

. Select the description below that should be used to fill in the blank ( ) in the following sentence.Printer models without paper top edge detection sensors control the paper’s top edge position according to the detection results of the ( ) sensor and the number of steps specified for the PF motor.

• Paper detection (rear) sensor: Correct.

• HP detection sensor: Incorrect. The HP detection sensor is a sensor that detects the CR home position.

• PG detection sensor: Incorrect. The PG sensor is a sensor that detects the platen gap.

11. Give the general name for the pthe correct item from among th

• Push Tractor: Incorrect. The ppaper is transported.

• Pull Tractor: Incorrect. The ppaper is transported.

• Friction Feed: Correct.

12. In friction feed, paper is transpfrom the following.

• Platen Roller and PF Roller: C

• Tractor Unit: Incorrect. The fris transported. The tractor unsheet paper is transported by

• Platen Roller: Incorrect. Onlyroller. Cut sheet paper is fed

13. Give the name of the lever thatSelect one from the following.

• Release Lever: Correct.

• PG Lever: Incorrect. The PG

14. Give the name of the function tline and transports the paper auprinting is completed.

• Tear-off function: Correct.

• APG function: Incorrect. Theplaten gap automatically.

15. Select the correct name for thewithout being bent from among

• Friction Method: Incorrect. Tmechanism that feeds cut she

• Straight Loading method: Co

• Push / Pull Method: Incorrectmechanism that feeds continu


S 36

16

17

18

19

20

rrect for ink charge in the blank ( ) in the

ten gap, when the setting position of the PG adjust etween the CR guide shaft and the platen is

he CR guide shaft moving in linkage with the lever.

e shaft itself is a concentric shaft. Even if a distance between the CR guide shaft and the platen

hooks on the CR guide shaft.

detected when the gap is detected by the auto the three parts which are correct.

motor is the motor that drives the CR.

CR HP sensor is a sensor that detects the CR’s

nsor: Correct.

nt with SIDM printers which are capable of color ollowing.

s of the ribbon itself are three colors besides black. rimposed on top of each other when printing is posed on each other up to two times. Therefore,

be printed is 7 colors.

s of the ribbon itself are three colors besides black. rimposed on top of each other when printing is posed on each other up to two times. Therefore,

be printed is 7 colors.


. What is the force that drives the winding of the ink ribbon. Select one from the following.

• CR motor (movement of CR): Correct.

• PF motor (rotation of platen roller): Incorrect.

Along a printing line (within a single line), in order to keep the print density uniform, ink ribbon winding is carried on. Therefore, if it is linked to the driving of the PF motor, winding of the ribbon would be done in line units, and the print density could not be kept uniform within a single line.

. Give the name of the part in the ink ribbon cartridge that controls the amount of ink ribbon that is pulled out. Select one from the following.

• Ribbon Brake Bar: Correct.

• Ribbon Pressure Roller: Incorrect. The ribbon pressure roller is a roller that works together with the ribbon feed roller to wind the ink ribbon.

• Ribbon Mask: Incorrect. The ribbon mask is the part that protects the ink ribbon from touching portions of the paper that are not being printed on.

. Give the general name for the distance between the print head and the platen. Select one from the following.

• Ribbon Cap: Incorrect. There is no part called a ribbon cap.

• Platen Gap: Correct.

. Select two phenomenon that occur when the platen gap is small from among the following choices.

• The printed characters become thin: Incorrect. If we were to say which it would be, there would be more of a possibility that the print would be darker, but basically, there is no change.

• It becomes easier for the head pins to break: Correct.

• It becomes easier for the ink ribbon to become jammed: Correct.

. If the PG adjust lever’s setting position is set wider, it will increase the printing speed. Is this statement correct or incorrect?

• Incorrect: Correct.

• Correct: Incorrect. If the PG gets wider, it corresponds to thicker paper (manifold paper). When thick paper is used, there is a possibility that the print wires could catch on the edge of the paper, etc. and be broken, so the print speed is reduced.

21. Select the item below that is cofollowing sentence.In manual adjustment of the plalever is changed, the distance bchanged by the ( ) on t

• Eccentric Shaft: Correct.

• Shaft: Incorrect. The CR guidconcentric shaft is turned, thedoes not change.

• Hook: Incorrect. There are no

22. Which of the following parts isplaten gap mechanism? Select

• CR Motor: Incorrect. The CR

• PG Motor: Correct.

• CR HP Sensor: Incorrect. Thehome position.

• Slit Disc: Correct.

• Paper Thickness Detection Se

23. What colors is it possible to priprinting? Select one from the f

• 3 colors: Incorrect. The colorIn a SIDM, if colors are supeexecuted, they can be superimthe number of colors that can

• 7 colors: Correct.

• 6 colors: Incorrect. The colorIn a SIDM, if colors are supeexecuted, they can be superimthe number of colors that can


S 37

24

25


. Give the name of the motor that is necessary in order to perform color printing.

• Ribbon Motor: Correct.

• CR Motor: Incorrect. The parts the CR motor is used to drive are the CR unit and the ribbon winding mechanism.

• PF Motor: Incorrect. The parts the PF motor is used to drive are the paper feed rollers and the CSF unit or tractor unit.

. Select two adjustments that are necessary if the print head, platen roller or CR unit, etc. are removed from among the choices below.

• PG Adjustment: Correct.

• Bi-D Adjustment: Correct.

• Head Inclination Adjustment: Incorrect. This adjustment is not performed on a SIDM printer.

• Head Height Adjustment: Incorrect. This adjustment is not performed on a SIDM printer.

C H A P T E R

2 JET PRINTERS
INK


In 39

2.

2.In

Jet Printer Mechanismured from the following mechanisms.

from the print head unit that sprays the ink and the oard is also incorporated in the print head.

form the following major parts. The CR unit is the CR motor and performs printing as it moves.

m the ink cartridges, print head and ink cartridge the CR where they are mounted.

echanism)et paper on sheet at a time and feeds the paper into

pe which shares the pump motor and the type that on.

that feeds the paper from the ASF mechanism in rn. It is configured from the following major parts.

ion Gears

k Jet Printers Outline

1 Outline

1.1 Ink Jet Printer Featuresk jet printers have the following advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

It is quite during printing.

High quality color printing is possible.

Generally, printing speed is high compared to SIDM.

Disadvantages

Water resistance is low.

If high quality printing is performed, exclusive papers are necessary.

2.1.2 Outline of the InkGenerally ink jet printers are config

Print MechanismThis mechanism is configured ink cartridge. The head driver b

CR Mechanism (Carriage)This mechanism is configured moved left and right, driven by

CR UnitThis unit is configured frodetection sensors, etc. and

CR Motor

CR Shaft

CR Timing Belt

HP Sensor

ASF Mechanism (Paper Feed MThis mechanism separates the sthe paper feed mechanism.

ASF Unit

ASF Drive MotorThere are two types, the tyuses the PF motor in comm

Paper Feed MechanismThis is a paper feed mechanismconjunction with the print patte

PF Roller

PF Motor

PF Motor Drive Transmiss

Paper Eject Unit

Paper Detection Sensor


In 40

2.

Jet Printer Configuration (I)

CR timing belt

Cap unit

Waste ink pad

nit

Print head

CR motor

pper frame shaft ASF sheet

guide


Ink System MechanismThis mechanism draws ink from the ink cartridge and print head and disposes of it in the waste ink pad. It is configured from the following major units. This mechanism is unique to ink jet printers.

Cap Unit

Pump Unit

Pump MotorThere are two types of pump motor, the type that is shared with the ASF and the type that shares the PF motor.

Waste Ink Pad

Circuit BoardsGenerally, these include the following circuit boards.

Power Supply Board

Main Board

Control Panel Board

Mechanical Frame

Housing components

For details, see Fig. 2-1 and Fig. 2-

Figure 2-1. Ink

Pump u

CR unit

UCR guide

PF roller

PF motor

Ink cartridge


In 41
Figure 2-2. Ink Jet Printer Configuration (II)

CR timing belt

ASF unit

CR motor

Upper frameCR unitCap unit

Print headInk cartridge

Pump unitEject roller, PF roller

CR guide shaft

Paper


In 42

2.Th

2.OnThFuthe

CHnopr

Ththe

ON ink jet printers are the CHIPS system or d nozzle plates on these heads are virtually the n image of the nozzle plate is shown in the figure

Ink Jet Print Head Image

d, the G-MACH head has the following features.

high, so high speed printing is possible.

rval between nozzles can be small, so high density, orporate.

ying of ink in ultra small quantities (for example, 2 high image quality.

ads are installed in high end systems, and the alled in low and medium class printers.

D

ent Ink Nozzle

YellowMagenta

t Cyan Light Magenta

k Jet Printers Print Mechanism

2 Print Mechanisme major parts of the ink jet printer are the printhead and ink cartridge.

2.1 Print Head Nozzle Arrangemente example of the nozzle arrangement in an EPSON ink jet printer is shown below. e nozzle arrangement and the number of nozzles differs for each model. rthermore, Fig. 2-3 shows a perspective drawing of the print head as viewed from ink cartridge side.

IPS system heads and MACH system heads can be differentiated by the number of zzles in the vertical direction. The criterion for the number of nozzles in each type of int head is shown below.

MACH System Head: 96 nozzles (G-MACH: 96 nozzles, P-MACH: 180 nozzles)

CHIPS System Head: 48 nozzles (E-CHIPS: 32 nozzles, U-CHIPS: 48 nozzles)

Figure 2-3. Example of the Nozzle Arrangement in a 6-color Machine

e above diagram shows the arrangement for a 6-color print head, but depending on printer, the print head may have a 4-color or 7-color nozzle arrangement.

2.2.2 Types of HeadThe print heads used on current EPSMACH system print heads. The heasame in their external appearance. Abelow.

Figure 2-4.

Compared to the CHIPS system hea

The drive frequency can be set

Due to its construction, the intemultiple nozzles are easy to inc

It is possible to control the sprapl) required in order to achieve

Therefore, the G-MACH system heCHIPS system heads tend to be inst

Paper Feed Direction Black Cyan

Light Cyan Magenta

Light MagentaYellow

#32

#1

irection of Carriage Movement

Black

Print Head Enlargem

Cyan

LighBlack


In 43

2.Thcoinkthrbo Inthe

NO

onstruction of the CHIPS system head is shown

ction of the CHIPS System Head

d, where the Piezo-electric element is mounted m head, the Piezo-electric element is mounted

ble to realize high density with nozzles and es.

lement)

t in response to the electric charge sent to it by the n board via the head driver board. Through this ored is contracted, and the ink inside the cavity is n the nozzle plate. The number of piezo-electric head is equal to the number of nozzles in the print

cartridge, after passing through a filter, is stored vity, and continues to wait there until the piezo-

N

Top Electrode

Ink Chamber

Supply Hole

Nozzle Holes


2.3 Print Head Mechanisme print head generally has the construction shown in the figure below. It is nfigured from the piezo-electric element which sprays the ink, the cavity where the accumulates, the nozzle plate where the nozzles are arrayed, the ink feed paths ough which ink is sent from the ink cartridge to the cavity, and the print head driver ard which selects the nozzles which spray the ink. addition, the common voltage that drives the piezo-electric element which sprays ink is generated by the printer’s main board.

Figure 2-5. Head Mechanism

TE: See the separate explanation concerning the memory chip shown in the above figure. Depending on the model, there are some printers in which the ink cartridge is not equipped with the memory chip.

A more detailed view of the basic cbelow.

Figure 2-6. Constru

Compared to the CHIPS system heatoward the side, in the MACH systevertically. Consequently, it is possiincorporate a large number of nozzl

Piezo-electric Elements (PZT E

The Piezo-electric elements contracprint command signal from the maioperation, the cavity where ink is stsprayed out of each of the nozzles ielements incorporated into the printhead.

Cavity

The ink that is drawn out of the inktemporarily in this tank, called a caelectric element operates.

Ink Cartridge

Memory chip

Head Driver Board

Memory chip Connection Circuit

Ink Supply Path

Ink CavityNozzle Plate

Filter

Piezo-electric Element (PZT)

ozzle Surface

Ink Supply Needle

Piezo-electric Element

Bottom Electrode

Vibrator Plate (Ceramic)Ink Chamber Plate (Ceramic)

Communicating Plate(Ceramic)Adhesive

Stainless Steel Plate

Ink Particles


In 44

Thno


Nozzle Plate

e plate on the print head surface which has nozzle holes drilled in it is called the zzle plate (made of stainless steel).


In 45

2.EPsp Ano

Inchins

Wcoelebrou

Afmato drthethe

inting Principle of Ink Head

Piezo-electric Element

Vibrator Plate

(During Ink Spray Standby)

Voltage Applied

(During Ink Spray)

Flow


2.3.1 Printing ProcessSON ink jet printers use an on-demand ink jet system. The on-demand system

rays the necessary amount of ink from the nozzles which are necessary for printing. print head in the on-demand ink jet system carries out spraying of ink from each zzle using the following process.

Standby State

the state where a voltage is not being applied to the PZT, the PZT element does not ange shape and there is no pressure brought to bear on the cavity. The ink pressure ide the cavity is maintained.

Ink Spray State

hen a voltage is applied to the PZT, it is applied to those PZT elements rresponding to the nozzles to be used by the head driver board. The piezo-electric ments change their shape and the cavity’s volumetric area changes. Pressure is

ought to bear on the ink inside the cavity and that pressure causes the ink to spray t.

ter the ink is sprayed, the ink surface at the tip of the nozzle (meniscus) should be intanined for next ink spray, and this is done by controlling the drive voltage applied the piezo-electric element. Through this control, it is possible to form stable ink oplet at all the times. After ink is sprayed, the supply of ink is supplemented through capillary phenomenon, whereby ink inside the ink cartridge flows to the inside of cavity.

Figure 2-7. Pr

Cavity

Nozzle


In 46

2.Inprro

Thcolonco(pThirrof

s in the horizontal direction by making several e line, each successive pass ink charge in the

the previous pass. This control works to suppress s printed dots that are sharper. An image of

e below.

2-9. Microweave 2

r ink jet printers in the horizontal direction (in the (this differs depending on the model). The etermined by the CR print speed (IPS) in the ad’s piezo drive frequency.

speed = 20 IPS, piezo Drive Frequency = 7.2 kHz

Hz ÷ 20 IPS = 360 dpi

1440 dpi ÷ 360 dpi = 4 passes

are two subtypes. One type controls printing to rinting lines in the horizontal direction with ng passes. The other type controls printing to form only partially when printing lines in the horizontal

es.

2 pass

1 pass =nozzle#1

=nozzle#2


2.3.2 Microweave Technology an ink jet printer, in order to realize high resolution, high image quality printing, inting through the printing system called microweave is implemented. There are ughly two types of microweave.

Microweave 1

is type of microweave is a printing technology in which the carriage return pitch is ntrolled minutely and the horizontally printed lines are overlapped in the gitudinal direction. Therefore, in an ink jet printer, extremely fine paper feed

ntrol is possible and the maximum resolution in the ink jet printer’s vertical direction aper feed direction) is 720 dpi.rough this printing system, it is possible to suppress white streaks and color egularities in the horizontal direction when printing graphics in particular. An image microweave is shown in the following figure.

Figure 2-8. Microweave 1

Microweave 2

This type of microweave prints linepasses of the print head over the samspaces between the dots printed on blurring of the printed dots and formmicroweave 2 is shown in the figur

Figure

The current maximum resolution foCR scanning direction) is 2880 dpi.printable resolution in one pass is drelevant print mode and the print he

(Example)

Print Mode 1440 dpi, CR

Calculation Formula: 7.2 k

Number of Print Passes =

With this type of microweave, thereform the image by printing all the pdifferent nozzles over several printithe image by using different nozzlesdirection over several printing pass

1 pass2 pass

=nozzle#1=nozzle#2

=nozzle#1=nozzle#2=nozzle#1=nozzle#2=nozzle#1=nozzle#2=nozzle#1

1 pass2 pass1 pass2 pass1 pass2 pass1 pass

360dpi720dpi

720dpi


In 47

2.Thcoinkvamuin

Indirmofig

gy the variable shot technology is multi-shot nly one type of dot is used, but printing is done by ame printing dot from 1 shot to; 3 shots in the print rizontal direction). This technology realizes paper.

2. Multi-shot Printing

ure Controlroperties of ink, meaning temperatures out of scosity and decrease print quality. To prevent print , the printhead contains a thermistor that measures

he control circuit if the printhead is too warm or rinting to keep the printhead in the normal ge to force the normal amount of ink through the

rature around the print head and the PZT drive

d -> High:Drive Voltage -> Low

d -> Low:Drive Voltage -> High

� � � �

� � � � �

1 shot

2 shot

3 shot

360dpi x 720dpi print MSD

1 shot

2 shot

3 shot

1 shot 2 shot 3 shot


Print Data Example 1Print Data Example 2


2.3.3 Variable Shot Technologye system where the weight of the ink sprayed out is controlled through the mbination of drive voltage, drive frequency and the number of driven nozzles and particles are created in three different sizes, large, medium and small, is called

riable size dot (VSD) printing. In the Japanese market, ordinarily, this is called lti-size drop technology (MSDT). An image of this method is shown for reference

Fig. 2-10.

Figure 2-10. Variable Shot Printing

variable size dot printing, the dot size is varied in the print head’s main scanning ection (horizontal direction) corresponding to the gradation of the print data, and a re smooth tonal expression can be realized on exclusive ink jet paper. The following ure shows examples of the printing modes for specific models.

Figure 2-11. Variable Shot Printing

2.2.3.4 Multi-shot TechnoloOne printing method that resemblestechnology. With this technology, ovarying the number of shots at the shead’s main scanning direction (hosmoother tonal expression on plain

Figure 2-1

2.2.3.5 Printhead TemperatHeat and cold change the physical p“normal” range may increase ink viquality problems due to temperatureprinthead temperature and signals tcold. The control circuit can slow ptemperature range or increase voltaheads when the ink is cold.The relationship between the tempevoltage is as shown below.

Temperature Around Print Hea

Temperature Around Print Hea

The dot array all represents part of the image.

1440dpi x 720dpiDots Used: Ultramicro/Micro/Middle

720dpi x 720dpiDots Used: Micro / Middle / Large

720dpi

Print Data Example 1


720dpi 720dpi

� � � �

� � � �

360dpi x 360dpi print MSD






In 48

2.Soba

TetreEP

2.Orcypoinksubedif

2.InSicoPi

tures of Pigment Based Inks

eatures of Dye Based Inks

Sst

M

Tel

T

Dcoin

Disadvantage

Coloring characteristics are poor.

has or own by

nge to

dered. Its color reproduction range is narrow.

Disadvantage

Water resistance is poor.

s in ink Its solubility is limited.

Chemically, its stability is poor, so it has inferior light resistance.

It blots easily.


2.4 Types of Inkme representative types of ink used in ink jet printers are dye based inks, pigment sed inks and textile printing ink.

xtile printing ink does not develop its original color unless it undergoes heat atment after printing, so only die based inks and pigment based inks are used in SON ink jet printers. The differences and features of these inks are described below.

2.4.1 Ink Colorsdinarily, the ink colors used in color ink jet printers are made up of 4 colors, black, an, magenta and yellow. In order to improve on the graininess of highlighted rtions of color images, there are some models in which light cyan and light magenta s are added to these colors (photo printers). Also, in the PM-900C, in order to

ppress graininess in the shadow portions, a new ink color, called dark yellow, has en added. In this way, it becomes possible to reproduce colors that are normally ficult to render, such as emerald green.

2.4.2 Differences Between Dye Based Inks and Pigment Based ks and their Features

nce dyes and pigments are differently physically, the features they express as a result me to differ. For details, see Table 2-1, Physical Differences, Table 2-2, features of gment Based Inks and Table 2-3, Features of Dye Based Inks.

Table 2-1. Physical Differences

Table 2-2. Fea

Table 2-3. F

Dye Based Ink Pigment Based Ink

ingle molecules with a specific chemical ructure. Aggregates with molecules arranged on them.

inimum color element units: 1 ~ 2 nm Minimum color element units: 50 ~ 200 nm

he ink is from a liquid phase (solvent + color ement) only.

The ink is from two phases, the liquid phase (solvent) and the solid phase (color element).

ransparent Liquid Nontransparent liquid

issolved in solvent (water, glycol, etc.) (The loring agent is in molecular form and exists the midst of the solvent.

Not dissolved in solvent. It disperses only (The coloring agent exists in the midst of the solvent in the clumped state.)

Advantage

It is water resistant

Chemically, its stability is high and it good light resistance. (The internal colremains even if the outside is broken dlight.

It doesn’t blot easily.

It is chemically stable and doesn’t chapoisonous substances, and its safety characteristics are high.

Highly concentrated colors can be ren

Advantage

It has beautiful coloration (its color expression range is broad).

It has been used in a wide range of usejet printers.

It is easy to express tones with.

It is easily dissolved in water, glycol.

It maintains its uniformity.

It has a high level of brightness.


In 49

2.Thbe

F

InscOnintfil

sed Inkd ink include thermal based pigment inks, Piezo- based pigment inks and oil based (wax type)

ased pigment inks are the ordinary pigment inks, o the size of the pigment particles, their

used for printing even on print media that do not e compatibility with solvents is poor, there are not be used to print on. Although the resolution is of this type can be expected. Furthermore, it is eliminate the solvent odors.

can be expected to perform with good weather Conversely, due to the characteristics of the ink, it resistance cannot be further enhanced by


2.4.3 Printing States of Pigment Based Inks and Dye Based Inkse printing state when pigment based inks and dye based inks are used is shown low.

igure 2-13. Printing State of Pigment Based Inks and Dye Based Inks

the case of dye based inks, they stain the paper. Therefore, the color elements are attered and color density drops. the other hand, in the case of pigment based inks, although the solvent penetrates o the paper, the pigments themselves adhere to the surface of the paper and form a m. Therefore, sharp and highly dense printing can be maintained.

2.2.4.4 Types of Pigment BaThe different types of pigment baseelectric based pigment inks, solventpigment inks.

Thermal based and Piezo-electric band their light resistance is related tconstruction and hardness, etc.

Solvent based pigment inks can be have a coating. Conversely, since thsome media that this type of ink canslightly inferior, the light resistancenecessary to consider ventilation to

Oil based (wax type) pigment inks resistance without being laminated.cannot be laminated, so its weatherlaminating it.

Pigment Based Inks

Dye Based InksThe ink is dye based ink that is weak when used on plain paper, but dye particles are included in the solution.


In 50

2.Thpigfo

EPasmivirhigof

Sionsuwhanmain

Hoto

2-15. Coating Image

right away after it is output, and realizes r, since it is quick drying, it can be presented as a put, and when combined with stable, high speed head, high productivity can be realized. In addition, away after the proof sheet is output, so DDCP also be carried out easily. Fig. 2-16 shows an image ed inks.

of Color Stability of Dye Based Inks and ment Based Inks

e) Coated printing surface (Image)

EPSON Dye Ink

EPSON µCRYSTA ink

, RH 60%, Printing with gray dye ink and (CRYSTA ink.


2.4.5 EPSON’s Pigment Based Inkse pigment based inks used in EPSON’s ink jet printers are Piezo-electric based ment inks with the name µCRYSTA. The major features of these inks are as

llows.

Ultra-fineness

SON’s pigment based inks are composed of ultra-fine particles of 0.1 micron in size, compared to the particles in ordinary pigment inks for printing, which are several crons in size. In addition, by making the particle size uniform (and making them tually round in shape), a new type of pigment ink has been realized which makes hly precise outputs possible. The figure below shows an image of the different types

pigment inks.

Figure 2-14. Ink Particle Image

Glossy Feel

nce the individual color materials in pigment inks are encapsulated in a clear resin, ce the ink adheres to the paper surface, the resin gradually forms a film and coats the rface. This coating suppresses irregular reflections and enables printing of images ich have a glossy feel on glossy paper media. In this way, superior color stability

d quick drying characteristics are realized and make these inks ideal for use in king color proofs in the printing industry. An image of the surface coating is shown Fig. 2-15.

wever, in this case, exclusive EPSON media (paper) is necessary, and it is difficult achieve this feature on the plain paper that is normally used.

Figure

Color Stability

The color of pigment ink stabilizes outstanding color stability. Howevefinished product as soon as it is outspraying by the Piezo-electric print calibration can be carried out right (Direct Digital Color Proofing) can of the color stability of pigment bas

(94) EPSON Pigment Ink

Figure 2-16. Comparison Pig

Comparison of ink particles.

Ordinary pigment inks for printing.

µCRYSTA ink with uniform ultra-fine particles.

The coloring agent is encapsulated in resin. (Imag

Measuring Conditions: 23(C


In 51

Orinkink

Sifil

Code

AB

Lior

W(odisou

• Sind

• P

• TSe

• Tor

ife Estimate

rce:

0 lux) Temperature: 24°C, Humidity: 60%

e glass was placed on the samples with an air layer

llumination until the limit point of a 30% drop in ched (OD = 1.0 -> 0.7).

10 hours is taken as one day’s illumination under

ulative Illumination ÷ (5000 lux / hour x 365)


The color reproduction range is broad.

dinary pigment inks have a narrow color reproduction range compared to dye based s, but EPSON’s µCRYSTA has a color reproduction range like that of dye based s.

Difficult to Soil

nce the surface of sheets printed with these inks are coated smoothly with a clear m, they are strong against soiling.

Light resistance

loring materials are used in these inks that are extremely difficult for light to compose, so they realize a light resistance of approximately 200 years.

OUT 200 YEARS’ LIGHT RESISTANCE

ght resistance tests involve tests where the inks are kept for long periods under dinary indoor fluorescent lights where they are not exposed to direct sunlight.

hen kept for long periods, there are elements that have an influence on color changes zone, temperature, humidity, etc.). µCRYSTA ink has characteristics which make coloration difficult when exposed to these various elements, but it has particularly tstanding light resistance.

Premised Conditions

torage Conditions: Printed images were kept in picture frames with glass under oor fluorescent lights.

apers:

MC-2000 / MC-5000 MC Matte Paper / MC image paper

MC-7000 / MC-9000 MC Thick Matte Paper Roll / MC Image Paper Roll

he above number of years, is based on an accelerated test simulation conducted by iko Epson Corporation, and is not a guarantee by Seiko Epson Corporation.

he above number of years does not show concerning discoloration of the paper itself the durability of the paper.

Evaluation Method, Service L

• Evaluation Conditions Light Sou

White Fluorescent Light (7000

A 2 mm thick sheet of soda limin between.

• Judgment Standard: Cumulative ithe reflection OD Value (1.0) is rea

• Service Life Estimate: 500 lux xaverage indoor fluorescent lighting.

Service Life (Years) = Cum


In 52

2.W"Pmaye

10

10

20

• P

• E

•

• Sav


2.4.6 Light Resistance of Dye Based Inksith the combination of the most recently developed new inks and exclusive paper, M Photo Paper <Glossy>,"/ MC Photo Paper <SemiGloss>," it becomes possible to ke a "10-year Print" and in combination with PM matte paper, a storability with 20-

ar light resistance is realized.

-YEAR / 20-YEAR EQUIVALENT LIGHT RESISTANCE TEST

Years: PM Photo Paper, MC Photo Paper

Years: PM Matte Paper

Conditions (Evaluation Method, Service Life Estimate)

resupposed: Picture frame storage under indoor fluorescent lighting

valuation Method

Light Source: White fluorescent lighting (70000 lux)

Temperature: 24°C

Humidity: 60%

Storage: 2 mm thick glass was set on to of the samples with a layer of air in between (UV was not blocked).

Judgment Standard:

Cumulative illumination until the limit point of a 30% drop in the reflection OD Value (1.0) is reached (OD = 1.0 -> 0.7).

ervice Life Estimate: 500 lux x 10 hours is taken as one day’s illumination under erage indoor fluorescent lighting.

Service Life (Years) = Cumulative Illumination ÷ (500 lux x 365)


In 53

2.Instablasta

In

NO

AllabTywhsointHoamwi

ty, it is recommended that the following periods be e intervals.

the cartridge after use begins:within 6 months

the cartridge after manufacture:2 years.

7. Yellow Sealing Label


2.5 Ink Cartridgesk supply mechanisms can be divided into two types, the on-carriage type and the tionary type. Also, depending on the model, in consideration of the large quantity of ck ink used, there are combination models where the black ink only is made the tionary type and the color ink cartridge is made the on-carriage type.

On-carriage Type

this type, the ink cartridges are mounted on the carriage.

Features

• Because compact cartridges are used, this type is used with comparatively small printers. Basically, a lot of the printers using this type of ink cartridge are consumer-oriented products.

• In the type equipped with a memory chip, it is possible to remove and reset the ink cartridge any number of times up to the time Ink End occurs due to the following reasons. This type of ink cartridge is called an Intelidge ink cartridge.

- By Intelidge is meant that the ink cartridge is designed with a structure that includes a valve mechanism inside the cartridge, and even if the cartridge is removed from the printer, air bubbles will not get inside.

- Ink consumption information is stored in the memory chip on top of the cartridge.

TE: For details concerning the Intelidge, see “Ink Service Life Control”.

so, a yellow sealing label is affixed to the on-carriage type ink cartridges, and this el must definitely be peeled off and the cartridge set in the CR unit before use.pes of on-carriage ink cartridge include the foam type and the sponge type parts ich absorb the ink. The ink cartridge is manufactured in a decompressed condition,

if the yellow label is removed, atmospheric pressure passes through a narrow groove o the ink cartridge, making it possible to supply ink to the print head during printing. wever, if the white or yellow film affixed next to the yellow label is peeled off, the ount of moisture that evaporates from the ink will increase and the ink’s viscosity ll increase, so it will be impossible to use the ink cartridge for a long period of time.

