Date: 2002/05/06
FAQ Version 1.3
Index of Frequently Asked Questions
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Email Technical Support |
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General Printer Questions and Answers
Return to the indexInk Cartridge Questions
Return to the indexPrinter Driver Questions
Return to the indexWindows Questions
Return to the indexDiagnosing Printer Problems
Return to the indexPrinting Questions
Return to the indexMedia Questions
Return to the indexProduct Controls: Stylus Color 480SXU
Since there is no control panel with buttons or lights on the printer, all the controls are handled through the printer software. Just follow the on-screen instructions to control all printing and maintenance functions.
Q: Is there a power switch to turn the printer power on or off?A: There is no power switch to turn off the printer. The printer should be plugged in all the time. Power use is negligable. Never unplug the power when the printer is printing or when the print head is still moving. Never use an external switch such as a power strip or wall switch to turn the power off to the printer.
Return to the indexQ: How does Micro Piezo technology compare to thermal technology?
A: Epson's Micro Piezo (M.P.) technology outperforms thermal technologies in all areas: pressure method - electromechanical (M.P.) vs. boiling (thermal), print head life - permanent (M.P.) vs. disposable (thermal), ink flexibility range - wide (M.P.) vs. limited (thermal), potential for improvement - significant (M.P.) vs. limited (thermal). Micro Piezo technology provides the highest resolution, smallest dot size, precise dot volume, precise dot shape, precise dot placement, and fastest head firing times. Thermal technology creates satellites and misting which Micro Piezo technology eliminates.
Return to the indexQ: Where can I find the printer manual?
A: Your printer software CD-ROM includes an Electronic Reference Guide for your printer. The manual is in HTML format, so you need a browser such as Internet Explorer 3.0 or later or Netscape Navigator 3.0 or later to view it. If you are using a different browser, the pages may not display correctly. (A browser is not included on the printer software CD-ROM.)
Return to the indexQ: Where can I find the User's Manuals for the all the software that comes with the printer?
A: Several of the applications that came with your printer include electronic user's manuals in the Adobe Acrobat PDF format. You'll find these in the Manuals folder on the EPSON CD-ROM, as well as in the product folders. If you already have Adobe Acrobat Reader v3.0 on your system, remove v3.0 and install Adobe Acrobat Reader v4.0 from the EPSON CD-ROM.
Return to the indexQ: Who can I contact for assistance with the creative software that comes with the printer?
A: If you need software assistance, please contact the software manufacturer.
ArcSoft PhotoPrinter 2000
Phone:(510) 440-9901, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, PST
Fax: (510) 440-1270
E-mail: support@arcsoft.com
Return to the indexQ: What are the system requirements for using this printer with a PC?
A: PC System Requirements
Caution: Using an improperly shielded USB cable - especially more than 6.5 feet (2 meters) long - may cause the printer to malfunction.
Return to the indexQ: Can this printer be used with a Macintosh?
A: The Epson Stylus Color 480SXU is not compatible with a Macintosh. There are no drivers available or planned for use on a Macintosh. This printer was designed to be used only within a Windows operating system (Windows 98/ME/2000/XP).
If you are interested in a similar, low cost, high quality inkjet printer to use on a Macintosh, then you may want to visit our website at www.epson.com or call our pre-sales dept toll-free at 1-800-463-7766.
Return to the indexQ: What steps need to be taken when transporting the Printer?
A: If you move your printer some distance, you need to prepare it for transportation in its original box or one of a similar size. To avoid damage, always leave the ink cartridges installed when transporting the printer. Be sure to remove the tape used in step 4 after installing the printer in its new location.
Follow these steps:
1. Plug in the printer, wait until the print head locks in the far right position.
2. Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet. Then disconnect the printer cable from the printer.
3. Remove any paper from the printer and remove the paper support.
4. Open the printer cover. Leave the ink cartridge installed and secure the ink cartridge holder to the printer with masking tape, then close the printer cover.
5. Remove the output tray.
6. If possible, repack the printer and attachments in the original box using the protective materials that came with it. See the Start Here sheet. Be sure to keep the printer level as you transport it. After transporting the printer, carefully remove the tape securing the print head and then print a document to test the output.
Return to the indexQ: Can the Epson Status Monitor print spooler be disabled?
A: There is no option to remove the Status Monitor. The Status Monitor (spooler) is an integral part of that printers driver and if it is somehow deleted or removed, it will affect the printers functionality.
Return to the indexQ: What is the proper way to turn off the printer?
A: There is no power switch to turn off the printer. The printer should be plugged in all the time. Power use is negligable. Never unplug the power when the printer is printing or the print heads are still moving. Never use an external switch such as a power strip or wall switch to turn the power off.
