Sharp AL-1556 User manual

DIGITAL MULTIFUNCTIONAL
SYSTEM
OPERATION MANUAL
AL-1556
AL-1566
MODEL

The CE mark logo label is affixed on an equipment in case that the directives described in the
above sentence are applicable to the product. (This sentence is not applicable in any country
where the above directives are not required.)
In some areas, the "POWER" switch positions are marked "I" and " " on the copier
instead of "ON" and "OFF".
If your copier is so marked, please read "I" for "ON" and " " for "OFF".
Caution!
For a complete electrical disconnection, pull out the main plug.
The socket-outlet shall be installed near the equipment and shall be easily
accessible.
This equipment complies with the requirements of Directives 89/336/EEC and 73/23/EEC as amended by
93/68/EEC.
Dieses Gerät entspricht den Anforderungen der EG-Richtlinien 89/336/EWG und 73/23/EWG mit Änderung
93/68/EWG.
Ce matériel répond aux exigences contenues dans les directives 89/336/CEE et 73/23/CEE modifiées par la
directive 93/68/CEE.
Dit apparaat voldoet aan de eisen van de richtlijnen 89/336/EEG en 73/23/EEG, gewijzigd door 93/68/EEG.
Dette udstyr overholder kravene i direktiv nr. 89/336/EEC og 73/23/EEC med tillæg nr. 93/68/EEC.
Quest’ apparecchio è conforme ai requisiti delle direttive 89/336/EEC e 73/23/EEC, come emendata dalla
direttiva 93/68/EEC.
Este equipamento obedece às exigências das directivas 89/336/CEE e 73/23/CEE, na sua versão corrigida
pela directiva 93/68/CEE.
Este aparato satisface las exigencias de las Directivas 89/336/CEE y 73/23/CEE, modificadas por medio de
la 93/68/CEE.
Denna utrustning uppfyller kraven enligt riktlinjerna 89/336/EEC och 73/23/EEC så som kompletteras av
93/68/EEC.
Dette produktet oppfyller betingelsene i derektivene 89/336/EEC og 73/23/EEC i endringen 93/68/EEC.
Tämä laite täyttää direktiivien 89/336/EEC ja 73/23/EEC vaatimukset, joita on muutettu direktiivillä
93/68/EEC.
Do not make copies of anything which is prohibited from copying by law. The
following items are normally prohibited from copying by national law. Other
items may be prohibited by local law.
●Checks ●Passports ●Driver's licenses
●Money ●Stamps ●Bonds ●Stocks ●Bank drafts

1
CAUTIONS................................................................................................................ 3
ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION ......................................................................... 5
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................... 6
MAIN FEATURES ..................................................................................................... 7
1PREPARATIONS
PART NAMES ................................................................................................... 9
CHECKING PACKED COMPONENTS AND ACCESSORIES ....................... 12
PREPARING THE MACHINE FOR INSTALLATION ...................................... 13
INSTALLING THE TD CARTRIDGE ............................................................... 14
POWER ON AND OFF.................................................................................... 16
2LOADING PAPER
PAPER ............................................................................................................ 18
LOADING THE PAPER TRAY ........................................................................ 19
BYPASS FEED (including special paper)........................................................ 21
CHANGING A TRAY'S PAPER SIZE SETTING ............................................. 23
3MAKING COPIES
NORMAL COPYING........................................................................................ 24
SELECTING THE TRAY ................................................................................. 27
MAKING A COPY DARKER OR LIGHTER..................................................... 28
REDUCTION/ENLARGEMENT/ZOOM ........................................................... 29
4CONVENIENT COPY FUNCTIONS
AUTOMATIC TWO-SIDED COPYING ............................................................ 30
SORT COPY ................................................................................................... 33
COPYING MULTIPLE ORIGINALS ONTO A SINGLE SHEET OF PAPER
(2 IN 1 copy) .................................................................................................... 35
CREATING MARGINS WHEN COPYING (Margin shift)................................. 38
5SET UP THE SOFTWARE
SOFTWARE FOR AL-1556/1566 .................................................................... 40
BEFORE INSTALLATION ............................................................................... 41
INSTALLING THE SOFTWARE ...................................................................... 42
SETTING UP BUTTON MANAGER ................................................................ 55
CONTENTS

