Service Manual FX-880/FX-1180 Epson America, Inc.
EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual Revision st 1 Release ii Date August 1998 EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
Table of Contents 1. Product Description ................................................................................1-1 2. Operating Principles ...............................................................................2-1 3. Disassembly and Assembly....................................................................3-1 4. Adjustments ...........................................................................................4-1 5. Troubleshooting.....................................................
iv EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
Preface The EPSON FX-880 and EPSON FX-1180 are identical products, except for their width. To permit printing on wider paper, the FX-1180 has a wider body than the FX-880, but is the same as the FX-880 in all other respects. Unless noted otherwise, all information and instructions in this manual can be used to service either printer.
vi EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR AMERICAN 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 and television reception.
TRADEMARKS EPSON and ESC/P are registered trademarks and ESC/P 2, EPSON FX-880, and EPSON FX-1180 are trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation. Epson Connection is a service mark of Epson America, Inc. General Notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective companies. EPSON disclaims any and all rights in those marks. Copyright © 1998 Epson America, Inc.
PRECAUTIONS Precautionary notations throughout the text are categorized relative to: 1. personal injury. 2. damage to equipment. WARNING Signals a precaution which, if ignored, could result in serious or fatal personal injury. Great caution should be exercised in performing procedures preceded by a WARNING heading. CAUTION Signals a precaution which, if ignored, could result in damage to equipment. Always observe the precautionary measures itemized below when performing repair/maintenance procedures.
1. Product Description Features ..................................................................................................................................................... 1-1 Accessories................................................................................................................................................ 1-3 Hardware Specifications ............................................................................................................................
Product Descriptions 1-ii EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
Product Description Features The EPSON FX-880 and FX-1180 are small-footprint, 9-pin serial impact dot matrix printers. Except for their width, the two printers are exactly the same. The FX-1180 has a wider carriage unit and paper handling mechanism, and prints on wider paper than the FX-880. The main features of the FX-880 and FX-1180 are: Print Speed High speed draft Draft NLQ 410 cps at 10 cpi (max.
Product Description Character tables Standard version NLSP version Character sets 12 international character sets and one legal character set Input buffer 32KB or 0KB (selectable in the default-setting mode or using the EPSON Remote! utility with Windows 95) Acoustic noise Approximately 55 dB(A), ISO 7779 pattern Reliability Total print volume MTBF Printhead life Ribbon life Interfaces One standard bidirectional, 8-bit, parallel interface with IEEE-1284 nibble mode support, and one o
Product Description Accessories Table 1-1. Items Included with the Printer Enclosed item Quantity User’s guide 1 Driver diskette 1 Ribbon cartridge 1 1-2.
Product Description Hardware Specifications This section describes the hardware specifications of the FX-880 and FX-1180. Printing Method Printing method Impact dot matrix Number of pins 9 pins Pin arrangement 9×1 Pin diameter 0.0114 inch (0.29 mm) Print color Black Print direction Bidirectional logic seeking when printing text and graphics. Unidirectional text or graphics printing can be selected with software commands.
Product Description Table 1-4. Print Resolution Print Mode Horizontal density Vertical density Adjacent dot printed? High-speed draft 90 dpi 72 dpi No Draft 120 dpi 72 dpi No NLQ 240 dpi 144 dpi No Bit image 60, 72, 80, 90 or 120 dpi 72 dpi Yes 120 or 240 dpi 72 dpi No Control codes ESC/P and IBM 2380/2381 Plus character emulation.
Product Description Feed speed Table 1-5. Feed Speed Mode Type of Feed Speed Normal 1/6 inch 62 ms/line Continuous 5.0 inches/sec (0.127 m/sec) 1/6 inch 83 ms/line Continuous 3.1 inches/sec (0.078 m/sec) Copy Release lever Set the paper release lever using the following table. Table 1-6.
Product Description Paper Specifications This section describes the types of paper that can be used with this printer. Cut Sheets Table 1-8. Specifications for Cut Sheets (as single sheets of paper) Width Length Thickness Weight Quality FX-1180: 5.8 to 16.5 inches (148 to 420 mm) FX-880: 5.8 to 10.1 inches (148 to 257 mm) Front entry: 7.2 to 14.3 inches (182 to 364 mm) Rear entry: 3.6 to 14.3 inches (92 to 364 mm) 0.0025 to 0.0055 inches (0.065 to 0.
Product Description Envelopes Table 1-10. Specifications for Envelopes Envelope type Width Length Insertion Total thickness Weight Quality No.6 No.10 6.5 inches (165 mm) 9.5 inches (241 mm) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 4.1 inches (105 mm) Rear entry only 0.0063 to 0.020 inches (0.16 to 0.52 mm) The variation in thickness in the print area, due to envelope construction, must be within 0.0098 inches (0.25 mm).
Product Description Table 1-12. Specifications for Continuous Form Labels Front (push or pull tractor, but preferably pull) or bottom (pull tractor) See the figure below: Insertion Minimum label size 15/16" (23.8 mm) 2.5" (63.5 mm) Label Corner Radius 0.1" (2.5 mm) Figure 1-4. Label FX-1180: 4 to 16 inches (101.6 to 406.4 mm) FX-880: 4 to 10 inches (101.6 to 254.0 mm) 4 to 22 inches (101.6 to 558.8 mm) 0.0028 to 0.0035 inches (0.07 to 0.09 mm) 0.0063 to 0.0075 inches (0.16 to 0.
Product Description Roll paper Table 1-13. Specifications for Roll Paper Rear entry FX-1180: 16 inches (406.4 mm) FX-880: 8.5 inches (216 mm) 0.0028 to 0.0035 inches (0.07 to 0.09 mm) 2 14 to 22 lb (52 to 82 g/m ) Plain paper; neither curled, folded, nor crumpled Insertion Maximum paper width Thickness Weight Quality Note: Using roll paper requires an optional roll paper holder. A B B A The minimum top and bottom margins are 0.17 inch (4.2 mm). B The minimum left and right margins are 0.