Return to the indexQ: If I want to clear the printer's memory, what should I do?
A: Make sure that you cancel the print job from the computer before you try to clear the printer's memory. Also, make sure the printer is no longer printing. After canceling the print job from the computer, unplug the printer, wait 10 seconds, and then plug in the printer again.
Return to the indexQ: How can I obtain the latest printer drivers?
A: The easiest and fastest way to get the latest printer driver software, is to download it from the downloads section of this website. You may also contact EPSON's driver fulfillment group at (562) 276-4367 (6 AM-6 PM Monday-Friday Pacific Time) to request a printer driver. A shipping and handling charge may be applied to drivers sent by mail. Note: This number is not for technical support.
Return to the indexQ: How do I install the EPSON Printer Software on Windows (ME) Millennium Edition?
A: Follow the steps below to install your printer software. Don't follow the standard Windows software installation instructions on the Start Here sheet.
1. After installing the ink cartridges, loading paper, and connecting the printer to your computer, turn on your computer, insert your printer software CD-ROM in the CD-ROM or DVD drive, and then plug in your printer.
2. If you see a screen that says "Your printer software has been successfully installed", Click OK. (If you see a screen that says "Windows has found the following new hardware" and if you want to search for drivers, click cancel and go to Step 4.
3. Select your printer as the Windows default printer. Click Start, point to Settings, and click Printers. Right-click your printer icon and click Set as Default in the menu that appears. Now you're ready to print!
4. If you got the screen that says "Windows has found the following new hardware", unplug your printer. It's important to turn OFF your printer and wait for the installation program to tell you when to turn it on.
5. Insert your printer software CD-ROM in the CD-ROM or DVD drive.
6. Double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop, then double-click the EPSON CD-ROM icon.
7. Double-click the EPSON icon to start the installer. Read the license agreement and click Agree. You see the Main Menu.
8. Click Install Printer Driver. You see the printer driver installation screen. Click OK. The installer copies files to your computer.
9. When the EPSON Printer Utility Setup screen tells you to turn on the printer, plug in your printer. The screen disappears and installation continues.
10. When installation is finished, click OK.
11. You see the EPSON Product Registration screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to register your printer with EPSON. At the last screen, click Done.
12. Return to the back of the Start Here sheet to install your creative software and EPSON documentation.
Return to the indexQ: How do I install the printer driver software using Microsoft Windows 98 or 2000?
A:
1. Plug in your printer and computer and wait until you see your Windows program icons. (On Windows 2000, log on as necessary.) If you see a screen about Windows detecting your printer, click Cancel. You can't install your printer software that way.
2. Insert your printer software CD-ROM in a CD-ROM or DVD drive.
3. Double-click the My Computer icon on your desktop.
4. Double-click the EPSON CD-ROM icon.
5. Double-click the EPSON icon to start the installer.
6. Read the license agreement and click Agree. You see the Main Menu.
7. Click Install Printer Driver. You see the printer driver installation screen.
8. Make sure your printer model is highlighted, then click OK. The installer copies files to your computer and displays a series of windows on your screen.
9. When it's finished, click OK. You see the EPSON Product Registration screen.
10. Follow the on-screen instructions to register your printer.
11. At the last screen, click Done.
Return to the indexQ: How do I remove the printer driver from Windows?
A:
Return to the indexQ: Is there a printer driver for Windows 95 or Windows NT?
A: No, this printer only works with a USB compatible system under Windows 98, ME or Windows 2000.
Return to the indexQ: Which ink cartridge should I use with this printer?
A: This printer can use only the following Epson ink cartridge part numbers:
Black - T013201 in the U.S.
Color - T014201 in the U.S.
Black - T013311 in Canada
Color - T014311 in Canada
Other cartridges are not compatible.
Order ink cartridge supplies on-line now!
In Canada, please call (800) 873-7766 for dealer referral.
Return to the indexQ: Can the Epson ink cartridges be refilled or can 3rd party ink cartridges be used without voiding the warranty?
A: EPSON does not recommend refilling or using 3rd party ink cartridges. Using these products will not void the product's original warranty, however, if these 3rd party products cause a failure, the repair of that failure will not be covered under warranty.
Return to the indexQ: How do I install my ink cartridge for the first time?
A: After installing your printer driver software, you will see the Setup Utility that walks you through installing your ink cartridges.
1. Follow the on-screen instructions to open the printer cover, then click "Next". Remove the yellow tape seal from the top of the ink cartridges. Don't remove the clear seals on the bottom or the ink will leak out. Never remove an ink cartridge except to replace it with a new one. Once you remove it, you can't reuse it, even if it contains ink.