2
6PRINTER/SCANNER FUNCTIONS
USING THE PRINTER MODE ........................................................................ 60
BASIC PROCEDURE FOR PRINTING ........................................................... 60
USING THE SCANNER MODE....................................................................... 61
SCANNING USING THE KEYS ON THE MACHINE ...................................... 61
SCANNING FROM YOUR COMPUTER ......................................................... 62
OPERATION IN COPY, PRINTER, AND SCANNER MODES ....................... 62
HOW TO USE THE ONLINE MANUAL........................................................... 63
7USER SETTINGS
USER PROGRAMS......................................................................................... 64
SELECTING A SETTING FOR A USER PROGRAM...................................... 69
8TROUBLESHOOTING AND MAINTENANCE
DISPLAY MESSAGES .................................................................................... 71
TROUBLESHOOTING THE MACHINE........................................................... 73
PROBLEMS DURING SETUP THE SOFTWARE........................................... 77
MISFEED REMOVAL ...................................................................................... 80
TD CARTRIDGE REPLACEMENT.................................................................. 85
DRUM CARTRIDGE REPLACEMENT............................................................ 86
CHECKING THE TOTAL COUNT AND DRUM CARTRIDGE LIFE................ 87
CLEANING THE MACHINE ............................................................................ 88
ABOUT SUPPLIES AND OPTIONS................................................................ 91
9APPENDIX
SPECIFICATIONS........................................................................................... 92
SOFTWARE LICENSE.................................................................................... 96
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET................................................................ 98
INDEX............................................................................................................ 106

3
CAUTIONS
Caution label on the machine
The label ( ) in the fusing area of the machine indicates the following:
: Caution, risk of danger
: Caution, hot surface
Cautions on using the machine
Follow the cautions below when using this machine.
Warning:
• The fusing area is hot. Exercise care in this area when removing misfed paper.
• Do not look directly at the light source. Doing so may damage your eyes.
• Do not switch the machine rapidly on and off. After turning the machine off, wait 10
to 15 seconds before turning it back on.
• Machine power must be turned off before installing any supplies.
Caution:
• Place the machine on a firm, level surface.
• Do not install the machine in a humid or dusty location.
• When the machine is not used for a long time, for example for consecutive
holidays, turn the power switch off and remove the power cord from the outlet.
• When moving the machine, be sure to turn the power switch off and remove the
power cord from the outlet.
• Do not cover the machine with a dust cover, cloth or plastic film while the power is
on. Doing so may prevent heat radiation, damaging the machine.
• Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those
specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
• The socket-outlet shall be installed near the machine and shall be easily
accessible.
Important points when selecting an installation site
Do not install your machine in areas that are:
• damp, humid, or very dusty
• exposed to direct sunlight
• poorly ventilated
• subject to extreme temperature or humidity changes, e.g., near an air conditioner
or heater.
Be sure to allow the required space around the
machine for servicing and proper ventilation. 20cm (8")
10cm
(4") 10cm
(4")

4
Cautions on handling the machine
Be careful in handling the machine as follows to maintain the performance of this
machine.
Do not drop the machine, subject it to shock or strike it against any object.
Do not expose the drum cartridge to direct sunlight.
• Doing so will damage the surface (green portion) of the drum cartridge, causing
smudges on copies.
Store spare supplies such as drum cartridges and TD cartridges in a dark
place without removing from the package before use.
• If they are exposed to direct sunlight, smudges on copies may result.
Do not touch the surface (green portion) of the drum cartridge.
• Doing so will damage the surface of the cartridge, causing smudges on copies.
Cautions on laser
Trademark acknowledgements
•Microsoft
®Windows®operating system is a trademark or copyright of Microsoft
Corporation in the U.S.A. and other countries.
• Windows®95, Windows®98, Windows®Me, Windows NT®4.0, Windows®2000,
and Windows®XP are trademarks or copyrights of Microsoft Corporation in the
U.S.A. and other countries.
• IBM and PC/AT are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation.
• Acrobat®Reader Copyright
©
1987- 2002 Adobe Systems Incorporated. All rights
reserved. Adobe, the Adobe logo, Acrobat, and the Acrobat logo are trademarks of
Adobe Systems Incorporated.
• All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.
Wave length 770 nm –795 nm
Pulse times 10.24 µs / 7 mm
Output power 0.17 mW ± 0.01 mW