Product Description Electrical Specifications Electrical specifications for the FX-880 and FX-1180 depend on both the model and the type of power supply it contains: Table 1-15. Electrical Specifications for the 120 V Version Item Specification Rated voltage 120 VAC Input voltage range 103.5 to 132 VAC Rated frequency range 50 to 60 Hz Input frequency range 49.5 to 60.5 Hz Rated current 0.7 A (maximum 1.
Product Description Table 1-17. Electrical Specifications for the UPS Version Item Specification Rated voltage 100 to 120 VAC or 220 to 240 VAC Input voltage range 90 to 132 VAC or 198 to 264 VAC Rated frequency range 50 to 60 Hz Input frequency range 49.5 to 60.
Product Description Safety Approvals The FX-880 and FX-1180 have met the following safety approvals: Table 1-20. Safety Information Version Safety Standards EMI 120 V UL 1950 with D3, CSA C22.2 No. 950 FCC part 15 subpart B class B, CSA C108.8 class B 230 V EN60950 (VDE, NEMKO) EN55022 (CISPR pub. 22) class B, AS/NZS 3548 class B UPS UL 1950, CSA C22.2 No. 950 FCC part 15 subpart B class B, CSA C108.8 class B CE Marking The following table lists CE marking information for the 230 V version.
Product Description Firmware Specifications This section provides detailed information about firmware for the FX-880 and FX-1180.
Product Description Interface Specifications The FX-880 and FX-1180 provide a bidirectional 8-bit parallel interface and a Type-B optional interface slot as standard. Parallel Interface (Forward Channel) Transmission mode 8 bit parallel, IEEE-1284 compatibility mode Adaptable connector 57-30360 (AMPHENOL) or equivalent Synchronization /STROBE pulse Handshaking BUSY and /ACKNLG signals Signal level TTL compatible (IEEE-1284 level 1 device) Table 1-23.
Product Description The BUSY signal is active (HIGH) under the following conditions: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ While receiving data. When the input buffer is full. When the INIT signal is active LOW. When the /ERROR or PE signal is active. During hardware initialization. In the self-test mode. In the adjustment mode. In default-setting mode. The /ERROR signal is active LOW under the following conditions: ■ ■ ■ If there is a release lever error. If there is a paper-out error. If there is a paper-jam error.
Product Description Table 1-24. Maximum and Minimum Timings for Data Transmission Parameter Minimum Maximum tsetup 500 nsec thold 500 nsec tstb 500 nsec tready 0 tbusy 500 nsec treply tack 500 nsec 10 us tnbusy 0 tnext 0 ttout* 120 nsec ttin** 200 nsec Notes: * Rise and fall time of output signals. ** Rise and fall time of input signals.
Product Description Table 1-25.
Product Description Interface Selection The printer selects the interface automatically, unless the user manually overrides it. Manual selection The user can override automatic selection by selecting either the built-in parallel or the optional Type-B interface in the default setting mode. (See “Control Panel Operation” later in this chapter.) Automatic selection Normally, interface selection is automatic. (This is the factory-set default, but it can be changed in the default settings.
Product Description Control Panel Operation This section tells how to use the FX-880 and FX-1180 control panel. Control Panel The printer control panel contains four non-lock-type pushbuttons and one lock-type power button, as well as various LEDs to report on printer functions. Font Draft Draft Condensed Roman Roman Condensed Sans serif Sans serif Condensed Tear Off/Bin LF/FF Load/Eject Pause Tear off Bin 1 Bin 2 Paper Out Operate Micro Adjust 3sec Figure 1-8.
Product Description LF/FF Performs a line feed if pressed momentarily. Performs a form feed if held down continously. Micro feeds backward, when the micro-adjust function is enabled. Tear Off/Bin Advances continuous-feed paper to the tear-off position; if pressed again, repositions the paper to top-of-form (TOF). Selects CSF bin 1 or CSF bin 2. Operation at Power-On To access these functions, the button indicated below must be pressed while turning on the printer. Table 1-28.
Product Description Details of Selected Functions This section explains how to use several of the more complex functions. Micro-Adjust Function The micro-adjust function lets you set the top of form (TOF) and tear-off positions for your paper. Which position you adjust depends on whether the paper is in the TOF or the tear-off position when you make the adjustment. Adjustments can be made in increments of 1/216 inch. Use the Load/Eject button to move the paper up, and the LF/FF button to move it down.
Product Description Paper handling when in the tear-off mode If you press the Pause button with the printer off-line, the printer feeds the paper back to the TOF position for the next page and brings the printer back on-line. If you press the Pause button with the printer on-line, the printer feeds the paper back to the TOF position for the next page and takes the printer off-line. Pressing the LF/FF button feeds the paper back to the TOF position for the next page and executes a line feed.
Product Description Note that in the following table, factory settings are shown in bold. Table 1-30. Default Settings (Mode 1) Item Setting/Value Skip over perforation On, Off Auto tear off On, Off Auto line feed On, Off Print Direction Bi-d, Uni-d I/F mode Auto, Built-in Parallel, Optional Type-B Auto I/F wait time 10 sec, 30 sec Software ESC/P, IBM 2380/2381 Plus 0 slash O, Ø High speed draft On, Off Input buffer On, Off Beeper On, Off Auto CR* On, Off I.B.M.
Product Description Note that in the following table, factory settings are shown in bold. Table 1-31. Default Settings (Mode 2) Item Setting/Value Page length for front tractor 3 inch, 3.5 inch, 4 inch, 5.5 inch, 6 inch, 7 inch, 8 inch, 8.5 inch, 11 inch, 70/6 inch, 12 inch, 14 inch, 17 inch Page length for rear tractor 3 inch, 3.5 inch, 4 inch, 5.5 inch, 6 inch, 7 inch, 8 inch, 8.