2. The printer moves the black ink cartridge holder into the loading position. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the black cartridge in your printer.
3. Once you've installed the black ink cartridge, the Setup Utility asks you to install the the color ink cartridge. Click OK and follow the on-screen instructions. You must install both ink cartridges or the printer will not work.
4. After you've installed both cartridges, the printer begins charging the ink for several minutes. Close the printer cover and do not unplug the printer while it is charging the ink supply system.
Note: Since the initial ink cartridges charge the ink supply system, they will print fewer pages than replacement cartridges.
Return to the indexQ: I just set up my brand new Stylus Color 480SXU printer and the installation procedure did not let me install the ink cartridges. What do I do now?
A:
You can easily install your ink cartridges on your printer. Just double-click on the printer icon in the lower right of your screen. It will bring up the EPSON Status Monitor 3 screen. Select the "How To" button and follow the on-screen instructions to install your ink cartridges.Return to the indexQ: How do I replace an ink cartridge when an ink low or out condition occurs?
A:
When the Status Monitor 3 indicates ink levels are low, make sure you have a replacement ink cartridge handy. When the Status Monitor 3 indicates the ink is out, click the "How to" button and follow the displayed instructions to change the cartridge. Only remove the yellow tape seal from the ink cartridge. Do not remove the blue portion from the top or the clear seal on the bottom of the ink cartridge. After replacing the old ink cartridge with the new one the printer will begin charging the ink delivery system. Charging takes several minutes. Never unplug the printer while it's charging ink!Return to the indexQ: How long should an ink cartridge remain in the printer if it's not used often.
A: When an installed ink cartridge is more than six (6) months old, you may need to replace it if you notice that your printouts don't look as good as they used to. If print quality doesn't improve after cleaning and aligning the print head, you should replace one or both cartridges.
Order ink cartridge supplies on-line now!
Return to the indexQ: How do I replace an ink cartridge before the Status Monitor 3 window message says it's out, such as with an outdated Ink Cartridge?
A:
1. Make sure the printer is plugged in but not printing.
2. Click "Start", point to "Settings", then select Printers.
3. Right click the "EPSON Stylus Color 480SXU" icon and click "Properties" from the menu that appears.
4. Click the "Utility" tab, then click the "Ink Cartridge Replacement" button.
5. Follow the instructions on the screen to replace the ink cartridge.
6. Wait several minutes until the printer has completed charging the ink before resuming printing.
Order ink cartridge supplies on-line now!
Return to the indexQ: Can I print in black, if the color cartridge is empty or visa versa?
A: You cannot print if either ink cartridge is empty. Leave the empty cartridge installed in the printer until you have obtained a replacement, otherwise the ink remaining in the print head nozzles may dry out. It's best to always have an extra cartridge on hand.
Order ink cartridge supplies on-line now!
Return to the indexQ: I can't tell how much ink is remaining in the cartridges. The status monitor shows the cartridges with the inside grayed out. Why?
A: Please follow the directions below to successfully install your Status Monitor.
1. Restart your computer and close down any background applications by following the following directions:
a) Press "CTRL+ALT+DEL". This will open the "CLOSE PROGRAM" window.
b) One by one select "End Task" for all items EXCEPT the "EXPLORER and "SYSTRAY"
Note: The 'Close Program' window will close each time you click 'End Task' so you will need to press CTRL+ALT+DEL again after each 'End Task'. If you press CTRL+ALT+DEL twice in a row, your PC will reboot and you will have to start over again.
2. Insert your Epson CD into your CD ROM drive, and double click on the MY COMPUTER icon.
3. Double click on the Epson CD ROM drive, and then double click on the DRIVERS folder.
4. Double click on the STM3 folder.
5. Double click on the STMSETUP icon.
6. Follow the prompts to complete the installation.
Return to the indexQ: I installed new ink cartridges and the printer is now doing continuous cleaning cycles. Is there something wrong with my printer?
A: When an ink cartridge is installed into the printer, it will take approximately 2 minutes to charge the ink system and initialize the printer. Never turn off the printer until the printer has not moved or made noise for over 5 minutes. This initialization is a normal and necessary process. If it does not stop, the printer may need service and you should contact Epson technical support for assistance.
Return to the indexQ: The colors of my image on my monitor do not match the output from my printer. What is wrong?
A: First you must have an understanding of how color is produced. A monitor displays color by transmitting Red, Green and Blue (RGB) light into your eyes. A printer uses existing light to reflect Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and blacK (CYMK) light into your eyes. It is virtually impossible to have these two different color types (transmissive and reflective) to match perfectly. Also, due to its transmissive nature, the monitor is able to display a much wider range of colors than a reflective product, such as a piece of paper with ink on it.
