Trystan Casey
Roland print heads can be tested by performing a printing test. This involves loading the object to be printed, setting the print area, and pressing the FUNCTION button. If the test print shows fuzzy lines or incomplete colours, it could be due to clogged print heads, incorrect ink types, or sealing issues with the cap tops. In some cases, performing a manual clean or using a different type of cleaning fluid may resolve the issue. Additionally, ensuring regular use and proper maintenance, including checking feed and scan settings, can help prevent print issues. If problems persist, it may be necessary to check the electrical components, such as fuses, transistors, and cables, as electrical issues could be causing the print head to malfunction.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Test print issues | Fuzzy lines, incomplete prints, deflection, banding, clogged heads |
| Causes | Mineral deposits, Infrequent use, incorrect ink type, faulty cap tops, improper cleaning |
| Troubleshooting steps | Wipe print head with a soaked sponge, change wipers frequently, print something every few days, check ink type and cap tops, perform manual cleaning |
| Electrical issues | Blown fuses, fried print head, faulty cables, transistor issues, short circuits |
| Resolution | Replace fuses, check cables, inspect transistors for burn marks, consider replacing the print head |
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What You'll Learn
Check for blown fuses
Checking for blown fuses is an important step in electrically testing your Roland print head. A blown fuse can cause one or two print heads to stop working, so it's crucial to identify and replace any blown fuses to restore the printer's functionality. Here's a step-by-step guide to checking for blown fuses:
Identify the Fuses:
Roland printers typically have a few critical fuses that you should be concerned with. The first is the head fuse, which is located on the main board. This fuse is associated with the print head and can cause issues with specific colours if blown. Additionally, there may be fuses on the PCB board, such as one by the power supply regulating AC in, and possibly more, depending on the printer model.
Check the Fuses:
You can use a simple multimeter to test whether a fuse is blown. A multimeter is a device that measures electrical properties, and you can use it to check for continuity in the fuse. If the fuse has continuity, it is intact. If there is no continuity, the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.
Common Causes of Blown Fuses:
Understanding why fuses blow can help you prevent future issues. Fuses often blow due to power supply fluctuations, electrical shorts, or incorrect handling of cables. For example, disconnecting a cable while the machine is live or fiddling with components while the printer is turned on can lead to blown fuses.
Replace the Blown Fuse:
If you identify a blown fuse, you'll need to replace it. You can purchase replacement fuses from Roland spares or authorised dealers. It is recommended to have some soldering skills or seek someone with such expertise to perform the replacement. The process involves soldering the new fuse onto the main board or PCB board, depending on the fuse's location.
Remember to exercise caution when working with electrical components, and always ensure the printer is unplugged and powered off before attempting any repairs or inspections.
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Check the DC voltage
To check the DC voltage of your Roland print head, you will need to perform a test print. If the test print is blank, this may be due to blown fuses. Check the DC voltage on both sides of the fuse you replaced. You might have a missing 40v supply, feeding your fuses.
To check the DC voltage, you will need to use a multimeter. Take out the fuses and check them with the multimeter, then put them back in. If the fuses are blown, replace them and check again.
It is important to make sure you have the right fuses. When replacing the fuses, ensure that they are the correct amperage. Check the manual to determine the correct amperage for your Roland print head.
If the fuses are not blown and the cables are connected correctly, the print head may be fried. This can happen if ink from the dampers leaked onto the head.
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Check the transistors for burn marks
To check the transistors for burn marks, you should first locate the transistor within the circuit. Identify its base, collector, and emitter pins. Turn on the device containing the circuit and power it with a safe supply voltage. Use an oscilloscope probe to monitor the voltage at each of the transistor's pins. Compare your readings to what is expected for a working transistor in that specific circuit. This information can be found in the device's schematics or datasheet.