5
ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION
As an ENERGY STAR®Partner, SHARP has determined that
this product meets the ENERGY STAR®guidelines for energy
efficiency.
A small amount of ozone is produced within the unit during operation. The
emission level is insufficient to cause any health hazard.
Note:
The present recommended long term exposure limit for ozone is 0.1ppm
(0.2mg/m3) calculated as an 8hr. time-weighted average concentration.
However, since the small amount that is emitted may have an objectionable odor, it
is advisable to place the unit in a ventilated area.
USB 2.0 compatible
When connecting the machine by USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed mode),
be sure to read "System requirements for USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed
mode)" (p.59) to verify that your system and the machine
settings are configured appropriately.

6
INTRODUCTION
Using the manual
This machine has been designed to provide convenient copying features in a
minimum amount of office space and with maximum operational ease. To get full use
of all machine features, be sure to familiarize yourself with this manual and the
machine. For quick reference during machine use, keep this manual in a handy
location.
About the operation manuals
The operation manuals for the machine are as follows:
Operation Manual (this manual)
Explains the machine and how to use it as a copier. Also explains how to install the
software that allows the machine to be used as a printer and scanner for your
computer.
Online Manual (on the accessory CD-ROM)
This manual explains the procedures for using the machine as a printer or a
scanner.
Operation Manual (for facsimile) (for models that have the fax function)
This manual explains the procedures for using the machine as a fax machine.
Conventions used in this manual and online manual
• The illustrations in this manual show the AL-1556. The appearance of your
machine may be different depending on the model and options installed, however,
the basic operations are the same.
• Where "AL-XXXX" appears in this manual, please substitute the name of your
model for "XXXX". For the name of your model, see the operation panel on the
machine.
• Illustrations of driver screens and other computer screens show the screens that
appear in Windows XP Home Edition. Some of the names that appear in these
illustrations may differ slightly from the screens that appear in other operating systems.
• The explanations in this manual assume that the person who will install the product
and the users of the product have a working knowledge of Microsoft Windows.
• This operation manual refers to the Reversing Single Pass Feeder as the "RSPF".
• In this manual, the following icons are used to provide the user with information
pertinent to the use of the machine.
Some model may not be available in some countries.
Warns that injury may result if the contents of the warning are
not properly followed.
Cautions that damage to the machine or one of its components may
result if the contents of the caution are not properly followed.
Notes provide useful information on the specifications, functions,
performance, and operation of the machine.
Note
Warning
Caution
Note

7
MAIN FEATURES
High-speed laser copying
First-copy time*1at 300 dpi*2is only 9.6 seconds.
Copying speed is 15 copies per minute. This is ideal for business use and provides a
big boost to workplace productivity.
*1First-copy time may vary depending on the power-supply voltage, ambient
temperature, and other operating conditions.
*2"dpi" ("dots per inch") is unit that is used to measure resolution. Resolution
indicates how much detail can be reproduced in a printed or scanned image.
High-quality digital image
• High-quality copying at 600 dpi is performed.
• In addition to automatic exposure adjustment, two original modes can be selected:
"TEXT" for text-only originals, and "PHOTO" for photographs. The exposure can be
adjusted to five levels in each mode.
• The photo mode copying function allows clear copying of delicate halftone original
images such as monochrome photos and color photos.
Enhanced copying features
• Zoom copies can be made from 25% to 400% in increments of 1%. (When the
RSPF is being used, the zoom copy ratio range is 50% to 200%.)
• Continuous copying of up to 99 copies is possible.
• Sets of output can be offset from each other for easy separation (offset function).
• Sorting by sets is possible without the need for a sorter or other special device
(Sort copy).
• Includes convenient features such as margin shift, 2 IN 1 copy, and automatic two-
sided copying.
Scan once/Print many
• The machine is equipped with a memory buffer allowing the machine to scan an
original once and make up to 99 copies of the scanned image. This improves
workflow, reduces operating noise from the machine and reduces wear and tear on
the scanning mechanism, which provides for a higher reliability.
LCD panel displays messages
The LCD panel displays messages that show function settings and the status of the
machine.
A
Margin shift
Sort copy Offset function 2 IN 1 copy
2
1
3
2
1
3
1
23
2
1
3
1
1
1
23
A

