Epson ActionPrinter 2000 User manual

U S E R’ S G U I D E
Y46399119002

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted
in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without
the prior written permission of Seiko Epson Corporation. No patent liability is assumed with
respect to the use of the information contained herein. While every precaution has been
taken in the preparation of this book, Seiko Epson Corporation assumes no responsibility for
errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of
the information contained herein.
Neither Seiko Epson Corporation nor its affliates shall be liable to the purchaser of this
product or third parties for damages, losses, costs or expenses incurred by purchaser or third
parties as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or unauthorized
modifications, repairs, or alterations to this product.
Seiko Epson Corporation and its affiliates shall not be liable against any damages arising
from the use of any options other than those designated as Original Epson Products or
Epson Approved Products by Seiko Epson Corporation.
Epson and Epson ESC/P are registered trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation.
SmartPark is a trademark of Epson America, Inc.
General Notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and
may be trademarks of their respective companies.
Copyright © 1991 by Epson America, Inc. Torrance, California.
All rights reserved.
User’s Guide

For United States Users
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio and television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
•
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
•
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
WARNING
The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will
invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels which
exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment. It is the responsibility of the
user to obtain and use a shielded equipment interface cable with this device. If this
equipment has more than one interface connector, do not leave cables connected to unused
interfaces.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
For Canadian Users
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans le réglement sur le
brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le Ministère des Communications du Canada.
ii

Tips for printing on single sheets
There are a few things you should know about printing on single
sheets as opposed to continuous paper. When you print on single
sheets, you may notice that your printer prints the first page of
your file correctly but then prints too low on the next page, or
that it prints the last few lines from one page onto the next.
These differences in print position are easy to adjust; you can
simply change some of the settings in your application program as
described below to get the right results.
1. When you install an application program, it normally asks you
what printer you are using. Make sure you choose the correct
printer. See Chapter 1 for the right printer to choose.
2. Many programs include an option to set the maximum lines per
page. If your program has a lines-per-page setting and you are
using standard 8½, X 11-inch paper, set the lines per page to
61.
Note: To find the right lines-per-page setting for paper that is
not 8½, X 11, create a test document using your application
program. Set your top and bottom margins to 0 and then create
a file of numbered lines from 1 to 66. When you print your file,
notice the last number printed on the first page. This is your
maximum lines-per-page setting.
3. If your program doesn’t have a lines-per-page setting, try
decreasing the top margin or increasing the bottom margin, or
both, until you get the results you want.
4. You can also try adjusting the form length setting. For a
standard 8½, X ll-inch page, try setting the form length at 10
inches.
5. Some programs also let you indicate whether you are using
single sheets or continuous paper. Make sure you choose single
sheets.
. . .
111

Where to Get Help for United States Users
Epson America provides local customer support and service
through a nationwide network of authorized Epson dealers and
Service Centers.
Epson also provides the following support services through the
Epson Consumer Resource Center at [phone]:
❏ Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized Epson Reseller or
Service Center
❏ Technical assistance with the installation, configuration, and
operation of Epson products
❏ Epson technical information library fax service
❏ Product literature with technical specifications on our current
and new products
❏ Sales of ribbons, supplies, parts, documentation, and accessories
for your Epson product
❏ Customer Relations.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1.
Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference.
2.
Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
3. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do
not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for
cleaning.
4. Do not use this product near water.
5.
Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table.
The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.
6.
Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are
provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the
product and to protect it from overheating, these openings
must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be
blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other
similar surface. This product should never be placed near or
over a radiator or heat register. This product should not be
placed in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is
provided.
7.
This product should be operated from the type of power source
indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type
of power available, consult your dealer or local power
company.
8. This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type plug, a
plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into
a grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you
are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your
electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the
purpose of the grounding-type plug.
9. Do not locate this product where the cord will be walked on.
V

10. If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that
the total of the ampere ratings on the products plugged into
the extension cord does not exceed the extension cord ampere
rating. Also, make sure that the total of all products plugged
into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through
cabinet slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or
short out parts that could result in a risk of fire or electric
shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
12. Except as specifically explained in the User’s Manual, do not
attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing
those covers that are marked “Do Not Remove” may expose
you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all
servicing in those compartments to service personnel.
13. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to
qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
A. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
B. If liquid has been spilled into the product.
C. If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
D. If the product does not operate normally when the
operating instructions are followed. Adjust only those
controls that are covered by the operating instructions, since
improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage
and will often require extensive work by a qualified
technician to restore the product to normal operation.
E. If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been
damaged.
F. If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance,
indicating a need for service.
vi