In order to maintain high print qualiused when establishing maintenanc

Recommended period for using up

Recommended period for using up

Figure 2-1


In 54

Ththe

Th

Alpr

Jurecint

Re

Re

ationary Type External View


Stationary Type

With this type, the ink cartridges are separated from the carriage unit and are connected to the print head by ink tubes, etc.In order to absorb changes in the ink’s pressure that occur when the ink tubes move together with the side to side movements of the carriage, a shock absorbing mechanism called a damper is included on the carriage unit.

Features

• It is possible to use large volume ink cartridges. It is used for business uses such as LFP.

• Ink cartridges for each separate color are set, so only the cartridge of the ink color that has run out needs to be replaced.

• When the ink cartridge is removed, air bubbles do not enter, so it can be removed and reset any number of times before the Ink LOW state is detected.

e ink in the stationary type ink cartridges is packed in a flexible aluminum pack and pack has no definite form like those in the on-carriage type ink cartridges.

erefore, it is not necessary to release the atmospheric pressure by peeling off a label.

so, the ink cartridges themselves are set in a position lower than the height of the int head, so a negative pressure with respect to the print head is maintained.

st as with the on-carriage type, in order to maintain high printing quality, it is ommended that the following periods be used when establishing maintenance ervals.

commended period for using up the cartridge after use begins:within 6 months

commended period for using up the cartridge after manufacture:2 years.

Figure 2-18. St


In 55

2.

Ineq

TrectiminsmaIntheinfdifinfpoENis

lidge (On-carriage Type)

area in the EEPROM on the Main board as a d during printing is counted by the print head drive cleaning, etc. is calculated from the number of rive motor and converted to a count. The ink only in cases where the ink cartridge is replaced in nce.

rd has been replaced, if it is impossible to back EPROM, it is necessary to replace the ink f the set.


2.5.1 Ink Service Life ControlModels Which Use Intelidge

order to control ink consumption, the ink cartridges used in the latest printers are uipped with a memory chip.

his memory chip is a 256-bit nonvolatile EEPROM memory chip. The information orded there includes not only the amount of ink remaining, but also the number of es cleaning has been performed, the number of times the cartridge has been talled, the installation time, the model name of the printer used, ink cartridge nufacturing information and other information. In the case of models that use the

telidge, the data on the memory chip is maintained at all times in the EEPROM on main board. The priority order of memory chip and EEPROM ink life related ormation is given to the ink cartridge side, so if the information in the EEPROM fers from the information in the memory chip temporarily, priority is given to the ormation in the memory chip when it is used as control information. Therefore, it is ssible to remove an ink cartridge any number of times up to the point when the Ink D state is reached. The ink consumption counter in the EEPROM on the main board

reset when a new ink cartridge is set in the printer.

Figure 2-19. Intelidge

Models that do not use the Inte

The ink service life is stored in onesoftware counter. The ink that is usewaveform, and the ink used during operation steps of the pump unit’s dconsumption counter is reset in the the ink cartridge replacement seque

Memory Chip

� � � � �

� � � �

When the main boaup the data in the Ecartridges as part o


In 56

Thsta


Stationary Type

e ink consumption in stationary type ink cartridges is controlled in the following two ges.

Hardware DetectionHardware detection consists of the physical Ink LOW detection lever built into the ink cartridge and the Ink LOW detection sensor in the printer main unit, and is used only for the purpose of detecting when the ink level is LOW. If the ink level in the ink cartridge approaches the Ink LOW state, the Ink LOW detection lever makes contact with the ink LOW detection sensor on the printer side and the Ink LOW state is detected.If the Ink LOW state is detected, a flag is set in the EEPROM on the main board which indicates the ink LOW state.

Software DetectionIf the ink LOW state is detected in the above hardware detection, the remaining ink from the Ink LOW state to the Ink END state is counted through software and stored in the EEPROM on the main board.The ink consumption counter is reset only when the ink cartridge is replaced with a new ink cartridge during the interval between Ink LOW and Ink END detection.

Figure 2-20. Ink LOW Detection Lever

Ink LOW Detection Lever


In 57

2.Thinkun

Thcawi

NO

vers the print head nozzle surface with a cap in d nozzles to the air when the printer’s power is

the ink to dry and thus increase the ink’s viscosity.surface of the print head and the vacuum generated ctions to draw out the unused ink from the surface.

-22. Cap Mechanism

d tightly together by the following procedure.

e position side.

lag of the cap unit.

w direction shown in the figure above.

st the cap.

1-cap type shown in the figure above and the 2- print head to get larger and larger, and since the

-head construction, the 1-cap type is the most

CR Unit

er Cap

ag

Cap Unit

k Jet Printers Ink System Mechanism

3 Ink System Mechanisme ink system cartridge is a mechanical unit which performs suction and exhaust of via the ink cartridge and print head. This unit is configured from the following

its.

Cap Unit (including the air valve)

Pump Unit (CR lock, including the wiper unit)

Pump Motor

Waste Ink Pad

rough the configuration of these units, the initial ink charge sequence, the ink rtridge replacement sequence and the head cleaning operation, etc. are performed th the purpose of maintaining the highest quality printing at all times.

Figure 2-21.

TE: The 2-cap type ink system is shown in the above figure.

2.3.1 Cap UnitThe cap unit is a mechanism that coorder to prevent exposure of the heaOFF or when not printing, causing The cap also adheres closely to the by the driving of the pump unit fun

Figure 2

The print head and cap unit are fitte

1. The CR unit moves to the hom

2. The CR unit pushes the slider f

3. The cap unit lifts up in the arro

4. The print head fits tightly again

There are two types of cap unit, thehead type. The latest trend is for themajority of printer models have a 1common type of cap unit.

Black Ink Cartridge Color Ink Cartridge

Cap Unit

Waste Ink Pad

Air ValveWiper

Clutch Pump Unit

Slid

Slider Fl

Print Head


In 58

Aluntheva

Fo

Wvathe

Afvais

InCRpu

VS


so, recently, printer models which are not equipped with the air valve that the cap it in previous models was equipped with have become popular. Outline sketches of cap unit equipped with an air vale and the cap unit that is not equipped with an air

lve are shown below.

Figure 2-23. Cap Mechanism Air Valve

llowing is a brief description of the function of the air valve.

hen the pump is run with the cap fitting tightly against the print head and with the air lve closed, a vacuum develops, causing ink to be sucked out. Therefore, at this time, air valve is in the closed state.

ter ink suction, with the cap still fitting tightly against the print head, when the cuum is released, only the remaining ink inside the cap is sucked out. This operation called open suction.

models which are not equipped with an air valve, if open suction is performed, the unit is moved to the left of the cap unit, then the remaining ink is sucked up by the

mp unit without the cap unit fitted tightly against the print head.

Type with Air Valve Type without Air Valve

No air valve is incorporated into this part.

Air Valve

Valve Open State

alve Closed tate


In 59

2.Duputheinsinsis co(A

Thdu

Thtur

n be made independent of the paper feed operation

feed related operations and pump operation is not ibility of banding occurring during switching of the ult, print quality is excellent.

larly when printing on roll paper), ink cartridge d printing is possible when printing resumes.

ntrol circuitry are necessary, and this adds to the


3.2 Pump Unitring the ink ink charge operation or when the cleaning operation is performed, the mp unit sucks the waste ink inside the print head out via the cap that is fit tightly on head and disposes of it in the waste ink pads. Also, the ink that has accumulated ide the cap, after the amount has reached a predetermined level, is expelled from the ide of the cap in the operation called open suction. (The amount of ink accumulated controlled by a timer.) There are two types of pump, the type of pump that uses a mbined drive, being driven either by the paper feed (PF) motor or the sheet feed SF) motor, or the type of pump that is driven by an exclusive pump motor.

Combined Drive

rough the switching mechanism, when the motor is not being used for paper feed ring printing, its drive force is transmitted to the pump and drives the pump.

Advantage

The number of parts is reduced, so lower costs can be realized.

Disadvantages

• When driving the pump, (when replacing an ink cartridge or when cleaning), printing and paper feed cannot be done, so printer throughput (the time from the point when print data are sent from the PC to the time the actual printing operation ends) drops and when the above operations are being performed, the pump cannot be driven.

• A mechanism for switching the motors operation between the paper feed, etc. and pump operation is necessary, and the controls are complex.

Exclusive Drive

is method drives the pump using an exclusive motor. While the pump motor is ning, the pump drive roller inside the pump unit is turning at all times.

Advantages

• The pump mechanism caand throughput improves.

• Switching between paperdone, so there is little possdrive function and as a res

• During printing, (particureplacement is possible an

Disadvantage

An exclusive motor and cocost.


In 60

2.Assutubit.

Tpraganinttradir

Incaop

tioning ink or dirt, etc. adhering to the print head and restoring the ink nozzles to the normal ink

porated in the pump unit and its operation is linked ad cleaner being set or released according to the tor.

suction action, the head cleaner is moved by the a clutch to the carriage unit’s range of movement e head cleaner wipes the surface of the print head ement of the carriage unit. turns in the opposite direction, the head cleaner ent of the carriage unit. (Cleaner head release

both the black head and the color head.

Head Cleaner Operation

Trp

iper Operation

Pump Gear / Clutch


3.2.1 Pump Operation shown in the following figure, the pump unit is configured from an ink tube that cks in and expels ink, a pump drive roller that presses against and collapses the ink e and a pressurization pulley that pushes the roller against the ink tube and releases

he pump drive force, from the paper feed motor or the pump motor, rotates the essurization pulley and the drive roller attached to the pulley turns as it pushes ainst and collapses the tube. The tube’s volume changes when it is pushed against d collapsed by the roller, and just after the roller, a vacuum is formed that draws ink o the tube. At the same time, pressure is generated just in front of the roller which nsports the ink forward. The ink is either drawn in or not drawn in, depending on the ection of rotation of the pulley (the motor’s direction of rotation).

Figure 2-24. Theory of Pump Operation

printers equipped with the 2-cap type cap unit, the pump unit is also an exclusive 2-p type pump. By switching the pump motor’s direction of rotation, the suction eration can be switched between the color head cap side and the black head cap side.

2.3.2.2 Head Cleaner OperaThe head cleaner operates by removnozzle surface during suction of inkspraying state.

Ordinarily, the head cleaner is incorto the pump’s operation, with the herotational direction of the pump mo

If the pump motor turns to create a pump gear inside the pump unit via(cleaner head setting operation). Thand nozzles by the left to right mov Conversely, when the pump motorseparates from the range of movemoperation) The same cleaner head is used for

Figure 2-25.

From the Cap

Pressurization Pulley

Pump Expulsion Operation

he pump drive oller applies ressure to the tube.

Waste Ink Pads

The pump drive roller is released from contact with the tube.

Ink TubeW

Head Cleaner


In 61

Thsidmalev

Alruduof

ated Type Rubber Head Cleaner

ead cleaner should absolutely never be touched oing so could possibly cause clogging of the

ber Integrated Cleaner Head

Pump Unit Side


Head Cleaner

e head cleaner has a dual construction, with one side made of rubber and the other e made of felt. The rubber side removes ink or dust, etc. and the felt side removes inly ink that has higher viscosity. If the head cleaner is mounted on the head cleaner er, it is installed so that the rubber surface is on the pump side.

Figure 2-26. Example of a Head Cleaner

so, recently, there are some models equipped with a head cleaner which is molded of bber with an integrated construction without any felt. Unlike head cleaners with a al rubber / felt construction, it has the shape shown in the following figure. This type head cleaner is mounted in the direction shown in the figure below.

Figure 2-27. Integr

Felt Surface

Head Cleaner

Rubber Surface

Pump Unit� � � � �

� � � �

The surface of the hwith bare hands. Dprint head.

Shape of a Rub

PF Roller Side


In 62

2.Th

Thnucomaspcaor


3.3 Waste Ink Pade waste ink disposed of during head cleaning, etc. is absorbed by the waste ink pads.

e amount of ink that is disposed of is controlled by counting in accordance with the mber of rotational steps of the pump motor. This counter is called the protection unter or the waste ink consumption counter, and is stored in the EEPROM on the in board. When the amount of ink disposed of in the waste ink pads reaches the

ecified counter value, the printer displays a maintenance error message. This error is nceled by replacing the waste ink pads and performing the specified panel operation by canceling the error using the adjustment program.

� � � � �

� � � �

When performing repairs, if the main board has been replaced, if the waste ink counter value cannot be read out and written in the EEPROM on the new board, the waste ink pads must be replaced at the same time to prevent a mismatch with the waste ink counter.


In 63

2.InprThsycosetim

2.Th

Thsidthepufonoopma

Thsidcathibeas

Insuanfo

any ink that has increased in viscosity from the ll as any air bubbles that are inside the print head.

r the specified number of revolutions with the print e open, and the ink inside the cap is sucked out and s the ink that has accumulated inside the cap ing.

e specified number of revolutions with the print e closed, and is for the suction of minute quantities ty. This operation expels extremely tiny air bubbles

move to the flushing position, then the specified ing the print head.revent the ink in the nozzles from becoming

revent the ink in the nozzles from becoming ive voltage and waveform to the piezo-electric utely, and this causes the ink inside the head cavity

k Jet Printers Ink System Control

4 Ink System Control this item, we explain concerning an ink system which is controlled in order to otect the print head and ink supply system and to assure high quality printing.ere are several types of ink sequence depending on the combination of multiple ink stem basic functions, and depending on the information of the various types of timer, unter, flag and from each sensor, a still more appropriate ink sequence can be lected and implemented. In this item, the basic functions and representative types of

er, counter and flag as well as each type of ink system sequence are explained.

4.1 Basic Ink System Functionse basic functions which make up the ink system sequence are explained below.

Rubbing

is operation means the operation where the print head surface is rubbed by the felt e of the wiper when the CR is moved from left to right and is brought in contact with felt side (the left half side of the wiper blade) of the wiper incorporated into the mp unit. The purpose of this operation is to remove hardened, viscous ink and reign matter, etc. adhering to the print head’s surface and restore the print head to the rmal ink spraying state as well as to assure the tight fit of the cap. Before the rubbing eration control is exercised to draw out a minute quantity of ink to the nozzle surface ke it wet.

Wiping

is operation is the movement of the CR from right to left with respect to the rubber e (the right side half of the wiper blade) incorporated into the pump unit, which

uses the rubber side of the wiper to rub against the print head surface. The purpose of s operation is to remove any ink or foreign matter, etc. adhering to the head surface fore spraying of ink, to recover the system to the normal ink spraying state and to sure that the cap is able to fit tightly.

Main Suction

this operation, the pump is run the specified number of revolutions and the ink is cked out from the head’s cavity and the ink cartridge with the head surface capped d the air valve closed. There are two purposes for this operation, which are as llows.

To suck the ink out of the ink cartridge into the head cavity.

To suck out and dispose ofprint head’s nozzles as we

Open Suction

In this operation, the pump is run fohead surface capped and the air valvdisposed of. This operation removethrough ink suction or through flush

Minute Quantity Suction

In this operation, the pump is run thhead surface capped and the air valvof ink from the print head’s ink cavithat are inside the head cavity.

Flushing

This operation causes the CR unit toamount of ink is sprayed out by drivThe purpose of this operation is to pincreasingly viscous.

Minute Excitation

The purpose of this operation is to pincreasingly viscous. It applies a drelement that causes it to vibrate minto vibrate.


In 64

2.Thpr

Amto

Asele

Ea

e factory without the print heads being filled with printer, the user needs to set the ink cartridges in ith ink. Initial ink charge is carried out k charge request flag in the EEPROM on the main

rmally, the initial ink charge request flag in the red, then from the next time the power is turned on,

ted during the initial ink charge operation due to charge request flag in the EEPROM is not cleared, d on, the initial ink charge operation will

large quantity of ink is consumed, so the amount of actual printing is small compared to the second

until the initial ink charge operation is completed.

ed off repeatedly during execution of the initial e, a large volume of ink will be consumed, so ould be exercised.


4.2 Ink Sequenceis sequence is made up from the basic ink system sequences explained in the

evious item. Here, some representative ink sequences are explained.

Initial Ink Charge

Ink Cartridge Replacement Cleaning

Manual Cleaning

Timer Cleaning

Periodic Flushing

ong the above ink sequences, the sequences which use the pump unit’s drive force suck out ink from the ink cartridge via the print head are as follows.

Initial ink charge

Ink Cartridge Replacement Cleaning

Manual Cleaning

Timer Cleaning

for periodic flushing, the drive force expels ink by driving the piezo-electric ment inside the print head.

ch of the ink sequences above is explained in the following pages.

2.4.3 Initial Ink ChargeAn ink jet printer is shipped from think. Therefore, after purchasing thethe printer and fill the print heads wautomatically based on the initial inboard. If initial ink charge is completed noEEPROM on the main board is cleathis sequence is not executed. If this sequence is forcibly terminasome kind of trouble, the initial inkand the next time the power is turnecommence from the start.

In the initial ink charge operation, aink that can be used effectively for cartridge.

Also, several minutes are necessary

� � � � �

� � � �

If the power is turnink charge sequencadequate caution sh


In 65

2.Thif caancocais is


4.4 Ink Cartridge Replacement Cleaningis cleaning is performed during the ink cartridge replacement sequence. Ordinarily,

an ink cartridge is replaced, the head is already filled with ink, but when a new ink rtridge is set, the space between the ink cartridge and the print head is filled with ink, d this sequence is performed to accomplish that task. Therefore, the amount of ink nsumed when an ink cartridge is replaced is extremely small. During the ink rtridge replacement sequence, the flag in the EEPROM indicating that this sequence being executed is activated, so if this sequence is forcibly terminated, this sequence executed again from the beginning based on the flag in the EEPROM.

� � � � �

� � � �

Other than the ink cartridge replacement sequence, if the ink cartridge is replaced with a new one, the ink cartridge consumption counter is not reset. Therefore, the ink consumption counter in the EEPROM on the main board maintains the count for the previous ink cartridge’s consumption and whether there is still ink physically remaining in the cartridge, the Ink Low / End Error messages will be displayed rapidly.The following troubles can occur if ink cartridges which are not equipped with the memory chip are removed once, then reinstalled.-- Air bubbles get mixed in with the ink inside the print head and

skipping of dots occurs.-- In the ink cartridge replacement sequence, if the above

operation is performed, the amount of ink registered in the EEPROM on the main board and the amount of ink that is physically in the ink cartridge will differ. Thus, even if the Ink End state has been reached physically, the Ink Low / Ink End error message will not be displayed printing will be done without ink in the print head.Also, if the printer is left to print without ink for a long period of time, it could cause the nozzles to become clogged, so caution is necessary.


In 66

2.MprTh

Thcous

Hodifis

Alco

ly from the printer’s control panel or from the sequence that is selected / implemented is the printer. This special counter stores the type of vious time in memory, and is reset when the power

manual cleaning is to alternately perform a nozzle eck pattern and manual cleaning. In this case, the d in the following sequence.

L 1

ormed continuously without printing the nozzle job between the previous and next cleaning

eaning sequences are always performed.

HIPS Heads CL3

HIPS / G-MACH Heads CL1

cap units and 2 caps are used in the configuration, on one of the heads, cleaning of the head on the only the affected ink is consumed.

ration for both black and color, only one cap and is carried out, so cleaning is performed on both the me, and both black and color inks are consumed.


4.5 Manual Cleaninganual cleaning is cleaning that it is possible to carry out intentionally from the inter’s control panel or through the printer driver.ere are basically four types of manual cleaning, listed below.

CL1 (Normal Cleaning)This is composed of wiping, main suction, minute quantity suction and open suction.

CL1’ (Forced Cleaning)This is composed of wiping, main suction, minute quantity suction and open suction.The basic operation is the same as CL1, but the large amount of ink drawn out in the main suction operation is due to the amount being set higher compared to CL1. Depending on the model, the suction volume with this type of cleaning is greater than with CL2.

CL2 (Forced Cleaning)This is composed of wiping, rubbing, main suction, minute quantity suction and open suction. The rubbing operation has been added to this mode.

CL3 (Open Cleaning)This is composed of wiping, minute quantity suction and open suction.In this cleaning operation, since the main suction operation is not performed, the ink consumption is extremely low.

e relationship between each manual cleaning operation and the amount of ink nsumed is as follows in models equipped with the E-CHIPS head which is widely ed in recent years.

CL3 < CL1 < CL1’ < CL2

wever, the amount of ink consumed in each of these manual cleaning operations fers depending on the type of print head used. In models sold since fiscal 1999, CL3 not incorporated, so the following sequences only are included.

CL1 < CL1’ < CL2

so, the relationship between each manual cleaning operation and the amount of ink nsumed differs as follows in models equipped with U-CHIPS print heads.

CL1 < CL2 < CL1’

If cleaning is carried out intentionalprinter driver, the manual cleaning determined by the special counter incleaning that was carried out the preis turned OFF.

The recommended method for usingcheck with printing of the nozzle chmanual cleaning modes are switche

CL1 -> CL1’ -> CL2 -> C

However, if manual cleaning is perfcheck pattern or some other printingoperations, the following manual cl

Printers equipped with E-C

Printers equipped with U-C

For printers with two print heads, 2so if manual cleaning is performed relevant side only is performed and

For products with a 1-head configuone cap unit are used, so if cleaningblack and color heads at the same ti


In 67

2.TicoflaThmase

2.Incofluoppie


4.6 Timer Cleaningmer cleaning is cleaning that is performed automatically in accordance with the mbination of the timer data measured by the timer IC and the various types of data / gs stored in the EEPROM mounted on the main board.e amount of ink consumed during this cleaning is extremely small, with the ximum amount at about the level of ink consumed in the CL1 manual cleaning

quence.

4.7 Periodic Flushing order to prevent the viscosity of ink inside the head nozzles from increasing during ntinuous printing operations, periodic flushing is performed automatically at the shing position (cap unit / flushing position). This sequence is not an ink suction eration carried through the driving of the pump, but ink is expelled by driving the zo-electric element in the print head.


In 68

2.Thimfea

called a star roller (star wheel), is used. This kind of no noticeable smudging of the printed surface n the ink is not dry.

ers with a glossy finish, such as photo papers, are angle, the pressure marks from the star rollers that intly discerned (the ridge marks). In the PM-900C, is provided to eliminate this.

sarily a surface like a roller or fully flat surface, g a sheet paper. This part has a ribbed construction during printing and let cause the wrinkles in the ard from off the platen surface. Depending on the in which absorbent material is placed in the sorb ink. The purpose of this is to make it possible flushing with ink and when printing borderless

used, but in models which are required to be es is used.

der coating layer applied to the metallic PF ink jet printers is extremely delicate, so it bjected to impacts or touched with bare hands.

k Jet Printers Paper Feed Mechanism

5 Paper Feed Mechanisme paper feed mechanism in ink jet printers resembles the paper feed mechanism in pact dot printers. However, due to reasons inherent to ink jet printers, there are some tures that differ, which are described below.

Paper Feed Control

During printing, there are no back feed operations. Paper feed is always in the forward direction. When the printed surface is in the wet condition immediately after printing, backfeed would cause the printed surface to be smeared or soiled with the paper feed rollers just before the platen or the paper guide.

Print Soiling Prevention FunctionThis is a function that helps the printed surface of sheets that have just been printed to dry in the stacker by slowing the paper feed speed during printing in order to prevent the printed surface of the paper from being soiled after printing while in the stacker and to prevent the back of the next printed sheet from being soiled from the ink on the previously printed sheet as it is ejected from the printer. It is used when the type of paper used makes it difficult for the ink to dry. However, a demerit of this function is that it slows throughput.

Paper Feed Gear TrainSince high level, precise paper feed is required, gears known as high precision gears are used lavishly.

PF RollersCompared to an SIDM printer, a high degree of paper feed accuracy is required in an ink jet printer, so metal rollers, which are not easily influenced by thermal expansion and which have outstanding durability, are used. The surface has a special ceramic powder coating applied to it.

Paper Eject RollerA paper eject roller, ordinarily roller is used because it makes immediately after printing, whe However, when exclusive papused, depending on the viewingremain on the surface can be faa star roller release mechanism

PlatenThe platen surface is not necesdesigned especially for receivinso as to absorb excess ink usedextended paper to shift downwmodel, there are some printers indentations in the platen to abto absorb ink during print headprints.

MotorOrdinarily, a stepping motor isquieter, a DC motor with brush� � � � �

� � � �

Sufficient caution is needed when handling the gears of ink jet printers. The tooth surfaces of gears should never be touched with bare hands.

� � � � �

� � � �

The ceramic powroller surface onshould not be su


In 69

2.Anopph

Be

k Jet Printers Detectors

6 Detectors ink jet printer is equipped with a large number of sensors to control various erations. Types of detector which are used in large numbers are transmission type otoelectric transducers and mechanical contacts.

low is a list of detectors ordinarily used and a simple explanation of their uses.

PE Sensor: PhotosensorThis is used to control the paper’s top edge movement and detect the paper’s bottom edge.

ASF HP Sensor: PhotosensorThis detects whether or not the ASF paper feed roller is in the ASF home position.

CR HP Sensor: PhotosensorThis detects the CR unit’s home position.

Ink Cartridge Sensor: Mechanical SensorThis detects whether or not ink cartridges are set in the CR unit.

Print Head Thermistor: ElementThis senses the temperature around the head and is used to optimize the PZT drive voltage.

CR Encoder Sensor: PhotosensorIn models where a DC motor is used for the CR motor, in order to detect the CR’s current position, this sensor and a linear scale are incorporated into the printer as a set. Also, depending on the model, this is used in combination with the HP sensor.

PF Motor Encoder Sensor: PhotosensorIn models which use a DC motor as the PF motor, the printer is equipped with this sensor and a loop scale as a set in order to detect the number of revolutions and the number of steps of the PF motor.


In 70

2.Inusampr

He

If

currently set in the printer, it is necessary to select If the paper type is selected in the printer driver, the ited, so mis-setting of the printer driver is um actually set in the printer is mistaken, the print ly.

cember, 2000 and their features are described on .

k Jet Printers Media

7 Media order to obtain high quality printing results with an ink jet printer, it is necessary to e exclusive print media. When actually carrying out printing, the optimum ink supply ount for the media used are decided by selecting the print medium to be used in the

inter driver screen, then the optimum printing is carried out for the media that is used.

re, we explain concerning EPSON exclusive media (exclusive printing papers).

exclusive media are used, the following points must be taken into consideration.

The number of sheets it is possible to set in the ASF or the paper cassette.Depending on the type of exclusive paper used, the number of sheets that it is possible to set in the ASF or paper cassette at one time is limited. If the limited number of sheets is exceeded when the print medium is set in the ASF or paper cassette, the paper may not feed into the printer or multiple sheets will feed, causing a misfeed. Therefore, it is necessary to set the appropriate number of sheets corresponding to the paper used. Depending on the medium, there are some types of paper that can only be set one sheet at a time.

Supplementary Sheet SetThere are some media for which it is necessary to set the supplementary sheet supplied with the exclusive media as the final sheet in the ASF or the paper cassette. The role of the supplementary sheet is to improve the feedability of the last sheet of print media. If this supplementary sheet is not set, possibility that problems will develop in feeding the last sheet of print media will increase.

Periodic Cleaning Sheet FeedingDepending on the exclusive media, there are some types which generate paper dust quite easily during paper feeding. A cleaning sheet is packed together with the corresponding print media, so this cleaning sheet must periodically be set in the printer in the specified direction and fed through the printer. The cleaning sheet is not designed to be used with the metallic PF rollers, but for the purpose of cleaning the paper feed rollers.

Setting with the Printer DriverDepending on the paper that is the appropriate printing mode. settable printing modes are limprevented, but if the print mediquality will deteriorate marked

Exclusive papers available as of Dethe following and subsequent pages

� � � � �

� � � �

If the medium set in the printer driver differs from the medium set in the printer, print quality will drop markedly. Adequate caution must be exercised.


In 71

2.Exan

d Plain Paper (Recycled Paper)odes: Compatible with the Fine / Super Fine /

t can be printed on both sides when preparing

n) Photo Quality Paperodes: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo

) that is appropriate for printing photos or graphics.

sy Filmodes: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo

feel, and which is difficult to tear, that is otos.

odes: Compatible with the Fine Mode>ich is used to transfer the printed media to a T-shirt,

odes: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo

ith 16 divisions per sheet.

l Sheetodes: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo

ets of super fine paper.

sy Postcardsodes: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo


7.1 Dye Based Print Mediaclusive paper types (except sizes) developed specifically for dye based ink printers d their features are shown below.

High Light Resistant Print Media

PM Photographic Paper <Glossy><Compatible Printing Mode: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo Mode>Glossy photographic paper which does not fade easily for long periods of time and which has excellent light resistance and water resistance.

MC Photographic Paper <SemiGloss><Corresponding Printing Modes: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo Mode>Photographic paper with the glossy feel somewhat suppressed which does not fade easily for long periods of time and which has excellent light resistance and water resistance.

PM Matte Paper<Corresponding Printing Modes: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo Mode>Matte paper which is not glossy but which has a settled quality feel, and which has excellent light resistance and water resistance.

Super Fine

Exclusive Super Fine Paper<Corresponding Printing Modes: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo Mode>This paper is appropriate for printing documents which contain both photographs and text.

Fine

Exclusive Fine Paper<Corresponding Printing Modes: Compatible with the Fine Mode>Appropriate for printing business documents that contain graphs.

Plain Paper

PM Series High Quality Plain Paper<Corresponding Printing Modes: Compatible with the Fine / Super Fine / Photo Mode>Exclusive ink jet printer paper developed for economy.

High Quality Double Side<Corresponding Printing MPhoto Mode>Exclusive ink jet paper thabusiness documents.

Glossy Paper (Thin)

Exclusive Super Fine (Thi<Corresponding Printing MMode>This is a glossy paper (thin

Glossy Film

Exclusive Super Fine Glos<Corresponding Printing MMode>This is a film with a glossyappropriate for printing ph

Special Papers

Iron Print Paper<Corresponding Printing MThis is a transfer paper whetc. with an iron.