Secondly, most monitors are not calibrated for correct color display out of the box, they have to be calibrated to produce accurate colors. Adobe PhotoShop includes a basic monitor calibrator to do this; it is the Adobe Gamma utility. This utility is contained in the Control Panel in Windows and on the Macintosh. Some of the higher-end monitor calibrators use a suction cup device that sticks on the monitor and reads a range of colors displayed on the monitor. These hardware/software combination devices create much more accurate color profiles than the strictly software solutions.
Also, what type of color matching system (CMS) are you using when printing your image? The color matching system can greatly affect the output color of your image. For information on how to use the various color management system available, please check the CMS user documentation or the website of the manufacturer.
To ensure that the images your Epson Color printer produces are as close as possible to the images displayed on your monitor you should do the following:
Calibrate your monitorExperiment with various Color Management Systems
Try using the ICM (Windows 95 or 98) or ColorSync (Macintosh) setting
Return to the indexQ: The quality of my printed output is unacceptable. What can I do to improve this?
A: Make sure you are printing the image at its actual size. If you try to increase the print size of a low resolution image, it will be very pixelated. Verify that you are using the correct printer driver for your printer model. If MicroWeave is off, turn this feature on. If High Speed is on, turn it off. Make sure the Media Type setting matches the paper or media loaded. Also, the Halftoning and Color Adjustment Mode options may be set incorrectly for your document type. Let the printer driver automatically select the settings for the best quality.
Verify that the printable side of the paper is face up, and check the type of paper being used. EPSON brand paper, which is specifically designed for the Stylus ink jet series of printers, delivers the best-printed output. If your output is faint, check the printer driver to make sure you have selected a print resolution other than Economy. The resolution of your image may also be set too low. Increase the image resolution using your image-editing software, or decrease the size of the image.
Try testing the printer on another computer. This will eliminate the possibility of a defective printer cable, USB port, or software issue. If you're still experiencing a problem, try replacing the ink cartridge and make sure you are using a genuine EPSON ink cartridge.
Return to the indexQ: Vertical lines are not aligned or vertical banding appears. How can I correct this?
A: First make sure you are using the most current version of the printer driver, which is available on the EPSON web site.
To align the print head, make sure a high quality ink jet paper is loaded and the printer has power.
Access the "Utility" tab (if you are using Windows) located in your printer driver settings.
Click the Print Head Alignment icon and follow the instructions on the screen.
Make sure the #8 alignment pattern is aligned perfectly. If not, choose one of the other alignment pattern numbers with the most perfect alignment and reprint the alignment sheet.
Make sure to use the printer's power switch to turn off the printer, otherwise the settings will not be saved.
If you have already tried to align the print head and did not have any success, try turning high speed off in the printer driver settings. Also, the print head nozzles may be clogged. From the head cleaning section found in the Utility section of the EPSON printer driver, clean the print heads by performing a head cleaning followed by printing a nozzle check pattern. A head cleaning and nozzle check pattern must be performed as a cycle.
After printing a nozzle check pattern, examine the printed dot pattern. Each staggered horizontal and straight vertical line should be complete, with no gaps in the dot pattern. If there are gaps in the dot pattern, continue with another cycle. Perform up to 6 cycles if necessary. If you continue to experience this situation, please contact the EPSON Connection for assistance.
Return to the indexQ: Why is my printer printing colored pages in black and white?
A:
1. Click on ‘START/SETTINGS/PRINTERS’
2. Right click on the ‘EPSON Stylus Color 480SXU’ icon
3. Click on ‘PROPERTIES’
4. Click on the ‘MAIN’ tab
5. Click on ‘COLOR’ under the ink section
6. Click ‘APPLY’
7. Click ‘OK’
8. Try printing
Return to the indexQ: What should I do if the printed image has horizontal banding?
A: Run the nozzle check utility from the printer driver Utility menu to see if a head cleaning is needed. Run the Head Cleaning utility, if necessary, to clear any clogged ink nozzles then run another nozzle check. Repeat the head cleaning and nozzle check if necessary.
Select Automatic as the Mode setting on your printer driver's Main menu. Make sure the printable side of the paper is face up in the sheet feeder. Check the error light. If the light is flashing, replace the appropriate ink cartridge. Make sure that Maximum is not selected as the Printable Area setting in your printer driver. When this setting is selected, banding may occur in the expanded area. Make sure that the Media Type selected in the printer driver is appropriate for the type of media loaded in the printer.