8
Laser printer function
• Printer function
The accompanying printer driver can be installed to enable use of the machine as a
printer.
• Network printer function
A LAN connector is provided as a standard feature that allows the machine to be
used as a network printer.
Color scanner function
• The accompanying scanner driver can be installed and the machine connected to
a computer using a USB cable to enable use as a scanner.
Environment and people friendly design
• Preheat mode and auto power shut-off mode are provided to reduce power
consumption when the machine is not in use.
• A universal design has been implemented in the product whereby the height of the
operation panel and shape of the keys are designed to be usable by as many
people as possible.

9
1Chapter 1
1
This chapter provides basic information that you should know before using the machine.
PART NAMES
The following illustration shows the part names of the AL-1556.
The illustrations in this manual show the AL-1556. The appearance of
your machine may be different depending on the model, however, the
basic operations are the same.
Document glass Paper output tray extension
Operation panel Power switch
Front cover Handles
Paper tray Power cord socket
Side cover
Fusing unit release lever
Side cover open button Transfer charger
Bypass tray paper guides Charger cleaner
Paper output tray
Note
Interface
TD cartridge Drum cartridge
RSPF
Exit area
Reversing tray
2
3
4
1
5
7
6
8
9
10
11
13
14
15
USB
connector
LAN
connector
Bypass tray
Original guides
Document feeder tray
Document
feeder cover
5
3
12
11
19
2
10
3
11
4
12
5
13
6
14
7
15
8
PREPARATIONS
The paper output tray has a paper holder arm. The paper holder arm
presses gently on the output paper to stack it.
Note

PREPARATIONS
10
Operation panel
[MODE SELECT] key / Mode indicators
Press this key to select the mode. The
indicator of the selected mode lights (copy,
printer, scanner mode indicators).
Display
This shows messages indicating the
machine status and any problems that
occur, as well as user programs and
function setting menus.
Numeric keys
Use these to enter the number of copies
and other numerical settings.
The keys can also be used to select
items in function setting menus.
[CLEAR] key ( )
Use this to clear the set number of
copies, as well as cancel a job that is in
progress. When a setting menu appears,
use this key to move back to the
previous menu level.
Power save indicator
This lights up when the power save
function is activated.
RSPF indicator
This lights up when an original is placed
in the RSPF.
Error indicator
This lights steadily or blinks when a
paper misfeed or other error occurs.
[TRAY SELECT] key ( )
Use to select the paper tray that has the
desired paper for copying.
Tray location indicator
Indicates the selected paper tray. The
indicator blinks when the tray is out of
paper or is not closed.
[MENU] key
Press this key to select the paper size for
copying, to configure a user program or
to display the total count.
[2-SIDED COPY ( )] key
Use to copy both sides of an original.
[E-SORT/SP.FUN ( )] key
Press to select the sort function, 2 IN 1
copy function, or margin shift function.
[ ] key ( ), [ ] key ( ), [OK]
key
Press the [ ] key ( ) or [ ] key
( )to select an item in a function setting
menu.
Press the [OK] key to enter a selection.
[EXPOSURE ( )] key
Use to switch from auto exposure
adjustment to text mode or photo mode.
1
1
1
2
3
3
3
4
4
4
5
5
5
6
6
6
7
7
7
8
8
8
9
9
9
10
10
10
11
11
11
12
12
12
1,2,3,
1,2,3,
SP. FUN
C
13
13
13
14
14
14
AL-1556
MENU
6 7 8 9 10 11
1