Mini Photo Stickers<Corresponding Printing MMode>These are glossy stickers w

Exclusive Super Fine Labe<Corresponding Printing MMode>These are quality label she

Exclusive Super Fine Glos<Corresponding Printing MMode>


In 72

edia) developed specifically for pigment based ink n below.

s: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo Mode>

non-glossy paper aimed at general applications. It hics and similar printing.

assette, care should be taken to make sure its te is correct.

at is whiter and which has no logo printed on it.


with high color reproduceability. It is appropriate omprehensive layout, etc.

stacked up form, plain paper sheets packed with between the printed sheets.

at is a glossy white.

iGloss>


for dye based inks.

paper which has a quality more like genuine paper for printer photographic data or posters, etc.

at is glossy, or the side that has no logo marks.


a quality that differs from photographs.

has fewer indentations and bumps.


Super Fine Canvas Cloth<Corresponding Printing Modes: Compatible with the Super Fine Mode>This is a cloth sheet in roll form that is easy to cut, sew, affix with glue or otherwise process.

Exclusive Super Fine Backlight Film<Corresponding Printing Modes: Compatible with the Super Fine / Photo Mode>This is a film with a transparent feel and can be affixed to a light box and used in shop displays, etc.

Exclusive OHP Film<Corresponding Printing Modes: Compatible with the Fine Mode>This film is appropriate for making OHP sheets which include photographs and graphics.

Cleaning Sheet for Ink Jet PrinterThis sheet removes dirt such as paper dust that accumulates on the printer’s paper feed rollers.

Color Calibration PaperThis is high quality color calibration paper designed to meet the needs of professional designers.

Roll Papers

Matte Board PapersThis is cardboard type thick paper with a thickness of 1.2 mm.

2.7.2 Pigment Based MExclusive paper types (except sizesprinters and their features are show

MC Matte Paper

<Corresponding Printing Mode

• This is an economical, heavy,is appropriate for photos, grap

• If this paper is set in a paper corientation in the paper casset

• The printed side is the side th

MC Design Glossy Paper


• This is a heavy, glossy paper for printing design images, c

• If printed sheets are stored in these sheets should be placed


MC Photographic Paper <Sem


• This is the same as the media

• This is a heavy, micro-glossyphotographs. It is the optimum


MC Image Paper


• This is paper for images with

• The printed side is whiter and


In 73

2.An


7.3 Structural Outline of Exclusive Print Media outline of the structure of exclusive print media is shown below.

Structural Outline of Glossy Papers

Glossy Layer: Gives gloss, gives a transparent feel, absorbs ink rapidly (transmits the ink to the ink absorbing layer underneath).

Ink Absorbing Layer: Holds the ink coloring material and assists in developing the colors.

Base Paper: Holds the glossy layer and ink absorbing layer.

Figure 2-28. Structure of Glossy Paper

Structural Outline of Matte Papers

Ink Absorbing Layer: Holds the ink coloring material and assists in developing the colors.

Base Paper: Holds the glossy layer and ink absorbing layer.

Figure 2-29. Structure of Matte Paper

Glossy Layer

Ink Absorbing Layer

Base Paper

Ink Absorbing Layer

Base Paper


In 74

2.1.

2.

3.

4.

s while varying the printing dot size in ata in the head main scanning direction in order to

l gradations on exclusive paper? Select one of the

led which changes the number of shots in the corresponding to the print media in order to in paper? Select one item from among the

nd the print head becomes high, how is the head’s he correct answer from the following items.

mes lower.

mes higher.

gment inks from among the following choices.

ave a light resistance of 200 years. Select the describes the measuring environment.

oors under direct sunlight.

r normal indoor fluorescent lighting without

r a constant level of ultraviolet light in a special

k Jet Printers Comprehension Test

8 Comprehension TestSelect two features of the MACH system print head from among the following choices.

• Its construction is simple and its productivity is high.

• It is easy structurally to achieve high airtightness and incorporate many nozzles.

• It has outstanding spray control for ultra-small ink particles.

Which of the points below is a point where there is a great structural difference between the CHIPS system print head and the MACH system print head? Select one of the following.

• The direction in which the piezo is mounted.

• Head cavity construction.

• Nozzle diameter

• Material

• Inks that can be used.

If the number of nozzles in the CHIPS system print head and the MACH system print head were classified, what is the number of nozzles that serves as a reference? Select one from the following.

• 46 nozzles

• 32 nozzles

• 16 nozzles

In an ink jet printer, what is the name of the element that is deformed by the impressed voltage and sprays the ink?

• CR

• Solenoid

• Cavity

• PZT

5. What is the system which printcorrespondence with the print dimprove the expression of tonafollowing choices.

• Variable Shot Technology

• Microweave

• Multi-shot Technology

6. What is the printing system calhead’s main scanning directionimprove printing quality on plafollowing choices.

• Variable Shot Technology

• Microweave

• Multi-shot Technology

7. If the ambient temperature aroudrive voltage changed. Select t

• The head’s drive voltage beco

• The head’s drive voltage beco

8. Select two characteristics of pi

• Color rendition is good.

• It doesn’t blot easily.

• It has high light resistance.

• It has low water resistance.

9. Pigment ink was measured to hstatement below that correctly

• The data were measured outd

• The data were measured undeexposure to direct sunlight.

• The data were measured undeindoor environment.


In 75

10

11

12

13

14

e unit that fits tightly on the head surface and sucks of the pump unit? Select one from the following.

lve mounted in the cap unit from among the

force.

waste ink pad.

print head.

unit are fitted tightly together, it controls the release state.

ters are equipped with an air valve. Is this statement

gained by equipping the printer with an exclusive e for the pump unit? Select two items from the

her and the head cleaning operation ends in a short

for switching between the paper feed and similar n, there is little possibility of banding occurring operations, and print quality is excellent.

a head cleaner with a 2-layer construction have? om among the following choices.

’s front side, the head cleaner is constructed so that er and the left side is made of felt material.

’s front side, the head cleaner is constructed so that nd the left side is made of rubber material.


. What is the general name for the IC chip that is mounted in the ink cartridge?

• CSIC

• PZT

• EPROM

. Select the statement below that correctly describes handling of ink cartridges which are not equipped with a memory chip.

• It is possible to remove and install the ink cartridge any number of times up to the occurrence of the Ink END state.

• Once an ink cartridge is removed, it is impossible to use it again.

• Once an ink cartridge is removed, it can be removed and installed any number of times as long as it is kept in an exclusive box.

. If the yellow label on the ink cartridge has not been peeled off, what kind of phenomenon occurs? Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• Since the ink is not sucked up, either no ink at all is sprayed out, or gradually skipping of dots occurs and finally all the dots are skipped.

• Ink is sucked up, but skipping of dots continues to occur here and there.

• The ink’s viscosity rises and skipping of dots occurs.

. Give the general name for the IC chip on the main board where the ink cartridge’s consumption is stored. Select one from the following.

• EEPROM

• PROM

• CPU

• RAM

. How is the Ink Low state detected in the stationary type ink cartridge? Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• The LOW detection lever on the ink cartridge side and the Ink LOW detection sensor on the printer side.

• It is detected by the software counter stored in the EEPROM on the main board.

15. What is the general name for thout the ink by the driving force

• Cap Unit

• CR Unit

• Waste Ink Pad Unit

16. Select the function of the air vafollowing choices.

• Generates ink suction driving

• Valve which guides ink to the

• Fits the cap unit tightly on the

• When the print head and cap vacuum state and the vacuum

17. The cap units on all ink jet princorrect or incorrect?

18. That is the outstanding functionpump motor as the driving forcfollowing choices.

• Increase the paper feed speed

• Ink absorption speed gets higtime.

• Since there is no mechanism operations and pump operatiowhen switching pump motor

19. What kind of construction doesSelect the correct description fr

• When viewed from the printerthe right side is made of rubb

• When viewed from the printerthe right side is made of felt a


In 76

20

21

22

23

24

g the initial ink charge operation, which of the ed when the power is turned on again?

peration from the part where the power was turned

operation from the beginning without relation to the printer was turned off the previous time.

ink charge operation the second time.

ally effectively used from the 1st ink cartridge the f ink used form the 2nd ink cartridge, or not?

rom the CR unit at any time except during the ink ter model which does not support ink cartridges e type), then a new ink cartridge is installed, at r due to air bubbles mixed in the ink, but finally, rs? Select the correct statement from among the

state exists, the printer will not sense the Ink End of dots will occur.

e will be displayed when there is still enough ink

matching will not occur, and printing will be


. Give the name of the units incorporated into the head cleaner. Select one from the following.

• Pump Unit

• Cap Unit

• Head Cleaner Unit

. How is the amount of waste ink disposed of in the waste ink pads controlled? Select the correct statement from among the following choices.

• The number of pump motor rotational steps is counted in software and this count is stored and controlled in the EEPROM. Also, when a flushing or other operation is performed, the amount of ink sprayed is counted in software from the print head’s drive frequency.

• The waste ink disposed of in the waste ink pads is all disposed of through driving of the piezo-electric element, so ink spraying volume is counted in the software from only the head drive frequency.

. Describe the method for resetting the waste ink counter. Select two items from the following.

• Special operation from the control panel.

• Reset function using the exclusive adjustment program.

• Turning the power switch On/Off.

• Special operation from the printer driver.

. Select the correct statement concerning the wiping operation from among the choices below.

• It is an operation where the print head surface is scraped by the rubber right side of the head cleaner’s blade.

• It is an operation where the print head surface is scraped by the felt left side of the head cleaner’s blade.

. What is the operation in which the head is filled with ink called after the printer is purchased? Select the correct operation name from among the following choices.

• Initial ink charge Operation

• Ink Replacement Operation

• Manual Cleaning Operation

25. If the power is turned off durinfollowing operations is perform

• It starts the initial ink charge ooff the previous time.

• It starts the initial ink charge where the operation was when

• It does not perform the initial

26. Is the amount of ink that is actusame as the effective amount o

• The same

• Different

27. If an ink cartridge is removed freplacement sequence in a prinwith a memory chip (on-carriagfirst, skipping of dots will occuwhat kind of phenomenon occuchoices below.

• Even if the physical Ink ENDstate and as a result, skipping

• The Ink LOW / END messagleft.

• Ink consumption counter misconducted normally.


In 77

28

29

30

31

tween the CL1’ and CL2 manual cleaning modes? om among the following choices.

are performed, but in CL2, only rubbing is

med, but in CL2, wiping and rubbing are both

if manual cleaning is done without performing any etween manual cleaning operations, what kind of

/ 1-cap configuration, if manual cleaning is m both the black and color ink cartridges. Is this

lers used in the latest ink jet printer paper feed t statements from among the choices below.

al expansion and its wear resistance is low.

ith a special ceramic powder coating.

hermal expansion and its durability against wear is

the reason why metallic star rollers are used for the following choices.

nted is fed out of the printer, parts where the ink is rollers and this type of roller prevents the ink from paper.

paper feed accuracy when the paper is ejected.


. If the ink cartridge in a printer model which does not support ink cartridges with a memory chip (on-carriage type) is removed during the ink replacement sequence, then is set again and used, what kind of phenomena will occur? Select the correct statement from among the choices below.

• The printer will enter the Ink END state without the Ink LOW / END message being displayed. Therefore, skipping of dots will gradually occur, then finally, nothing will be printed at all.

• There will be no particular problem.

• The Ink LOW / END message will be displayed when there is still enough ink left.

. If the power is turned off during execution of the ink cartridge replacement sequence, what operation is executed when the power is turned on again? Select the correct statement from among the choices below.

• Ink replacement cleaning will be performed from the first.

• When the power is turned on the next time, ink replacement cleaning will not be performed.

• When the power is turned on the next time, the sequence will commence from the point where the power was turned off previously.

. What driving force is used to perform initial ink charge, the ink cartridge replacement sequence and manual cleaning? Select the correct power source from the following two choices.

• Suction force via the pump unit - cap unit.

• Driving of the print head.

. How many ordinary different cleaning modes are there in manual cleaning? Select the correct statement from the following choices.

• 1 to 2 types.

• 5 to 6 types

• 3 to 4 types

32. What is the major difference beSelect the correct description fr

• In CL1’, wiping and rubbing performed.

• In CL1’, rubbing is not perforperformed.

33. In U-CHIPS / G-MACH heads,printing or other nozzle check bmanual cleaning is performed?

• CL1 is always performed.



34. In printer models with a 1-headperformed, ink is consumed frostatement correct or incorrect?

35. Describe the features of PF rolmechanisms. Select two correc

• Rubber roller

• It is easily influenced by therm

• The metallic roller is coated w

• It is not easily influenced by thigh.

36. Select the correct statement of paper eject rollers from among

• When paper that has been pristill not dry transfer ink to thebeing transferred again to the

• They are used to improve the


In 78

37

38

39

40


. Describe the function of the cleaning sheet. Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• It removes the paper dust adhering to the surfaces of rollers along the paper path.

• It removes foreign matter adhering to the print head surface.

• It is used to remove paper dust adhering to the surface of the metallic PF roller.

. If the media set by the printer driver and the media that is actually set in the printer differ from each other, what kind of phenomena occurs? Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• A discrepancy will exist between the amount of ink delivered and the ink absorption capacity of the media, and print quality will drop markedly. (There will be either white streaks or the ink will blot.)

• Printing cannot be done.

• There will not be any particular drop in print quality.

. Describe the role of the supplementary sheet packed with the exclusive media. Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• It increases the rigidity of the exclusive paper package and prevents the paper from being folded.

• It improves the paper feed performance of the last sheet set in the ASF unit or in the paper cassette.

• It is set in the stacker and improves the paper eject characteristics after the paper is printed on.

. When the main board is replaced, if it is impossible to read the backup data from the EEPROM on the old board, indicate which units need to be replaced at the same time. Select 2 correct units from among the following choices.

• Ink cartridge.

• Waste ink pads

• Print head

• Panel board


In 79

2.1.

2.

3.

name of the element that is deformed by the he ink?

viation for carriage. This is the component where which moves in the main scanning direction during

id is an element that switches the functions of a orce generated by the applied voltage.

is a part where ink accumulates temporarily inside

s while varying the printing dot size in ata in the head main scanning direction in order to

l gradations on exclusive paper? Select one of the

orrect.

weave is a technology that reduces banding and e print head’s main scanning direction during

rect. Multi-shot technology is a technology that on plain paper. It does not change the size of the ad but by changing the number of dots sprayed, it e paper.

led which changes the number of shots in the corresponding to the print media in order to in paper? Select one item from among the

correct. Variable-shot technology is a technology sion on exclusive paper. It changes the size of the

th the print data in the print head’s main scanning

weave is a technology that reduces banding and e print head’s main scanning direction during

ct.

k Jet Printers Answers to the Comprehension Test

9 Answers to the Comprehension TestSelect two features of the MACH system print head from among the following choices.

• Its construction is simple and its productivity is high: Incorrect. This is the feature of Chips system print head.

• It is easy structurally to achieve high airtightness and incorporate many nozzles: Correct.

• It has outstanding spray control for ultra-small ink particles: Correct.

Which of the points below is a point where there is a great structural difference between the CHIPS system print head and the MACH system print head? Select one of the following.

• The direction in which the piezo is mounted: Correct. The piezo is mounted horizontally in MACH system, and vertically in CHIPS system.

• Nozzle diameter: Incorrect. The nozzle diameters do not differ greatly between the different heads.

• Material: Incorrect. The materials differ, but they are basically the same.

• Inks that can be used: Incorrect. They are basically the same.

If the number of nozzles in the CHIPS system print head and the MACH system print head were classified, what is the number of nozzles that serves as a reference? Select one from the following.

• 46 nozzles: Correct. The CHIPS head has 46 or fewer nozzles. The G-MACH head has 96 or more nozzles.

• 32 nozzles: Incorrect. The CHIPS head is the one with 32 nozzles.

• 16 nozzles: Incorrect. The Chips head or the old MACH head is the one with 16 nozzles.

4. In an ink jet printer, what is theimpressed voltage and sprays t

• CR: Incorrect. CR is an abbrethe print head is mounted and printing.

• Solenoid: Incorrect. A solenodrive unit through magnetic f

• Cavity: Incorrect. The cavity the print head.

• PZT: Correct.

5. What is the system which printcorrespondence with the print dimprove the expression of tonafollowing choices.

• Variable Shot Technology: C

• Microweave: Incorrect. Microdot smudging that occur in thprinting.

• Multi-shot Technology: Incorimproves the tonal expressiondots sprayed from the print hechanges the size of dots on th

6. What is the printing system calhead’s main scanning directionimprove printing quality on plafollowing choices.

• Variable Shot Technology: Inthat improves the tonal expresprinted dots in accordance widirection.

• Microweave: Incorrect. Microdot smudging that occur in thprinting.

• Multi-shot Technology: Corre


In 80

7.

8.

9.

e IC chip that is mounted in the ink cartridge?

element inside the print head.

OM is an element on the main board where the

correctly describes handling of ink cartridges memory chip.

stall the ink cartridge any number of times up to the ate: Incorrect. If an ink cartridge that is not is removed in the ink sequence, then is reset and on amount saved in the EEPROM on the main ink cartridge that has been removed once is reset,

n the ink cartridge will not match the amount on the d in the EEPROM on the main board. As a result, the Ink END state even though there is physically e, but printing will continue and the condition ill occur.

ved, it is impossible to use it again: Correct.

ved, it can be removed and installed any number of exclusive box: Incorrect. If an ink cartridge that is

chip is removed in the ink sequence, then is reset mption amount saved in the EEPROM on the main ink cartridge that has been removed once is reset,

n the ink cartridge will not match the amount on the d in the EEPROM on the main board. As a result, the Ink END state even though there is physically e, but printing will continue and the condition ill occur.


If the ambient temperature around the print head becomes high, how is the head’s drive voltage changed. Select the correct answer from the following items.

• The head’s drive voltage becomes lower: Correct.

• The head’s drive voltage becomes higher: Incorrect. If the head drive voltage becomes high, it is when the head’s ambient temperature has become low. Due to the characteristics of ink, the ink’s viscosity increases when the temperature drops, so in order to spray the ink normally, the head drive voltage is controlled so that it increases.

Select two characteristics of pigment inks from among the following choices.

• Color rendition is good: Incorrect. Coloring characteristics are excellent in dye inks.

• It doesn’t blot easily: Correct.

• It has high light resistance: Correct.

• It has low water resistance: Incorrect. The pigments in pigment ink adhere to the surface of the paper and form a film, so it increases the water resistance.

Pigment ink was measured to have a light resistance of 200 years. Select the statement below that correctly describes the measuring environment.

• The data were measured outdoors under direct sunlight: Incorrect. Data were obtained by measurements taken in accelerated tests in which printed sheets were kept in picture frames under ordinary indoor fluorescent lights where they would not be exposed to direct sunlight.

• The data were measured under normal indoor fluorescent lighting without exposure to direct sunlight: Correct. Under this environment, the prints were stored in picture frames and the data were obtained through measurements in accelerated tests.

• The data were measured under a constant level of ultraviolet light in a special indoor environment: Incorrect. Data were obtained by measurements taken in accelerated tests in which printed sheets were kept in picture frames under ordinary indoor fluorescent lights where they would not be exposed to direct sunlight.

10. What is the general name for th

• CSIC: Correct.

• PZT: Incorrect. The PZT is an

• EPROM: Incorrect. The EPRcontrol program is written.

11. Select the statement below thatwhich are not equipped with a

• It is possible to remove and inoccurrence of the Ink END stequipped with a memory chipused again, the ink consumptiboard is reset. Therefore, if anthe remaining amount of ink iink consumption counter savethe printer will not recognize no more ink in the ink cartridgwhere no ink is sprayed out w

• Once an ink cartridge is remo

• Once an ink cartridge is remotimes as long as it is kept in annot equipped with a memory and used again, the ink consuboard is reset. Therefore, if anthe remaining amount of ink iink consumption counter savethe printer will not recognize no more ink in the ink cartridgwhere no ink is sprayed out w


In 81

12

13

14

e unit that fits tightly on the head surface and sucks of the pump unit? Select one from the following.

nit is the unit where the print head is mounted.

t. The waste ink pad unit holds the pads where ink d of.

lve mounted in the cap unit from among the

force: Incorrect.

cordance with the CR position. When the valve is the cap is released and through driving of the pump cked out and disposed of. When the valve is in the

ed inside the cap by the driving force of the pump d and the ink cartridge are sucked out and disposed

waste ink pad: Incorrect.

print head: Incorrect.

cordance with the CR position. When the valve is the cap is released and through driving of the pump cked out and disposed of. When the valve is in the

ed inside the cap by the driving force of the pump d and the ink cartridge are sucked out and disposed

unit are fitted tightly together, it controls the release state: Correct.

ters are equipped with an air valve. Is this statement

all the consumer-oriented models sold since the equipped with an air valve.


. If the yellow label on the ink cartridge has not been peeled off, what kind of phenomenon occurs? Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• Since the ink is not sucked up, either no ink at all is sprayed out, or gradually skipping of dots occurs and finally all the dots are skipped: Correct. If absolutely no ink is sprayed, this will occur during initial ink charge. Gradually, skipping of dots will occur, then finally, when all the dots are skipped, it will be time to replace the ink cartridges.

• Ink is sucked up, but skipping of dots continues to occur here and there: Incorrect. Ink is not sucked up. When the yellow label is removed. By peeling off the yellow label, the ink is caused to flow into the cavity.

• The ink’s viscosity rises and skipping of dots occurs: Incorrect. If the yellow label is not peeled off, the ink cartridge will be in the sealed state, and the ink’s viscosity will not rise.

. Give the general name for the IC chip on the main board where the ink cartridge’s consumption is stored. Select one from the following.

• EEPROM: Correct. Not only the amount of ink consumed, but also the other setting values and data are saved in the EEPROM.

• PROM: Incorrect. The EPROM is the element where the printer’s control program is written.

• CPU: Incorrect. The CPU is the element that executes control processing based on the control program inside the PROM.

• RAM: Incorrect. The RAM is the element used for buffering print and other data and image development.

. How is the Ink Low state detected in the stationary type ink cartridge? Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• The LOW detection lever on the ink cartridge side and the Ink LOW detection sensor on the printer side: Correct.

• It is detected by the software counter stored in the EEPROM on the main board: Incorrect. The stationary type ink cartridge can be removed any number of times up to the time the Ink LOW state is detected The Ink LOW detection lever in the ink cartridge and the Ink LOW detection sensor on the printer detect the Ink LOW state.

15. What is the general name for thout the ink by the driving force

• Cap Unit: Correct.

• CR Unit: Incorrect. The CR u

• Waste Ink Pad Unit: Incorrecand transport fluid are dispose

16. Select the function of the air vafollowing choices.

• Generates ink suction driving

The air valve opens and closes in acin the open state, the vacuum insideunit, only the ink inside the cap is suclosed state, a vacuum state is creatunit and the ink inside the print heaof.

• Valve which guides ink to the

• Fits the cap unit tightly on the

The air valve opens and closes in acin the open state, the vacuum insideunit, only the ink inside the cap is suclosed state, a vacuum state is creatunit and the ink inside the print heaof.

• When the print head and cap vacuum state and the vacuum

17. The cap units on all ink jet princorrect or incorrect?

• Incorrect: Correct.

• Correct: Incorrect. Practicallystart of the year 2000 are not


In 82

18

19

20

disposed of in the waste ink pads controlled? m among the following choices.

tational steps is counted in software and this count EEPROM. Also, when a flushing or other ount of ink sprayed is counted in software from

cy: Correct.

he waste ink pads is all disposed of through driving so ink spraying volume is counted in the software uency: Incorrect. The ink disposed of in the waste to the two following types.

flushing by driving the piezo-electric element.

iving the pump unit during initial ink charge / head

tor revolution steps is counted in software and . Also, when the flushing and other operations are

ed out is counted in software from the print head’s

ng the waste ink counter. Select two items from the

ntrol panel: Correct.

sive adjustment program: Correct.

/Off: Incorrect. Control of the waste ink counter s also be replaced as a set. Therefore, it is not reset performed by the user.

inter driver: Incorrect. Control of the waste ink e ink pads also be replaced as a set. Therefore, it is at can be performed by the user.

cerning the wiping operation from among the

rint head surface is scraped by the rubber right side orrect.

rint head surface is scraped by the felt left side of rrect. This operation is the rubbing operation.


. That is the outstanding function gained by equipping the printer with an exclusive pump motor as the driving force for the pump unit? Select two items from the following choices.

• Increase the paper feed speed: Correct.

• Ink absorption speed gets higher and the head cleaning operation ends in a short time: Incorrect. The ink suction speed is determined by the motor’s control, so even if an exclusive pump motor is used, the ink suction speed is not speeded up.

• Since there is no mechanism for switching between the paper feed and similar operations and pump operation, there is little possibility of banding occurring when switching pump motor operations, and print quality is excellent: Correct.

. What kind of construction does a head cleaner with a 2-layer construction have? Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• When viewed from the printer’s front side, the head cleaner is constructed so that the right side is made of rubber and the left side is made of felt material: Correct.

• When viewed from the printer’s front side, the head cleaner is constructed so that the right side is made of felt and the left side is made of rubber material: Incorrect. Viewed from the front of the printer, the right side of the cleaner blade is made of rubber and the left side is made of felt material.

. Give the name of the units incorporated into the head cleaner. Select one from the following.

• Pump Unit: Correct.

• Cap Unit: Incorrect. Since the head cleaner operates in linkage with the direction of rotation of the pump unit (cleaner set / cleaner reset), it is incorporated inside the pump unit.

• Head Cleaner Unit: Incorrect. Since the head cleaner operates in linkage with the direction of rotation of the pump unit (cleaner set / cleaner reset), it is incorporated inside the pump unit.

21. How is the amount of waste inkSelect the correct statement fro

• The number of pump motor rois stored and controlled in theoperation is performed, the amthe print head’s drive frequen

• The waste ink disposed of in tof the piezo-electric element, from only the head drive freqink pads is roughly divided in

• The ink that is sprayed during

• The ink that is expelled by drcleaning, etc.

Therefore, the number of pump mosaved and controlled in the EEPROMperformed, the amount of ink spraydrive frequency.

22. Describe the method for resettifollowing.

• Special operation from the co

• Reset function using the exclu

• Turning the power switch Onrequires that the waste ink padwith this operation that can be

• Special operation from the prcounter requires that the wastnot reset with this operation th

23. Select the correct statement conchoices below.

• It is an operation where the pof the head cleaner’s blade: C

• It is an operation where the pthe head cleaner’s blade: Inco


In 83

24

25

ThontheEEne

26

Thfir

rom the CR unit at any time except during the ink ter model which does not support ink cartridges e type), then a new ink cartridge is installed, at r due to air bubbles mixed in the ink, but finally, rs? Select the correct statement from among the

state exists, the printer will not sense the Ink End of dots will occur: Incorrect.

ed with a memory chip is removed in the ink umption amount stored in the EEPROM on the ink cartridge is removed at a time other than during nce, the ink consumption counter in the EEPROM ew ink cartridge is set with the printer in that state,

new ink cartridge has been set, and the ink LOW / sed on the consumption counter set for the previous

e will be displayed when there is still enough ink

matching will not occur, and printing will be t. If an ink cartridge that is not equipped with a e ink replacement sequence, the ink consumption on the main board is reset. Therefore, if an ink

other than during the ink cartridge replacement n counter in the EEPROM on the main board is not set with the printer in that state, the printer will not idge has been set, and the ink LOW / END sed on the consumption counter set for the previous


. What is the operation in which the head is filled with ink called after the printer is purchased? Select the correct operation name from among the following choices.

• Initial ink charge Operation: Correct.

• Ink Replacement Operation: Incorrect. This is the operation performed when replacing an ink cartridge.

• Manual Cleaning Operation: Incorrect. This is the operation that is carried out willfully by the user when cleaning the surface of the print head or when expelling the ink that is inside the print head.

. If the power is turned off during the initial ink charge operation, which of the following operations is performed when the power is turned on again?

• It starts the initial ink charge operation from the part where the power was turned off the previous time: Incorrect. The initial ink charge operation is started automatically when the power is first turned on based on the flag set in a specific address in the EEPROM and at the point when all the operations in the initial ink charge operation sequence are completed, the flag in the EEPROM is reset. Therefore, if the power is turned OFF during initial ink charge, the next time the power is turned ON, the operation will start from the beginning.

• It starts the initial ink charge operation from the beginning without relation to where the operation was when the printer was turned off the previous time: Correct.

• It does not perform the initial ink charge operation the second time: Incorrect.

e initial ink charge operation is started automatically when the power is first turned based on the flag set in a specific address in the EEPROM and at the point when all operations in the initial ink charge operation sequence are completed, the flag in the PROM is reset. Therefore, if the power is turned OFF during initial ink charge, the

xt time the power is turned ON, the operation will start from the beginning.

. Is the amount of ink that is actually effectively used from the 1st ink cartridge the same as the effective amount of ink used form the 2nd ink cartridge, or not?

• The same: Incorrect. With the first ink cartridge, the initial ink charge operation is performed, so a large amount of ink is consumed.

erefore, the amount of ink that is effectively used in actual printing is smaller for the st ink cartridge than for the second ink cartridge.

• Different: Correct.

27. If an ink cartridge is removed freplacement sequence in a prinwith a memory chip (on-carriagfirst, skipping of dots will occuwhat kind of phenomenon occuchoices below.

• Even if the physical Ink ENDstate and as a result, skipping

If an ink cartridge that is not equippreplacement sequence, the ink consmain board is reset. Therefore, if anthe ink cartridge replacement sequeon the main board is not reset. If a nthe printer will not recognize that aEND messages will be displayed baink cartridge.

• The Ink LOW / END messagleft: Correct.

• Ink consumption counter misconducted normally: Incorrecmemory chip is removed in thamount stored in the EEPROMcartridge is removed at a timesequence, the ink consumptioreset. If a new ink cartridge isrecognize that a new ink cartrmessages will be displayed baink cartridge.