Return to the indexQ: When I print on 4"x6" paper, why does the image print outside of the perforated margins?
A: This should be resolved by choosing the 'centered' option within the printer driver properties.
Follow these instructions to change to the 'centered' preference. If this does not correct it, it may be a software issue and you may need to contact your software company for further support.
1. Click on Start/Settings/Printers
2. Right click on the "Epson Stylus Color 480SXU" icon
3. Click on "Properties"
4. Click on the "Paper" tab
5. Ensure that the "Paper Size" is set to "Photo Paper 4 x 6 in"
6. Under the "Printable Area" selection, choose "Standard" and "Centered"
7. Click on "Apply"
8. Click on "OK"
Return to the indexQ: I tried to print with the printer power off, then clicked Retry again after plugging in the printer, and now I get an "Out of Paper" message. How can I fix this?
A: Please follow the directions below to resolve the situation.
1) Click on START, go to SETTINGS, and click on PRINTERS.
2) Double click on the Stylus Color 480SXU icon.
3) Click on PRINTERS, and click on PURGE PRINT JOBS.
This will delete the job that got stuck in the queue when you tried to print with the printer off.
Return to the indexQ: When I try to print, the Print box automatically goes to the Fax mode and I don't even have a fax. Why?
A: This can be resolved by the following steps:
1) Click on START, go to SETTINGS, and click on PRINTERS.
2) Double click on your Stylus Color 480SXU icon.
3) Click on where it says PRINTER, and then click on were it says SET AS DEFAULT.
The Stylus Color 480SXU has now been set as the default printer.
Return to the indexQ: Can this printer be setup to print in Black by default instead of Color?
A: To select 'Black' ink within your printer driver, please follow the steps listed below.
1. Click on 'START', 'SETTINGS', 'PRINTERS'.
2. Right click on the printer model 'EPSON Stylus Color 480SXU', then click on 'PROPERTIES'.
3. Once in the 'Printer Properties', click on the 'MAIN' tab.
4. Select 'BLACK' under the Ink type.
5. Click on 'APPLY', then 'OK' to save the setting.
* If you wish to print in color, repeat the steps listed above replacing 'BLACK' with 'COLOR' for the ink type.
** Keep in mind that the printer will print both black and color when 'COLOR' is selected as the ink type in your 'Printer Properties'.
Return to the indexQ: After printing something in the landscape mode I can't change to portrait mode. What can I do?
A: 1. Click on START, go to SETTINGS, and click on PRINTERS.
2. Right click on your Stylus Color 480SXU icon, and then click on PROPERTIES.
3. Select Paper and change the Orientation to whatever you require.
4. Click on APPLY at the bottom of the window.
Your changes have now been saved, and are now the default. You will have to repeat this process any time you wish to make changes to the settings of your printer.
Return to the indexQ: Why does my printer print out blank pages?
A: Your printer may not be selected in your application or selected as the Windows default printer. Select your printer in your application or select it as the default Windows printer.
Your document may have more pages than you think. Select Print Preview in your software application Print menu before printing. Then either select to print only the current page, or only those pages with text, or delete the extra pages in your document before printing.
Paper settings in the printer software may be incorrect for your paper size. Check the paper size, orientation, printable area, and layout settings to make sure they’re correct for your paper size.
The print head nozzles may be clogged. Perform a nozzle check and clean the print head if necessary.
Return to the indexQ: How can I increase the print speed from my PC?
A: Verify that your system meets the system requirements. The print speed is dependent upon the amount of RAM in your system, the type and speed of your computer's processor, and the amount of free hard drive space and degree of fragmentation of hard drive space in your computer.
Verify that you are using the EPSON Stylus Color 480SXU driver. Increase or maximize physical RAM, or lower the print resolution. Close any background applications that are running.
Return to the indexQ: Why can't I print from a particular Windows application in color?
A: Make sure the correct driver is selected and the Color option is enabled in the printer driver. Try printing again. If the image comes out monochrome, print from a resident program within Windows, such as Paintbrush. If the results are successful from Paintbrush, contact the software manufacturer of the application for assistance. If the results are not successful, troubleshoot the pertinent areas within Windows, such as the video driver.
Return to the indexQ: When printing with Windows 95 or 98, the message "The printer is out of paper" or "The printer is off-line" appears. Why?
A: Make sure the printer has paper. Also, the interface cable may not be securely connected. Turn off the printer and computer. Disconnect and reconnect the cable on both the printer and computer. Make sure the printer cable is fully shielded and meets the printer's specifications. Try printing a screen from a DOS prompt. If the DOS print screen does not print or is garbled, try using a different printer cable (a Belkin cable with a length of 6 feet or less is recommended).
