AP74700 Troubleshooting Guide
AP74700 Troubleshooting Guide
AP74700 Troubleshooting Guide
guide
Troubleshooting
Table of content
Introduction
1 TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURE
WHEN DISPLAYING A MESSAGE
This chapter explains the messages displayed when the product is operating normally and when an error
occurs.
There are the following types of messages.
Heater system errors When there is a failure in the heater-system (heater control -
3 heater power board – heater mats & sensors)
Data errors Displayed when data communication trouble occurs between the
4
computer and this product.
Command errors Displayed when trouble occurs during analysis of the command
5
data that is sent to this product from the computer.
Sensor state:
Pin 1 and 2 on the sensor
are closed, Pin 3 is open
(floating)
!Attention!
Be careful when
adjusting the sensor-
bracket, the sensor-lip is
not fully stressed. This
will decrease life and
possibly damage the
sensor!
Adjust the sensor and
make sure there is a 0,5
to 1mm gap as
illustrated.
(3) If the cover switches are ok, Verify the cover switch
and the error persists connectors on the
mainboard, (J155 and
J156)
If no spare cover switches
are available, temporary
bypass on own risk is
possible, short circuiting
pins 1 and 2 for both
switches.
3 Paper End There is no media (1) Check if both the When you cover the
inside the printer. P_REAR_R and P_REAR_L sensor with paper, the
sensors are properly working: P_REAR sensor should
The roll of media Diagnostics Test Sensor switch ON.
has ended PaperRear R and L. If the sensor is not
responding, check the
sensor alignment.
Replace if necessary.
4 End of Roll Displayed when the (1) Check if the If the message is
end of the roll paper is message is still displayed : go to
detected during the displayed after step (2)
use of roll paper. This turning the power off
is released when the and then back on
lever has been set to again.
the up position. (2) Check the Redo the Replacing the
P_REAR sensor connections of Mainboard
assembly for the Mainboard assembly,
contact condition. assembly HDD_Extension
connectors J128 board assembly,
and J129. If the HEAD_DRV board
paper is not assembly and
initialized, the cooling fan
sensor may be assembly.
damaged. Replacing the
Replace the P_REAR_R sensor
P_REAR sensor assembly and
assembly. P_REAR_L sensor
assembly.
(3) The Mainboard Replace the Replacing the
may be damaged. Mainboard Mainboard
assembly. assembly,
HDD_Extension
board assembly,
HEAD_DRV board
assembly and
cooling fan
assembly.
5 [ ] Near End The remaining amount (1) Check the ink Operate the lever Sensor menu
of ink is low. Printing end via “Test: at the end Replacing the I/H
is still possible. Sensor” of the self- detecting element (ink holder)
diagnostic function. of the ink sensor assembly
There is no more ink assembly to
6 [ ] Ink End left. Printing in check if the ink
progress is interrupted end indication
immediately. changes. (At this
time, the sensor
for detecting the
presence of
cartridges is set
to Yes.) If there is
no response,
replace the ink
sensor assembly.
(2) Check the ink Redo the Replacing the
sensor connector for connections of Junction board
the contact the following assembly.
conditions. connectors.
Junction board :
J401 – J418
Mainboard : J133
– J134
7 Ink End ALL The printer receives Obviously this is an Verify if the
an external notification abnormal condition. flatcables
that all ink cartridges between the
are empty. The Check if the ink end mainboard and
notification says that sensors are indeed Ink ID board are
all ink end sensors are activated or not in properly
activated. diagnostics. Try to connected
activate the sensor
manually to see if it Try to use
responds. another Ink ID
board to see if the
problem persists!
8 Not Original Ink (1) Check the ink If the type of the Sensor menu
end ID via “Test: installed cartridge
Sensor” of the self- does not match
diagnostic function. the displayed
(This is limited to type, the ink ID
when smart chips sensor may be
are set.) damaged.
11 (Warning Head The service life of the (1) Check if the When a message
Life) print head will soon be message is still is displayed :
reached. displayed after refer to step (2)
turning the power off
and then back on
again.
(2) The number of Replace the print Replacing the
times the print head head assembly. print head
was used reached Initialize the head assembly and head
the maximum unit. tape power cable.
allowable times. Counter
initialization menu.