11
1
PREPARATIONS
[ZOOM] key
Press to select an enlargement or
reduction ratio.
To select a preset ratio setting, press the
[ZOOM] key and select the desired
preset ratio. To select a ratio that is not
preset, press the [ZOOM] key, select the
preset ratio that is closest to the desired
ratio, and then press the [ ] key ( )
or [] key ( ) to increase or
decrease the ratio in increments of 1%.
[START] key ( ) / Ready indicator
The ready indicator lights up when
copying or scanning is possible.
To begin copying, press the [START]
key ( ).
The [START] key ( ) is also pressed
to return to normal operation from auto
power shut-off mode.
[CLEAR ALL] key ( )
This returns all functions to the default
settings. When pressed in a setting
menu, this returns the settings and
display to the initial state.
Shows the current copy ratio.
Shows the selected paper size.
Shows the number of copies that has
been entered with the numeric keys.
A checkmark " " appears when the
exposure has been changed, or when
two-sided copying, sort, 2 IN 1, or
margin shift is selected.
15
15
15
16
16
16
17
17
17
18
19
20
21
READY TO COPY.
100% A4 0
Display
1,2,3,
É
1,2,3,
É
SP. FUNC
ZOOM
OK
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
2 3 4 5

12
CHECKING PACKED COMPONENTS AND
ACCESSORIES
Open the carton and check if the following components and accessories are
included.
If anything is missing or damaged, contact your authorized service representative.
If the machine does not function properly during setup or use, or if a
function cannot be used, see "TROUBLESHOOTING AND
MAINTENANCE" (p.71).
Note
Drum cartridge
(installed in machine)
Software CD-ROM
Telephone line cord
(AL-1566 only)
• Operation manual
• Operation manual
(For Facsimile)
(AL-1566 only)
TD cartridge

13
1
PREPARING THE MACHINE FOR INSTALLATION
1Be sure to hold the handles on both
sides of the machine to unpack the
machine and carry it to the installation
location.
2Remove all pieces of tape shown in the illustration below and
then open the RSPF and remove the protective materials. Take
out the bag containing the TD cartridge.
3Release the scan head locking switch.
The scan head locking switch is under the document glass.
If the switch is locked ( ), the machine will not operate. Unlock the switch
( ) as shown below.
Lock Unlock
Grasp here and turn in
the direction of the arrow.

14
INSTALLING THE TD CARTRIDGE
1Open the bypass tray, and
then open the side cover.
2Press gently on both sides of
the front cover to open the
cover.
3Remove the TD cartridge from the bag. Remove the protective
paper. Hold the cartridge on both sides and shake it
horizontally four or five times. Hold the tab of the protective
cover and pull the tab to your side to remove the cover.
4While pushing the lock release
button, gently insert the TD
cartridge until it locks into place.
4 or 5 times
Lock release button

15
1
PREPARATIONS
5Close the front cover and then
the side cover by pressing the
round projections near the
side cover open button.
6Ensure that the power switch of
the unit is in the OFF position.
Insert the attached power cord
into the power cord socket at the
rear of the unit.
7Plug the other end of the power cord into the nearest outlet.
When closing the covers, be
sure to close the front cover
securely and then close the side
cover. If the covers are closed in
the wrong order, the covers may
be damaged.
Only insert the power cord into a properly grounded wall socket.
Do not use extension cords or power strips.
Caution
Caution