Return to the indexQ: How can I stop the Separator Page from printing in Windows ME?
A: To eliminate the separator page, please follow the directions below.
1) Click on START, go to SETTINGS, and click on PRINTERS.
2) Right click on your Stylus Color 480SXU and click on PROPERTIES.
3) Where it says SEPARATOR PAGE, change to NONE.
4) Click on APPLY.
5) The separator page has now been turned off.
Return to the indexQ: The printer won't feed paper. What should I do?
A: You may see a paper not loaded correctly error window on your screen. Remove the stack of paper from the sheet feeder. Check the paper specifications in the Appendix of your Printer Basics Guide for ranges of paper size and thickness you can print with, as well as environmental requirements for storage. Make sure the paper isn't curled or creased, isn't too old, isn't loaded above the arrow on the left edge guide, and that the paper isn't jammed in the printer. If the printer still will not feed paper, power the printer off, remove the printer cable, and make sure all of the packing materials are removed. If the problem persists, the printer may need to be sent in for service and you should contact the EPSON Connection technical support for assistance.
Return to the indexQ: Nothing prints. What should I do?
A: Make sure the printer cable is securely connected to the printer and computer ports. Turn on the computer and try printing again. If the cable was not the issue try running a nozzle check. If the nozzle check works, try checking for and deleting any stalled print jobs.
Return to the indexQ: The printer sounds like it is printing, but no ink is on the paper. What's wrong?
A: The print head nozzles may be clogged. From the Utility section found in the EPSON printer driver, clean the print heads by performing a head cleaning followed by printing a nozzle check pattern. A head cleaning and nozzle check must be performed as a cycle. After printing a nozzle check, examine the printed dot pattern. Each staggered horizontal and straight vertical line should be complete, with no gaps in the dot pattern. If there are gaps in the dot pattern, continue with another cycle. Perform up to 3 cycles if necessary. If the nozzle check is not printing completely, and if the head cleanings do not help the nozzle check pattern to print completely, try replacing the ink cartridge. Any ink cartridge installed into the printer must have a blue label on top of it. If the blue label has been removed from the ink cartridge, do not install the cartridge. Using an ink cartridge, which does not have the blue label on it, may damage the printer. Caution: If you have already installed a cartridge which is missing the blue label, or if a previously installed ink cartridge was missing its blue label at the time it was installed, and now head cleanings do not help the nozzle check pattern to print completely, your printer may require service and you should contact the EPSON Connection for further assistance.
Return to the indexQ: My printouts are missing color and/or black print. How can I resolve this issue?
A: If the printer is printing blank pages, make sure you are using the correct printer driver and make sure the paper size is correctly selected in the driver. If the printer is printing black only, the "Ink" option in the printer driver may be set to "Black" instead of "Color" or a setting in the software may be set to print black only. Also, the print head nozzles may be clogged. From the Utility section found in the EPSON printer driver, clean the print heads by performing a head cleaning followed by printing a nozzle check pattern. A head cleaning and nozzle check must be performed as a cycle. After printing a nozzle check, examine the printed dot pattern. Each staggered horizontal and straight vertical line should be complete, with no gaps in the dot pattern. If there are gaps in the dot pattern, continue with another cycle. Perform up to 3 cycles if necessary. If the nozzle check is not printing completely, and if the head cleanings do not help the nozzle check pattern to print completely, turn the printer off overnight and try the cleaning cycles again. Try a new EPSON ink cartridge. Also, make sure you are using a genuine EPSON ink cartridge which has a blue label on top of it. If the blue label has been removed from the ink cartridge, do not install the cartridge. Using an ink cartridge which does not have the blue label on it may damage the printer. If you have already installed a cartridge which is missing the blue label, or if a previously installed ink cartridge was missing its blue label at the time it was installed, and now head cleanings do not help the nozzle check pattern to print completely, your printer may require service and you should contact the EPSON Connection for technical support and further assistance.
Return to the indexQ: How do I calibrate the print head on my printer if my vertical lines are not aligned?
A: To align the print head, make sure that paper is loaded and the printer has power. Access the "Utility" tab located in your printer driver settings. Click the Print Head Alignment icon and follow the instructions on the screen.
Return to the indexQ: How can I stop the printer from feeding multiple pages at the same time?
A: Make sure the paper you are using is not too thin (see paper specifications in the Appendix of your Printer Basics Guide). Remove the stack of paper and fan the edges to separate the sheets. Reload the paper, making sure the edge guides are snug against both sides of the paper.