Introduction 1
Features ........................................................................................ 1
Options ........................................................................................ 2
Finding Your Way Around.. ...................................................... 2
Warnings, Cautions, and Notes ................................................ 3
Name of the Parts.. ..................................................................... 4
Chapter 1 Setting Up the Printer 1-1
Unpacking the Printer.. .......................................................... 1-2
Choosing a Place for the Printer.. ......................................... 1-3
Assembling the Printer.. ......................................................... 1-5
Testing the Printer.. ................................................................ 1-10
Connecting the Printer to Your Computer.. ........................ 1-13
Setting Up Your Application Software ................................ 1-14
Chapter 2 Paper Handling 2-1
Using Single Sheets ................................................................ 2-2
Using Continuous Paper ........................................................ 2-4
Adjusting the Loading Position ............................................ 2-7
Switching Between Continuous and Single Sheets.. .......... 2-8
Printing on Special Paper.. ..................................................... 2-10
Chapter 3 Using the Printer 3-1
Operating the Control Panel ................................................. 3-2
Setting the DIP Switches.. ..................................................... 3-5
Selecting Typestyles ............................................................... 3-9
Selecting an International Character Set.. ............................ 3-11
Choosing a Character Table .................................................. 3-12
Chapter 4 Using the Printer Options 4-1
Cut-Sheet Feeder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Pull Tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Interface Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................. 4-17
4-14
vii

Chapter 5 Maintenance 5-1
Cleaning the Printer ............................................................... 5-2
Replacing the Ribbon.. ........................................................... 5-3
Transporting the Printer ........................................................ 5-4
Chapter 6 Troubleshooting 6-1
Problems and Solutions .......................................................... 6-2
Power Supply .......................................................................... 6-3
Printing.. ................................................................................... 6-4
Paper Handling ....................................................................... 6-8
Options .................................................................................... 6-10
Chapter 7 Technical Specification 7-1
Printer Specifications .............................................................. 7-2
Interface Specifications.. ......................................................... 7-7
Initialization.. ........................................................................... 7-10
Chapter 8 Command Summary 8-1
Using the Command Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
Commands Arranged by Topic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Appendix A-1
Character Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
Glossary GL-1
. . .
Vlll

Introduction
Your new Epson 9-pin dot matrix printer combines a compact
design and high performance with a wide range of features.
Features
In addition to the high-quality printing and ease of operation you
have come to expect from Epson printers, your printer offers the
following:
Easy paper handling, featuring automatic single-sheet loading.
Fast draft printing of up to 240 characters per second at 12 cpi.
Two built-in Near Letter Quality fonts (Roman and Sans Serif)
for producing high-quality documents.
A convenient control panel design that allows direct selection
of fonts, as well as a choice of normal or condensed printing.
The SmartParkTM paper handling system that lets you use
single sheets of paper without removing continuous paper,
eliminates paper waste with short tear-off, and allows easy and
accurate paper alignment.
Compatibility with the Epson ESC/P® commands used by the
LX-800.
A micro-adjustment feature that allows you to feed the paper
forward or backward to finely adjust the paper loading and
short tear-off positions.
Thirteen international character sets, an italic character table,
and the five PC character tables.
Introduction 1

Introduction
Options
You may choose a cut-sheet feeder, a pull tractor unit, or a roll
paper holder to enhance use of your printer. For detailed
information on these options, see Chapter 4.
Single-Bin Cut-Sheet Feeder (C806121)
The cut-sheet feeder gives you easier and more efficient
handling of single-sheet paper. It automatically feeds up to 150
sheets of standard bond paper into the printer.
Pull Tractor Unit (C800061)
The pull tractor unit improves continuous paper handling. It is
especially useful with continuous multi-part forms.
Roll Paper Holder (#8310)
The optional roll paper holder allows you to use the many
different types of 21.6 cm or 8½,-inch roll paper sold for
telexes and similar machines.
Interface Boards
Optional interface boards are available to supplement the
printer’s built-in parallel interface. Guidelines for choosing the
right interface are given in Chapter 4.
Finding Your Way Around
This manual provides illustrated, step-by-step instructions for
setting up and operating your printer.
•Chapter 1 contains information on unpacking, setting up,
testing, and connecting the printer. Be sure to read this chapter
first.
lChapters 2 and 3 include important information on paper
handling and the day-to-day operation of your printer.
2 Introduction