16
POWER ON AND OFF
The power switch is located on the left side of the machine.
Power on
Turn the power switch to the "ON" position.
The ready indicator will light up and other
indicators which show the initial settings of the
display will also light up to indicate the ready
condition. For the initial settings, see the
"Initial settings" (below).
You can select copy settings and press the [START] key ( ) during warm-up.
Copying will start after warm-up.
The first time the power is turned on after shipment from the factory, a message will
appear in the display asking you to select the language. Select the language with the
[ ] key ( ) or [ ] key ( ) and then press the [OK] key.
Initial settings
The machine reverts to the initial settings when it is first turned on, when the [CLEAR
ALL] key ( ) is pressed, or when no keys are pressed for the preset "AUTO
CLEAR" time following the end of a copy job. When the machine reverts to the initial
settings, all settings and functions selected to that point are canceled. The "AUTO
CLEAR" can be changed in the user programs. (p.64)
If you use the machine in a country other than the country
where the machine was purchased, you will need to make sure
that your local power supply is compatible with your model. If
you plug the machine into an incompatible power supply,
irreparable damage to the machine will result.
Copy ratio: 100%, Exposure: Automatic
Copy quantity: 0, All special copier modes: Off
Caution
AL-1556
The main screen of copy mode appears.
READY TO COPY.
100% A4 0
1,2,3,
1,2,3,
SP. FUNC
When in the copy
mode

17
1
PREPARATIONS
About the scan head
The scan head lamp remains on constantly when the machine is in the ready
condition (when the ready indicator is illuminated).
The machine adjusts the scan head lamp periodically to maintain copying quality. At
this time, the scan head moves automatically. This is normal and does not indicate
machine trouble.
Power off
Make sure that the machine is not in operation and then turn the power
switch to the "OFF" position.
If the power switch is turned off while the machine is
in operation, a misfeed may occur and the job that
was in progress will be canceled.
In cases where the machine will not be used for a
long time, turn off the power switch and remove the
power cord from the outlet.
Check the following to make sure the machine is not in operation:
• The ready indicator is lit. (Initial state)
• The power save indicator is lit. (preheat mode or auto shut-off mode)
Power save modes
Preheat mode
This function automatically switches the machine to a low power consumption state if
the set duration of time elapses without the machine being used when the power is
on. In this mode, the power save indicator lights up. Normal operation automatically
resumes when a key on the operation panel is pressed, an original is placed, a print
job is received.
Auto power shut-off mode
This function automatically switches the machine to a state that consumes even less
power than preheat mode if the set duration of time elapses without the machine being
used when the power is on. The power save indicator lights up, the display shows a
message indicating that the machine is in auto power shut-off mode. To resume normal
operation, press the [START] key ( ). Normal operation also resumes automatically
when a print job is received or scanning is begun from a computer. While in auto power
shut-off mode, no keys (except the [START] key ( )) can be used.
The machine has two power save modes to reduce overall power
consumption and thereby reduce the cost of operation. In addition,
these modes conserve natural resources and help reduce
environmental pollution. The two power save modes are preheat
mode and auto power shut-off mode.
The preheat activation time and the auto power shut-off time can be
changed with "PREHEAT MODE" and "AUTO SHUT-OFF TIME" in the
user programs. It is suggested that you set times that are appropriate
for your usage of the machine. (p.64)
Note

18
2
Chapter 2
The tray location indicator will blink when there is no paper in the selected paper
tray, or when the selected paper tray is not installed or is improperly installed.
PAPER
For best results, use only SHARP recommended paper.
*1The number of sheets of paper that can be loaded varies depending on the weight of
the paper.
*2Do not use non-standard envelopes or envelopes that have metal clasps, plastic
snappers, strings, windows, linings, self-adhesive strips, patches or synthetic materials.
Do not use envelopes that are filled with air or envelopes that have labels or stamps
attached. These will damage the machine.
*3When loading paper larger than A4 size, do not use paper of weight greater than
105 g/m2.
Paper tray type Paper type Size Weight Capacity
Paper tray Standard paper
Recycled paper
A4
B5
A5
56 g /m
2
to 80 g /m
2
250 sheets *1
(The paper
should not
exceed the
line on the
tray)
Bypass tray Standard paper
Recycled paper
A4
B5
A5
B6
A6
Letter
Legal
Invoice
56 g/m2to
80 g /m
2
50 sheets *1
Thick paper 52 g/m2to
128 g/m2*3Load one sheet at a
time in the
bypass tray.
Transparency
film/Labels
Envelopes *2International DL
International C5
Monarch
Commercial 9
Commercial 10
LOADING PAPER