In 84

28

29

e EEPROM remains during execution of the ink next time the power is turned ON, the ink executed from the start based on this flag in the

erform initial ink charge, the ink cartridge ual cleaning? Select the correct power source from

it - cap unit: Correct.

orrect. The initial ink charge and ink cartridge anual cleaning, are carried out by operation of the e pump motor, and ink is sucked out of the print

h the vacuum generated between the cap unit and

leaning modes are there in manual cleaning? Select following choices.

of the models sold prior to 1998 had 4 cleaning L3, and many of the models sold since 1999 have

and CL2.

of the models sold prior to 1998 had 4 cleaning L3, and many of the models sold since 1999 have

and CL2.

tween the CL1’ and CL2 manual cleaning modes? om among the following choices.

are performed, but in CL2, only rubbing is , rubbing is not performed, but in CL2, both wiping

med, but in CL2, wiping and rubbing are both


. If the ink cartridge in a printer model which does not support ink cartridges with a memory chip (on-carriage type) is removed during the ink replacement sequence, then is set again and used, what kind of phenomena will occur? Select the correct statement from among the choices below.

• The printer will enter the Ink END state without the Ink LOW / END message being displayed. Therefore, skipping of dots will gradually occur, then finally, nothing will be printed at all: Correct.

• There will be no particular problem: Incorrect. The ink consumption counter is reset at the point when the ink cartridge is removed during the ink replacement sequence. Therefore, if an old ink cartridge is set in place of a new ink cartridge, there will be a mismatch between the amount registered in the ink consumption counter and the actual physical amount of ink in the ink cartridge, and the Ink END state will occur without the Ink LOW / END message being displayed.

• The Ink LOW / END message will be displayed when there is still enough ink left: Incorrect. The ink consumption counter is reset at the point when the ink cartridge is removed during the ink replacement sequence. Therefore, if an old ink cartridge is set in place of a new ink cartridge, there will be a mismatch between the amount registered in the ink consumption counter and the actual physical amount of ink in the ink cartridge, and the Ink END state will occur without the Ink LOW / END message being displayed.

. If the power is turned off during execution of the ink cartridge replacement sequence, what operation is executed when the power is turned on again? Select the correct statement from among the choices below.

• Ink replacement cleaning will be performed from the first: Correct.

• When the power is turned on the next time, ink replacement cleaning will not be performed: Incorrect. When the ink replacement sequence starts, a flag is set in a specific address in the EEPROM on the main board, and at the point when all the operations in the sequence are completed, the flag is reset. Therefore, if the power is turned off during execution of the sequence, the flag in the EEPROM remains during execution of the ink replacement sequence and the next time the power is turned ON, the ink replacement sequence will be executed from the start based on this flag in the EEPROM.

• When the power is turned on the next time, the sequence will commence from the point where the power was turned off previously: Incorrect. When the ink replacement sequence starts, a flag is set in a specific address in the EEPROM on the main board, and at the point when all the operations in the sequence are completed, the flag is reset. Therefore, if the power is turned off during execution

of the sequence, the flag in threplacement sequence and thereplacement sequence will beEEPROM.

30. What driving force is used to preplacement sequence and manthe following two choices.

• Suction force via the pump un

• Driving of the print head: Increplacement sequences, and mpump with drive force from thhead and ink cartridge througthe print head.

31. How many ordinary different cthe correct statement from the

• 1 to 2 types: Incorrect. Many modes, CL1, CL1’, CL2 and C3 cleaning modes, CL1, CL1’

• 5 to 6 types: Incorrect. Many modes, CL1, CL1’, CL2 and C3 cleaning modes, CL1, CL1’

• 3 to 4 types: Correct.

32. What is the major difference beSelect the correct description fr

• In CL1’, wiping and rubbing performed: Incorrect. In CL1’and rubbing are performed.

• In CL1’, rubbing is not perforperformed: Correct.


In 85

33

34

35

the reason why metallic star rollers are used for the following choices.

nted is fed out of the printer, parts where the ink is rollers and this type of roller prevents the ink from paper: Correct.

paper feed accuracy when the paper is ejected: ve paper feed accuracy, then accuracy is improved These start wheel rollers are used for the purpose of a that comes in contact with the printed surface at nd thus preventing the transfer of ink to the rollers.

aning sheet. Select the correct description from

ering to the surfaces of rollers along the paper path: used for the rubber rollers in the paper feed path.

ering to the print head surface: Incorrect.

s done by the cleaner blade mounted on the pump

t adhering to the surface of the metallic PF roller: r the metallic PF roller. If the adhesive surface of eet is run through the printer, it could possibly peel g on the PF roller. Therefore, the method of h a soft hair brush is recommended.


. In U-CHIPS / G-MACH heads, if manual cleaning is done without performing any printing or other nozzle check between manual cleaning operations, what kind of manual cleaning is performed?

• CL1 is always performed: Correct.

• CL3 is always performed: Incorrect. Running of CL3 is done in printers equipped with E-CHIPS system print heads. In models equipped with the U-CHIPS and G-MACH system print heads which became the mainstream print heads from 1999, there is no CL3 mode, and the cleaning mode which has the smallest ink consumption, CL1, is performed.

• CL2 is always performed: Incorrect. Under this condition, there are no printer models that run CL2. In models equipped with the U-CHIPS / G-MACH system print heads, CL1 is performed and in models equipped with the E-CHIPS system print heads, CL3 is performed.

. In printer models with a 1-head / 1-cap configuration, if manual cleaning is performed, ink is consumed from both the black and color ink cartridges. Is this statement correct or incorrect?

• Correct: Correct.

• Incorrect: Incorrect. In models with the 1-head / 1-cap construction, the black and color nozzle arrays are arranged on the same head and there is only one cap, so when manual cleaning is performed, ink is sucked from both the black and color nozzle arrays.

. Describe the features of PF rollers used in the latest ink jet printer paper feed mechanisms. Select two correct statements from among the choices below.

• Rubber roller: Incorrect. All the ink jet printers sold in recent years use the metallic rollers.

• It is easily influenced by thermal expansion and its wear resistance is low: Since the metallic rollers have been used in ink jet printers sold in recent years, they are not easily influenced by thermal expansion, and their durability with respect to wear has become high.

• The metallic roller is coated with a special ceramic powder coating: Correct.

• It is not easily influenced by thermal expansion and its durability against wear is high: Correct.

36. Select the correct statement of paper eject rollers from among

• When paper that has been pristill not dry transfer ink to thebeing transferred again to the

• They are used to improve theIncorrect. If we want to improby using plain shaped rollers. reducing the roller surface arethe time the paper is ejected, a

37. Describe the function of the cleamong the following choices.

• It removes the paper dust adhCorrect. The cleaning sheet is

• It removes foreign matter adh

Cleaning of the print head surface iunit.

• It is used to remove paper dusIncorrect. It cannot be used fothe metallic roller cleaning shoff the special ceramic coatinbrushing the roller lightly wit


In 86

38

39

d, if it is impossible to read the backup data from , indicate which units need to be replaced at the ts from among the following choices.

t head’s head ID is also saved in the EEPROM on ain board is replaced, there is no problem if the

ffixed to the print head is written to the EEPROM he amount of ink consumed in the ink cartridge

n the waste ink pads are reset when the main board sary to replace these when the main board is

ation related to the panel board is not normally mount of ink consumed in the ink cartridge and the ste ink pads are reset when the main board is y to replace these when the main board is replaced.


. If the media set by the printer driver and the media that is actually set in the printer differ from each other, what kind of phenomena occurs? Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• A discrepancy will exist between the amount of ink delivered and the ink absorption capacity of the media, and print quality will drop markedly. (There will be either white streaks or the ink will blot.): Correct.

• Printing cannot be done: Incorrect. Printing can be done, but a discrepancy exists between the amount of ink delivered, which is decided automatically in accordance with the media setting in the printer driver and the ink absorbing capacity of the media, causing the print quality to drop markedly. (Either there will be white streaks or the ink will blot.)

• There will not be any particular drop in print quality: Incorrect. A discrepancy exists between the amount of ink delivered, which is decided automatically in accordance with the media setting in the printer driver and the ink absorbing capacity of the media, causing the print quality to drop markedly. (Either there will be white streaks or the ink will blot.)

. Describe the role of the supplementary sheet packed with the exclusive media. Select the correct description from among the following choices.

• It increases the rigidity of the exclusive paper package and prevents the paper from being folded: Incorrect. This sheet is packed with the paper for the purpose of improving the paper feed characteristics of the last sheet in the ASF unit or the last sheet in the paper cassette.

• It improves the paper feed performance of the last sheet set in the ASF unit or in the paper cassette: Correct.

• It is set in the stacker and improves the paper eject characteristics after the paper is printed on: Incorrect. This sheet is packed with the paper for the purpose of improving the paper feed characteristics of the last sheet in the ASF unit or the last sheet in the paper cassette.

40. When the main board is replacethe EEPROM on the old boardsame time. Select 2 correct uni

• Ink cartridge: Correct.

• Waste ink pads: Correct.

• Print head: Incorrect. The printhe main board, but after the mhead ID printed on the label afrom the exclusive program. Tand the amount of waste ink iis replaced, so it is also necesreplaced.

• Panel Board: Incorrect. Informsaved in the EEPROM. The aamount of waste ink in the wareplaced, so it is also necessar

C H A P T E R

3GE PRINTERS
PA


P 88

3.Unan

Alus

FE

Pa

age Printers Outline

1 Outlinelike IJ and SIDM printers, a page printer is called a page printer because it prints out

entire page from top to bottom in one operation.

so, there are two types of page printer, which differ according to the exposure system ed, either laser or LED. Epson page printers are all laser printers.

ATURES OF PAGE PRINTERS

ge printers have the following features.

Advantages

Their printing speed is fast.

There is no bleeding of printed images as in an ink jet printer, and high quality printing can be obtained (black text printing).

They are quiet during printing operations.

Exclusive paper is not necessary as with ink jet printers, and it is possible to print stably on various types of paper.

Disadvantages

Generally, the control circuits and mechanical parts are complex, so they are more expensive than other types of printer.

Consumables (toner) are high in cost.

Special safety precautions are necessary because most of these printers use laser systems.


P 89

3.A

rinter is shown in the following figure.

age Printer Configuration

Cleaning Blade

Cartridgee

Transfer Roller Developer Cylinder

Toner

Paper Feed Roller

Approx. 10 µm

Magnetic Particle• Polyester Resin

age Printers Basic Configuration of Page Printers

2 Basic Configuration of Page Printerspage printer is basically configured from the following components.

Toner: This is dry ink, a hardened powder made up of magnetic particles and polyester resin.

Print Head: This unit has the laser light emitter, or deflecting system (polygonal mirror) and a reflector lens, etc. built into it.

Photosensitive Drum (OPC Drum): This is the heart of the mechanism. It is a cylinder with a diameter of several centimeter. Its surface is charged with static electricity and toner adheres to it in the form of characters and images.

Transfer Mechanism: The force of static electricity attracts the toner from the surface of the photosensitive drum to the paper, transferring it there.

Controller: In accordance with commands sent from the personal computer, text or graphics dot patterns are generated and these are transferred to the printer mechanism and printing is carried out.

Fixer: This mechanism has heat rollers or pressure rollers built into it which fuse the toner and fixed it to the paper.

Paper Feed and Eject Mechanism: This mechanism consists of paper feed rollers, paper eject rollers, etc. which accomplish paper pickup, transport and delivery.

Other Electrical Components: Low voltage power supply board, high voltage power supply board, etc.

Drive Mechanism: Various motors, solenoids

Various Safety Switches and Sensors

Outer Case

The basic configuration of a page p

Figure 3-1. P

Laser light sourc

Electrifier

Refective MirrorPolygonal Mirror

Fixer Roller

Controller

Discharger

Lens


P 90

3.ToThin

Detw“D

Alduea

Ta

for each coloring agent.

oloring Agents in Colors

C

R

C

EA

EA

Coloring Agent

e

nadon base or Carmine 6B base

yanine base pigment.

age Printers Toner

3 Tonerner is dry ink, a powder made up of magnetic particles and hardened polyester resin. e diameter of these particles is approximately 5~20 µm. Ordinarily, toner is placed toner cartridges.

pending on the development method, there are two types of toner, one part toner and o part toner. Thisis due to difference in the development methods. For details, see evelopment Process” on page 96

so, the toners used in color page printers have a basic configuration that is different e to the coloring involved. Fig. 3.2 shows the configuration. Also, the function of ch ingredient in toner is shown in Table 3-1.

Figure 3-2. Basic Configuration of Color Toners

ble 3-1. Configuration of Color Toners and Functions of its Ingredients

Table 3-2. shows the materials used

Table 3-2. C

onstituent Chemical Proportion of Total Functions

esin 80 - 90%Binding characteristics, thermal characteristics, electrostatic charge characteristics under friction.

oloring agent 5 - 15% Coloration, electrostatic charge characteristics under friction.

lectrostatic Control gent 1 - 5% Electrostatic charge characteristics under

friction

xternal Processing gent 0 - 5% Fluidity, electrostatic charge characteristics

under friction

Coloring Agent

Electrostatic Charge Control Agent (CCA)

Resin

External Processing Agent

5-15µm

Color

Yellow Azo; Bas

Magenta Quinacri

Cyan Phthaloc


P 91

3.Fois

Thelethema

Asfig

3-3. Printing Process

below.

Exposure

Toner

Development

Media

Transfer rollerTransfer

ification

age Printers Printing Process

4 Printing Processr the printing process in a page printer, the eletrophotographic method is used. This the same printing method used in the photo-copy machines.

e electrophotographic process uses photoconductive development to form an ctrostatically charged image (static electric latent image) on a photosensitive drum, n attract minute electrostatic particles (toner) to that static electric latent image and ke it a visible image.

the representative system using the electrophotographic process in the following ure shows, this process consists of five processes listed below.

Chargeing Process

Exposure Process

Development Process

Image Transfer Process

Fusing Process Figure

Each process is explained in detail

fusing

Cleaning

OPC drum

Charging roller

Electr


P 92

3.Chtheits

Thnoele

ication unit is always in contact with the drum and e bias charge roller is a conductive elastic unit, so if negative electric charge builds up on the surface of 0 V).

e roller is always in direct contact with the there is a pinhole or other defect in the ll concentrate there and cause the breakdown of the iency of the cleaner in the cleaning process that photosensitive drum is dirty from toner, the a result, defects will show up in the printing spaces. Therefore, if the photosensitive drum is printer, sufficient caution is necessary to prevent cratches on it.

ntact electrification method is to use an charge roller.

ation methods, corona discharge (corotron method that is used the most. In that case, charge wires (40 to apply an electric charge to the surface of the

owever, this method generates a lot of ozone and

s the method whereby a sharp pointed wire or voltage applied to it then a discharge can be y a bluish white light around the sharp tip of


4.1 Charging Processarging process is the process of causing a high voltage electric current to flow near photosensitive drum (OPC drum) and store a negative electric charge uniformly on

surface.

ere are two electrification methods, the normal contact electrification and the ncontact electrification. Fig. 3-4 shows an image made using the contact ctrification method.

Figure 3-4. Outline of Contact Electrification

The bias charge roller of the electriffollows the rotation of the drum. Tha negative high voltage is applied, athe photosensitive drum (approx. 70

This system, because the bias chargphotosensitive drum, means that if photosensitive drum, the current wiphotosensitive drum. Also, the efficfollows after will be poor and if theelectrostatic potential may drop. Asresults, such as black spots or blankremoved from and reinstalled in thedirt from adhering to it or causing s

Another means of employing the coelectrostatic brush in place of a bias

In the case of a noncontact electrificor scorotron method) is the method ~ 100 µ m tungsten wires) are usedphotosensitive drum by discharge. His not used in recent years.

Drum Surface

Drum

BCR

Negative Electric ChargePositive Electric Charge

Photoconductor

Potential on the Drum

HVPS

DC

� � � � �

� � � �

Corona discharge ithin wire has a highseen accompanied bthe wire.


P 93

3.Exus

Ththeofwhsp(se

Thpr

ally be in the form of a sheet, a belt or a drum, and test elements have a body made of metal, with a miconductor called OPC (Organic Photo in the form of a drum. Therefore, there are many drum is called an OPC drum.

the photosensitive drum is an insulating body, so it er, by exposing it to light, the resistance of area drops lose their electric charge. As a result, an which cannot be seen visually but which is e of an electric charge is formed (see Fig. 3-6)

surface is formed by eliminating the static electric is called “Negative latent image”. On the other inating the charge at non-image area, it is called

.

Static Electric Latent Image and Surface e Photosensitive Drum.

OPC Laser Light

Beam

Electric t Image

Potential on the Drum (Laser Beams)


4.2 Exposure Processposure is the creation of a static electric latent image on the photosensitive drum ing light output from the print head in accordance with the print data.

ere are two exposure methods, the laser beam method and the LED method. Just as name implies, the former uses a semiconductor laser light to scan over the surface

the photosensitive drum and expose it (see Figure 3-7). the latter uses a LED array ich contains rows of several thousand ultra-small LED’s (light emitting diode)

aced at intervals of less than 0.1 mm which expose the photosensitive drum directly e Fig. 3-5).

Figure 3-5. LED System Exposure Mechanism

e reason why page printers are recognized as laser printers is because most page inters use the laser beam system these days.

Photosensitive Drum

The photosensitive element can actuis made of various materials, The lacoating about 15~20 nm thick of seConductor) on the surface, and are instances where the photosensitive

In the ordinary state, the surface of can store an electric charge. Howevwhere have been hit by laser beam,image (static electric latent image) expressed by the presence or absenc

In this process, if the image on drumcharge by laser beam exposure, thishand, if the image is formed by elim“Positive latent image”.

Figure 3-6. Formation of theState of th

Circuit Board

LED Array

Rod Lens Array

Photosensitive Drum

Enlargement

OPCOPC Drum

Light

StaticLaten

Drum Surface


P 94

3.Anfo Tpo Tbybetheby

at a time, it is necessary to scan repeatedly while

printing an image, the following controls are

al Scanning Direction)

gnal, the polygonal motor and main motor (paper feed operation starts.

of paper that has been fed into the printer causes (TOD Signal), after a predetermined period of time nt to the print head by the main control circuit and

ting from one sweep to the next sweep is caused to the video signal sending time.

zontal Scanning Direction)

ght emission timing for each main scanning sweep, nted on the laser diode control board.


4.2.1 Laser System Exposure example of the laser system exposure mechanism (print head) is shown in the

llowing figure. he print head consists of the laser diode (exciter), polygonal motor control board, lygonal mirrors, toric lens, etc.he laser beam used to expose the photosensitive drum is subjected to On/Off control the control circuit board and light shines from the print head’s laser diode. The laser am is caused to sweep in the main scanning direction of the photosensitive drum by polygonal mirror mounted on the polygonal motor. The polygonal motor is driven the polygonal motor control board mounted on the print head.

Figure 3-7. Laser System Exposure Mechanism

LASER BEAM SCANNING

Since a laser beam scans only 1 linerotating the photosensitive drum.

In order to determine the timing forimplemented.

Sub Scanning Direction (Vertic

1. If the printer receives a print sifeed motor) turn and the paper

2. When the top edge of the sheetthe paper feed sensor to go ONhas passed, a video signal is seprinting starts.

3. The writing position when shifmove downward by a delay in

Main Scanning Direction (Hori

In order to systematize the laser’s lia SOS (Start of Scan) sensor is mou

Mirror

Mirror

Cylindrical Lens

Light Sensor

Focal Point Lens (F •@ Lens)

Polygonal Mirror

Toric Lens


P 95

CO

If irrnoan

Th

Aldean

(2beThwhlenhoco

(3leIf copainc

(1suThstrstrph


RRECTION OF SURFACE IRREGULARITIES

there is even the slightest angularity in the surface of the polygonal mirrors (surface egularities), the laser beam will diverge either up or down from its course and will t be linked with the correct focal point on the photosensitive drum. A cylindrical lens d toric lens are used to correct for such surface irregularities.

e following figure shows the corrected image.

Figure 3-8. Correcting for Surface Irregularities

so, since the output of the laser beam has the characteristic of changing greatly pending on the temperature, it is necessary to monitor the laser output at all times d control it so that it is stable.

Cylindrical Lens Toric Lens Focal Point Lens

Mirror Surface

) If the mirror surface is nte beam’s course deviates, but en it passes through the toric s, it is bent back to the rizontal and connects with the rrect focal point.

) If there is no corrective nsthe beam deviates from its urse, it continues along that th and strikes the drum at an orrect position.

) If the mirror surface is perimposed.e laser beam is reflected aight by the mirror surface and ikes the center of the otosensitive drum.


P 96

3.Deonthu

Thfutraele

WpotheAsdr

Deme

Orsy

Thde

s of the Dry Development System

r, it is necessary to have another ingredient called a le of this. In this case, it is necessary to have an toner and carrier uniformly as well as a control oncentration so that it will be uniform.

ample of a 2-part Developer

ED

2-part Development

1-part Development

Magnetic Development

Non-magnetic Development

ty ∆ ∆

∆

∆

∆

s ×

Toner Supply

Toner HopperDensity Sensor

oper

ion ScrewsAgitation Blades


4.3 Development Processvelopment is the process of causing toner to adhere to the static electric latent image the photosensitive drum which was created by exposure, through the field effect, s creating a toner image.

at is, the process that makes a visible image is a development process. the basic nction of the developer in the development process are 1, to charge the toner, 2 to nsport the paper to the development process and 3, to fuse the toner of the ctrostatically charged latent image to the paper.

hen the toner is charged and brought near the photosensitive drum, the charged rtions of the photosensitive drum react by repelling the toner, while it is adsorbed on portions only which have been exposed to light and have lost their electrical charge. a result, the shapes of an image are formed on the surface of the photosensitive

um.

velopment methods can concretely be divided into two types, the dry development thod and the wet development method, as shown in Fig. 3-10.

Figure 3-9. Classification of Development Methods

iginally, the wet development system was developed, but the dry development stem came to be used widely because of easy handling and maintenance.

e features of the two types of dry development, 2-part development and 1-part velopment, are shown in the following table.

Table 3-3. Feature

In 2-part development, besides tonecarrier. Fig. 3-11 shows one exampagitation mechanism that mixes themechanism that controls the toner c

Figure 3-10. Ex

lectrophotographic evelopment System

Dry Development System

Wet Development System

Two-part Development

One-part Development

Magnetic

Non-magnetic

Magnetic

Non-magnetic

Contact

Non-contact

Contact

Non-contact

Development System

Development System & Stability

Electrostatic Charge Stabili

Transport Stability

Running Cost

Developer Handling Characteristics

Compactness, Simplicity

Compatibility with Color Print System

Flow of Devel

Photosensitive Drum

Development Roller

Agitat


P 97

Onmadematra

In(totonad

Homaso

Alde

Aldrmo

e, and it became useless once filled toner rans out. artridge also used in Epson page printers that the idual unit; one containing OPC drum, charger and one is toner cartridge. So that operational cost can


the other hand, in the case of 1-part development, there are two systems, the gnetic development and nonmagnetic development systems. In magnetic

velopment, it is necessary for magnetic particles to be mixed in the toner. This gnetic materials hinders the toner’s coloration (it eliminates the toner’s nsparency).

the case of 1-part nonmagnetic development, as shown in Fig. 3-12, the developer ner cartridge) is configured from the toner replenishment roller that transports the er to the development roller and the development roller that causes the toner to

here to the OPC drum, so it is outstanding in its compactness and simplicity.

Figure 3-11. Outline of One Part Nonmagnetic Development

wever, when it comes to applying a stable electrostatic charge to the toner, and intain the toner’s transport stability, this method is inferior to the other methods, so

me special design related measures are necessary.

most all of EPSON’s single color page printers use the 1-part nonmagnetic velopment system.

so, there are many cases in the low end page printer market where the photosensitive um and toner cartridge are integrated into shingle cartridge, which makes the printer re compact. However, the life of single all-in-one cartridge is denpendent of the

amount of toner filled in the cartridgTherefore, there is another type of ccartridge is separated into two indivdeveloper mechanism, and another be minimized.

Toner cartridgeToner

Toner replenishment roller

Development roller

OPC drum


P 98

3.Trthe

Thponech

Tr

Amdis

a transfer and roller transfer.

-13. Transfer Outline

harge device is the same as an electrostatic charge e paper used to create a corona discharge by giving s the opposite in polarity of the electric charge on be absorbed through static electricity to the paper ry to have a mechanism for removing the ensitive drum so that the paper will separate from

oller method)

er transfer, a conductive roller applies voltage using toner to be transferred to the paper. Since the and the transfer roller at all times during printing, lso, there is practically no ozone generated with

n corona discharge transfer, so the transfer roller d used at present.

Toner

ctrostatic Charger Transfer Roller

Toner OPC Drum

<Transfer Roller Method>


4.4 Transfer Processansfer means that toner images on the photosensitive drum which have been made in "development" are transferred to the paper.

at is, if the paper is brought into close contact with the photosensitive drum and the sitive electrostatic charge is brought about from the back side of the paper, the gatively charged toner is attracted in the pattern of an alligator’s jaws, shifting the arged particles.

ansfer methods can be divided as shown below.

Figure 3-12. Classification of Transfer Methods

ong these methods, the most widely used electrostatic transfer methods are corona charge, conductive rollers and belts.

Fig. 3-14 shows an outline of coron

Figure 3

Corona Transfer Method

The construction of the corona discdevice, with wires, etc. in back of ththe paper an electric charge which ithe toner, which causes the toner toside. After the transfer, it is necessaelectrostatic charge from the photosit.

Roller Transfer Method (Bias r

In place of corona discharge, in rolldirectly to the back of the paper, capaper is pinched between the drum so there is little transfer deviation. Athe roller transfer method like that imethod is the most common metho

Transfer Method

Electrostatic Transfer Method

Pressure Transfer Method

Adhesive Transfer Method

Corona Transfer Method

Roller Transfer Method

Belt Transfer Method

OPC Drum

Paper

Corona Ele

<Corona Transfer Method>


P 99

3.Afso

Ta

Frmehapapaab Othe

tline of the Fixer Mechanism

ally placed heater lamp (150 ~ 200 degrees) which

ion of the thermistor or control circuit fails, the utomatically for safety’s sake if the temperature of power to the heater lamp and protecting the ontacts of the thermostat recover automatically.

ion of the thermistor or control circuit fails, the ake if the temperature reaches the set temperature,

and protecting the fixer. If the thermal fuse lace it.

N

Heat lamp

Thermistor, Thermostat, Thermal fuse, etc.

Toner

Pressurization roller


4.5 Fusing Processter "Transfer," the toner transferred to the paper is fused to the paper using pressure, lvent, or other actions.

ble 3-4 shows each type of fusing method.

Table 3-4. Features of Each fusing Method

om the features of the above fusing methods, at present, the most widely used thod is the heat roller method. This method uses heat rollers that are heated by a

logen lamp heater combined with pressurization rollers. Paper with toner on it is ssed through these rollers, and the toner is fused and becomes bonded tightly to the per. The surface of the heat rollers is coated with teflon or other resin to increase its ility to separate from the toner.rdinarily, the fixer unit is configured from heat rollers (with built-in heater lamp), a rmistor / temperature fuse, cleaning pad, separation pawl and pressurization rollers.

Figure 3-14. Ou

Heat Roller

The heat roller is heated by an internfuses the toner on the paper.

Thermistor

Monitors the fusing temperature.

Thermostat

If the temperature adjustment functcontacts of the thermostat go OFF areaches the set temperature, cuttingfixer. If the temperature drops, the c

Thermal Fuse

If the temperature adjustment functthermal fuse burns out for safety’s scutting of power to the heater lampfunctions once, it is necessary to rep

fusing Method Merits Demerits

Contact Heating

Type

Heat Roller

• Thermal efficiency is high (60~80%).

• Safety level is high.• Its high speed and compactness

are advantageous.

• Warmup time is long• It is easy for wrinkles and

curling to occur.• Product life is short.

SURF• Click start is possible.• Low rated power• Saves energy.

• Its construction and assembly are complex.

• There are a lot of parts.• Belt tensioning control is

necessary.

oncontact Heating

TypeFlash

• Warmup time is short.• Safety level is high.• Product life is long.

• Thermal efficiency is low (30~40%).

• Parts costs are high.• It requires a large amount of

space.

Pressure Pressure Rollers

• Click start is possible.• A heat source is not necessary.• Construction is simple.

• fusing characteristics are poor.• Images tend to be glossy.• Drive torque is great.

Paper

Separator Pawl

Fixer roller

Cleaning pad


P 100

Ifto

Th

Thfro

Thrusid

I oim

3.If woustimtherem

Tcoan

re 3-15. Cleaning

us item is the process of removing the remaining e not only there is toner remaining but also the

r, a mechanism that shines light on, and thus ning on the photosensitive drum completely, is l modern printers use an electrically charged roller, ns from the previous process, the drum can be

um

Toner

To Fixer

Paper Feed Path


an excessive current flows all of a sudden, the thermostat cannot respond instantly, the thermal fuse responds.

Cleaning Pad

is cleans the surface of the fixer roller.

Separator Pawl

is prevents the paper from wrapping around the fixer roller (it prevents the paper m jamming inside the fixer).

Pressurization Roller

is supports the paper. A metallic core is covered with a heat hardened silicone bber, etc. and a nip is created by its being pressed against the heat roller on the top e.

rder to assure fusing quality (fusing strength), the following parameters are portant fusing mechanism and control points.

Roller Temperature: Heating of the toner layer.

Contact Heating Time: Time it takes for the toner layer to pass through the nip.

Contact Pressure: Improvement of the toner layer’s thermal conductivity and fluidization assistance through smashing down of the toner.

4.6 Cleaning the toner on the OPC drum was transferred completely to the paper, then there uld be no problem, but some of the toner remains on the drum. If it continues to be

ed while in this condition, when the electrostatic charge process is performed next e, a faint remnant (ghost) of the image on the previous page will be carried over to new page and print quality will deteriorate. The cleaning process removes this aining toner from the OPC drum.

he remaining toner is scraped off the OPC drum’s surface by a resin blade that makes ntact with the drum. In some cases the waste toner is stored in the waste toner box d in some cases it is reused.