Return to the indexQ: Sometimes the paper doesn't eject all the way or is wrinkled. What should I do?
A: Make sure the correct paper size is selected in your application and/or printer software. If the paper doesn't eject fully, it may be too long for the printer. If the paper is wrinkled, the paper may be damp or too thin. Check the paper specifications in the Appendix of your Printer Basics Guide for ranges of paper size and thickness you can print with, as well as environmental requirements for storage.
Return to the indexQ: Why are my margins incorrect?
A: The paper may be loaded incorrectly. Make sure that the left and right edge guides are flush against both sides of the paper. Make sure the margins are set correctly in your software application (margins are not adjustable via the printer driver). Make sure you are not trying to print outside of the printable area of the page for your paper size (printable area of the page specifications are available in the Printer Basics Guide). Make sure the correct paper size is selected in the printer driver settings.
Return to the indexQ: How can I increase my print speed from my PC?
A: Verify that your system meets the system requirements. The print speed is dependent upon the amount of RAM in your system, the type and speed of your computer's processor, and the amount of free hard drive space and degree of fragmentation of hard drive space in your computer. Too many active USB devices may slow the printer. Disconnect USB devices that you're not using.
Verify that you are using the EPSON Stylus Color 480SXU driver. Increasing or maximizing physical RAM, lowering the print resolution, and if you are printing multiple copies of the same document, activate the "High Speed" option in the printer driver settings. Close any background applications that are running. On a PC creating a unique spool directory improves printing performance by eliminating spooling conflicts within Windows. If your computer supports ECP/DMA mode, it should be enabled for maximum print speeds (see your computer documentation for details).
Return to the indexQ: Why does the image look inverted, as if viewed in a mirror?
A: You may have accidentally used the "Flip Horizontal" option in the printer driver or a similar feature in your application. Turn off the setting in the printer driver and/or software application and try printing again.
Return to the indexQ: What can I do if there's a problem with the driver installation and my computer locks up or my printer doesn't print properly?
A: Please use the steps listed below to help you install the driver.
If the program freezes while you are installing again, press "ALT+CTRL+DELETE" on your keyboard. A new window will open called "Close Program". In this window if you find the following word or letters "E_SRCV03" OR "E_SRCV02". Click it once to highlight it, then click "End Task" (twice if needed).
REMOVE ALL USB PRINTER COMPONENTS
USB PRINTER DRIVER REMOVAL
1. Go to "START", "SETTINGS", "CONTROL PANEL".
2. Double click "ADD/REMOVE PROGRAMS".
3. Find the Epson Printer Software and highlight it.
4. Click "ADD REMOVE".
5. Select the icon for your printer.
6. Click "OK".
7. Follow the prompts until the uninstall is complete.
8. Next look for an entry that reads "EPSON Status Monitor". If you do not see this entry, please go to USB DEVICE REMOVAL. Otherwise, go to the next step.
9. Highlight the entry and click on the "ADD/REMOVE" icon.
10. Click on "YES", when asked, "Do you want to continue uninstalling?".
11. After a short delay, you will get a message indicating that the uninstall process has completed. Click on "OK".
12. Click on "OK" when you get the "Uninstall complete" prompt.
USB DEVICE REMOVAL
1. Right Click on the "MY COMPUTER" icon and select "FIND".
2. In the "NAME" window type in "EPUSBUN".
3. In the "LOOK IN" window type "C:\".
4. Ensure that the "INCLUDE SUBFOLDERS" option is checked. Select "FIND NOW".
5. Once the file is located double click "EPUSBUN.exe" on the icon to remove the printer driver and related files.
6. Once the files are removed you will be asked to restart the computer. Click on "OK".
7. Turn your printer off.
***MAKE SURE THE PRINTER IS DISCONNECTED FROM THE USB CABLE ON THE BACK OF THE PRINTER***
PRINTER DRIVER DOWNLOAD
1. Download the latest driver for your printer
2. Click "Driver and File Downloads" under "Support".
3. Under "Printers" select "Inkjet"
4. Select "Stylus Color 480SXU".
5. Select the appropriate driver.
6. Respond to the Download Survey and click "Submit".
7. When you arrive to the "End User Software License Agreement" click on "Accept".
8. Make a note of the file name, save downloaded file to "Desktop" for easier location of the downloaded driver.
9. Once downloads are complete, follow installation instructions for each of the downloaded files.
***MAKE SURE THE PRINTER IS DISCONNECTED FROM THE USB CABLE ON THE BACK OF THE PRINTER***
Close any Background Applications
Follow the step by step instructions below.