Product Description To perform the adjustment with a host computer, see Chapter 4, Adjustments. START Hold down the Pause switch and turn on the printer. An instruction guide prints. The first alignment pattern prints, consisting of 25 numbered rows of sample output. Note: Each time you go through this cycle, you adjust alignment at a different print speed, as follows: 1. High-speed draft mode 2. Draft mode 3. NLQ mode Finished? YES NO Turn the printer off to save the settings.
Product Description Printer States and Error Reporting This section describes various printer states and how the printer uses its beeper and LED indicators to report errors. Initialization Hardware Initialization Initialization occurs when the printer is turned on or when the printer receives an /INIT signal (negative pulse) or cold-reset command (remote RS command). Initialization does the following: Initializes the printer mechanism. Clears all data in the buffers.
Product Description Conditions Indicated by the LEDs and Beeper The following table shows how to interpret the printer’s indicators. Table 1-32.
Product Description Main Components The main components of the FX-880 and FX-1180 are designed for easy removal and repair. The main components include the following: C229 MAIN Board Assembly C229 PSB/PSE/PSH Board Assembly C229 PNL Board Assembly Printer Mechanism (M-3J10) Housing Assembly Upper Housing C229 PNL Control Panel Printer Mechanism C229 PSB/PSE/PSH Power Supply Lower Housing C229 MAIN Board Assembly Figure 1-12. Main Components.
2. Operating Principles Printer Mechanism Operation .................................................................................................................... 2-1 Printhead ........................................................................................................................................... 2-2 Carriage Unit ..................................................................................................................................... 2-4 Paper Handling Mechanisms .......
Operating Principles 2-ii EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
Operating Principles Printer Mechanism Operation This section describes the FX-1180 and FX-880 printer mechanism, which features a 9-pin serial impact dot matrix printhead.
Operating Principles Tractor Release Lever Rear PE Sensor PF Motor Platen Roller Front PE Sensor Printhead Parallelism Bushing Release Sensor CR Guide Shaft Parallelism Bushing CR Motor Carriage Unit Ribbon Feed Mechanism Timing Belt HP Sensor PG Adjust Lever Figure 1. Printer Mechanism Printhead The printhead transfers ink to the printed page by means of 9 wires which strike the ink ribbon as the printhead travels across the page.
Operating Principles As shown in the diagram below, the head driving coil, when energized, pulls against the actuating plate. This thrusts the dot wire against the ink ribbon and creates a printed dot. (The ribbon mask prevents the ribbon from smudging the paper as the printhead moves back and forth across the page.) After striking the ink ribbon, the driving coil is shut off and the dot wire returns to its original position.
Operating Principles Carriage Unit The carriage unit transports the printhead back and forth across the printed page. It is driven by the carriage (CR) motor—a stepper motor—via the timing belt, which connects to the underside of the carriage. The carriage slides along the carriage guide shaft, which maintains the printhead’s horizontal alignment with the platen, while the base frame provides further support and maintains the printhead’s vertical alignment.
Operating Principles Paper Paths Different kinds of paper feed through the printer in different ways. The paths different kinds of paper follow are divided into four groups, depending on the entrance the paper is fed from (front, rear, bottom, or top). Top Entrance The following figure shows the paper path for friction feeding using the top entrance. The top entrance is used only for the friction feed method. When the top entrance is used, the rear PE sensor senses when paper is out. Figure 4.
Operating Principles Figure 6. Paper Path for Pull Tractor Feeding Using the Rear Entrance Figure 7.
Operating Principles Bottom Entrance The following figure shows the paper path for tractor feeding using the bottom entrance. The bottom entrance is used only for pull tractor feeding. When the bottom entrance is used, the front PE sensor senses when paper is out. Figure 8. Paper Path for Pull Tractor Feeding Using the Bottom Entrance Front Entrance Figures 9 through 12 show the paper paths for the front entrance.
Operating Principles Figure 10. Paper Path for Push Tractor Feeding Using the Front Entrance Figure 11.
Operating Principles Figure 12. Paper Path for Push-Pull Tractor Feeding Using the Front Entrance Summary of Paper Paths The various paper paths diagrammed above are summarized below in tabular form: Table 1.
Operating Principles In the figure below, black arrows indicate directional movement when the printhead carriage travels left to right. In this case, motion transfers through the gear linkage as follows: Belt Pulley → Sun Gear → Planet Gear → Gear 1 → Ribbon Driving Gear Note that the belt pulley and the sun gear are on the same axle and rotate together as a unit.
Operating Principles Platen Gap Adjustment Mechanism The platen gap (the gap between the platen and the printhead) can be adjusted to allow the printer to use paper of different weights or thicknesses. When the platen gap adjust lever is moved forward or backward, the carriage guide shaft rotates. Because the carriage guideshaft is eccentric at the ends, this rotation moves the carriage either toward or away from the platen, and changes the platen gap.
Operating Principles Circuit Operation Power Supply – Circuit Types The FX-1180 and FX-880 printers can be powered by any of three power supply boards: the C229 PSB board (120 V), the C229 PSE board (230 V), or the C229 PSH board (UPS). The output of these boards supplies the DC current necessary to drive the printer control circuits and the printer drive mechanism. Though all three boards provide the same output, their primary circuitry differs.
Operating Principles To protect the printer, the power supply board incorporates over-voltage and over-current protection circuitry. If the 5 V supply exceeds +7 VDC, or if the 35 V supply exceeds +36 VDC, the operation of the ZC-RCC switching circuit is immediately stopped, and its output falls to zero. In addition, a voltage drop protection circuit protects the printer in case of a short circuit in any component that draws from the +35 VDC line.
Operating Principles Control Circuit The C229 MAIN board is the control circuit board for the FX-1180 and FX-880. The control circuit includes a TM96C141AF CPU that runs at 14.47 MHz, an E05B50 gate array that contains various memory management functions, a reset IC, EEPROM, etc. The table below shows the functions of the main board components. Table 4. MAIN Board Components and Functions Component Address Function TMP96C141AF IC3 CPU; controls the C229 main board.