Introduction
lChapter 6 contains troubleshooting information. If the printer
does not operate properly or the printed results are not what
you expect, see Chapter 6 for a list of problems and solutions.
lOther chapters contain information on general maintenance,
specifications, and printer commands. There is also a glossary
of printer terms and an index.
Warnings, Cautions, and Notes
WARNINGSmust be followed carefully to avoid bodily
injury.
CAUTIONSmust be observed to avoid damage to your
equipment.
Notes contain important information and useful tips on the
operation of your printer.
Introduction 3

Introduction
Names of the Parts
paper guide
printer
control panel
release
paper tension unit cover
ribbon cartridge
AC inlet
Note: In some locations, the power cord is attached to the
printer.
4
Introduction

Chapter 1
Setting Up the Printer
Unpacking the
Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................
1-2
Choosing aPlace for the
Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1-3
Assembling the Printer........................................................... 1-5
Installing the platen knob.................................................. 1-5
Installing the ribbon cartridge.. ......................................... 1-6
Attaching the paper guide ................................................. 1-9
Testing the Printer.. ................................................................ 1-10
Plugging in the printer....................................................... 1-10
Running the self test.......................................................... 1-10
Connecting the Printer to Your Computer.. ........................ 1-13
The parallel interface.......................................................... 1-13
Setting Up Your Application Software.. .............................. 1-14
Choosing from a menu....................................................... 1-14
Setting Up the Printer l-l

Unpacking the Printer
When you unpack the printer, make sure that you have all the
parts shown below and that none has been damaged.
printer paper guide
power cable
Note: In some locations, the power cord is attached to the
printer.
After removing the parts, save the packaging materials in case you
ever need to transport your printer.
CAUTION: There are several different versions of the
printer designed for different electrical standards. It is not
possible to adjust the printer for use at another voltage.
The power supply type is shown on the label on the
back of the printer. If it does not show the correct
voltage for your country, contact your dealer.
1-2 Setting Up the Printer

Choosing a Place for the Printer
When selecting a place to set up your printer, be sure to keep the
following in mind:
•Place the printer on a flat, stable surface.
•Place the printer close enough to the computer for the printer
cable to reach.
•Leave adequate room around the printer to allow for easy
operation and maintenance.
CAUTION: Avoid locations that are subject to direct
sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, or dust.
Use a grounded outlet; do not use an adapter plug.
Avoid electrical outlets controlled by wall switches or
automatic timers. Accidental interruption of power can wipe
out information in the memory of your computer or your
printer.
Avoid outlets on the same circuit with large motors or other
appliances that might cause fluctuations in line voltage.
Keep the entire computer system away from potential sources
of electromagnetic interference such as loudspeakers or the base
units of cordless telephones.
Setting Up the Printer 1-3

Choosing a Place for the Printer
Note: If you plan to use a printer stand, follow these guidelines:
Use a stand that supports at least 11.6 kg (25½, lbs), which is
twice the weight of the printer.
Never use a stand that tilts the printer at an angle of more
than 15 degrees from horizontal. If you install a cut-sheet
feeder, keep your printer absolutely level.
If you position the paper supply below the printer stand, make
sure that you allow enough clearance (25 mm or 1 inch) to
keep the paper from catching on the underside of the stand.
Also see that the distance between the stand’s supports is at
least 280 mm (11 inches), to accommodate any paper size you
may use.
Position your printer’s power cord and interface cable so that
they do not interfere with paper feeding. If possible, secure the
cables to the printer stand.
1-4 Setting Up the Printer

Assembling the Printer
After choosing a good place for your printer, the next step is to
install the platen knob.
Installing the platen knob
You use the platen knob to manually feed paper in the printer
when the printer is turned off. You will find the platen knob
packed in an indentation in the white foam packaging material.
1. Insert the knob into the hole on the printer’s side and rotate it
slowly until it slips onto the shaft.
2. Push firmly on the platen knob until it fits against the printer
case.
Setting Up the Printer 1-5

Assembling the Printer
Installing the ribbon cartridge
Before installing the ribbon cartridge, make sure that the printer is
not plugged into an electrical outlet.
1.
Raise the printer cover to the upright position. Then lift the
cover up and off.
2.
Slide the print head to the middle of the printer. Then open
the paper tension unit cover.
1-6 Setting Up the Printer

Assembling the Printer
3. Turn the ribbon-tightening knob in the direction of the arrow.
This removes slack from the ribbon, making it easier to install.
4. Hold the ribbon cartridge by its handle and push it firmly
down into position, making sure the plastic hooks fit into the
slots.
Note: Press lightly on both ends of the cartridge to make sure
the plastic hooks are properly seated.
Setting Up the Printer 1-7