Figu

3.4.7 Pre-exposureThe cleaning described in the preciotoner only, but there are cases wherelectrostatic image remains.

In this case, depending on the printeremoves the electrical charge remaiprovided. However, since almost aleven if an electrostatic image remaicleanly charged.

OPC Dr

Blade

Waste Toner


P 101

3.

3.ThpoexLP

3.Thtim

Papa

3.Pado

Thofarr

Ththetheap

Inpa

. Outline of Mechanism

Paper feed roller

2nd paper feed roller

Lower cassette

Eject roller (F/D)

Backup roller

Heat roller

Charging roller

Transfer roller

OPC drum

Toner feed roller

Sleeve roller

age Printers Mechanism Operating Theory

5 Mechanism Operating Theory

5.1 Outline of Mechanisme page printer mechanism is configured from a main motor which generates drive wer to feed paper through the printing process, and various rollers and gears. An ample is shown in Fig. 3-17, which shows an outline of the mechanism used in the -1800 / LP-800.

5.2 Paper Pathere are two paper feed methods, the paper tray and manual paper feed (1 sheet at a e), and it is possible to add an optional lower cassette.

per fed by the paper feed roller is transported tot he transfer roller -> Fixer roller -> per eject roller, and ejected into the paper eject tray.

5.3 Paper Ejectionper that has passed through the printing unit is ejected either face up (F/U) or face wn (F/D).

Face Down Paper Ejection

e paper is ejected with the printed side face down, and with each sheet ejected on top the sheet ejected previously. The pages are printed in continuous order and page angement is easy.

Fact Up Paper Ejection

e paper is ejected with the printed side face up, and the sheets are ejected on top of sheets ejected previously. When the paper is ejected, the paper path subsequent to fixer is virtually a straight path and there is little resistance, so this method is

propriate for printing thick paper and OHP film.

an ordinary printer mechanism, the face down paper path is longer than the face up per path, so from the viewpoint of throughput speed, face down is slower.

Figure 3-16

Engage gear

Main motor

Eject roller (F/U)


P 102

3.Th

Th

Thhoenou

Inpabo

Thcofo

NO

Thancir

ard (HVPS)

the electrification rollers and print head as well as r the electrification, development, transfer and

Each Sensoruse laser beams and it is necessary to pay deep sers.

n is such that if the user is removing paper jams or en they open the top cover or the front cover, etc., a itch, operates, cutting off the supply of power to from laser beams.

normally, the page printer uses sensors, actuators lowing items at all times and control them.

paper remaining, paper size.

unt of toner remaining.

artridges.

it, transport unit, paper eject unit, etc.

itive drum.

idity.

.

age Printers Electric Components

6 Electric Componentse electric components of a page printer basically consist of the following units.

Main Board

is board serves the role of overall control of the printer.

is board processes print commands and print data received from the higher order st PC, generates image video signals, controls and drives video signals and each gine mechanism through synchronous signals with the engine controller, carrying t the page image on the paper.

some models which are host based, all the processing of print data and generation of ge image video signals, etc. are carried out in the printer driver in the PC, so the main ard simply carries out interface signal processing and delivers each type of signal.

Mechanical Components Board

is board controls the print operation based on communications with the printer ntroller (main board) and information form sensors and switches. It has mainly the llowing functions.

Communications with the printer controller.

Reception of information from sensors and switches.

Control of the print head, fixer and each drive motor, control of the printing process.

Distribution of low voltage DC power, output from the low voltage power supply board, to each component.

TE: There are some cases of low end models in which the main board is integrated with the mechanical component board to make the unit more compact and to reduce costs.

Low Voltage Power Supply Board (LVPS)

is board supplies AC power from the power supply to the fixer unit’s heater lamp d in addition, creates and supplies stabilized low voltage DC power used in logic cuits, etc.

High Voltage Power Supply Bo

This board supplies high voltage tothe developer and transfer rollers foother processes.

Operation Panel Board

Other

3.6.1 Safety Switch andMost of the page printers available attention to safety when handling la

In all page printer models, the desigreplacing a toner cartridge, etc., whsafety switch, called an interlock swthe print head and preventing injury

Also, in order to carry out printing and other devices to monitor the fol

Paper loaded or not, amount of

Toner Cartridge set or not, amo

Recognition of genuine toner c

Paper jams in the paper feed un

Toner density on the photosens

Start of print head scanning.

Ambient temperature and hum

Fuser’s heat roller temperature


P 103

3.

3.CoFous4 cpr

Bybesizto pr

If paint

3.A fofoim

Th

mage of the Tandem System

d from each color of toner are transferred to sed on each other in sequential order on the transferred all at once to the paper to obtain a color re shown below.

up by the printer after the transfer unit is

er.

re possible.

he process design is high.

ol is somewhat difficult.

han other systems.

difficult.

age Printers Color Page Printers

7 Color Page Printers

7.1 Outlinelor page printers are page printers which use the same electrophotographic system. r images, in addition to the single color toner in single color page printers, they also e 3 additional colors of toner, cyan, magenta and yellow. That is, images divided into olors are printed one time for each color, making the image transfer process a 4-time

ocess.

adding multicolored toners, the toner mechanism and the transfer mechanism come more complex compared to a single color page printer, the printer is larger in e and the requirements for control the of the amount of toner of each color adhering the paper, control of the exposure, control of positional alignments and image ocessing, etc. become a whole order higher.

viewed from the standpoint of the printing process, there are many modern color ge printers which use either the multiplex transfer system or the multiplex transfer + ermediate transfer system.

7.2 Multiplex Transfer Systemrepresentative of this system is the tandem system. In this system, the image rmation unit is divided into 4 separate color sections, forms a toner image separately r each color and transfers the images to the paper in order, thus obtaining a color age in a single pass.

e features of this system are shown below.

High printing speeds are possible.

It can be used for thick paper.

The degree of freedom in the process design is the highest.

Control of positional alignments is the most difficult.

The construction of the printer is complex and the number of parts is large, thus making the cost high.

Figure 3-17. I

Intermediate Transfer System

With this system, the images formephotosensitive drum and superimpointermediate transfer unit, then are image. The features of this system a

The volume of space takencomparatively small.

It can be used for thick pap

Curvature and separation a

The degree of freedom in t

Positional alignment contr

The transfer rate is lower t

Speeding up the process is

4 color toner cartridges

LED Head

Paper

fusing Unit

PhotosensitiveDrum


P 104

Fime

EP

ocess Using an Intermediate

ess is explained using the LP-8500C/8300C as an l view of the process.

lor Page Printer Print Process

DRUM CARTRIDGE

Cleaning Blade <5. Cleaning (drum)>

ERASE LAMP ASSY <5. Cleaning (drum)>

ROS ASSY <2. Exposure>

R . Charge>

elt -> paper)

TR ASSY

CONTACT ROLL <7. 2nd transfer (Belt -> paper)>

1st BELT ASSY (Belt) <4. 1st transfer (drum -> Belt)><6. Repeat (development of toner image)><7. 2nd transfer (Belt -> paper)>

1ST BTR <4. 1st transfer (drum -> Belt)>

Laser beamLEDPaper path


g. 3-19 shows an example of the intermediate transfer unit type color page printer chanism using an intermediate transfer belt.

Figure 3-18. Color Page Printer Mechanism

SON’s current color page printers use this system.

3.7.3 Color Printing PrTransfer BeltThe page printer color printing procexample. Fig. 3-20 shows an overal

Figure 3-19. Co

Laser Scanner UnitPhotosensitive Drum CleanerWaste Toner Box

Photosensitive Drum

Paper Transport Direction

Intermediate Transfer unit (Belt)Intermediate Transfer unit Cleaner

Fixer Unit

Turret

Developer

TonerCartridge

BC<1

Drum

ROTARY FRAME ASSYDeveloper Assy<3. Development>Toner Cartridge

Cleaning Blade <9. Cleaning (Belt)>

HEAT ROLL <10. fusing>

PRESSURE ROLL <10. fusing>

BELT CLEANER ASSY

BACK UP ROLL <7. 2nd transfer (Belt -> paper)>

Detack Saw <8. Discharge>

2nd BTR (7. 2nd transfer (B

2nd B


P 105

1.

Th

2.

Th

3.

Th

FoM

Th(dRothe

er agent in the developer is agitated by a spiral-n is supplied to a magnet roll placed near the toner and carrier that make up the developer agent uilt up in them through the agitation (the toner gets ositive charge, causing them electrically to attract

tance, it is attracted to the magnet roll which has is formed by the trimmer blade being passed over

in semiconductive sleeve on its surface. This ith a developing bias voltage from the high voltage g bias voltage is a negative DC voltage rough the DC voltage, the magnet roll preserves a

ect to the drum’s photoconductive layer, so the the negative charge does not drop become lower in he portions where the negative electric charge on m drops, come to have an electric potential that is

. The AC voltage swings the developer against on g the toner to jump to the photosensitive drum.

ed toner the portions on the photosensitive drum’s e charge (the static electric latent image) attract a toner image is formed on the drum. When the egative charge at those portions with toner

l drops, and thus the force that attracted the toner

its electrostatic characteristics as a developing toner, etc. or due to surface destruction from

ts electrostatic characteristics, a minute amount of e toner cartridge, then when the toner is dispensed ed at the same time as toner.

the developer is recovered to a special chamber unt at a time. In this way, developing agent (the

nged a little at a time, so the electrostatic his is called the "Trickle development method."

T

DE

T


Electrostatic Charge

is creates an electrostatic charge on the drum surface.

Exposure

e image portion of the drum is exposed to laser light.

Development

e actual image is developed using toner.

r the developer, the "Rotary Development Method" and the "Trickle Development ethod", which uses the 2-part developer consisting of a carrier and toner are used.

Rotary Development Method

is development method, as shown in Fig. 3-21, by placing the printer’s 4 developers eveloper assemblies) inside a cylinder, spaced at 90( intervals, thus achieving a tary Frame Assembly, each developer is brought to face the drum in sequence and toner image for each color is developed.

Figure 3-20. Rotary Development Method

Trickle Development Method

As shown in Fig. 3-22, the developshaped agitator called an auger, thephotosensitive drum’s surface. Thehave a friction electrostatic charge ba negative charge and the carrier a pto each other.

Since the carrier is a magnetic subsmagnetic force and a uniform layerit.

The magnet roll is covered with a thsemiconductive sleeve is supplied wpower supply board. The developinsuperimposed on an AC voltage. Thnegative constant voltage with respportions of the drum surface where potential than the magnet roll, and tthe surface of the photosensitive drugreater than that on the magnet rollthe surface of the magnet roll causin

For that reason, the negatively chargsurface that have a reduced negativtoner from the magnet roll and thustoner has adhered to the drum, the nincreases and their electric potentiaweakens.

The carrier gradually deteriorates inagent due to dirt on the surface fromagitation, etc. In order to maintain icarrier is mixed with the toner in th(see the next item), carrier is suppli

On the other hand, the carrier insideinside the toner cartridge a tiny amomost part of which is carrier) is chacharacteristics can be maintained. T

TONER CARTRIDGE Y

DEVELOPER ASSY Y

DEVELOPER ASSY BKROTARY FRAME ASSY

ONER CARTRIDGE C

VELOPER ASSY C

DEVELOPER ASSY M

DRUM

TONER CARTRIDGE BK

ONER CARTRIDGE M


P 106

ation of the Rotary Frame Assembly during rotary ent mechanism is shown below.

is inserted in the developing agent.

unt of developing agent enters the pipe.

ent is skimmed off and enters deep inside the pipe.

ent is recovered to the toner cartridge.

ckle Development Method (II)

L-shaped Pipe

Drum

Toner Cartridge

Separate Chamber for Recovery


Figure 3-21. Trickle Development Method (I)

Trickle development utilizes the rotdevelopment. The trickle developm

(1) An L-shaped pipe

(2) A minuscule amo

(3) The developing ag

(4) The developing ag

Figure 3-22. Tri

Toner Cartridge

Trimmer Blade

Magnet Roll

Carrier

Auger

Developer Assy

Drum Surface

Toner Image

Negative Electric ChargePositive Electric ChargeToner

Drum

Development Bias

Potential on Drum

ROTARY FRAME ASSY


P 107

AsInrepam

ToAD

Incamo

Photosensitive Drum -> Belt)

sferred to the intermediate transfer unit’s belt (IBT) roller (1st BTR).

23. Primary Transfer

Negative Electric ChargePositive Electric ChargeToner

1ST BTR

HVPS

Belt Surface

transferred Toner


Toner Dispensing

the number of prints increases, the toner inside the developing agent gets used up. order to maintain the appropriate developer concentration, the developer needs to be lenished with an amount of toner from the toner cartridge corresponding to the ount consumed. This is called toner dispensing.

ner dispensing is performed through the use of two types of control, PCDC and C.

PCDC (Pixel Count Dispense Control) calculates the amount of toner consumed in the development process by counting the video signals input to the print head. In order to supply that amount of toner, it turns on the dispense clutch for the corresponding period of time (dispense time), the auger in the developer is turned, being driven by the fixer motor, and toner is supplied to the developer from the toner cartridge. In PCDC, the method of counting the video signal is to count the number of charges and discharges of the condenser corresponding to the video signal in the CR circuit, which is arranged in parallel with the video signal line.

In ADC (Automatic Density Control), the "BIAS Development Band" is formed of each color (Y, M, C, Bk) by differing standards "BCR Voltage" / "Development Voltage" when printing on the photosensitive drum, and this band’s density is measured by the ADC sensor. The measured value is compared to the standard value and if the amount of toner is decreasing (if the concentration of toner in the developing agent is low), the dispense clutch is turned ON for the corresponding period of time (dispense time) and through the driving of the fixer motor, the auger inside the developer is turned while toner is supplied to the developer from the toner cartridge. If the toner volume is too great (if the amount of toner in the developing agent is too high), a "BIAS Development Band" is formed for the number of operations until the toner volume will become normal and the toner in the developing agent is left to be consumed.

the case of the Epson A4 size color page printers; AcuLaser C2000/C1000, the toner rtridge and the developer have been integrated in an attempt to make the product re compact and reduce its cost.

4. 1 Primary Transfer (Intermediate Transfer,

The toner image on the drum is tranby the primary bias charge transfer

Figure 3-

Drum

Belt

Drum Surface

Un


P 108

5.

Toofclebyres

6.

DuIBa cpr

7.

Thintvo

Thpafo

Duindthedeasma

. Color Printing Process

order is Y -> M -> C -> Bk. The reason for this eproduction Methods” on page 110.

. Magenta Image Formationhe magenta portion of the image is en formed on the intermediate ansfer unit on top of the cyan age.

3. Yellow Image FormationThe yellow portion of the image is then formed on the intermediate transfer unit on top of the cyan and magenta images.

ationmage is then e transfer agenta and letes the

Paper

ta Toner d

Yellow toner Selected

5. Transfer to the PaperThe color image formed on the intermediate transfer unit’s surface is transferred to the paper. Following this, the image is fixed and printing is completed.


Cleaning

ner on the drum surface that is not needed, and the residual electric charge is cleaned f in preparation for the next exposure. The residual toner is scraped off by the aning blade that comes in contact with the drum. the scraped off toner is transported the auger inside the drum cartridge and recovered in the waste toner box. The idual electric charge is removed by LED light from the ERASE LAMP assembly.

Repetition (Finished Toner Image Formation)

ring color printing, the above steps from 1 to 5 are repeated for each color. On the T, a finished 4-color toner image is created (see Fig. 3-25). Therefore, the reason that olor page printer’s print speed is approximately 1/4 that of a single color page

inter is because of this. In the single color print mode, this step is not performed.

Secondary Transfer (Intermediate Transfer Unit Belt -> Paper)

e 4-color finished toner image on the IBT is transferred to the paper that is brought o close contact with the intermediate transfer belt (IBT) through the supply of ltage to the secondary transfer roll (2nd BTR).

e 2nd BTR makes contact makes contact with the belt only during the transfer to the per and in other cases, it is separate from the belt so that the toner image that is being rmed on the belt will not be destroyed.

ring color printing, since each of the toner layers are stacked on each other, there are entations and bumps on the intermediate transfer unit, and the close contact between paper and the intermediate transfer unit worsens, thus making it easy for transfer

fects to occur. For that reason, in color printing, the roller transfer method which sures close contact by applying pressure to the back of the paper is used widely in ny printers.

Figure 3-24

NOTE: In the case of EPSON, the is shown in item “Color R

1. Cyan Image FormationThe cyan portion of the image is transferred to the photosensitive drum, then developed with cyan toner. The developed image is then transferred to the intermediate transfer unit surface.

2Tthtrim

4. Black Image FormThe black portion of the iformed on the intermediatunit on top of the cyan, myellow images. That compcolor image.

Black Toner Selected

Cyan Toner Selected

MagenSelecte

Scanned Image

State of imageformed on theintermediate transfer unit.


P 109

8.

Th

9.

Th

10

He

CoanHochto pr26

l are that a glossy finish is imparted to the paper images where a glossy finish gives a better lossy and oil adheres to areas where there are no handwritten corrections or applying a seal, etc.

nce, recently the oil roller has been discontinued, d being added in the toner. Fig. 3-27 shows an n. This kind of toner is being used in the LP-8300C

. Toner with Oil (Wax)

imparted to only the portions where there are data re is nothing on the paper, so that the condition is

Wax


Discharge

is neutralizes / removes the electrical charge fro the paper’s back.

Cleaning

is physically removes any remaining toner from the intermediate transfer unit.

. fusing

at and pressure fix the toner on the paper.

ncerning the fusing method used for color images, from the standpoint of simplicity d safety of the equipment, the most widely used method is the heat roller method. wever, due to the toner material’s heat characteristics (fusion viscosity

aracteristics), and due to the fusing temperature of the heat roller, etc., it is difficult adequately assure the separability of the toner from the heat roller. To solve this oblem, the method of applying silicone oil to the heat roller has been adopted. Fig. 3- shows an image of this. This method is used in the LP-8000C/8200C.

Figure 3-25. Oil Roll fusing Method

The results of supplying silicone oiafter fusing. There are some printedimpression, but text also becomes gdata, and it is inconvenient for later

In order to alleviate this inconvenieand in its place, oil (wax) has starteimage of this toner with oil mixed i/ 8500C.

Figure 3-26

If this toner with oil is used, gloss ison the paper, but on other parts, thethe same as in single color printing.

Oil Roll fusing RollerAn internal heater is used, with the toner melting at high temperatures of 400°C or higher.

Transferred TonerFixed Toner

about 6.5µm

Toner


P 110

3.Comi

FiEapr

IntraThinf

28. Repetitive Process

Yellow Toner Image

Magenta Toner Image

Cyan Toner Image

Black Toner Image

Belt Surface


7.4 Color Reproduction Methodslor page printers, as well as other kinds of color printer, use the subtractive color xture system. (See 6.1.1.5, "Color Mixture Methods" on page 127.

g. 3-28 shows the state of the color image formed on the IBT in the primary transfer. ch color’s toner is placed in the print position on the BIT in accordance with the int data.

the secondary transfer, the BK, Cyan, Magenta and Yellow, in that order, are nsferred, in the reverse order from that used for the primary transfer, to the paper. e reason for this is that by printing the light colors after the dark colors, they are not luenced by the dark colors.

Figure 3-27. Each Color’s Toner on the IBT (Primary Transfer)

Figure 3-

Drum

Black toner

Cyan toner

Magenta toner

Yellow toner

1ST BTR

(Magenta Toner Image)

(Cyan Toner Image)

(Black Toner Image)

Drum Surface

Drum Surface

Drum Surface

Drum Surface

(Yellow Toner Image)


P 111

3.1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

rge process used corona discharge, but select the onger regarded as suitable in recent printers from

ty is unstable.

nd this is unsuitable for the environment.

s the major cause of printing defects such as black

s, etc. in the photosensitive drum.

n the photosensitive drum was not sufficient.

itive drum are listed below. Select the ones that are

.

t image.

the paper.

paper.

a laser beam, how is deviation from the focal point nswer from among the following choices.

indrical lens and toric lens.

position of the photosensitive drum.

age Printers Comprehension Test

8 Comprehension TestSelect the correct statement below that is an advantage of page printers.

• The print speed is fast.

• Blotting, etc. occurs easily, and it is difficult to obtain high quality printing.

• The printing sound is quite.

• Exclusive paper is necessary.

What is the reason why the laser system is used in many page printers?

• Its construction is comparatively simple and it takes up less space.

• Print speed is fast and print quality is high.

Page printers have the image that they print a whole page of data at a time, but in reality, how does the light beam carry out scanning?

• Line Scanning

• Area Scanning

In which of the following methods are one part toner and two-part toner different?

• Different exposure methods.

• Different fusing methods.

• Different development methods.

In which of the 5 processes which are ordinarily identified in electrophotographic printing systems, which is different?

• Electrostatic charge process

• Exposure process

• Development process

• Transfer process

• fusing process

• Cleaning process

• Pre-exposure process

6. In the past, the electrostatic chareason why this method is not lamong the following choices.

• The electrostatic charge quali

• A lot of ozone is generated, a

7. Which of the following items ispots or blank spaces?

• There are pinholes or scratche

• Cleaning of toner remaining o

• The fixer is dirty.

8. Possible roles of the photosenscorrect.

• It builds up a negative charge

• It creates a static electric laten

• It creates a toner image.

• It transfers the toner image to

• It fixes the toner image on the

9. If exposure is carried out usingprevented? Select the correct a

• It uses a cylindrical lens.

• It uses a toric lens.

• It uses a combination of a cyl

• It is constantly correcting the


P 112

10

11

12

13

photos and text printed on an ordinary color page aper, has a glossy look? Select the correct answer ces.

rollers in the fixer.

ller in the fixer.

e toner.

nts describes "face down?"

cing down when the paper is ejected from the lly ejected from the top of the printer.

cing up when the paper is ejected from the printer, ed from the rear of the printer.

t roller type?

.

s high speed and is compact.

g method which uses oil less rollers in color page following answers is incorrect.

ssary and the fixer can be simplified.

where there are no graphics or characters, and it is ts or affusing seals.

occur inside the fixer.

printer, where are the print data processing and als, etc. executed?

oard


. Color printing that uses an intermediate transfer unit uses the same electrophotographic system as single color printing, but when viewed from the printing process, which process differs greatly from the single color printing process?

• Electrostatic charge process

• Exposure process

• Development process

• Transfer process

• fusing process

. As opposed to a single pass tandem system color page printer, the features of an EPSON color page printer using the intermediate transfer unit are given below. Which of the following items is incorrect?

• Print speed is fast.

• The structure is complex and there are a lot of parts, making the manufacturing cost high.

• Position alignment control is comparatively simple.

• The space requirements are comparatively small.

. Among dry development methods, in the case of a color page printer, why is the 1-part magnetic development method not used?

• Since it is necessary to mix magnetic powder in the toner, it has an influence on the color brightness.

• The magnetism of the magnetic powder has an influence on the electrostatic charging of the photosensitive drum, exposure and other processes.

. What is toner dispensing in a color page printer?

• In order to maintain the appropriate development density, an amount of toner equivalent to the consumed amount is supplemented in the developer from the toner cartridge.

• Toner is caused to adhere uniformly to the photosensitive drum and a toner image is formed.

14. What is the reason that not onlyprinter, but also the surface of pfrom among the following choi

• Oil is supplied from the heat

• Oil is supplied from the oil ro

• Oil is included internally in th

15. Which of the following stateme

• The printed side of paper is faprinter, and the paper is norma

• The printed side of paper is faand the paper is normally eject

16. Why are most fixers of the hea

• The thermal efficiency is high

• It’s safety level is high.

• It is advantageous in that it ha

• Quick start is possible.

• It saves energy.

17. What are the merits of the fusinprinters? Indicate which of the

• An oil roller becomes unnece

• Oil does not adhere to places convenient for adding commen

• fusing time is short.

• It is difficult for paper jams to

18. In the case of a host based pagegeneration of image video sign

• Printer main board.

• Host PC Driver

• Printer’s mechanical control b


P 113

19

20


. What is the method of color reproduction used in color page printers? Select the correct answer from among the following choices.

• Additive mixture of color stimuli

• Subtractive mixture of color stimuli

. A color page printer which uses an intermediate unit carries out printing as described below. Select the correct answer.

• Printing on the paper involves transferring the image data one color at a time in accordance with the 5 printing processes.

• Among the 5 printing processes, the "Electrostatic Charge," "Exposure," "Development" and "Transfer" processes are repeated to transfer the image one color at a time to the intermediate transfer unit, then when the image is composed, it is transferred to the paper all at once.


P 114

3.1.

2.

Itsfea

3.

4.

ich are ordinarily identified in electrophotographic rent?

Correct.

t.

he cleaning process has the role of supplementing ess and is not a main process. Even without this , but the print quality would not be good.

ct. This process is an electrical cleaning process, merely a supplementary role in the printing

rge process used corona discharge, but select the onger regarded as suitable in recent printers from

ty is unstable: Incorrect. Since the corona discharge ntly it has been decided not to use this system.

nd this is unsuitable for the environment: Correct.

s the major cause of printing defects such as black

s, etc. in the photosensitive drum: Correct.

n the photosensitive drum was not sufficient:

lack spots and blank areas are basically due to the

age Printers Answers to the Comprehension Test

9 Answers to the Comprehension TestSelect the correct statement below that is an advantage of page printers.

• The print speed is fast: Correct.

• Blotting, etc. occurs easily, and it is difficult to obtain high quality printing: Incorrect. This is a disadvantage of ink jet printers.

• The printing sound is quite: Correct.

• Exclusive paper is necessary: Incorrect. Exclusive paper is not necessary. However, in the case of a color page printer, if exclusive paper is used, beautiful color development can be obtained.

What is the reason why the laser system is used in many page printers?

construction is comparatively simple and it takes up less space: Incorrect. This is a ture of the LED system.

• Print speed is fast and print quality is high: Correct.

Page printers have the image that they print a whole page of data at a time, but in reality, how does the light beam carry out scanning?

• Line Scanning: Correct.

• Area Scanning: Incorrect. Area scanning is virtually impossible for a page printer from the aspects of both construction and manufacturing cost.

In which of the following methods are one part toner and two-part toner different?

• Different exposure methods: Incorrect. One-part toner and two-part toner are different because they are used for different development methods.

• Different fusing methods: Incorrect.

• Different development methods: Correct.

5. In which of the 5 processes whprinting systems, which is diffe

• Electrostatic charge process:

• Exposure process: Correct.

• Development process: Correc

• Transfer process: Correct.

• fusing process: Correct.

• Cleaning process: Incorrect. Tthe page printer printing procprocess, printing can be done

• Pre-exposure process: Incorreand in the same way, it servesprocess.

6. In the past, the electrostatic chareason why this method is not lamong the following choices.

• The electrostatic charge qualiprocess generates ozone, rece

• A lot of ozone is generated, a

7. Which of the following items ispots or blank spaces?

• There are pinholes or scratche

• Cleaning of toner remaining oCorrect.

• The fixer is dirty: Incorrect. Bphotosensitive drum.


P 115

8.

9.

10

dem system color page printer, the features of an g the intermediate transfer unit are given below. s incorrect?

If the intermediate transfer unit is used, image data he intermediate transfer unit one color at a time, is transferred all at once to the paper, so no matter p being slower.

there are a lot of parts, making the manufacturing to the tandem system, exposure corresponds to a y, it is comparatively simple.

comparatively simple: Correct.

omparatively small: Correct.

ds, in the case of a color page printer, why is the 1-thod not used?

agnetic powder in the toner, it has an influence on

tic powder has an influence on the electrostatic drum, exposure and other processes: Incorrect. The r does not have an influence on each of the tive drum is involved in.

olor page printer?

priate development density, an amount of toner ount is supplemented in the developer from the

formly to the photosensitive drum and a toner


Possible roles of the photosensitive drum are listed below. Select the ones that are correct.

• It builds up a negative charge: Correct.

• It creates a static electric latent image: Correct.

• It creates a toner image: Correct.

• It transfers the toner image to the paper: Correct.

• It fixes the toner image on the paper: Incorrect. fusing is the role of the fixer.

If exposure is carried out using a laser beam, how is deviation from the focal point prevented? Select the correct answer from among the following choices.

• It uses a cylindrical lens: Incomplete. If it is not used in combination with the toric lens, the focus will definitely deviate.

• It uses a toric lens: Incomplete. If it is not used in combination with the cylindrical lens, the focus will deviate in the same way.

• It uses a combination of a cylindrical lens and toric lens: Correct.

• It is constantly correcting the position of the photosensitive drum: Incorrect. The photosensitive drum rotates inside the printer, but its center position is fixed.

. Color printing that uses an intermediate transfer unit uses the same electrophotographic system as single color printing, but when viewed from the printing process, which process differs greatly from the single color printing process?

• Electrostatic charge process: Incorrect. Even in the color printing system, there are basically only 5 electrophotographic processes, but through the use of the intermediate unit, the transfer process is divided into the primary transfer and the secondary transfer.

• Exposure process: Incorrect. The reason is the same as above.

• Development process: Incorrect. The reason is the same as above.

• Transfer process: Correct.

• fusing process: Incorrect. The reason is the same as above.

11. As opposed to a single pass tanEPSON color page printer usinWhich of the following items i

• Print speed is fast: Incorrect. are transferred temporarily to tthen finally, the 4-color image what, the printing speed ends u

• The structure is complex and cost high: Incorrect. Comparedsingle print head, so structurall

• Position alignment control is

• The space requirements are c

12. Among dry development methopart magnetic development me

• Since it is necessary to mix mthe color brightness: Correct.

• The magnetism of the magnecharging of the photosensitive magnetism of magnetic powdeprocesses which the photosensi

13. What is toner dispensing in a c

• In order to maintain the approequivalent to the consumed amtoner cartridge: Correct.