Operating Principles The following illustration shows the control circuits in block diagram form. Printhead Thermistor CG PSRAM ROM Printhead Driver PG Sensor Control Panel Address Data Bus Rear PE Sensor Parallel I/F G.A. E05B50 (IC2) Reset IC CPU TMP96C141AF (IC3) Front PE Sensor EEPROM Type B I/F (Optional) HP Sensor PF Motor Driver CR Motor Driver Release Lever Sensor 35 V Sensor Figure 17.
Operating Principles Data from the host computer is first stored in the printer’s input buffer. The printer then converts it into image data, stores it in the image buffer, and then transfers it to the printhead via the gate array.
3. Disassembly and Assembly Overview................................................................................................................................................. 3-1 Printer Disassembly Precautions .................................................................................................. 3-1 Tools.............................................................................................................................................. 3-2 Service Checks after Repair ...........
Disassembly and Assembly 3-ii ESPON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
Disassembly and Assembly Overview This chapter describes procedures for disassembling the EPSON FX-880 and FX-1180. Unless otherwise specified, you can assemble the components by reversing the disassembly procedures. Printer Disassembly Precautions When working on the EPSON FX-880 or FX-1180, follow the warnings and cautions below. WARNING ■ Disconnect the power cable before opening the printer case.
Disassembly and Assembly Tools Table 3-1 lists the required tools for disassembling, assembling, or adjusting the printer. Use only the specified tools to avoid damaging the printer. Table 3-1. Required Tools Name Availability EPSON Part No. Phillips screwdriver (no. 2) Commercially available B743800200 Phillips screwdriver (no.
Disassembly and Assembly Service Checks after Repair Before returning the printer after service, use the check list in Table 3-2, which provides a record to make servicing and shipping more efficient. Table 3-2.
Disassembly and Assembly Screw Specifications Table 3-3 lists the abbreviations used in the following pages for small parts, such as screws and washers. Table 3-3. Screw Types and Abbreviations (I) Abbreviation Description CB Cross Bind-head screw CBS Cross Bind-head S-tight screw CBB Cross Bind-head B-tight screw CBP Cross Bind-head P-tight screw CP Cross Pan-head screw CB(O) Cross Bind-head screw with outer toothed lock washer Table 3-4.
Disassembly and Assembly Printer Disassembly and Assembly This section provides disassembly procedures. The basic order for disassembly is shown in the flowchart below. Exploded diagrams are also provided in the Appendix. Refer to the Appendix if necessary to see how components fit together. WARNING Before disassembling any part of the printer, note the warnings in Printer Disassembly Precautions on page 3-1.
Disassembly and Assembly Printhead Removal 1. Remove the top cover. 2. Remove the 2 CBS screws (M3 x 8) securing the printhead to the carriage assembly. 3. Disconnect the FFC from the printhead and remove the printhead. WARNING Wait for five minutes after unplugging the printer before removing the printhead; it is very hot and needs to cool down. CAUTION After replacing the printhead, perform the platen gap adjustment (see Chapter 4). CBS (M3 x 8) Printhead Head FFC Figure 3-2.
Disassembly and Assembly HP (Home Position) Sensor Removal 1. Remove the top cover. 2. Release the hook securing the HP sensor to the printer. 3. Disconnect the cable from the sensor and remove the sensor. Hook HP Sensor Cable Figure 3-3.
Disassembly and Assembly Disassembly Preparation 1. Remove the paper guide, top cover, front cover, and knob. Remove the tractor and paper eject cover by pushing the tabs on each end. Paper Eject Cover Tractor Paper Guide Top Cover Knob Front Cover Figure 3-4.
Disassembly and Assembly Upper Housing Removal 1. Follow the disassembly preparation procedures (see page 3-8). 2. Remove the 2 CBS (M3 × 6) screws and a CBB (4 × 12) screw securing the upper housing to the lower case. See Figure 3-5. 3. Set the release lever to the friction feed position. 4. Lift the front of the upper housing and disconnect the control panel FFC from the control panel connector. 5.
Disassembly and Assembly During re-assembly, note the following points: When replacing the upper housing, seat the hooks on the upper housing in the corresponding holes in the rear of the lower housing; then close the housing. The release lever collar can be replaced after the upper housing has already been installed.
Disassembly and Assembly C229 Main Board Removal 1. Follow the disassembly preparation procedure (see page 3-8). 2. Remove the upper housing (see page 3-9). 3. Remove the 5 CBS (M3 × 4) screws and 3 CBB (3 × 12) screws securing the shield cover to the printer mechanism and lower housing; then remove the shield cover. See Figure 3-6. 4. Remove the connector cables from CN3, CN4, CN5, CN6, CN7, CN8, CN9, CN10, CN11, and CN12 on the C229 main board.
Disassembly and Assembly CBB Screw (3 x 12) Lower I/F Grounding Plate CBS Screw (M3 x 4) Shield Cover CBS Screw (M3 x 4) Upper I/F Grounding Plate CBB Screw (3 x 12) CP Screw (M3 x 8) CBB Screw (3 x 12) I/F Guide Board CBB Screw (3 x 12) C229 Main Board C229 PSB/PSE Board ROM CBS Screw (3 x 12) Upper Interface Cover Printer Mechanism Lower Case Figure 3-6.
Disassembly and Assembly C229 PSB/PSE Board Removal WARNING The primary parts of the power supply are connected to the main power line. Unplug the printer before servicing, and wait at least 5 minutes for the filter capacitor to discharge. The heat sink is not electrically isolated from the main power line. Never touch the heat sink while the printer is plugged in. The heat sink gets very hot during operation. Avoid touching the heat sink for at least 5 minutes after unplugging the printer. 1.
Disassembly and Assembly CN1 Rivet CBB Screw (3 x 12) C229 PSB/PSE Board Lower Case C229 Main Board Figure 3-7. Power Supply Board Removal ROM Removal 1. Follow the disassembly preparation procedures (see page 3-8). 2. Remove the upper housing (see page 3-9). 3. Remove the 5 CBS (M3 × 4) screws and 3 CBB (3 × 12) screws securing the shield cover to the printer mechanism and lower housing, then remove the shield cover (see page 3-11). 4. Remove the ROM from the C229 main board.