(3) If initialization Install latest
does not take effect firmware version
when the head unit is and re-proceed!
initialized, the Make
sure the latest
firmware version is
installed
12 Hard disk status There is a problem in (1) Check the Redo the Replacing the
connect error the hard disk connections of connections of Mainboard
connections. connectors. the following assembly,
connectors. HDD_Extension
Mainboard : J102 board assembly,
power source HEAD_DRV board
board (small) assembly and
assembly : CN51 cooling fan
– CN52 assembly.
(2) The Replace the ink Replacing the
HDD_MOTHER tube. power source board
board assembly may Initializing CR assembly.
be damaged. motor history.
(3) Hard disk may be Replace the hard
damaged. disks.
(4) The Mainboard Replace the
assembly may be Mainboard
damaged. assembly.
13 Network There is a problem in (1) The network Replace the Replacing the
initialize error the network board. interface board may network interface Mainboard
be damaged. board. assembly,
(2) The Mainboard Replace the HDD_Extension
assembly may be Mainboard board assembly,
damaged. assembly. HEAD_DRV board
assembly and
cooling fan
assembly.
14 Waste ink tank The waste tank is not (1) Check if the Install the waste -
sts. No installed. waste bottle has bottle correctly.
been installed.
(2) Check the Replace the -
operation of the waste box sensor
waste box sensor assembly.
assembly via
“Sensor/Waste Bin”
of the self-diagnostic
function.
Important
Before checking the connectors, please power off the unit and remove the power cable.
Notes
Check if the connectors are properly connected to the power board.
Check if the sensors are connected onto the right connector.
A HEATER SYSTEM
B HEATER SYSTEM
C HEATER SYSTEM
D HEATER SYSTEM
Important
Before checking the connectors, please power OFF the unit and remove the power cable.
Notes
Check if the connectors are properly connected to the power board.
Check if the sensors are connected onto the right connector.
Notes
The command codes for errors may be indicated between brackets [ ].
Notes
The command codes for errors may be indicated between brackets [ ].
For the settings on a computer, refer to the computer's operation manual.
These errors can appear when internally the machine detected an illegal software command in the central
microprocessor-circuitry inside the mainboard.
o Try another rip computer or use a pre-ripped (demo-) file provided by Mutoh.
o Try to rip to a different (analogue) Mutoh-printer, whenever available.
o Try to rip an internal job, e.g. print a palette or distance adjust test
o The onboard offline-memory may be corrupt. Reset the NVRAM and re-insert all the parameters
manually (not with a backup-flashcard or via Ethernet) via the LCD Display. Manual input avoids
copying corrupted data back.
o With the installed firmware – Always install the correct and the latest firmware version!
o If this error still reoccurs after these actions, replacing the mainboard and re-inserting the parameters
manually is the last solution. Same reason again, why inserting parameters manually, is to avoid
copying possible NVRAM data to the new mainboard.
Data boundary exception errors. Trouble occurred in the data boundary in its internal memory.
The Paper-Feed motor is failing or the electronics doesn’t receive an encoder-signal from the PF sensor
correctly.
The electronics wants to move the Paper Feed system (PF). The driver IC on the mainboard provides power
to the X-motor (1). Therefore the X-motor starts to turn, resulting in a PF movement (2). PF movement is
detected via the encoder-sensor (3), and gives feedback, back to the electronics.
This closed-loop system is fully controlled in the electronic circuit of the mainboard. It regulates the direction,
electrical current and the speed of the carriage extremely precisely.
PF Encoder Disk
X-Encoder
Forward movement
3
Grid Roller
Backward movement
Grid Roller
2 PF-X-motor
Mainboard
If anything goes wrong in this process, the following parts inside this loop needs to be verified:
If the Hex counter changes near PF, when turning the grid-roll shaft, the encoder is ok.
If not ok:
Be assured that the PF encoder sensor is properly adjusted and positioned
Check if the encoder disk is clean and not scratched. Clean with Isopropyl alcohol and a fibre-free
tissue only!
The driver chip is located on the mainboard on U94 for old board revisions. New board
revisions (RoHS) the driver chip is the U109. The following pins should be measured:
Between pin 1 and 10
Between pin 2 and 11
The measurement value should be approx. 2 to 3 Meg Ohms. If this is not the case, the driver is
broken, replace the mainboard
The mainboard is not receiving an encoder-signal, from the CR encoder sensor. Even though, the
mainboard sends a signal to the CR-motor to move the carriage.
Y-Encoder
CW-Movement
3
= Carriage moves left
CCW-Movement
= Carriage moves right
2
Y-motor
Mainboard
The electronics wants to move the carriage. The driver IC on the mainboard provides power to the Y-motor
(1). Therefore the Y-motor starts to turn, resulting in carriage-movement (2). Carriage movement is
detected via the encoder-sensor (3), back to the electronics.