• Toner is caused to adhere uniimage is formed: Incorrect.


P 116

14

15

16

17

printer, where are the print data processing and als, etc. executed?

oard: Incorrect.

roduction used in color page printers? Select the following choices.

uli: Incorrect. The subtractive mixture of color olors after the dark colors in order that the t be felt, is used

timuli: Correct.

s an intermediate unit carries out printing as rect answer.

s transferring the image data one color at a time in processes: Incorrect. It is in reality impossible to fter passing through all 5 of the printing processes.

es, the "Electrostatic Charge," "Exposure," processes are repeated to transfer the image one ate transfer unit, then when the image is composed, at once: Correct.


. What is the reason that not only photos and text printed on an ordinary color page printer, but also the surface of paper, has a glossy look? Select the correct answer from among the following choices.

• Oil is supplied from the heat rollers in the fixer: Incorrect. Oil is not supplied from the heat roller itself.

• Oil is supplied from the oil roller in the fixer: Correct.

• Oil is included internally in the toner: Incorrect. If oil is mixed into the toner, the places where image and text data are printed will be glossy, but places without data will not have oil adhering to them

. Which of the following statements describes "face down?"

• The printed side of paper is facing down when the paper is ejected from the printer, and the paper is normally ejected from the top of the printer: Correct.

• The printed side of paper is facing up when the paper is ejected from the printer, and the paper is normally ejected from the rear of the printer: Incorrect. Since the photosensitive drum is ordinarily set above the paper, the paper’s printed side faces up.

. Why are most fixers of the heat roller type?

• The thermal efficiency is high: Correct.

• It’s safety level is high: Correct.

• It is advantageous in that it has high speed and is compact: Correct.

• Quick start is possible: INcorrect.

• It saves energy: Incorrect. It takes time to head the fixer rollers until they reach a constant temperature: Incorrect. Heating the fixer rollers until they reach a constant temperature, and maintaining their temperature at that level, consumes a considerable amount of electricity.

. What are the merits of the fusing method which uses oil less rollers in color page printers? Indicate which of the following answers is incorrect.

• An oil roller becomes unnecessary and the fixer can be simplified: Correct.

• Oil does not adhere to places where there are no graphics or characters, and it is convenient for adding comments or affusing seals: Correct.

• fusing time is short: Incorrect. The fusing time doesn’t change much at all.

• It is difficult for paper jams to occur inside the fixer: Under the same conditions, mechanical factors have a strong influence on paper jams.

18. In the case of a host based pagegeneration of image video sign

• Printer main board: Incorrect.

• Host PC Driver: Correct.

• Printer’s mechanical control b

19. What is the method of color repcorrect answer from among the

• Additive mixture of color stimstimuli, which prints the light cinfluence of dark colors will no

• Subtractive mixture of color s

20. A color page printer which usedescribed below. Select the cor

• Printing on the paper involveaccordance with the 5 printing align the image data positions a

• Among the 5 printing process"Development" and "Transfer"color at a time to the intermediit is transferred to the paper all

C H A P T E R

4GE SCANNERS
IMA


Im 118

4.Th(reFuca

Thscde

Fuprom

g)evice) used in a scanner has its elements arranged read the first line but from the 2nd and subsequent . Therefore, in order to read the original document, d or the linear CCD sensor needs to be moved.

ection (scanning direction) of the linear CCD irection and the direction at right angles to that is

Main Scan and Sub Scan

Sub Scan

age Scanners Outline

1 Outlineere are several types of image scanner, categorized by the method used to scan ad) an original, the flat bed type, the sheet feed type and the handy type. rthermore, the flat bed type is divided into two subtypes, the type with a moving rriage and the type with moving mirrors.

ere are also specialty scanners called film scanners which accept only film as the anning original. The features of such a scanner are included in the following scription.

rthermore, there are large model image scanners called drum scanners for ofessional use, but EPSON products do not include this type, so a description of it is itted here.

4.1.1 Scanning (ReadinThe linear CCD (Charge Coupled Din only a single dimension, so it canlines, it cannot read anything as it iseither the original needs to be move

In an image scanner, the reading dirsensor is called the main scanning dcalled the sub scanning direction.

Figure 4-1.

Light source Sensor

Main Scan


Im 119

4.Flredin be

4.EPof

those used in cameras to reduce the size the 2~5 cm linear CCD. A detailed image is shown in duced Optical System Scanner."

ge of Reduced Optical System Scanner

ing features.

ll, low-cost linear CCD can be used.

deep, making it possible to scan 3-dimensional

ere is a carriage on which to move the lens, it is ct thinner.

Linear CCD

age Scanners Flat Bed Scanner

2 Flat Bed Scannerat bed scanners can be mainly divided according to their lens system, between the uced optical system scanner and the close contact scanner. Also, due to differences the mounting structure of the lens, CCD and carriage, scanners can be divided tween the moving lens/CCD type and the fixed lens/CCD type.

2.1 Reduced Optical System ScannerSON scanners are basically reduced optical system scanners. The basic construction

a scanner is shown in Fig. 4.2, "reduced Optical System Scanner."

Figure 4-2. Reduced Optical System Scanner

This type of scanner uses a lens likeoriginal so that it is projected onto aFig. 4-3, "Scanning Image of the re

Figure 4-3. Scanning Ima

This type of scanner has the follow

Since a lens is used, a sma

The focal depth of field is objects.

Since a lens is used and thdifficult to make the produ

Carriage

Guide Rail

Drive Belt

Glass Original Table

Stepping Motor

Cover


Im 120

4.ThSc

y the scanning method shown in Fig. 4-5, "Close

ontact Scanner Scanning Image

reduced optical system scanners, the close contact lens array, which is a long linear CCD with the inal which projects the image in a 1 to 1 size. The th more than 100 small glass rods with a diameter ged in two rows. This close contact type scanner is

CIS).

nner are as follows.

as long as the document being scanned is wide, so

CCD are brought to within about 1 cm of each e advantage that it can be made more compact and

G

ray

Linear CCD


2.2 Close Contact Scannere basic construction of a close contact scanner is shown in Fig. 4-4, "Close Contact anner."

Figure 4-4. Close Contact Scanner

This type of scanner scans images bContact Scanner Scanning Image."

Figure 4-5. Close C

In contrast with the lens used in thetype uses a special lens called a rodsame length as the width of the origrod lens array has a construction wiof 1 mm and a length of 6 mm, arranalso called a contact image sensor (

The features of this type of sca

It uses a linear CCD that isthe cost is high.

The original and the linearother, so the scanner has ththinner.

Cover

Stepping Motor

Carriage

Drive Belt

Guide Rail

lass Original Table

Control Circuit

Original

Rod Lens Ar


Im 121

4.Thhathe

ThpuA46,

Tscdomu

canner Mechanism Outline

er head in the sub scanning direction via a pulley ition is detected by the HP sensor. The carriage

the carriage head is detected to be in a position sition is controlled by an open loop. The scanner’s canning in the sub scanning direction with the osition as the reference.

is stationary and the carriage is placed inside the is comparatively high.

ation area is larger than the size of the original

Lamp (light source)

Follower pulley

HP sensor

Flagiming belt1

Document

Light path


Since the optical lens and reflective mirrors, etc. are not necessary, it is easy to simplify the product.

The focal length is shallow, and it is inconvenient for scanning 3-dimensional objects.

This type of scanner is not used by EPSON.

2.3 Moving Lens, CCD Typeis type of image scanner incorporates the lens and CCD unit in the carriage and it s the feature that when an image is scanned, these components move together with carriage. The mechanism is configured from the following parts and units.

CCD unit that includes the lens

Image sensor circuit board.

Light source lamp and inverter circuit board for the light source.

Reflective mirrors

Mechanisms for moving the carriage.

e mechanical unit is configured from the carriage motor, timing belt 1, timing belt 2, lley, timing belt, follower pulley and home position (HP) sensor. Many of EPSON’s size scanners are of this type. This type of scanner configuration is shown in Fig. 4-"Scanner Mechanism Outline."

he document to be scanned is placed with the side to be scanned face down on the anner’s glass document table. The light emitted by the light source shines on the cument surface, the image is scanned in the main scanning direction and reflected by ltiple mirrors, then detected by the CCD.

Figure 4-6. S

The carriage motor moves the scannand two timing belts. The home posmotor is a stepping motor, so whenother than the home position, its posingle dimensional array performs sscanning origin set from the home p

Merit: The original document body, so the scanning accuracy

Demerit: The scanner’s installdocument, so it takes up space.

TPulley

Timing belt2

Carriage motor

CCD sensorLens


Im 122

4.Th60scan

Th

Th

L


2.4 Fixed Lens and CCD Typeis type of scanner uses the system that has been adopted for the ES-8000, 6000/00H and ES-9000H, and the GT-12000 / 10000 / 1000+ / 30000 and other A3 size anners. The original, lens and CCD sensor are in fixed positions and the light source d mirrors are moved independently to carry out scanning.

ere are two kinds of lens mechanism, the fixed focus and auto focus types.

is type of scanner has the following merits and demerits.

Merits

Since the lightweight light source and mirrors only are moved, the scanner can be made more compact.

Through focus adjustment and range selection, a multiple magnification mechanism (auto focus) can be built in and still the scanner can be set without becoming large.

Mechanically, it is possible to increase the scanning speed.

Demerit

The construction is complex and the price is high.

Figure 4-7. Mirror-moving Type Mechanism

x1x2

Lens

DocumentLV1 (variable)

Document glass

L2 (fixed)Lamp/Mirror unitCCD sensor

1 (fixed)

LV2 (variable)


Im 123

4.Inthepethrare

Th

age Scanners Sheet Feed Type

3 Sheet Feed Type the case of the sheet feed type, unlike the flat bed type, the CCD sensor that scans original document and the light source are stationary, and the scanning is

rformed by moving the original by a motor, etc. This type is also called a sheet ough type or moving document type image scanner. EPSON products of this type the GT-2000 and GT-300.

Merit

e scanner installation space can be made small.

Demerit

The original exits outside the scanner, so the paper feed operation will be influenced by the surrounding environment. This puts a limit on the document size and the scanning accuracy.

Only documents in sheet form can be scanned.

Figure 4-8. Sheet Feed Scanner Mechanism

DocumentRoller

LensLight source

Roller

Mirror CCDPaper feed motor


Im 124

4.Ththepoop

EP

age Scanners Handy Type

4 Handy Typee handy type, like the flat bed type, has the original document stationary and moves CCD and light source to carry out scanning. The flat bed type scanner relies on the wer of a motor, etc. to scan the document, but the handy type scans by a manual eration.

Merit

The scanner is generally compact in construction, so it is easy to handle.

Demerits

Basically, since this type relies on human power for the scanning operation, it is difficult to get good scanning accuracy and the scanning speed is slow.

The scanning range on the document that this type of scanner can read is narrow.

Figure 4-9. Handy Type Mechanism

SON does not product this type of scanners.

Light source

Roller

document

MirrorCCD sensor

Roller


Im 125

4.Fisc

Athefromois in by

InTh

age Scanners Film Scanner

5 Film Scannerlm scanners will be explained using the FS-1200 / 1300 as an example. This image anner is designed exclusively for scanning film.

n outline of the film scanner is shown below. The film scanner is configured from CCD sensor that scans the image, the light source to enable the image to be scanned m the film, a mirror to direct the light to the CCD sensor, and a film carrier, etc. for ving the film in order to scan it. Light from the light source passes through the film,

reflected in the mirror, then enters the CCD sensor. The CCD sensor scans the image the main scanning direction. Scanning in the sub-scanning direction is accomplished transporting the film in the sub-scanning direction by means of the film carrier.

the case of the FS-1200, 35 mm negative and positive film images can be scanned. e FS-1300 can scan not only 35 mm film but also APS film images.

Figure 4-10. Film Scanner Mechanism

Light source

MirrorLensCCD sensor

FilmFilm carrier


Im 126

4.A elethewapodeCCBBadma

4.Thsid

Tstr

Apa

erent types in accordance with their construction, linear CCD is used in an image scanner. See the erning area CCD’s. (See 5.2,“CCD”)

thousand closely packed elements, each composed r combined together and arrayed in a single element. Thus, this CCD can serve for the input of es, so if it is used as an image scanner’s sensor, be moved , thus making it possible to input a 2-

e in the explanation of a color linear CCD, the

s:16089 Pixels (5363 pixels x 3 colors)

itch)

12. Color Linear CCD

age Scanners CCD

6 CCDCCD (Charge Coupled Device) is one type of picture element that picks up images ctrically (corresponding to the retina of the human eye). The CCD was developed as photographic element for video cameras. In the past, when a photographic element s mentioned, the reference was to a picture tube, but since this device had a large wer consumption and could not be made more compact, researchers set out to velop individual photographic elements in chip form like the CCD. Other than the D, other individual photographic elements that have been developed include the D, PCD and MOS photographic elements, but the CCD, which has structural

vantages in the areas of performance and picture quality, etc., has become the instream individual photographic element.

6.1 CCD Constructione CCD is constructed with a multiple groups of photodiodes and condensers lined up e by side.

he CCD generates an electrical charge in the photodiode in accordance with the ength of the light shining on it. (photoelectric conversion)

lso, the electrical charge thus generated is stored in condensers that are connected in rallel with the photodiodes.

Figure 4-11. CCD Construction

4.6.2 Types of CCDCCD’s can be divided into two diffthe linear CCD and the area CCD. Achapter on digital still cameras conc

4.6.2.1 Linear CCDA linear CCD is made up of severalof a photodiode and MOS condensedimension to form a photosensitiveonly single dimension (green) imageither the CCD or the original mustdimensional image (plane).

The GT-9500 is used as an examplILX718K (made by SONY)

Features

Effective Number of Pixel

Pixel Size: 8 x 8 µm (8µ p

Figure 4-

CCD analog -shift register

Photodiode

Light

Photosensitive part

MOS capacity

Read-out gate


Im 127

Thanele

Touma

Al87ofsim

onubstrate like a CPU. The linear CCD used in ed from 2500 to 5000 elements. The width of the nd the pitch of the elements is approximately 10

ers, more elements are used in order to increase the ade even smaller. As a result, the manufacturing

direction is determined by the number of pixels in the subscanning direction is determined by the

the carriage, so there are cases where the resolution er than the resolution in the main scanning st performance of the product, it is more movement steps smaller rather than to increase the

per inch). The maximum effective range in the s and the if the maximum number of effective n is 5100, the resolution in the main scanning

age Scanners CCD

is linear CCD is arrayed in parallel with sensors which exclusively pick up the R, G d B, respectively, in color images. Each CCD is equipped with 5363 individual ments with R, G, B color filers included.

he CCD senses the color image simultaneously, separates it into RGB signals and tputs each respective color independently as signals. In the case of the GT-9500, the ximum scanning range is 5096 x 7020 pixels (when the resolution is 600 dpi).

so, the linear CCD used in the EPSON scanner models GT7600S / 7600U / 7700U / 00 is called a 6-line staggered color CCD, so it uses 2 lines for one color, for a total 6 lines, and by staggering each CCD row by one half a CCD cell’s width, it can

ulate a higher input resolution. (See Fig. 4-13.)

Figure 4-13. 6-line Staggered Color CCD

4.6.3 CCD and ResolutiA linear CCD is made on a silicon sordinary image scanners is configurlight receptor is 1 inch to 2 inches aµm, which is very small.

In the case of high end image scannresolution and the element pitch is mcost is considerably high.

The resolution in the main scanningthe linear CCD and the resolution insmallness of the movement steps ofin the subscanning direction is highdirection. When we consider the coadvantageous to make the carriage’snumber of CCD elements.

Resolution is expressed in dpi (dotsmain scanning direction is 8.5 inchepixels in the main scanning directiodirection becomes 600 dpi.


Im 128

4.Asthocoph

4.Inthethe

1.

2.

15. Read-out Gate ON

is complete, the read out gate goes OFF and waits

6. Read-out Gate OFF

age Scanners Linear CCD Operating Theory

7 Linear CCD Operating Theory described in 4.6.1, "CCD Construction," a linear CCD is made up of several usand closely packed elements, each composed of a photodiode and MOS

ndenser combined together and arrayed in a single dimension to form a otosensitive element. This is then combined with a shift register.

7.1 CCD Photosensitive Element Operating Theory the photosensitive element, light energy is converted to an electrical charge and has function of temporarily storing the signal charge thus obtained. The operation of photosensor is shown in sequence below.

When the light reflected off the original shines on the photodiode, the photodiode carries out photoelectric conversion corresponding to the strength of the light, and causes a current to flow. The MOS condenser stores this current as an electric charge which is proportional to the strength of the light.

Figure 4-14. Photoelectric Conversion

When the read out gate (read out signal) goes On, the signal charge stored in the MOS condenser sends that charge to the analog shift register.

Figure 4-

3. When the signal charge sendingthe next photosensor action.

Figure 4-1

Light


Im 129

4.Thtrafigin pix

Thregch

low.

N, each signal charge is shifted to the neighboring the charge in the right end register is transferred to

ure 4-19. Step 1

the state becomes stable.

ure 4-20. Step 2

Output unit


7.2 CCD Analog Shift Register Operating Theorye shift register receives the signal charge from the photosensor, then functions to nsfer it as a signal output to the control board. The shift register, as shown in the ure below, has only 2 times the number of addresses as the number of photodiodes the photosensor. There is one output unit, so the signal charges must be output 1 el at a time.

Figure 4-17. Shift Register Construction

e following figure is an easy to understand model of the structure of the shift ister. φ1 and φ2 are the transfer pulses. The photoelectrically converted signal

arges are stored in the shift registers.

Figure 4-18. Shift Register Model

The transfer process is explained be

1. First, if transfer pulse φ2 goes Oregister on the right. However,the output unit.

Fig

2. Transfer pulse (2 goes Off and

Fig

D13

D14

D15

D63 S1

S2

S53

63

D64

D75

Sensor

Read out gate

CCD shift register

D1-D75: Dummy sensorS1-S5363: Sensor

Output unit


Im 130

3.

4.


Next transfer pulse (1 goes On and the signal charge is transferred to the neighboring register on the right.

Figure 4-21. Step 3

Transfer pulse (1 goes Off and the state becomes stable. Thereafter, this process is repeated, transferring the signal charges for all the pixels to the output unit.

Figure 4-22. Step 4


Im 131

4.1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

feature of a sheet feed type scanner.

ce becomes larger than the size of the documents

ing accuracy are limited.

used.

that are features of a handy type scanner.

, so it is easy to handle.

can be scanned is narrow.

hat can be scanned by a film scanner from among

ctive pixels in a CCD is 102000dot x 3 colors, and n the main scanning direction is 8.5 inches, what is ing direction in dpi? Select one from the following.

er of pixels of a 6-line staggered color CCD is color, total 3 colors), and the maximum scanning ction is 8.5 inches, what is the resolution in the Select the correct answer from the following

age Scanners Comprehension Test

8 Comprehension TestSelect the type of CCD that is ordinarily used in image scanners from among the following choices.

• Linear CCD

• Area CCD

Select two of the features of the reduced optical system scanner from among the choices below.

• A wide linear CCD is used, so the cost is high.

• Compact, low-cost linear CCD’s can be used.

• Scanning of 3-dimensional objects can also be scanned.

• It has the advantage of enabling compact, thin scanner products to be made.

Select 3 of the features of a close contact scanner from among the choices below.

• It uses a special lens called a rod lens array.

• It uses an optical lens and reflective mirrors.


• The gap between the original and the linear CCD is narrow, so the scanner can be made thinner.

Select the one device that is not mounted on the carriage that is installed in a flat bed scanner with a moving lens and CCD from the following choices.

• CCD

• Reflective Mirror

• Roller

• Inverter Board

Select two features of a flat bed scanner with a fixed lens and CCD from among the following choices.

• It is possible to mechanically speed up the scanning process.

• The structure becomes complex and the price is high.

• There is no optical lens or reflective mirror.

• It is advantageous in that the product is more compact and thinner.

6. Select the item below that is a

• The scanner’s installation spascanned.

• The document size and scann

• Items other than sheets can be

7. Select two of the choices below

• It has a compact construction

• The scanning speed is high.

• The range of documents that

8. Select two types of document tthe following choices.

• Negative film

•APS film

• Photographs

9. If the maximum number of effethe maximum scanning range ithe resolution in the main scann

• 150dpi

• 300dpi

• 600dpi

• 1200dpi

10. If the maximum effective numb6800 dots x 6 lines (2 lines perrange in the main scanning diremain scanning direction in dpi?choices.

• 800dpi

• 1600dpi

• 4800dpi


Im 132

4.1.

2.

se contact scanner from among the choices below.

rod lens array.

lective mirrors.

the cost is high.

and the linear CCD is narrow, so the scanner can be

uses a CCD that is the same width as the original lled a rod lens array, so it can project an image at a and the CCD. For this reason, an optical lens and ry and this type of scanner is advantageous for

t mounted on the carriage that is installed in a flat s and CCD from the following choices.

ving lens and CCD type flat bed scanner include e lens, the image sensor circuit board, light source ircuit board, the reflective mirrors and mechanical

sed in a sheet feed type or handy type scanner.

age Scanners Answers to the Comprehension Test

9 Answers to the Comprehension TestSelect the type of CCD that is ordinarily used in image scanners from among the following choices.

• Linear CCD

• Area CCD

[Explanation]

A linear CCD can input a 1-dimensional image and an area CCD can input a 2-dimensional image. Ordinarily, a linear CCD is used in an image scanner and either the carriage or the original document is moved, thus inputting a 2-dimensional image. In this connection, the area CCD is used in digital cameras, etc.

Select two of the features of the reduced optical system scanner from among the choices below.


• Compact, low-cost linear CCD’s can be used.

• Scanning of 3-dimensional objects can also be scanned.

• It has the advantage of enabling compact, thin scanner products to be made.

[Explanation]

A scanner with a reduced optical system uses a reflective mirror and lens which reduces the image and then inputs it into the CCD, so a narrow linear CCD can be used. In addition, since the depth of field is deep, it is also possible to scan 3-dimensional objects. The use of a reflective mirror and lens make it disadvantageous for this type of scanner unit to be made more compact or thinner.

3. Select 3 of the features of a clo

• It uses a special lens called a

• It uses an optical lens and ref

• A wide linear CCD is used, so

• The gap between the original made thinner.

[Explanation]

The close contact type scannerdocument, and a special lens ca1 to 1 ratio between the image reflective mirror are unnecessamaking a thin scanner product.

4. Select the one device that is nobed scanner with a moving len

• CCD

• Reflective Mirror

• Roller

• Inverter Board

[Explanation]

The devices mounted in the mothe CCD unit which includes thlamp and light source inverter cunits for moving the carriage.

In this connection, rollers are u


Im 133

5.

6.

that are features of a handy type scanner.

, so it is easy to handle.

can be scanned is narrow.

original fixed, and moves the light source and is type relies on human strength for power, so ecessary and it can have a compact structure, but it curacy and its scanning speed is slow.

hat can be scanned by a film scanner from among

the light source through the document, which is reason, documents scanned with this type of nt documents, and it cannot scan reflective

s.

ctive pixels in a CCD is 102000dot x 3 colors, and n the main scanning direction is 8.5 inches, what is ing direction in dpi? Select one from the following.

s per color in a CCD is 10,200 dots, and the nning direction is 8.5 inches, so the resolution is as

200 [dpi].


Select two features of a flat bed scanner with a fixed lens and CCD from among the following choices.

• It is possible to mechanically speed up the scanning process.

• The structure becomes complex and the price is high.

• There is no optical lens or reflective mirror.

• It is advantageous in that the product is more compact and thinner.

[Explanation]

A flat bed scanner with a fixed lens and CCD have the original, lens and CCD sensor fixed, and move the light source and mirrors independently to carry out scanning. Since the lightweight light source and mirrors only are moved, it is possible to speed up this type of scanner mechanically, but its construction becomes more complex and its price becomes higher.

Select the item below that is a feature of a sheet feed type scanner.

• The scanner’s installation space becomes larger than the size of the documents scanned.

• The document size and scanning accuracy are limited.

• Items other than sheets can be used.

[Explanation]

In a sheet feed type scanner, the CCD sensor and light source are fixed and the scanned original is moved by a motor, etc. to carry out scanning, so the space needed to install the scanner can be made smaller than the size of the original. However, since the document is moved, there are limitations on the size of document that can be scanned and on the scanning system, and it can be used only for documents that are on separate sheets.

7. Select two of the choices below

• It has a compact construction

• The scanning speed is high.

• The range of documents that

[Explanation]

The handy type scanner has theCCD to carry out scanning. Thpower for a motor, etc. is not nis difficult to have scanning ac

8. Select two types of document tthe following choices.

• Negative film

•APS film

• Photographs

[Explanation]

A film scanner shines light fromthen input to the CCD. For thisscanner are limited to transparedocuments such as photograph

9. If the maximum number of effethe maximum scanning range ithe resolution in the main scann

• 150dpi

• 300dpi

• 600dpi

• 1200dpi

[Explanation]

The maximum number of pixelscanning range in the main scafollows.

10,200 [dots] ( 8.5 [inches] = 1


Im 134

10


. If the maximum effective number of pixels of a 6-line staggered color CCD is 6800 dots x 6 lines (2 lines per color, total 3 colors), and the maximum scanning range in the main scanning direction is 8.5 inches, what is the resolution in the main scanning direction in dpi? Select the correct answer from the following choices.

• 800dpi

• 1600dpi

• 4800dpi

[Explanation]

The maximum number of pixels per color in a CCD is 6800 [dots] x 2 = 13,600 [dots], and the scanning range in the main scanning direction is 8.5 inches, so the resolution is as follows.

13,600 [dots] ( 8.5 [inches] = 1600 [dpi].

C H A P T E R

5DI L STILL CAMERA
GITA


D 136

5.Th

Th

film camera system, the digital still camera system ht, which helps to capture the image in night time

is equipped with both ordinally optical view finder

ores a captured image by means of digital data, it tore the image data. There are various different lable today, but among most of digital still camera nly one of these device for data storage. The most today uses one of the following media.

d as “CF Memory”. This memory is originally is a flash ATA card compatible small memory

mory device (EEPROM). This is a memory used on system.

emory has been co-developed by Matsushita, memory is developed based on MMC memory tection function.

emory has been co-developped by SanDisk and igital still camera and PDA.

memory developed by Sony.

l still camera is either a dry battery cell/module or kind of dry battery cell in the market place, but due a’s power requirements (it requires instantaneous , Ni-MH type or Litium-ion type battery cell should

igital Still Camera Outline

1 Outlinee basic construction of a digital still camera is shown in Fig. 5-1.

Figure 5-1. Basic Construction

e major components which composed of a digital still camera system are as follows.

LensThe lens is works as to reduce the size of subjects optically and forming an image on a surface of image capture device like CCD. In some products, zooming function or auto-focusing funciton is built in the optical lens system.

ApertureIn order to adjust an exposure in accordance with the ambient blightness, the digial still camera system also has the aperture control mechanism, similar with an ordinally silver-halaid film camera system.

Flash lightLIke an ordinally silver-halide is also equipped with a flash ligor in dark place.

View FinderUsually, the digital still cameraand the LCD panel viewer.

Image Data Storage MediaSince the digital still camara strequires data storage media to stype of data storage media avaisystem, each camera supports oof digital still camera available

Compact Flash MemoryThis media is usually calledeveloped by SanDisk, andmedia containing flash meEpson digital still camera

SD CardSecure Digital card. This mToshiba and SanDisk. Thisand supports copyright pro

MMCMulti Media Card. This mSiemens. Mainly used on d

Memory StickThis is a small stick shape

BatteryUsually, power source of digitaAC adaptor. There are various to a nature of digital still camerlarge current supply capability)be used.

CPU

LCD UnitVideo Output Circuit

CCDZoom Lens

FrameFront Cover

FlashLCD

Zoom LeverShutter Button

Mode Dial

Top Cover

Flexible Board

Flash Circuit

Flash Condenser

Smart Media Slot

Work Memory

Optical Finder

Battery Box


D 137

5.Inare

5.Thbufo

5.A phmaICan

nsor which is 8 mm square. Color filters for the B, Y, M, C and G are used at each respective o raise the resolution).

er approximately 2/3 the range of visible light, so heir light use efficiency is high and they have y. In contrast with this, primary color filters pass of visible light, so it is difficult to obtain good

Approximately 2.11 million pixels (1688 (H) x 1248 (V))

s: Approximately 2.02 million pixels (1636 (H) x 1236 (V))

7.6 (H) x 6.2 mm (V)

3.9 (H) x 3.9 (V) (m

igital Still Camera CCD

2 CCD this chapter, the basic technologies used in Digital Still Cameras made by EPSON explained.

2.1 CCD Sensorere are two types of CCD sensor, the CCD area sensor and the CCD linear sensor, t in digital cameras, CCD area sensors are used. (See "Types of CCD" on page 110 r an outline of the linear CCD sensor.)

2.1.1 CCD Area SensorCCD area sensor is unlike a CCD linear sensor, in that it has a light sensor unit with otodiodes arranged 2-dimensionally in a closely packed layout. This CCD is used inly in video cameras and digital still cameras. The color CCD area sensor X224AK (made by SONY), used in the CP850Z digital still camera, is used here as example in this explanation.

Figure 5-2. Color CCD Area Sensor

This sensor is a pixel color CCD secomplementary colors of R, G and element (sensor filters. They work t

Complementary filters pass light ovcompared to primary color filters, tapproximately double the sensitivitlight over only about 1/3 the range sensitivity with them.

Features

Total Number of Pixels:

Effective Number of Pixel

Chip Size:

Pixel Size:

Y Sensor Element

M Sensor ElementC Sensor Element

G Sensor Element


D 138

5.Thasacarrhomema

5.Inthemafu

Thpo

Wspthe

5-3. Frame Transfer

CCD

orizontal Transfer Unit

igital Still Camera Transfer Method

3 Transfer Methode CCD is constructed to send stored electrical charges representing light information

a string of analog signals in the same direction, so not all the pixel data can be quired simultaneously. Also, the CCD used as an area sensor has a 2-dimensional angement, so transfers must be divided into two, in the vertical direction and the rizontal direction. Then, to overcome all these problems, there are a number of thods for transferring these electrical charges. Here, we explain two methods used in ny digital still cameras, the frame transfer method and the interline transfer method.