Disassembly and Assembly Platen Removal 1. Follow the disassembly preparation procedure (see page 3-8). 2. Remove the upper housing (see page 3-9). 3. Remove the 2 CBS (M3 × 8) screws securing the platen cover. See Figure 3-8. 4. Rotate the platen shaft holders on either end of the platen until the tabs on the holders line up with the cutouts on the two side frames. 5. Slide the platen slightly to the right, then lift up to remove it.
Disassembly and Assembly CBS Screw (M3 x 8) Platen Cover Platen Shaft Holder Platen Platen Shaft Holder Left Side Frame Right Side Frame Figure 3-8.
Disassembly and Assembly Printer Mechanism Removal 1. Follow the disassembly preparation procedure (see page 3-8). 2. Remove the upper housing (see page 3-9). 3. Remove the 5 CBS (M3 × 4) screws and 3 CBB (3 × 12) screws securing the shield cover to the printer mechanism and lower housing, then remove the shield cover (see page 3-11). 4. Disconnect the connector cables from CN3, CN4, CN5, CN6, CN7, CN8, CN9, CN10 and CN11 on the C229 main board. 5.
Disassembly and Assembly CBB Screw (4 x 12) Front Frame Mechanism Mounting Screw Mechanism Mounting Screw Printer Mechanism Lower Housing Figure 3-9.
Disassembly and Assembly Printer Mechanism Disassembly CR Motor Removal 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Release the tension spring. 3. Disengage the timing belt from the CR motor pinion and hang it on the nearby hook. 4. Remove the 2 carriage mounting screws securing the CR motor assembly to the right subframe, then remove the CR motor. 5. Remove the 2 CB (M3 × 6) screws securing the CR motor to the motor bracket, then remove the CR motor.
Disassembly and Assembly When reassembling the CR motor, position it on the bracket as shown below: CR Motor Bracket CR Motor Cable Figure 3-11. Positioning the CR Motor on its Bracket CAUTION After replacing the CR motor or timing belt, perform the Bi-d adjustment (see Chapter 4).
Disassembly and Assembly PF Motor Removal 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Release the motor cable from the printer mechanism. 3. Set the release lever to the tractor feed position (forward). 4. Remove the 2 CBS (M3 × 8) screws securing the PF motor to the right sub frame, then remove the PF motor. CAUTION If the release lever is in the friction feeding position, the PF motor cannot be removed.
Disassembly and Assembly PF Gear Train Disassembly 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Remove the CR motor (see page 3-19). 3. Remove the PF motor (see page 3-21). 4. Remove the head FFC from the right subframe of the printer mechanism. 5. Remove the 2 CBS (M3 × 8) screws securing the right subframe, then remove the right subframe. 6. Remove the gears. Spur Gear, 27 Spur Gear, 21 Spur Gear, 34.
Disassembly and Assembly CAUTION When assembling, engage the hole in the tractor cam clutch with the lower tab of the release lever. Be sure to properly match the release lever with the teeth of the intermittent gear, as shown below. Release Lever Intermittent Gear Tab Figure 3-14.
Disassembly and Assembly PG (Platen Gap) Sensor Removal 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Release the 2 hooks securing the PG sensor to the left frame of the printer mechanism. 3. Disconnect the cable from the sensor and remove the sensor. Hook PG Sensor Left Frame Figure 3-15.
Disassembly and Assembly Release Lever Sensor Removal 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Release the 2 hooks securing the release lever sensor to the right subframe of the printer mechanism. 3. Disconnect the cable from the sensor and remove the sensor. Release Sensor Hooks Right Subframe Figure 3-16.
Disassembly and Assembly Front PE (Paper End) Sensor Removal 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Release the 2 hooks securing the front PE sensor to the rear paper guide. 3. Disconnect the cable from the sensor, then remove the sensor. Rear Paper Guide Hook Front PE Sensor Figure 3-17.
Disassembly and Assembly Rear PE Sensor Removal 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Carefully stand the printer mechanism on end. 3. Release the 2 hooks securing the rear PE sensor to the rear paper guide. 4. Release the 2 hooks attaching the rear paper guide to the sensor, slide the sensor to the rear, and pull down to remove it. 5. Disconnect the cable from the sensor. Rear Frame Rear Paper Guide Hooks Rear PE Sensor Figure 3-18.
Disassembly and Assembly Carriage Removal 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Remove the printhead FFC (see page 3-6). 3. Remove the platen (see page 3-15). 4. Remove the hexagon nut and washer securing the release lever to the CR guide shaft, then remove the lever. 5. Remove the parallel adjustment bushing from the CR guide shaft. 6. Disengage the timing belt from the CR motor (see page 3-19). 7.
Disassembly and Assembly CAUTION When attaching the timing belt to the carriage, secure the timing belt to the left and right clips of the carriage assembly as shown below. Make sure there is no slack in the timing belt. Clip Timing Belt Wrong Right Figure 3-20.
Disassembly and Assembly Rear Paper Guide Removal 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Remove the platen (see page 3-15). 3. Remove the hexagon nut and the washer securing the adjust lever to the CR guide shaft, then remove the lever. See Figure 3-21. 4. Remove the parallel adjustment bushing from the CR guide shaft (see page 3-28). 5. Remove the PG sensor (see page 3-24). 6. Remove the cable from the HP sensor. 7.
Disassembly and Assembly CBS Screw (M3 x 8) Left Frame Rear Paper Guide CBS Screw (M3 x 8) Hook Rear Frame Rear Frame Figure 3-21.
Disassembly and Assembly Ribbon Drive Removal 1. Remove the printer mechanism (see page 3-17). 2. Remove the platen (see page 3-15). 3. Remove the hexagon nut and the washer securing the adjust lever to the CR guide shaft, then remove the lever. 4. Remove the parallel adjustment bushing from the CR guide shaft. (see page 3-28) 5. Remove the PG sensor cable (see page 3-24). 6. Remove the HP sensor cable from the left frame. 7.