1. Press 'CTRL+ALT+DEL'. This will open the 'Close Program' window.
2. One by one select 'END TASK' for all items EXCEPT the Explorer and Systray.
Note: The 'Close Program' window will close each time you click 'END TASK' so you will need to press 'CTRL+ALT+DEL' again after each 'END TASK'. If you press 'CTRL+ALT+DEL' twice in a row then your PC will reboot & you will have to start over again.
DOWNLOADED DRIVER INSTALLATION WHEN USING A USB CONNECTION
Automated USB Driver Install for Ink Jet Printers
1. Double click the downloaded file.
2. Click "OK" on the WinZip Self Extractor screen. Click "UNZIP".
3. Make sure your printer model is highlighted then click "OK". The installer copies files to your computer and displays a series of windows on your screen.
4. Don't connect the USB cable until you see the screen which states "Make Sure The Printer Is Connected To The Computer". The installation should now continue.
5. When it is finished click "OK".
6. You see the "EPSON Product Registration screen". Follow the on-screen instructions to register your printer. Cancel the registration screen if you are reinstalling the printer.
7. Restart the computer and try printing.
Return to the index
How do you select the correct media type?
A:Your printer automatically adjusts itself for the type of paper you select in your printer software. That's why the Media Type setting is so important. It tells your printer what kind of paper you're using and adjusts the ink coverage accordingly. Before you print, always check your Media Type setting. Here are the settings you should choose for your paper:
| For this paper | Select this Media Type setting |
| Plain paper sheets or envelopes | Plain paper |
| EPSON 360 dpi Ink Jet Paper | 360 dpi Ink Jet Paper |
| EPSON Iron-On Cool Peel Transfer Paper | 360 dpi Ink Jet Paper |
| EPSON High Quality Ink Jet Paper | Photo Quality Ink Jet Paper |
| EPSON Photo Quality Ink Jet Paper | Photo Quality Ink Jet Paper |
| EPSON Photo Quality Ink Jet Cards | Photo Quality Ink Jet Paper |
| EPSON Photo Quality Self Adhesive Sheets | Photo Quality Ink Jet Paper |
| EPSON Photo Paper | Photo Paper |
| EPSON Photo Quality Glossy Paper | Photo Paper |
| EPSON Premium Glossy Photo Paper | Premium Glossy Photo Paper |
| EPSON Photo Quality Glossy Film | Photo Quality Glossy Film |
| EPSON Photo Stickers | Photo Quality Glossy Film |
| EPSON Ink Jet Transparencies | Ink Jet Transparencies |
| EPSON Matte Paper - Heavyweight | Matte Paper - Heavyweight |
Return to the indexQ: How should I preserve my pictures?
A: For optimum image quality and longer print life, print your photos on EPSON's fade-resistant Matte Paper - Heavyweight (S041257) or Premium Glossy Photo Paper (S041286). EPSON Photo Paper has been specially formulated to work with EPSON's ink to create prints that last as long as traditional photographs when protected from light in photo albums or similar archival conditions. When you display your EPSON Photo Paper prints in picture frames or mounted on the wall, the paper provides extra UV (ultraviolet) light protection so your prints will last longer than prints on other ink jet photo papers. Depending on the type and intensity of the light your print is exposed to, a print on EPSON Photo Paper may last two or more years before noticeable fading occurs. Fade resistance could decrease in intense light conditions or increase if your print is protected by glass or special laminates.
Return to the indexQ: Can I use the cleaning sheets that are included with any special media I purchase?
A: No. These sheets can damage the printer.
Return to the indexQ: Can I use sheet labels with this printer?
A: Yes, EPSON makes Photo Quality Self Adhesive Sheets (S041106). To avoid paper jams, only load one Photo Quality Self Adhesive Sheet at a time. Also, set the Media Type in the printer driver to the "Photo Quality Ink Jet Paper" setting.
Return to the indexQ: What is the correct way to load transparency paper?
A: It is recommended to use EPSON Ink Jet Transparency Paper (S041064). Before loading the transparency, place the included support sheet or a sheet of plain paper beneath the transparency (or beneath the stack of transparencies if you are loading more than one). You can load up to 10 transparencies at a time, but if you have more than one transparency loaded, the minimum top margin you can use is 1.2 inches. Also, you may get better results by loading one sheet at a time. Insert the transparency sheet making sure that the notch is at the top right side of the sheet. Remember to choose the correct Media Type setting in the printer driver software. Please refer to your Printer Basics Guide for detailed information.
Return to the indexQ: Does this printer support borderless printing?
A: No, this printer model does not support borderless printing.
Return to the indexCopyright © 2002, Epson America, Inc. All rights reserved.