3.1 Frame Transfer the same 2-dimensional array CCD (photodiode array), two groups are lined up on screen in the vertical direction. One group has the CCD light receptor surface sked so that light does not strike it. The photosensor of the group that is not masked

nctions as the photosensor and the masked portion is used as the light storage area.

e gate electrode of each photodiode comprising the CCD is made of transparent lysilicon.

hen exposed to light, the charge stored up in the photosensor is sent instantly at high eed to the masked light storage area. The charges are then transferred sequentially to horizontal transfer area.

Advantage

The area from which light can be received is large so high sensitivity can be obtained.

Disadvantages

There is a danger that a lot of light information can be mixed up due to the transferred second half data.

Light is introduced through the polysilicon gate electrode so short wavelength light (from blue to violet) is absorbed, causing sensitivity in that band to be inferior.

It is necessary to have two CCD areas, the photosensor and the light storage area, so the CCD area sensor’s size becomes large, with the result that the cost increases.

Figure

Mask

Light Storage Area

To Control CircuitH

Photosensor Area


D 139

5.Bema

A phphAftra

-4. Interline Transfer

Vertical Transfer Unit

Horizontal Transfer Unit

igital Still Camera Transfer Method

3.2 Interline Transferginning with EPSON in its digital still cameras, this method is used by many camera kers.

photodiode is provided for every pixel, and the device is divided between the otosensor and the transfer unit. After light reception, the electric charge from the otosensor is transferred to the vertical transfer unit where it is transferred vertically. ter that , as in the frame transfer method, the signals are transferred to the horizontal nsfer unit. This method is convenient for obtaining a television video signal.

Advantages

There is no mixture of a lot of light information from the last half of the transfer as with the frame transfer method, but data can be transferred just as it is received.

The sensor’s size can be small compared to the sensor in the frame transfer method.

Disadvantage

On the CCD surface, not only photodiodes are arranged, but there are also vertical transfer units placed there, making it impossible to enlarge the effective area where light strikes (the area of the photodiode) and making the aperture ratio poor, so sensitivity is low. recently, in order to overcome those defects, a new type in which a lens is being set in each pixel to gather light has been developed.

Figure 5

To Control Circuit

Photodiode


D 140

5.Tha d

igital Still Camera Digital Still Camera Operating Theory

4 Digital Still Camera Operating Theorye CP-800 is used as an example in the following explanation of the control circuit of igital still camera.

Figure 5-5. Digital Still Camera

object


D 141

Th g is as shown below.

y the CCD on the CA1 board.

D on the CA1 board are amplified by an op-amp, igital signals by the A/D converter, they are oard.

ta are briefly transferred to 64 Mbit SDRAM.

• B signal and other conversions are performed, compression and are stored in compact flash

to display the images from the image data or JPEG or via the Video Driver.


e operation of each circuit block is as shown below.

Table 5-1. Operation of Each Circuit Block

The flow of data after photographin

1. The image data are picked up b

2. The analog signals from the CCthen after being converted to dtransferred as data to the CA2 b

3. In the CA2 board, the input da

4. In the CA2, γcorrection, R • G then the signals undergo JPEGmemory.

5. The CA2 board also functions compression data on the monit

Circuit Board Role

SY1

8-bit microprocessor (runs at 4 MHz)• Operation key input• Control liquid crystal panel display• Clock control and backup• Power supply circuit control• Flash charge control

CA1

Interline Type CCD Image Sensor• CCD clock drive• Image data A/D conversion• Lens assembly, drive, etc.

CA2

32-bit RISC-CPU (runs at 72 MHz), ASIC, Flash ROM, SDRAM• γCorrection• Color signal generation• SDRAM control• USB control• 10-bit voice data A/D conversion• Color liquid crystal monitor control, etc.

PW1

Power Supply Circuit• Switching regulator control• Digital / analog system, LCD system 5 V power output• Digital 3.3 V power output• Digital 3.4 V power output• Analog / LCD system power output• Backlight power output• Flash power, etc.


D 142

5.Deonimsm

IM

Inhaphanabco

Thstion

E STORAGE

age on digital still camera is standardized and the CF format (Design rule for Camera File System)

ws.

of image data)

at)

nly if sound recording is performed.

s “2Z140001.JPG”, this represents;nno domini)ctober, Y=November, Z=December)

number is assigned by the system to each image ntial order).


4.1 Storing the Imagepending on the image resolution and the data format for image storage, the size of e image data becomes relatively large. (i.e. the data size of 320 by 240 pixel color age is become approx. 300KB.) Therefore, if the size of image storage memory is all, the number of image can be stored is limited.

AGE COMPRESSION

order to store more image data in limited memory space, most of digital still camara s the image compression function to reduce the size of one image data. Generally, oto image contains a lot of same color pixel subsequent to the surrounding pixels, d gathering these pixels into single data pattern, the whole image data can be briviated to smaller one. Therefore, this process is built in the camara as a data mpression function.

ere are various kind of image data compression algorithm exists, and most of digital ll camera is using JPEG compression algorithm. With JPEG compression, the size of e image can be reduced to 1/10 of original size without image quality loss.

DATA FORMAT FOR IMAG

The data format for image data stormost digital still camera supports Dwhich established y JEIDA.

The basic format of DCF is as follo

Directory Structure\root\DCIM\100EPSON\(name

Data type (per image)

Image data file (JPEG form

Sound data file (WAV) *O

File name formatIf the name of image data file i“2”: Last digit of YEAR (a“Z”: MONTH (1 to 9, X=O“14”: DAY“0001”: Number of image (the

automatically in seque


D 143

5.1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10

igital Still Camera Comprehension Test

5 Comprehension TestWhat is the photographic element in a digital still camera?

List the features of the construction of the CCD area sensor.

Describe the construction of the CCD linear sensor.

Give the advantages of frame transfer.

Give the disadvantages of frame transfer.

Give the advantages of interline transfer.

Give the disadvantages of interline transfer.

Describe the flow of data in a digital still camera.

What are the features of a primary color filter?

. What are the advantages of a complementary filter?

C H A P T E R

6COLO AGING ESSENTIALS
R IM


C 145

6.

6.

6.Orpsbese

n Color and Wavelengthrs is called visible light. Visible light is a type of avelength ranging from approximately 380 nm to

are well balanced is called white light. The typical nlight includes ultraviolet light and infrared light,

most of those objects will reflect some light and e result of that light being reflected and absorbed is the object’s color.he cells in the retina of the human eye as that previous figure, the yellow of the object’s color

y the yellow and green of the reflected light from

. White Light Spectrum

Primary Colors

ary colors and if these are to be expressed, it is ding of the three primary colors.

Colors

those colors cannot ever be created by blending the

lended together, practically all the other colors can proportions of each of the primary colors used.

d the three primary colors of printing exist in the

700nm00 600

olor Imaging Essentials Basic Knowledge about Color

1 Basic Knowledge about Color

1.1 What is Color?

1.1.1 Three Factors Enabling Color to be Seendinarily, color is taken to be synthesized from physical characteristics and ychological characteristics, and has come to be distinguished in that way. In order to able to see color, there are three factors that are necessary, light, an object and the nse of sight.

Figure 6-1. Three Factors Enabling Color to be Seen

Physical Characteristics of Light

The characteristics of the light that is being used for illumination and the selective difference between the light frequencies that are absorbed and those that are reflected by the object are the greatest determinants of differences in color.

Psychological Characteristics of Light

Light is divided into the primary colors at the retina, and is transmitted to the brain as nerve stimulating signals. The cells that make up the sense of sight in the process of transmitting these signals from the eyes to the brain have the property of distinguishing the colors.

6.1.1.2 Relationship BetweeThe light that enables us to see coloelectromagnetic wave which has a wapproximately 720 nm. Light in which all the wavelengthswhite light is sunlight. However, suwhich we cannot see with our eyes. If we shine white light on objects, absorb some light, so right away, thno longer white light. This is called An object’s light is recognized by tobject’s color. In the example in theshows that its color is recognized bthe object.

Figure 6-2

6.1.1.3 Way of Thinking on

Color is composed from three primnecessary first to have an understan

Definition of the Three Primary

Of the three colors, one of other two colors.

If the primary colors are bbe created according to the

The three primary colors of light anthree primary colors.

Natural Light

Sense of Sight

Object

Reflection

Absorption

400 5


C 146

Thtec Tcocooth

6.Thin co

Wan

dstive mixture of color stimuli and by additive

li

olors (R, G, B), if we increase the number of rightness of the color resulting from mixing of the g in added brightness.

re of color stimuli, there is simultaneous mixture, side mixing.

ltaneously. Example: Stage lighting

. Simultaneous Mixing


Three Primary Colors of Light (Coloring Light)

Red (R), Green (G), Blue (B)

The cone cells in the human eye show a different reaction to the respective primary colors of light.

Three Primary Colors in Printing (Noncoloring Light)

Magenta (Red-Violet, M) Yellow (Y), and Cyan (Blue-Green, C)

at which reproduces the three primary colors from these colors is color imaging hnology.

hat which is being attempted is for the color printer, etc. to faithfully reproduce the lor of the object through the use of inks, whether dyes or pigments, because it cannot llect the light from that actual object as is and accumulate it on a sheet of paper or er recording medium.

1.1.4 Mixed Colorse color reproduction that is being done in modern color printing, on television and photographs, etc., is all based on the mixing of colors through the three primary lors.

Mixed Colors

This is mixing 2 or more colors together.

Coloring Light

This is light from a light source.

Noncoloring Light

Light that is reflected off of the surface of objects or light that is absorbed (object color).

hen we think about mixing of colors, we must think about mixing of coloring light d mixing of noncoloring light.

6.1.1.5 Color Mixing MethoMixing of colors is done by subtracmixture of color stimuli.

Additive mixture of color stimu

In the mixing of luminescent ccomponents to be mixed, the bcolors will be additive, resultin

Furthermore, in additive mixtusuccessive mixture and side by

Simultaneous Mixing

This is mixing colors simu

Figure 6-3


C 147

btractive Mixture of Color


Successive Mixture

For example, if two frames, one colored red and the other colored green, are rotated at high speed, the result would be that they appear yellow.

Figure 6-4. Successive Mixture

Side by Side Mixing

This is the placing of sprinkling differently colored dots side by side, then when they are observed from a predetermined distance or from farther away, they appear to be a mixed color. Examples: Color TV, dot drawings, etc.

Figure 6-5. Syde by side Mixing

Subtractive mixture of color stimuli

When mixing non-luminescent colors (Y, M, C), as we increase the number of components being mixed, the brightness of the mixed colors is subtracted and becomes darker. Example: Filter, printer’s color printing, etc.

Figure 6-6. Su


C 148

6.Thatt

Ththeco

he Three Primary Colors

rightness


1.2 Types and Attributes of Color

ere are three attributes of color, called the three attributes of color. The three ributes of color are hue, brightness (value) and saturation (chroma).

Hue H

This is the color, such as red, yellow or blue.

Brightness (Value) V

This is the degree of luminosity. The two extremes are white and black.

Saturation (Chroma) C

This is the degree of vividness of the color.

e relationship between these three attributes, expressed as a color solid, is shown in following figure. Colors are also divided into achromatic colors and chromatic

lors.

Achromatic Colors

These are colors without hue and chroma, which are only an expression of brightness (value). for example, white, black, gray.

Chromatic Colors

These are colors which have all three color factors.

Figure 6-7. T

Hue

SaturationSaturation

B


C 149

6.

6.Manfea

Coancoco

ExNa

ExNa

Co

Ex

symbols can be used to express a color accurately mon name attached, the color is intuitively difficult

mbols include the use of various types of color mples.

ssification according to a given assignation (for r their intervals). However, specific colors are not

pes of Standard Color Chart

Munsel System

Ostwald System

L*a*b* system

CIE System


1.3 Methods of Transmitting Color

1.3.1 Color Nameethods of transmitting color include the method of transmitting it by “Color Name” d the method of transmitting it by “Symbol.” Each respective method has its own tures and different ways to be used.

Color Name

lor name is used frequently every day, and enables colors to be transmitted simply d kept in memory. However, fine differences in color cannot be transmitted. The lor name of a physical color is divided into the system color name and the common lor name.

Figure 6-8. Types of Color Name

System Color Name of Achromatic Colors

ample: Bright Bluish Gray = Bright (Value) + Bluish (Hue) + Gray (Basic Color me)

System Color Name of Chromatic Colors

ample: dark Reddish Purple = Dark (Value) + Reddish (Hue) + Purple (Basic Color me)

mmon Color Name

128 types are specified in JIS.

ample: Amber Display Symbol: 8.5YR5.5 / 6.5 R

6.1.3.2 SymbolsThe method of expressing color by and in details, but if there is no comto understand.

Methods for expressing colors by sychart and methods of using color sa

Standard Color Charts

These are like a scale, with claexample, value, chroma, hue oexpressed.

Figure 6-9. Ty

Object Color Name

System Color Name

Common Color Name

Achromatic Color

Chromatic Color

Standard Color Charts


C 150

NO

A wiPr

ThdifIn

hromaticity Index (a*b*)

a* b* Chromaticity Diagram

C a*b*

- +

rong Red is strong

ng Yellow is strong

ed


Table 6-1. Features of Each Color System

TE: Color Difference: The visual difference between colors is expressed quantitatively.

Color Sample Chart

color sample chart is used when you want to supply a color that cannot be expressed th a standard color chart or express a specific color. Example: DIC (Dai Nihon inting), Pantone

L*a*b* System

is is the system that was studied, created and proposed to determine color ferences as a uniform visible color space at the conference of the CIE (Commission

ternationale de l’Eclairage (International Commission on Illumination)) in 1975.

L* (Luminance Index, called L star)

The higher the value, the more diverse and bright.

a* b* (Chromaticity Index, called A star, B star)

a* and b* combined express hue and chroma.

Chroma C is expressed by the following formula.

C = √¯¯a*2 + b*2)

Table 6-2. C

Figure 6-10. L*

olor System Name Contents

Munsel System

Object colors are displayed by hue, value and chroma. Value is shown on the vertical axis, hue is shown on the circle around the circumference and chroma is shown on an axis extended radially from the longitudinal axis.

Ostwald SystemObject colors are displayed by hue, whiteness and blackness. The relationship between the whiteness (W), blackness (S) and pure color (each hue, V) is W + S + V = 100.

L*a*b* SystemColors are displayed by a* and b* which shows the chromaticity index (hue and chroma) and by L* (value). It is used with a colorimeter and color difference gauge.

CIE SystemThis system was decided by the Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage (International Commission on Illumination). the convenient to use Yxy system is used.

a* Green is st

b* Blue is stro

Yellow

R

Blue

Green


C 151

Thamthe+ on

6.

Cosh

NO

Thexob

per Use of Color Expression

nt Methodsmmarized below.

lor Measurement Methods

Use

case of rough expression.

case of detailed expression

case of still more detailed expression

Contents

ng visually between a sample and the actual material .

c The spectral reflectance (or transmittance) of a material is measured using a spectralphotometer, then this is used to calculate the tristimulus value.

e The direct tristimulus value is determined using a photoelectric colorimeter.


CIE Color System (Yxy color system)

e trichromatic value (the color recognized by the sense of sight) expressed by the ount of mixing of the primary colors with each having uniform strengths) xyz and luminous reflection (penetration) rate (Y (%)). Since the relationship is such that x

y + z = 1, ordinarily, xy (xy: called chromaticity. Hue and chroma are expressed.) ly are used.

The luminous reflection (penetration) rate approximately correlates with value (object color, objective brightness or darkness).

Table 6-3. Tristimulus Value

1.3.3 Proper Use of Color Expression

lor expression methods differ depending on the type of color used, so they are here own in a list.

Table 6-4. Usable Color Displays

TE: O: Possible, x: Not possible

e Munsel system, Ostwald system and other HVC systems (those systems which press colors by value, chroma and hue) can only be used for the surface colors of jects. Therefore, the proper use of these systems in color expression is as follows.

Table 6-5. Pro

6.1.4 Color MeasuremeColor measurement methods are su

Table 6-6. CoChromaticity

Small Great

X Redness is weak Redness is strong

Y Greenness is weak Greenness is strong

Z Yellowness is weak Yellowness is strong

Type of Color CIE System (Yxy) HVC System

Primary Colors ×

Object ColorTransmitted

Light ×

Surface Light

Color Expression

Color Name In the

HVC System In the

CIE System In the

Measurement Method

Visual Method Method of compariwith the naked eyes

Physical Method

SpectralphotometriColorimetry

Direct stimulus valureading method


C 152

6.

6.

6.Comeus

6.FoHodifwi

Ain cy

6.In(Sex

e (brightness). In gradiation, there are two types, on.

changing the ink’s density.

er of dots in a given area, and uses the eye’s retina he area gradiation method there are binary, multi-ds for halftone processing.

or not to print a pixel.

12. Binary Gradiation

C

Pixel

<Printed>d>

olor Imaging Essentials Color Printer Printing Methods

2 Color Printer Printing Methods

2.1 Color

2.1.1 Primary Colorslor expression methods of color printers are the same as the color expression thods in printing, with magenta (reddish violet), cyan (blue green) and yellow being

ed.

2.1.2 Printing Colorsr primary colors, the above primary colors were used previously in color printing. wever, the black created by mixing the three primary colors (composite black) had a ferent tint when compared to real black (pure black). Therefore, printing is done th four colors, the three primary colors plus black.

lso, in the latest printers, printing is done using the error diffusion method in which, order to improve an image in which the printing grain is poor, 2 ink colors, light an and light magenta have been added for a total of 6 colors of ink.

2.1.3 Inksks have transparency, and the subtractive mixture method is used to express color ee “Color Mixing Methods” on page 146). If magenta is added to yellow, red is pressed.

Figure 6-11. Color Expression in 1-dot Units

6.2.2 Gradiation

6.2.2.1 GradiationThis is called the change of the valudensity gradiation and area gradiati

Density Gradiation

This gradiation is expressed by

Area Gradiation

This method changes the numbto express tonal gradiation. In tvalue and error diffusion metho

Binary

This expresses whether to print

Figure 6-<Yellow><Magenta><Cyan><Black>Printed with black ink.

<White>Portion not printed.

<Blue> <Green> <Red> Yellow<Composite Black>

Yellow

MagentaCyanMagentaYellowCyanMagentayan Yellow

1

<Not printe


C 153

Asstethe

1

olor Imaging Essentials Color Printer Printing Methods

Multi-value

This expresses tonal gradiation by changing the area in a single pixel that is printed.

Figure 6-13. Multi-value Gradiation

Error Diffusion Method (The most commonly used method of expressing tonal gradiation with an ink jet printer.)

in a dot drawing, by adjusting the density of dots printed at random, virtually pless gradiation can be expressed. However, the image looks rough (graininess of image worsens), so this improved using the light inks (light cyan, light magenta).

Figure 6-14. Error Diffusion Method

pixl

��yy


C 154

6.1.

2.

olor Imaging Essentials Comprehension Test

3 Comprehension TestWhat are the three primary colors in non-coloring light?

What is subtractive mixture of color stimuli?

C H A P T E R

7DJUSTMENT
A


A 156

7.He

Amadadadadpaorco

djustment Outline

1 Outlinere we explain concerning adjustment of a terminal printer.

ong the terminal printers, the type of printer with a comparatively large number of justment items is the ink jet printer. In the case of a dot impact printer, some of the justment contents resemble those in the ink jet printer. In the case of a page printer, justments are almost unnecessary for a single color printer, but for a color printer, justments are necessary depending on the particular unit that has been replaced or the rt involved. For scanners, basically, those models which are basically consumer-iented do not need adjustment, but for professional or business oriented models, the ntent of adjustments will differ depending on the model.


A 157

7.Inha

AD

Adsodisfo

AD

Adanwhanfo

tment (PG Adjustment)ustment) means the adjustment contents for the print head and printed paper and the optimum actual adjustment, since a special gauge or e distance between the cover (made of metal) and alled the platen gap (PG) adjustment.

arallelism adjustment bushings on the left and right itions for this adjustment also include use of the ink cartridges. (There are many cases where e service center.)

sary under the following conditions.

removed or replaced.

shings (one each on the left and right sides) have

en replaced.

laced.

s, the CR guide shaft consists of the main shaft and djustment has been completed with the main shaft, allelism of the auxiliary shaft.

entrder to maintain paper feed accuracy, the meshing the PF motor’s pinion is always kept in the s disassembled and reassembled, and any of the replaced, a mechanical adjustment called the be performed. If this adjustment is not performed,

the spur gear and PF motor’s pinion will be per feed pitch occurring as well as noise being

djustment Ink Jet Printer Adjustments

2 Ink Jet Printer Adjustmentsk jet printer adjustment items can be roughly divided between adjustments by rdware (mechanical) and adjustments by software.

JUSTMENTS BY HARDWARE

justments by hardware are mainly mechanical adjustments that are necessary when me particular unit or parts have been replaced or when the printer has been assembled and reassembled. It also depends on the model, but basically, the

llowing adjustment items are necessary.

Parallelism Adjustment (PG Adjustment)

Backlash Adjustment

JUSTMENTS BY SOFTWARE

justments by software are adjustments those adjustments that are carried out using exclusive adjustment program installed in advance in a PC, which are necessary en a particular unit or parts are replaced, or when the printer has been disassembled

d reassembled. In the same way, it depends on the model, but basically, the llowing items can be included amount the adjustment items.

Head ID Input

Head Inclination Adjustment

Head Height Adjustment

Head Gap Adjustment

Uni-D Adjustment

Bi-D Adjustment

USB ID Input

Protection Counter Clear

Ink Initial ink charge

7.2.1 Parallelism AdjusThe parallelism adjustment (PG adjobtaining the optimum gap betweenparallelism. When carrying out the thickness gauge is used to control ththe front rib paper guide, it is also c

When making the adjustment, the psides of the printer are turned. Condactually installed print head and thedummy ink cartridges are used at th

The parallelism adjustment is neces

If the CR guide shaft has been

If the parallelism adjustment bubeen removed or replaced.

If the carriage assembly has be

If the carriage unit has been rep

Also, in the case of high end modelthe auxiliary shaft, so after the PG ait is also necessary to adjust the par

7.2.2 Backlash AdjustmIn the case of high end printers, in oof the high precision spur gear withoptimum condition. If the product iabove units or parts are removed orbacklash adjustment must definitelythere is danger that the meshing of destroyed and of deviation of the pagenerated.


A 158

7.Ba

7.Instaam

7.Ththafotheits

Thsh

Example of the Head ID

Head ID<Example>

06B4A2B58264AWRORWWOOXE


2.2.1 Cases in which Backlash Adjustment is Necessarysically, backlash adjustment is necessary in the following cases.

If the PF motor assembly has been replaced or has been removed.

If the PF spur gear has been replaced or removed.

If the PF unit’s rollers have been removed.

2.2.2 Backlash Adjustment Control Method the gap between the PF motor pinion and spur gear (the amount of backlash), the ndards for each printer are set and controlled by the Mini Master. Fig. 7-1 shows the ount of backlash in the PM-900C.

Figure 7-1. Backlash Adjustment

2.3 Inputting the Print Head IDis operation records the print head’s drive voltage and other information inherent to t print head in the control board, etc. The head inherent information is set uniquely

r that print head in order to maximum print quality, so if the print head is replaced, ID of the new print head must be input. The information is entered on the print head

elf in encoded or numerical form.

e place where the head ID is affixed will differ depending on the model. Figure7-2. ows an example. Read from left to right, and from top to bottom.

Figure 7-2.

Backlash is 0 ~ 0.05 mm.

PF Motor Pinion

PF Spur Gear


A 159

7.ThdirheThheevwi

Toca

stment separate, or if there is a two-head configuration d and 3 colors on the other head (almost totally rects the print timing between heads by matching ing direction. Since gaps show up between inks he inks overlap unnecessarily in some places, this t, thus causing bleeding, etc. This adjustment is not color head are integrated into a single print head.stment when the black head and the color head are e cases, the black head is made the reference, and tion since it has a high visibility.

ht Adjustment in the case of 2 Heads

olor Head Head Height Adjustment Lever


2.4 Head Inclination Adjustmentis adjusts the print head so that the nozzle array’s orientation and the main scanning ection (direction of carriage movement) are at right angles to each other. If the black ad and color head are separate, this adjustment is performed on each respective head. e following figure shows this adjustment in the case where one is looking at the print ad from above. As shown in the figure, if this adjustment is not done thoroughly, en if the Bi-D adjustment is accurate, the vertical ruled lines will zigzag and banding, th a gap between different colors, will occur.

adjust, correct the head inclination by operating the angle adjustment lever on the rriage.

Figure 7-3. Head Inclination Adjustment

7.2.5 Head Height AdjuIf the black head and color head arewith “Black + 2 colors” on one healimited to LFP), this adjustment corthem mechanically in the sub scannprinted by different print heads, or tincreases the ink ink charge amounnecessary when the black head and Fig. 7-4 shows an image of the adjuseparate. for the adjustment, in sommagenta is used to make the correc

Figure 7-4. Head Heig

Carriage Unit Print Head

Angle Adjustment Lever

CBlack Head


A 160

7.If gablatimcoprTh The Forep Ifpo

tent that corrects the deviation in the column hen printing in one direction at different print

when the carriage unit is moving to carry out eristics, the timing belt and other characteristics, urs between each of the printing lines. Therefore, if he carriage unit has been removed, etc., adjustment i-D deviation is small, there are many cases where

d

-6. Uni-D Adjustment


2.6 Head Gap Adjustmentthe black head and color head are separate, due to the head installation structure, a p is created through the delay in the ink impact time in the time calculations for the ck head and color head (hereafter, “T”). If the color head prints with the same ing as the black head prints, a deviation equal to time T only will be created. The

lor head’s print start timing is adjustment by the time amount T so that the black ink inting timing and color ink printing timing coincide in the main scanning direction. e adjustment value is stored in the printer’s control circuit board.

herefore, if a print head with the black head and color head integrated is used, the ad gap T is already fixed in advance, so this adjustment is not necessary.r the adjustment, the black ink is made the reference and magenta is used as a resentative color printed by the color head.

this adjustment is neglected, there will be gaps between the black portions and color rtions of documents and irregular color will occur.

Figure 7-5. Head Gap Adjustment

7.2.7 Uni-D AdjustmenThe Uni-D adjustment is an adjustmdirection between successive lines wdensities. Due to sliding resistance printing, the carriage motor charactthere are cases where deviation occthe carriage motor is replaced or if tis necessary. However, since the Unit would ordinarily not be performe

Figure 7

Nozzle ArrayBlack Print Head Color Print Head

Main scanning (direction of carriage movement)

Sub-

scan

ning

(Pap

er fe

ed d

irec

tion)

Uni-D Deviation


A 161

7.Thsucatimeaprba

Thpaadrepsto


2.8 Bi-D Adjustmente Bi-D adjustment is an adjustment the deviation in the column direction between ccessive lines when printing in both directions. Due to sliding resistance when the rriage unit is moving to carry out printing, the carriage motor characteristics, the ing belt and other characteristics, there are cases where deviation occurs between

ch of the printing lines. Also, if the main board is replaced, or if it removed, and the inter mechanism is removed from the case, Bi-D deviation may become great, so sically, it is necessary to perform the Bi-D adjustment at such times.

is adjustment is carried out using the exclusive adjustment program. A special ttern is printed out and adjustment is made so that the pattern lines up straight. The justment procedure follows the pattern Print ® Check ® Adjust ® Print ® Check, eated over again until the adjustment is correct. The results of the adjustment are red in the EEPROM.

Figure 7-7. Bi-D Adjustment

Uni-D Deviation


A 162

7.At

Unis USbouppeco

Thchas

Attheauto

Fi

. USB ID Input Screen


2.9 Inputting the USB ID present, almost all the consumer oriented printers have a USB interface.

der the Windows 98 or iMac environment, the USB port driver has a USB ID which used for controlling devices, so the inherent USB ID is defined in each printer. the B ID is stored in the EEPROM on the main board and in the case that the main

ard is replaced, not only does it become impossible to use the USB ID that was used to that point, but if a USB ID exists that duplicates the USB ID for some other USB ripheral device (limited to companion EPSON printers), it becomes impossible to nnect via the USB interface, so it is necessary to input the USB ID again.

e USB ID is composed of a character string with 18 inherent alphanumeric aracters, and it is registered in a specific address in the EEPROM. The method of signing a USB ID at the factory is shown below.

Manufacturing process line No. (3 digits)

PC No. (2 digits)

Year/Month/Day (12 digits)The PC’s internal time data are used.

"0" (1 digit)

the repair center, 10 digits of the USB ID are assigned for the product serial No., n the remaining 8 digits are generated by the adjustment program and added

tomatically to the serial No. to create a new USB ID. Then this new USB ID is input the EEPROM on the new main board.

gure 7-8 shows an example of the USB ID input screen.

Figure 7-8


A 163

7.Clin ofhewh

Fuabonthethepr

Fi

ollowing repairs have been selected.

ent

ount of ink. The amount consumed differs ing ink consumption amounts shown below for ink -780C.

ink cartridge.

k cartridge.

rrying out ink ink charge with the exclusive

10. Ink Charge Screen


2.10 Clearing the Protection Counterearing of the protection counter means the clearing of the protection counter stored the EEPROM on the main board. The protection counter monitors the total amount waste ink not used in printing (used in cleaning and flushing), which is absorbed and ld by the waste ink pads so that it will not flow outside the printer. For that reason, en the waste ink pads are replaced, it is necessary to reset the protection counter

rthermore, in printer models which can perform borderless printing on 4 sides, sorbent material which absorbs the waste ink that overflows the edges of the sheet to the platen is provided, but finally runs down to the waste ink pads in the bottom of printer and is counted together with the total amount of waste ink absorbed. Also, protection counter counts at a specific ratio of the normal count when borderless

inting is performed. This ratio differs depending on the printer model.

g. 7-9 shows the protection counter clearing screen.