4. Adjustments Adjustment Overview ........................................................................................................................................... 4-1 Required Adjustments .................................................................................................................................. 4-1 Adjustment Tools..........................................................................................................................................
Adjustments 4-ii EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
Adjustments Adjustment Overview Required Adjustments Whenever you remove or replace parts, you must perform certain adjustments. The required adjustments are shown in Table 4-1 according to the type of repair performed. Table 4-1.
Adjustments Adjusting and Resetting the Printer Platen Gap Adjustment If the CR guide shaft has been removed, or if the parallelism adjustment bushing has been rotated, you must perform the platen gap adjustment. Symptoms of a mis-adjusted platen gap include faint printing (if the gap is too wide), or smudge marks appearing on the page (if the gap is too narrow). If any of these symptoms appear, you must perform the platen gap adjustment. 1.
Adjustments 7. Move the carriage assembly to the right edge. 8. Slightly loosen the hexagonal nut securing the PG adjust lever and the CR guide shaft. 9. Set the thickness gauge to 0.38 mm and insert it between the printhead and platen. 10. Insert a screwdriver into the countersunk hole located on the left side of the CR guide shaft and turn the screwdriver until the platen and the printhead touch each other lightly. 11. Move the carriage assembly to the left edge. 12. Insert the thickness gauge (0.
Adjustments Factory Settings The printer’s factory settings are stored in the EEPROM on the main board. Therefore, if you replace the main board, you must restore the settings using the adjustment program. CAUTION When using the adjustment program, do not select any options that are not described in this manual. The adjustment program is the same as the check program used in the factory and includes many options that are not needed for service.
Adjustments Table 4-3. Market List Destination EAI, EAI (Latin) EURO, EDG, EUL, EUL (SCANDINAVIA), EFS, EIS, EIB EDG (NLSP) EUL (MIDDLE EAST), EAL, ESP, EHK Code USASTD EURSTD NLSP DEFSTD 6. The process selection menu appears. Press ↑ or ↓ to select In line and press Enter. Program : xxxxxSetting: 9 pins VR 0 = x VR 1 = x ** ** [ Process select ] >(1) In line (2) Out-Going VR 2 = x 7. The carriage width select menu appears.
Adjustments Bidirectional Adjustment You can perform the bidirectional adjustment with the adjustment program or from the control panel. This section describes how to make the adjustment with the adjustment program. To make the adjustment from the control panel, see “Control Panel Operation” in Chapter 1. CAUTION When using the adjustment program, do not select any options that are not described in this manual.
Adjustments 5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you achieve satisfactory alignment. Alignment is correct when the vertical lines on the H’s line up within the margins of error specified below (see a on Figure 4-4): All modes Mode 0 Mode 1 Mode 4 Less than 0.05 mm (at the center of the test pattern) Less than 0.3 mm (at the left and right sides of the test pattern) Less than 0.2 mm (at the left and right sides of the test pattern) Less than 0.05 mm (at the left and right sides of the test pattern) 6.
5. Troubleshooting Overview .................................................................................................................................................... 5-1 Motors................................................................................................................................................ 5-2 Motor Drivers ......................................................................................................................... 5-3 Printhead ..........................
Troubleshooting 5-ii EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
Troubleshooting Overview This chapter contains flowcharts and checkpoint tables to help you troubleshoot the printer. Use the flowcharts to isolate a faulty unit based on abnormal symptoms. Use the checkpoint tables to identify the faulty part or unit by checking the values or ranges listed for each component. After completing a repair, perform the appropriate adjustments and any required lubrication. See Chapter 4 for adjustments, and Chapter 6 for information about lubrication points.
Troubleshooting The following table lists error conditions and shows how they are identified by the beeper and indicator lights. Table 5-2. Error Conditions Indicator Error Condition Pause Paper Out Tear Off/ Bin Font Beeper Paper out error On On ❍×3 Release lever error On Blinks ●×5 Paper eject error On Blinks ❍×3 Head hot Blinks Blinks Fatal error Blinks Blinks Blinks Blinks Notes: 1.
Troubleshooting Motor Drivers If a motor is not working but its coils seem okay, check the driver. Also, check the driver whenever you find a defective motor. (When a motor is defective, it sometimes damages the driver.) PF Motor Driver To check the PF motor driver (IC11), disconnect the motor cable from CN8 on the main board. Measure the resistance across the pins as shown below. Any pin from 7 through 17 can be used as the second pin (these are all tied together to the ground).
Troubleshooting Printhead You can check for an open circuit in the printhead’s solenoid coils by using a multimeter and the table below. Note that the test pin numbers shown in Figure 5-2 match the individual printhead solenoids (dot wires). Remove the printhead by following the instructions in Chapter 3. Be sure to perform the platen gap adjustment after replacing or re-installing the printhead. Table 5-6.
Troubleshooting Printhead Driver If the printhead is not working but its solenoids test okay, check the driver circuitry. Also, check the driver whenever you find a defective solenoid in the printhead. (When a solenoid goes out, it sometimes damages the driver.) When testing, you should make sure that all transistors within any group in the table below have readings consistent with each other, within ±10%.
Troubleshooting Sensors You can test a sensor by disconnecting its cable connector from the main board and applying the meter’s leads directly to the exposed (uninsulated) side of the connector. Table 5-8. Sensor Test Points Sensor Connector Number Test Pin Number Test Method (Set meter to ohms. Check that printer power is off.) Meter Reading CN4 (HP Sensor) 1: HP 2: GND Place one lead on pin 1 and the other lead on pin 2, and check the continuity while toggling the sensor lever.
Troubleshooting Unit Level Troubleshooting When a problem occurs, you can identify the defective unit based on the symptoms. The table below lists symptoms for certain problems. Once a problem is identified, refer to the flowchart that corresponds to the problem. Table 5-10. Symptoms and Problems Symptom Problem Description The printer does not operate at power on. ❏ LEDs do not light. ❏ Carriage does not move. Abnormal carriage operation.