You can also test a transistor for burn marks by performing a visual inspection. Look for any visible signs of damage or physical issues like burn marks, cracks, or signs of overheating. A damaged casing or leads can be an indication of internal issues, which might mean the transistor needs to be replaced.
Another way to test for burn marks is to use a digital multimeter (DMM) in diode-testing mode. This test checks whether the junctions behave like diodes as they should. Any reading between 0.5V and 0.9V indicates that the transistor behaves like two diodes connected back-to-back, suggesting the transistor is likely functional.
If you are testing an NPN transistor, hook the positive lead from the multimeter to the base (B) of the transistor and the negative meter lead to the emitter (E). The meter should show a voltage drop between 0.45V and 0.9V. If you are testing a PNP transistor, keep the positive lead on the base (B) and place the negative lead to the collector (C). For a good NPN transistor, the meter should show a voltage drop between 0.45V and 0.9V. If you are testing a PNP transistor, you should see "OL" (Over Limit).
Additionally, you can test for a short circuit between the base and emitter. However, this method may not be possible unless you have a thorough understanding of the circuit. Testing at a low voltage with the circuit powered off and all capacitors discharged is unlikely to damage ordinary parts.
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Check the cables
To check the cables, start by inspecting the four head cables for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Make sure that the cables are securely connected and in the proper order. Check for any ink spills or leaks on the cables as well as the head carriage board.
Next, air dust the terminals that the cables plug into and then clean them with 90% alcohol. Once the cleaning is complete, air dust the terminals again and reassemble the connections.
If you continue to experience issues, the problem may lie with the CR/Trailing Cables or the transistors in the amplification circuit. Check the transistors for any burn marks, as this could indicate a malfunction. If the cables or transistors appear damaged or faulty, they may need to be replaced.
It is also recommended to check the continuity of the cables using appropriate testing equipment to ensure that they are functioning properly. If you suspect a short circuit, it may be necessary to replace the cables or consult a professional for further diagnosis and repair.
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Check for ink spills
Ink spills inside a printer can happen for various reasons, such as overfilling ink cartridges, leaks from damaged cartridges, or accidental spills while replacing cartridges. If left unaddressed, ink spills can cause damage to your printer. Therefore, it is important to check for any ink spills and clean them up promptly.
To check for ink spills, start by turning on your printer and opening the inner compartment. Allow the cartridge carriage to slide to the middle of the machine, as this will make it easier to inspect for any signs of ink spills. Once you have visually inspected the cartridge carriage, you can proceed to unplug the power cord to prevent any potential electric shocks while cleaning.
Carefully remove the ink cartridges and set them aside on a safe surface, such as paper towels or a dry, lint-free cloth. Examine the cartridges for any signs of leaks or spills. It is important to inspect both the cartridges and the cartridge carriage for any traces of spilled ink.
If you notice any ink spills or leaks, it is crucial to clean them up immediately. Ink spills can affect the quality of your prints, causing smears, streaks, or messy lines. Additionally, spilled ink can dry and become sticky, leading to paper jams and interference with the internal components of your printer.
By regularly checking for ink spills and cleaning them promptly, you can maintain the optimal performance and longevity of your printer.
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Frequently asked questions
Load the object to be printed, set the print area, and press FUNCTION, and then ▶. Display the printing test menu and press ▲ several times. We recommend printing on transparent paper. Press ENTER and check for any missing or collapsed blocks in the test pattern.
This could be due to clogged nozzles or incorrect sealing of the cap tops. Try cleaning the print head with a soaked sponge stick and check if the cleaner soaks in immediately.
It is recommended to perform a manual clean of the print head every few weeks to prevent clogging and ensure optimal print quality.
A blank test print could be due to blown fuses or a fried print head. Check for ink spills on cables and the head carriage board. If fuses are not blown, ensure cables are connected correctly.
Common issues include clogged nozzles, deflection (fuzzy edges on small black lettering), banding (especially in dark colours), and electrical issues such as shorted circuits or blown transistors.
