Overview
This lecture covers essential maintenance steps for inkjet printers, focusing on unclogging print heads, replacing cartridges, printer calibration, and handling paper jams.
Print Head Maintenance
- Inkjet print heads are prone to clogging due to the type of ink used.
- Many printers perform automatic daily cleaning to prevent clogs.
- Streaks on printouts often indicate a clogged print head.
- Most printers have a button to start an automatic cleaning cycle.
- Print heads can be manually removed and cleaned if needed.
- Proper cleaning restores print quality and printer function.
Cartridge Replacement
- Inkjet cartridges must be replaced when ink is depleted.
- Some printers use a single cartridge for all colors, others have separate cartridges for each color (cyan, magenta, yellow, black).
- If one color runs out in a multi-color cartridge, the whole cartridge must be replaced.
- Individual color cartridges allow for more efficient replacement.
- Cartridge replacement is quick: remove the old cartridge, insert the new one, and close the printer.
Calibration and Alignment
- After replacing cartridges, printers may require calibration for accurate color alignment.
- Calibration can be done from the printer's front panel and usually involves printing a test page.
Recycling Cartridges
- Used cartridges are mostly plastic and should be recycled.
- Manufacturers provide recycling instructions on their websites.
Clearing Paper Jams
- Paper jams occur as sheets twist and turn through the printer.
- Remove the paper tray and any loose paper before addressing the jam.
- Firmly remove stuck paper along its current path, using release options if available.
- Ensure no torn pieces remain inside by checking thoroughly.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Print Head — The component that dispenses ink onto paper in an inkjet printer.
- Cartridge — A container holding ink for the printer, available in single- or multi-color formats.
- Calibration — The process of aligning printer colors for print accuracy.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Regularly run the print head cleaning cycle.
- Replace depleted cartridges promptly and recycle used ones.
- Calibrate the printer after installing new cartridges.
- Check for and completely remove all paper pieces after clearing a jam.