Troubleshooting THE PRINTER DOES NOT OPERATE AT POWER-ON START Is the AC power line voltage normal? NO Use only normal input voltage. YES Has fuse F1 on the power supply board blown out? YES Replace the fuse. NO Disconnect the power cable from CN3 on the C229 MAIN board, and measure the +35 volt line at pin 7 or 8 of CN2, and the +5 volt line at pin 3 or 4. Is the output voltage of the power supply normal? NO Does the fuse blow again? YES NO Replace the power supply board.
Troubleshooting ABNORMAL CARRIAGE OPERATION START Are connectors on the C229 MAIN board connected securely? NO Secure the connectors. Is the problem solved? YES NO YES Is the CR guide shaft obstructed, or the CR timing belt broken? YES Remove the obstruction or replace the belt. Is the problem solved? YES NO NO Does the carriage stop after moving to the right or left margins? YES Check the HP sensor and replace if defective.
Troubleshooting PROBLEM WITH PRINTING DURING SELF-TEST START Run a self-test. Does anything print at all? NO Make sure the connectors on the C229 MAIN board are connected securely. YES NO Do vertical lines in the printout align? Perform the bidirectional alignment adjustment. YES Is the printing too faint? YES Check the ribbon and adjust the platen gap. NO YES Are there missing dots? Check the FFCs using a multimeter. Replace if defective.
Troubleshooting PRINTER DOES NOT FEED THE PAPER CORRECTLY START Is paper loaded correctly? NO Load paper correctly. Is the problem solved? YES NO YES Are connectors CN5 and CN6 connected securely? NO Secure the connectors. Is the problem solved? YES NO YES Does the platen knob rotate smoothly with the power turned off? NO Check for worn gears or obstructions in the PF mechanism. Is the problem solved? YES NO YES Is something stuck in the paper path? YES Remove the obstruction.
Troubleshooting ABNORMAL CONTROL PANEL OPERATION START Do the control panel buttons sound and feel normal when pressed? NO Is the problem solved? Replace the PNL board. YES NO YES Check to make sure the FFC is securely connected to the C229 MAIN board and to the PNL. Is the problem solved? YES NO Replace the FFC. Is the problem solved? YES NO Replace the C229 MAIN board. END Flowchart 5.
Troubleshooting PRINTER FAILS TO PRINT FROM PC START Run the self-test. Does the self-test print correctly? NO Go to Flowchart 3. YES Check the default settings. Is the problem solved? YES NO Does the printer print from DOS? NO Check to see if the I/F cable is loose, and if it is, reconnect it. Otherwise, replace it. Is the problem solved? YES NO YES Check the software application and printer driver for proper settings. Replace the C229 MAIN board. END END Flowchart 6.
Troubleshooting Repairing the Power Supply Circuit Board This section describes how to identify and repair problems with the C229 PSB/PSE/PSH power supply board. The table below lists symptoms, likely causes, and solutions to various problems. The checkpoints refer to waveforms, resistances, and other values that should be present when the component is working properly.
Troubleshooting Table 5-11. Repairing the C229 PSB/PSE Board (continued) Symptom The printer does not operate. (continued) Condition The +35 V line is defective. (continued) Possible Cause Checkpoint Solution Q2 or Q3 is defective. (continued) Check the voltage waveform between the collector and emitter of Q2 and Q3. Replace the power supply board. PC1 is defective Check the voltage waveform at pins 5 and 7 of PC1. The frame may be used as the ground. Replace the power supply board.
Troubleshooting Table 5-11. Repairing the C229 PSB/PSE Board (continued) Symptom The printer does not operate. (continued) 5-16 Condition The +5 V line is defective. Possible Cause Checkpoint Solution IC51 is defective. Check the voltage waveform at pin 5 of IC51. You can use pin 9 as the ground. Replace the power supply board. Check the voltage waveform at pins 9 and 10 of IC51. Use the frame as the ground. Replace the power supply board.
Troubleshooting Repairing the Main Board Assembly This section describes how to identify and repair problems with the C229 MAIN board. The table below lists symptoms, likely causes, and solutions to various problems. The checkpoints refer to waveforms, resistances, and other values that should be present when the component is working properly.
Troubleshooting Table 5-12. Repairing the C229 Main Board Assembly Symptom Condition Possible Cause Checkpoint Solution The printer does not operate. The CPU does not operate. Defective operation of the reset circuit. While turning on the power, check the voltage waveforms for the +5 VDC line (pin 3 of IC1) and the reset signal (pin 1 of IC1). You can use pin 4 as the ground. Replace the main board. 5V line /RESET The ROM selection jumper is defective.
Troubleshooting Table 5-12. Repairing the C229 Main Board Assembly (continued) Symptom Condition Possible Cause Checkpoint Solution The printer does not operate. (continued) The CPU does not operate. (continued) The CPU is defective. Check the signal at pin 26 or 27 of IC3 (This is the CPU’s clock signal.) Pin 28 may be used as the ground. Replace the main board.
Troubleshooting Table 5-12. Repairing the C229 Main Board Assembly (continued) Symptom Condition Possible Cause Checkpoint Solution Paper feeds abnormally Paper does not feed IC11 is defective. Check the paper feed motor phase control signals at pins 1, 2, 23, and 24 of IC11; also check the motor drive signals at pins 3, 6, 18, and 21 of IC11. Any pin 7-17 may be used as the ground, or use the chassis frame. Replace the main board. Pin 1 of IC11 Pin 3 of IC 8 Self-test printing is abnormal.
Troubleshooting Repairing the Printer Mechanism This section provides instructions for repairing the printer mechanism. It describes various problems, symptoms, likely causes, checkpoints, and solutions. The checkpoint column shows items to be checked, including proper values to be set for each component of the printer mechanism. For disassembly instructions, see Chapter 3. For adjustment instructions, see Chapter 4. Table 5-13.