Figure 7-9. Protection Counter Clearing Screen

7.2.11 Ink ChargeInk ink charge is carried out if the f

Print head replacement

Print mechanism replacem

Ink ink charge consumes a large amdepending on the model. The followink charge are in the case of the PM

Black: 1/10 of an unused

Color: 1/5 of an unused in

Fig. 7-10 shows the screen when caadjustment program.

Figure 7-

C H A P T E R

8T BLE SHOOTING
ROU


T 165

8.InEPhatroSIdiv

8.Thbethe

e 8-1. Flowchart 1

Taltu

Ad

Od

Tis

Tab

Ow

Return to START

e power supply ltage is normal.

ck the power supply d’s output voltage.

Is the voltage normal?

Replace the control board.

Normal?

Replace the printer mechanism.

Normal?

Has the control board been replaced?

YES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO

A

YES

D

rouble Shooting Outline

1 Outline this chapter, we explain the conventional items included in troubleshooting of the SON products included in the Service Manual from the past. This troubleshooting s the purpose of detecting the trouble by following flow charts which isolate the uble, then searching out the faulty unit by replacing the most likely units. However, DM and ink jet printers differ greatly in their mechanisms, so the explanation is ided into two parts.

1.1 SIDMe troubleshooting procedure here uses the VP-4200 as an example. In the table low, the manifestation (symptoms) of each kind of trouble are listed, together with flow chart that should be selected to determine the causes of the trouble.

Table 8-1.

Figur

Manifestation Detailed Manifestation Flow Chart

he printer does not run at even when the power is rned on.

• None of the LED’s or liquid crystal displays light up.

• The printer mechanism does not move at all. It does not perform the initialization operation.

Proceed to Flow Chart 1.

n error message is isplayed. An error message is displayed. Proceed to Flow

Chart 2.

peration is abnormal uring self-test printing.

• Printing is not performed.• Faulty printing occurs.• Print quality is poor.


he paper feed operation abnormal.

• Paper does not feed.• A paper jam occurs.• The top of sheet position deviates.


he operation panel is normal.

• The printer does not respond even when the buttons are pressed.

• The displays on the operation panel are abnormal.


peration is abnormal hen the printer is on-line.

The self-test is normal, but the data from the PC are not printed out correctly.


START

Is the power supply voltage normal?

Thvo

Is the power fuse blown?

Cheboar

Normal?

Replace the power supply board.

Does the fuse blow when the power is turned on again?

Replace the fuse and disconnect all output connectors.

NO

YES

YES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

A

EN


T 166

e 8-3. Flowchart 3

Gt

Measure the print head’s coil resistance.

the adjust lever, tomatically.

e p.

en ?

laten

Is the resistance value normal?



Replace the print head.

ENDEND

END

Return to START.

?

Normal?

Normal?

YES

YES

S

YES

YES

B

NO

NO

NO

YES


Figure 8-2. Flowchart 2

Figur

START

Check the type of error.

Is it a carriage error?

Is the power supply normal?

Do any other errors appear?

o to other roubleshooting.

If foreign matter is sticking to the CR guide shaft, remove it.

Is the +35 V on the power supply board normal?

Check if some foreign matter is not causing faulty operation.

Normal?




Is it 27 V or higher?


Turn off the power and try moving the carriage manually.


Return to START.

Does the carriage move smoothly?


Normal?

Normal?

Normal?

Normal?


Normal?

Normal?

Normal?

END

END


YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

YESYES

YES

YESYES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO

NONO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

START

Carry out self-test printing.

Is the printer skipping dots?

Is it failing to print?

Is the print abnormally light or dark?

Does it print something else?

Proceed to other troubleshooting.

Does the carriage move?

Readjust or set it au

Normal?

Adjust thplaten ga

Is the platgap motorabnormal

Replace the pgap motor.

Normal

YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

YE

B

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO


T 167

e 8-5. Flowchart 5

ck the put voltage he power ply board.

ce the tion panel.

Is the voltage normal?

Replace the powersupply board.

Normal?



Return to START.

Replace the operation panel.

Normal?YES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO



Figur

START

Is the paper set correctly?

Set the paper correctly.

Turn off the printer’s power and check if the knob moves smoothly when turned manually.

Does the knob turn smoothly?


Turn the printer’s power on and check if the PF motor is excited.

Is the PF motor excited?


Normal?

Replacev the control board.

Turn on the printer’s power and feed paper using the buttons on the control panel.

Is the paper feed operation normal?

Adjust the timing belt.

Does the paper get caught on the print head?


Adjust the platen gap.

Replace the platen gap motor.

END

ENDEND

Return to START.


YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

YESYES

YES

A

A

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO NO

NO

NO

Normal?

Normal? Normal?

Normal?

START

Press the paper feed button on the control panel.

Does the LED indicate the printer is out of paper?

Cheoutof tsup

Operate each button on the control panel, checking the printer’s operation.

Is the LED indication normal?

Replaopera

END

YES

YES

NO

NO


T 168

START


Is the self-test printing normal?

Proceed to other troubleshooting.

Is the interface selected automatically?

Return to interface auto selection.

Replace the interface cable.

Normal?



END

Return to START.

Normal?

YES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO

YES


T 169

8.Th

e 8-7. Flowchart 7

Tat

E

Tab

Tn

Tab

Input the normal power supply.

Replace the fuse. Disconnect CN10 on the control board and turn the power on again.

Is fuse blown again?

Replace the power

Check the motors and heads. Refer to the printer mechanism repairs.

END

YES

NO


1.2 Ink Jet Printere PM770C is used as an example for troubleshooting of an ink jet printer.

Table 8-2. Trouble Manifestations

Figur

Manifestation Cause Flow Chart

he printer does not operate all.

None of the LED’s light up.

The printer mechanism does not move at all.


rrors are detected. The LED indicates an error message. Proceed to Flow Chart 8.

he printing operation is normal.

The printer does not print.

Print errors occur.

Print quality is poor.


he paper feed operation is ot performed normally.

The paper feed operation is abnormal.

Paper jams occur.

The top of sheet position deviates.


he operation panel is normal.

The printer doesn’t respond when the buttons are pressed.


Is the AC power supply normal?

START

Is fuse F1 on the power supply board blown?

Check the output voltage at CN2 on the power supply board.

Is the power supply board’s output voltage normal?


YES

YES

NO

NO

YES

NO


T 170

e 8-9. Flowchart 9

k a

er irs.

Are all the cables connected to the control board?

Connect all the cables.

Was the problem solved?

Proceed to printer mechanism repairs.



END END

YES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO


Figure 8-8. Flowchart 8 Figur

START

Check the error message.

Is it a carriage error?

Is it an ink cartridge error?

Is it a maintenance error?

Replace the waste ink pads and reset the EEPROM.

Turn off the power and move the carriage manually.

Replace the ink cartridge with a new one.

Did the error happen again?

Does the carriage move smoothly?

check the ink cartridge sensor and if nothing is abnormal, replace the print head.

Check the CR motor, and if there is no problem, replace the control board.


Refer to the printer mechanism repairs.

END END

YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

START


Could the printer print?

Was the print quality normal?

Carry out adjustment.


Replace the incartridge withnew one.


Proceed to printmechanism repa


END

Perform cleaning

YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO


T 171

8-11. Flowchart 11

END

ion ted

Connect the operation panel correctly.


ration

e


YES

NO

NO

NO


Figure 8-10. Flowchart 10 Figure

START

Is the paper set correctly in the ASF?

Set the paper correctly?

Is the paper feed roller turning?

If a foreign object has gotten in the paper path, remove it.

Clean the rollers along the paper path.


Does the PF motor turn?

Check the PF motor, and if there is no problem, replace the control board.

Repair the printer mechanism.

END END

YES

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO

START

END

Is the operatpanel conneccorrectly?

Replace the opepanel.

Replace thoperation panel.

YES

YES

C H A P T E R

9G SARY OF TERMS
LOS


G 173

In

NUnications rate of 10 Mbps, and uses a thick coaxial s up to a maximum length of 500 m. It is used as ale LAN.

t system that uses twisted pair cable and has a Mbps.

ystem with the communications rate increased to

or lightness so that the output is proportional to the

s convention exclusively for network acintosh computer made by Apply Computers,

the software used.

(Width) x 420 mm (Length).




lossary of Terms

this chapter, the terminology used for EPSON products is explained.

MBERS

1-dimensional Image Sensor

This is an image sensor that scans a 1-dimensional image. The sensor elements are arranged in a single dimension and the sensor reads one line (sweep) at a time. Ordinarily, this kind of sensor is used in image scanners.

Hexadecimal

Alphanumeric characters used for base 16 notation. 16 characters, from 0 to 10 and from A to F, are used.

2-dimensional Image Sensor

An image sensor that scans 2-dimensional images. Such a sensor is used for the sensor in digital cameras.

2-value Encoding

This operation decides a predetermined threshold value for an input image with dark and light portions and quantifies it at two levels.

2-value Encoding Level

This is the threshold value used for 2-level encoding.

9-division Method

This is a means of preventing the lines in the image from looking jagged when a 2-value image is enlarged, and preventing the lines from being broken or crushed when the image is reduced, etc. It divides the original pixel into a rectangular area with 3 divisions vertically and horizontally for a total of 9 divisions, then in accordance with the area in those 9 areas where the dot exists, the pixel value of that dot is decided.

10BASE-2 (Ten Base Two)

This is an Ethernet standard which specifies a communications rate of 10 Mbps and uses coaxial cable connections up to a maximum length of 200 m. This was used widely in the past, but it has been replaced by 10BASE-T.

10BASE-5 (Ten Base Five)

This standard has a commucable, enabling connectionthe trunk cable for large sc

10BASE-T (Ten Base T)

This is one type of Ethernecommunications rate of 10

100BASE-T

This is a type of Ethernet s100 Mbps.

( Correction

This corrects the darkness incident luminous flux.

ALPHABET

-A-

Apple Talk

This is the communicationcommunications with the MInc. It is also the name for

A3

Paper size measuring 297

A3 Extended (A3+)


A4


A6



G 174

-B

n (amount of data) handled in a computer or d so that 1 Byte = 8 bits. Alphanumeric characters te, but Kanji are so numerous that it is necessary to to represent 1 character.



ration that caps the print head on the printer to drying on an ink jet printer.

the print head and ink cartridge to the left and right.

ion to the left margin position on the next line.

erface that uses an asynchronous check method, e Centronics Company as a printer interface. Data rol is carried out through many control lines other he signal level is TTL, it is weak when it comes to istance data can be transmitted is about 3 m.

for specifying whether to enable or disable an item displayed on a computer screen. Enable or disable the check box with the mouse button.

lossary of Terms

ADF (Auto Document Feeder)

This is an automatic paper feed mechanism. This device feeds original documents automatically into a scanner when a large number of sheets is being scanned.

Application Software

This is software for executing business processing on a computer. Word processing software, spread sheet software and image processing software are included.

ASF (Auto Sheet Feeder)

This is a paper feed mechanism for printers.

-

Baud Rate

This is a scale that shows the data transmission speed. When a serial interface is used, it is used in connections between the computer and peripheral devices. It is expressed as bps when specifying the volume of data (bits) transferred in one second.

Bit

This is a unit of information (amount of data) handled in a computer or printer. Data are configured so that 1 Byte = 8 bits. Alphanumeric characters can be expressed with 1 byte, but Kanji are so numerous that it is necessary to use 2 bytes of information to represent 1 character.

Bitmap Font

This is a font that is stored as a group of dots.

Black Standard

Of the video output signals of an image sensor, the output level of the sensor element at the portion where light is not being shined is made the black standard. Using this standard level, correction for changes in temperature of the output when it is dark can be made in the external circuit.

Buffer

The temporary storage of data. Also, the memory used for such storage.

Byte

This is a unit of informatioprinter. Data are configurecan be expressed with 1 byuse 2 bytes of information

B4


B5


-C-

Capping

This is the function or opeprevent the print head from

Carriage

This is the unit that moves

Carriage Return

This moves the print posit

Centronics Interface

This is an 8-bit parallel intoriginally developed by thare unidirectional and contthan the data lines. Since tnoise, and the maximum d

Check Box

This is a square mark "[ ]"in a dialog box or windowcan be toggled by clicking


G 175

ing one, two or more files / data into a smaller area emory that is used. If an application program has e many cases where it is compressed. To use ssary to decompress the data and restore them to alled "thawing.")

omputer to the printer for controlling the functions de).

esses the number of characters that can be printed h.

esses the number of characters that can be printed

of single byte characters that can be printed in one

pixel units of information are output by an image he inverse of the output time per pixel is MHz.

binary encoding the threshold values for images s through random numbers or pseudo-random ways of thinking about random numbers, the dither the random dither method and the systematic

es pseudo random numbers used for dithering to te tones. Normally, 4 x 4 ~ 8 x 8 is used.

lossary of Terms

Click

This is pressing the button on the mouse one time. This is the operation that is performed when selecting an icon or a button displayed on the computer screen. Furthermore, if the mouse button is clicked 2 times in succession, it is called "doubleclick."

Cleaning

This function cleans the surface of the ink jet printer’s print heads and clears clogging of the nozzles.

Clogged Nozzle Check Pattern

A grid-like pattern for checking whether or not the print head nozzles are clogged. It may be printed at the beginning of the self-test.

Color Balance

In color reproduction, this is the relationship of the mutual brightness and darkness of each primary color. For example, if colorless is quite faithfully reproduced, it is said that the color balance is good.

Color Correction

This process makes it possible to express the original image in true color through corrections such as tonal corrections of image data divided into the three primary colors, R, G and B. Ordinarily, it involves making an image to appear natural to the human eye.

Color Matching

This is the function that matches the colors in the print results with the colors in the image in the display and with the original image.

ColorSync

This is one color management function for Macintosh offered by Apple Computer, Inc. It performs color matching of the original screen (print data) and the image in the display and shows it in the printing results. In order to activate the ColorSync function 100%, it is necessary for the print data, display, output device (printer), all the devices in the system, to be compatible with ColorSync.

Compression

This is the method of packto reduce the volume of mbeen downloaded, there arcompressed data, it is necethe original data. (This is c

Control Code

This is code sent from the cof the printer (command co

CPI (Characters Per Inch)

This is the unit which exprin a 25.4 mm (1 inch) widt

CPL (Characters Per Line)

This is the unit which expron a line.

CPS (Characters Per Second)

This expresses the numbersecond.

-D-

Data Rate

This is the speed at which sensor. The unit which is t

Dither

A method of changing andwith dark and light portionnumbers. Due to different method is divided betweendither method.

Dither Matrix

This is a mask that generatexpress pseudo-intermedia


G 176

-E

laying intermediate colors or tones, etc. during one with the most natural feel when printing

this is a method of quantization where the error s is dispersed so that the quantization error is d.

Combining this code with the code that follows ealize a single function (27 (1BH)) in the ASCII

For Printer)

m for terminal printers that was standardized by trol is carried out through use of this system.

tions system for LAN developed by Xerox Corp. It ASE - m naming system in accordance with the he connected cable. The n represents the he m expresses the type of cable used. Example:

munications convention for connecting Macintosh Its data communications rate is faster than when re done using LocalTalk.

the printer and computer to eliminate potential and to stabilize the device’s operation from noise.

head of an ink jet printer with ink all the way to the the printer ready for printing.

lossary of Terms

DPI (Dots Per Inch)

This is the unit which expresses the number of dots that can be printed in a 25.4 mm (1 inch) width, and shows the resolution.

DMA (Direct Memory Access)

This is a method of exchanging data directly between the main memory and peripheral devices, or between peripheral devices without going through the CPU.

Double Click

See the item Click.

Download

This is a function or operation where a program or data stored in a host computer is copied to your computer via network communications.

Dropout Color

Among the images printed or typed on a document, this is the color that will not show up as an image when the document is scanned with an image scanner. The ruled line frames on OCR ledgers, etc. are printed in this color.

Dynamic Range

This shows the range of signals that an image sensor is capable of sensing.

-

EEPROM (Electrical Erasable Programmable ROM)

This is PROM that can have its contents cleared or written to it electrically.

EPSON Remote!

This is utility software that enables each of the printer settings to be changed form the computer screen.

Error Dispersion Method

This is one method of dispprinting. Printing can be dphotographs, etc.

To say it more accurately, between neighboring pointaveraged out and minimize

ESC (Escape)

This is an expansion code.after makes it possible to rCode Table.

ESC/P (EPSON Standard Code

This is a control code systeSeiko EPSON. Printer con

Ethernet

This is a basic communicais distinguished by the n Bcommunications rate and tcommunications rate and t10BASE-2.

EtherTalk

This is the AppleTalk comcomputers to the Ethernet.the network connections a

-F-

FG (Frame Ground) Line

This is a wire connected todifferences between them

ink charge

This is ink charge the printprint head nozzles to make


G 177

-G

-H

us between two devices that are transferring send ation between themselves apart from the data that

ch a file or document or folder that is displayed on mouse is used to click on the icon or otherwise r is instructed to perform various commands.

.

ious distortions of image quality are removed and n easy to see image.

tion

ching the image quality to the desired quality.

at detects 1-dimensional or 2-dimensional objects er information and converts it into electrical e of such a sensor.

ng up operation when the power switch is turned and circuit boards are checked and (timer)

when the power switch is turned On.

for printing.

lossary of Terms

Fine Printing

This is a function that prints at a resolution of 360 DPI.

Fixer

The mechanism that fixes the toner on a sheet of paper by heat and pressure.

Flushing

In order to prevent the viscosity of ink inside the print head or nozzles of an ink jet printer from increasing during continuous printing, this process of spraying a fixed quantity of ink while the print head is capped or outside the print area is used.

Font (Typeface)

This is a set of letters. Minchotai and Gothic are examples of fonts.

Form Feed

This is moving the print position to the top left margin position (the position where printing starts) on the next page.

-

Gap Adjustment

This function adjusts the black / color ink spraying position. By performing this function, deviation between the black ink and color ink print position can be corrected.

GPIB

This is an interface system for instruments devices used by the Hewlett Packard Company. Devices that can be connected to this interface each have a device address and data from the desired device which have an address included with them are received from that device. This interface is also called HPIB and IEEE-488.

Graphics Accelerator

An exclusive video adapter that accelerates the graphics display.

-

Handshake

This is an exchange of statand receive control informare being transferred.

-I-

Icon

This is an image graphic suthe computer screen. If themanipulate it, the compute

IEEE-488

This is the GPIB interface

Image Correction

In scan processing, the varthe image is converted to a

Image Quality Correction Func

This is the function of mat

Image Sensor

This is a sensor element thof character, picture or othsignals. A CCD is one typ

Initial Operation

This is the printer’s warmion. The printer mechanismcleaning is performed.

Initial Setting Value

This is the setting selected

Ink Cartridge

A container that holds ink


G 178

-K

-L

mm(Width) x 279 mm (Length).

resolution.

ing color signals, with each of the color component age arranged unidimensionally in sequence.

lk network systems which the Macintosh computer Inc. is equipped with. The data communications therTalk.

ortest distance printing function. After a line is olled so that it will travel the shortest distance to ition on the next line.

locks of n x n dots are created, and this block is pixel in a dark and light image to express the ity. The tonal gradation can be correctly

ent or reduced of an image.

ses a 1-dimensional image sensor, this is the age sensor. In a laser printer, it is the laser’s

l printer, it is the direction of movement of the osite that of the main scanning direction is the sub-

lossary of Terms

Ink Jet Printer

This is a printer that that prints by spraying ink on a sheet of paper form nozzles in the print head.

Installer

This program copies data or software, etc. supplied on a CD-ROM or floppy disk to the computer’s hard disk and automatically modifies the computer’s environment so make it possible to use the installed software, etc.

Interface

This is the contacts (boundary face) where devices with different functions and conditions, such as a printer and computer, are connected together. It also refers to hardware or software as well as connection specifications for exchanging data, etc. between those devices.

Interface Cable

This is a cable that connects between interfaces.

Interface Card

This is a card that is installed in a printer if you desire to increase the available interfaces to include an interface that is not installed as standard equipment in the printer, etc. Various cards are available to meet the purposes of different users.

Intermediate Tone Specification

This is specification of the method of processing when expressing an image with dark and light portions in pseudo intermediate tones. So that a satisfactory output image may be obtained, single binary, dither, the luminosity pattern method, etc. or dither matrix can be selected.

-

Kbyte

This is a unit of data volume. 1 K Bytes = 1024 Bytes

-

Legal

Paper size measuring 216 mm (Width) x 356 mm (Length).

Letter


Line Density

This means pixel density,

Line Sequence

This is a system for arrangsignals in each line of an im

LocalTalk

This is one of the AppleTamade by Apple Computer,rate is slow compared to E

Logical Seeking

This is the bi-directional shprinted, the printer is contrmove to the print start pos

Luminance Pattern Method

This is the method where bmade to correspond to oneintermediate tone luminosrepresented.

-M-

Magnification

This is the rate of enlargem

Main Scanning Direction

In an image scanner that uscanning direction of the imsweep direction. In a seriacarriage. The direction oppscanning direction.


G 179

-N

-O

OCThop

ed for overhead projectors (OHP).

d numerically. It is comparable to a bitmap font. ize and orientation, etc. as well as the character reely to a certain extent.

from the printer.

r into the printer to the top of form position.

ts at a resolution of 1440 DPI x 720 dpi.

f image configuration. It is called a pixel.

t data transfers 8 bits at a time.

is performed when transferring data.

ls existing in a predetermined length, the resolution

with Windows 95 where a hardware device (such operating environment set automatically when the ply by connecting it to the computer, and be ready ction was not adopted in Windows NT 4.0, but its ersion 5.0.

lossary of Terms

Margin

This is the white space on a document. It is called the area on a sheet of paper that it is physically impossible to print on.

Mbyte (Mega Byte)

This is a unit of data volume. 1 Mbyte = 1024 Kbytes = 1024 x 1024 Bytes.

Memory

The component where information (data) is stored. ROM or RAM, etc. correspond to memory.

Microweave

This is a print method that reduces printing nonuniformities between lines and enables the expression of higher quality graphics images.

Multi-value Level

This is the borderline value for quantization when there are not just two levels of density in an image, 0 and 1, but 3 or more levels, such as 0, 1, 2 .....

-

NIC (Network Interface Card)

A component of the Ethernet system.

Nozzle

The spray outlet for ink. If the ink becomes dry and clogs this hole, print quality will be poor.

Number of Gradation Tones

This is the number of shades of dark and light of an image (called the quantization number). There are 64~256 tones, etc. When an image that is based on analog data is digitized for image processing, the more gradation tones there are, the smoother the image becomes.

-

R Optical Character Reader)is is a device that scans characters printed by machine or characters written by hand tically and converts them to character code.

OHP Sheet

This is transparent film us

Outline Font

This is a font that is defineWith an outline font, the sattributes can be changed f

-P-

Paper Eject

This is outputting of paper

Paper Feed

This is the feeding of pape

Photo Printing

This is a function that prin

Picture Element

This is the minimum unit o

Parallel Interface

An interface that carries ou

Parity Check

This is an error check that

Pixel Density

This is the number of pixeor the line density.

Plug and Play

This is the function offeredas a printer) could have itscomputer was started, simto use right away. This funadoption was planned for v


G 180

ciding how signals are exchanged, used for s.

ram or data can be written.

e with light and dark portions as if it had light and eing able to display and print it out on equipment lue data. Two methods are widely used to render the luminance pattern method and the dither

nned image to correspond to any of several preset tput levels so they match with the tonal level of the he image.

y)

an be written to.

eturns each setting value to the initial setting value.

sses the fineness of image quality, and which is number of dots per inch (25.4 mm), DPI. it is also line density.

arge, the image quality also becomes better, but the e processed by the computer becomes great and unt of time.

put

ing data) output for signals divided into the three (Green) and B (Blue) in a color image scanner.

lossary of Terms

Point

This is a term used in Windows 95. It means to place the cursor on the desired item in a menu on the screen using the mouse, with the result that a menu corresponding to that item which is on a different layer is displayed automatically without clicking on it. It is also used to express the character size.

Point Sequence

This is a method of arranging color signals where each color component signal for each pixel unit is arranged in sequence unidimensionally.

Port

This is a connector or socket used to connect a printer, modem or other peripheral device to a computer. Ordinarily, it is located on the read side of the computer case.

PPC (Plain Paper Copier)

This is a copy machine which uses an electrophotographic recording system.

PPC Paper (Plain Paper Copier Paper)

This is paper used in a PPC. The surface is smooth, so ordinarily, it is used as high quality printer paper.

PPM (Pages Per Minute)

This is the number of sheets of paper that can be printed in one minutes. It shows the print speed for page printers, etc.

Printable Area

This is the area that it is guaranteed can be printed to on a sheet of paper without fail when the print contents are printed out. Data that are created which exceed this area are either not printed, or are printed on the next page.

Printer Driver

This is software incorporated into some systems which converts commands from application programs to printer commands.

Print Head

This is the part of a printer that actually performs the printing.

Protocols

This is a set of rules for decontrolling communication

PROM (Programmable ROM)

This is ROM where a prog

Pseudo Intermediate Tone

The expression of an imagdark positions while only bthat is capable of only 2-vapseudo intermediate tones,method.

-Q-

Quantization

This causes pixels of a scalevels. It is dividing the oudark and light portions of t

-R-

RAM (Random Access Memor

This is memory that data c

Reset

This clears the buffer and r

Resolution

This is an index that expreordinarily expressed as theused for pixel density and

If the resolution becomes lvolume of data that must bprinting takes a longer amo

RGB (Red - Green - Blue) Out

This is image signal (scannprimary colors, R (Red), G


G 181

-S

e sensor which specifies the output voltage ure amount.

nsfers data 1 bit at a time. The RS-232C and RS-

e reproduced image caused by uneven y in the image sensor’s sensitivity, or decreasing ounding the optical system.

mooth.

sing Conversion Method)

nting image quality deterioration occurring when a r reduced. Of the four pixels that surround point P,

has the highest correlation with point P (in many est) is made the pixel value of point P.

ted sheets or original documents are delivered one after printing or scanning is finished and stacked

setting information printed out on it.

nsional information on the original document, this that is at right angles to main scanning.

at right angles on the same plane to the main paper feed direction in a laser printer or an image

lossary of Terms

ROM (Read Only Memory)

This is memory used exclusively for reading of data.

RS232C

This is a serial interface standard for data terminals and data communications devices (such as a MODEM) specified jointly by the EIA and Bell Labs in the US.

RS-422

This is an interface standard specified by the EIA in the US which is an expanded standard over the RS-232C standard. The RS-422 interface which improves on the shortcomings of the RS-232C, "short cable length" and low anti-noise performance) using differential amplification.

Therefore, long distances and high speed data transfers are enabled and it is used not only for serial transfers but also for parallel transfers.

Furthermore, the RS-422 range specified by the EIA is only an electrical specification for a receiver and driver.

Rubbing

This is an operation to remove hardened or sticky ink, or dirt, from the surface of the print head in an ink jet printer.

-

SCSI (Small Computer System Interface)

This is an interface specification adopted by ANSI in June, 1986 as a standard interface for connecting computers and peripheral devices.

Self-test

This is a test without the printer connected to the computer where the printer’s operation and print function is checked to make sure there are no problems. It is effective for determining if the cause of a hindrance is in the printer or in the computer or the interface cable.

If the nozzle clogging check pattern is included in the ink jet printer’s self-test, you can check if the nozzles are clogged or not.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of the imagobtained for the unit expos

Serial Interface

This is an interface that tra422 are serial interfaces.

Shading

This is nonuniformity in thillumination, nonuniformitlight levels in the area surr

Smoothing

This is making the image s

SPC Method (Selective Proces

This is one means of preve2-value image is enlarged othe value of the point that cases, the point that is clos

Stacker

This is the unit where prinat a time from the machineup in order.

Status Sheet

This sheet has the printer’s

Sub-scanning

With respect to the 2-dimeis scanning in the direction

Sub-scanning Direction

This is the direction that isscanning direction. It is thescanner.


G 182

-T

-V

s the thickness of paper (g / m2).

ted in the image sensor’s internal circuitry and d. This signal is used as the standard input of the uit.

the computer used, and according to the function installed in the computer, it is possible to obtain lay more colors.

lossary of Terms

Super Fine Printing

This is printing at a resolution of 720 DPI.

Surface Sequence

This is a system for color signal arrangement, in which the component signals for each color on each screen are arranged in sequence 1-dimensionally.

-

Thawing

This is the process of decompressing compressed data and restoring it to its original file contents.

Threshold Value

This is the borderline value for when images with density are rendered in gradation tones. It is also called the slice level.

Throughput

This is the volume of work that can be accomplished within a given period of time. Ordinarily, we say that this is the length of time from the point when the print command and data are sent from the computer to the printer until the paper is printed out and ejected from the printer.

Tonal Correction

This is correction of the darkness or lightness of an image.

Toner

This is a carbon powder that is fixed on paper for printing.

Top of Page Position

This is the position on a sheet of paper where printing first starts.

-

VGA

Originally, this was the name of the graphics control chip in the IBM PS/2 computers. It showed the display capacity of the display in such areas as resolution and number of colors. SVGA is an expansion of VGA. Ordinarily, it has the following display capacity.

VGA

640 x 480 dots per inch

SVGA


-W-

Weight

This is a unit that expresse

White Standard

This is a signal that is creabecomes the white standarscanner’s gain control circ

-X-

XGA


Furthermore, depending onof the graphics acceleratorhigher resolutions and disp

epson technology and operating principles

Documents

epson products

service manual

sidm print mechanism

carriage mechanism

color sidm

epsontope p s o o

t i n g p r i n c i

o g y o p e r