Troubleshooting Table 5-13. Repairing the Printer Mechanism (continued) Symptom Condition Possible Cause Checkpoint Solution Printing is abnormal. The carriage moves, but no printing occurs. Printhead FFC is disconnected or damaged. Check that the head FFC is connected securely to the board and carriage. Connect or replace the printhead FFC. The printhead is defective Measure the coil resistance of the printhead. See Table 5-4. It should be about 8 Ω.
Troubleshooting Table 5-13. Repairing the Printer Mechanism (continued) Symptom Ribbon feed is abnormal. Condition Possible Cause Checkpoint Solution The ribbon is not fed. The ribbon cartridge is defective. Remove the ribbon cartridge. Rotate the ribbon feed roller manually to check that the ribbon cartridge feeds the ribbon normally. Replace the ribbon cartridge. There are foreign objects caught in the gears of the ribbon feed mechanism.
6. Maintenance Preventive Maintenance............................................................................................................................. 6-1 Lubrication..................................................................................................................................................
Maintenance 6-ii EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
Maintenance Preventive Maintenance To keep the printer in optimum condition and prevent printer problems, vacuum the printer mechanism to remove dust and paper debris and regularly clean the exterior case with denatured alcohol. After cleaning the unit, check that it is properly lubricated as described under Lubrication, below. Also inspect the springs and rollers to see that they are operating properly.
Maintenance Table 6-2. Lubrication Points 6-2 Ref. No. Lubrication Points Lubricant 1 Cam surface on the 34.5 mm spur gear G-26 (5 mg) 2 The shaft end of the PF drive roller assembly G-26 (5 mg) 3 The platen gap adjustment slots on the left frame (excluding the two slots at the bottom) G-26 (3 mg for each slot) 4 Oil pad O-2 (0.
Maintenance Tractor Clutch Cam Spur Gears (34.5) : Lubrication Point Ref. No.(1) Figure 6-1. Lubrication Point 1 Gap Adjustment Lever Lubricate all these slots. Platen Gap Adjustment Slot : Lubrication Point Ref. No.(3) : Lubrication Point Ref. No.(2) Figure 6-2.
Maintenance : Lubrication Point Ref. No. 4 Figure 6-3. Lubrication Point 4 : Lubrication Point Ref. No.(5) : Lubrication Point Ref. No.(6) : Lubrication Point Ref. No.(7) Figure 6-4.
Maintenance Release Shaft : Lubricating Point (8) Figure 6-5.
Appendix Connector Summary ..................................................................................................................................A-1 Component Layout.....................................................................................................................................A-7 Exploded Diagrams.................................................................................................................................. A-11 Dimensions and Weight........................
Appendix A-ii EPSON FX-880/FX-1180 Service Manual
Appendix Connector Summary Figure A-1 illustrates how primary components are connected. Table A-1 lists connector descriptions and locations. Printer Mechanism C229 MAIN Board C229 PSB/PSE Board AC CN1 CN2 M-3J10 (FX-880) M-3J60 (FX-1180) CN7 Printhead CN3 Parallel I/F CN1 Type-B I/F (optional) CN2 CN11 PG Sensor CN10 Release Sensor CN9 CR Motor CN8 PF Motor CN6 Rear PE Sensor CN5 Front PE Sensor CN4 HP Sensor CN12 Panel Figure A-1.
Appendix Table A-1.
Appendix Table A-3. Connector Pin Assignments-CN1 (continued) Pin I/O Signal Function 19 to 30 GND Signal ground. 31 In /INIT Initializes the printer. 32 Out /ERROR Indicates an error condition. 33 GND Signal ground. 34 NC Not connected. 35 Out +5 V This line is pulled up to +5 V through 1.0K Ω. 36 Out /SLIN Always HIGH when the printer is powered on. Table A-4.
Appendix Table A-5. Connector Pin Assignments-CN2 (continued) Pin I/O Signal Function 33 In/Out D3 Data bus bit 3 34 In/Out D2 Data bus bit 2 35 In/Out D1 Data bus bit 1 36 In/Out D0 Data bus bit 0 Table A-6. Connector Pin Assignments-CN3 Pin I/O Signal Function 1 Out PSC Power Signal Control 2 In PWDN Power down 3 to 4 +5 V + 5 VDC line 5 to 6 GND Ground 7 +35 V +35 VDC line 8 +35 V +35 VDC line 9 to 10 GP Ground Table A-7.
Appendix Table A-10.
Appendix Table A-13. Connector Pin Assignments-CN10 Pin I/O Signal Function 1 In RELEASE Release sensor signal 2 GND Ground Table A-14. Connector Pin Assignments-CN11 Pin I/O Signal Function 1 In PG1 PG sensor signal 2 GND Ground Table A-15.
Appendix Component Layout Figure A-2.
Appendix Figure A-3.
Appendix Figure A-4.
Appendix Figure A-5. C229PSH Component Layout Figure A-6.
Appendix Dimensions and Weight FX-1180 W 23.2 inches (590mm) × D 13.8 inches (350mm) × H 6.1 inches (154mm) 21.2 lbs. (9.6 kg) 6.1" (154 mm) Dimensions: Weight: 23.2" (590 mm) 13.8" (350 mm) Figure A-11.
Appendix FX-880 Dimensions: Weight: W 16.3 inches (415mm) × D 13.8 inches (350mm) × H 6.1 inches (154mm) 16.8 lbs. (7.6 kg) 13.8" (350 mm) 6.1" (154 mm) 16.3" (415 mm) Figure A-12.
Appendix Circuit Diagrams CN1 +5V +5V 12 LED4 FONT2L 8 LED3 FONT1 TOFFL POUL PAUL 7 LED2 9 11 LED1 10 LED0 1 2 LFFFSW 3 5 4 3 2 5 SW2 4 4 1 2 PAUSSW SW3 5 1 LDEJSW C1 0.1u 25V 6 FONTSW 3 5 SW1 4 3 1 3 2 6 4 5 5 SW0 4 SW4 PSC GND 3 2 2 1 1 PANEL GND Figure A-13.
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