This closed-loop system is fully controlled in the electronic circuit of the mainboard. It regulates the direction,
electrical current and the speed of the carriage extremely precisely.
If anything goes wrong in this process, the following parts inside this loop needs to be verified:
If the Hex counter changes near CR_ENC, when moving the carriage, the encoder signal is OK. To be able
to move the carriage freely, the front cover (incl. cover sensors) must be opened.
The cover switches make contact with a relay. This relay physically connects/disconnect the Y-motor from
the Y-motor power circuitry. Pin 1 and 2 will measure 0 ohms.
If one of both cover switches is open, the relay will disconnect. Instead the cover switch must close contacts
2 and 3. In this way the /COVER-detection lines integrated inside the electronics, will recognise that the
cover is open and inform the operator.
Important
28 Volts is directly connected to the cover switches! Therefore the switches are properly
insulated. Be aware removing the covers, the chassis is not touching the insulation and
breaking so it hits the contacts. This will result in a broken main board!
The sensor can also be checked via the “test sensor” inside diagnostics.
On the picture, you can see that the relay can switch the Y motor on/off. If the cover is being closed (= both
switches closes too), you should hear the relay clicking.
If the relay RY1 is NOT clicking after closing, verify if the cover switch is really closed. Measure pin 1 and 2
of the connector of J155 and J156. Both pins should be 0 ohms!
If the switches are OK, the relay or the driver of the relay on the mainboard might be is broken. In that case
replace the mainboard
The driver chip is located on the mainboard on U97 for old board revisions. New board revisions (RoHS) the
driver chip is the U112. The following pins should be measured:
Between pin 1 and 10
Between pin 2 and 11
5) Verify the Y-motor, make sure the carriage is running smoothly and the motor makes no noise.
6) Check the steel belt pressure. A wrong steel belt pressure will result in frictioning. Therefore the
“controlled loop feedback”-system will fail.
Blizzard 65” = 1 Newton (100 gr) – Blizzard 90” = 0,9 Newton (90 gr)
If you are sure all previous parts are ok, check the steel belt pressure; check the ‘smoothness’ of the
carriage. Verify the Y-motor and if necessary, replace it.
Verify if the Y-motor belt. Same reason as for the steel belt.
Verify if the belt is in good shape and properly greased
Verify the belt’s pressure 35 Newton (3,5 kg)
Verify the carriage movement. The carriage should run smoothly over the whole length.
The carriage should also run smoothly without steel belt. If not check the carriage-bearings.
Both steel-belt pulleys should run smoothly
7) Verify if the steel belt is free of grease and dirt! Grease can drip down from the Y-motor CR-belt
if there is too much applied. Please remind that there should be neither grease nor dirt between
the steel-belt and the CR-pulleys! Clean the steel belt if necessary with Isopropyl Alcohol.
This error occurs when the carriage didn’t move to the expected, correct position within a certain amount of
time.
2) Verify the linear encoder strip. Clean the encoder strip with Isopropyl Alcohol if necessary.
Check if the encoder strip isn’t scratched.
Move the carriage and check if the HEX-counter on the LCD-display is going up and down over the
complete length of the Y-rail.
Step 1 : Verify the U-pot sensor on top of the Y-rail Check if the U-photo sensor is properly aligned and
the carriage-flag activates it. The U-sensor can be tested by putting some non-transparent
material inside to activate.
Diagnostics Test Sensor CR Home position
Step 3 : If sensor is not responding, replace sensor + verify, eventually replace cabling
Step 4 : If still no response after sensor replacement, the mainboard might be defect (replace mainboard)
Step 3 : Verify if the front cover is closing all the switches properly
Step 4 : Verify sensor cable connections, try to bypass sensors by short-circuiting pins 1 and 2
Step 1 : Verify if the optical sensor is working by putting something a piece of material before it. The
sensor can be tested via:
Diagnostic sensor HD_SLIDE sensor
Step 3 : Verify the headheight homing sensor and the Up-Down motor via:
Diagnostics Life Head U/D
Step 6 : If all previous steps did not help you any further and a replacement sensor also doesn’t give any
response, only then replace the mainboard.
The flatcable of head number 1 is not properly connected. This is applicable on as well 4 as 8 heads
machines.
Head 1 MUST always be connected, as the head contains a temperature probe. The machine will always try
to retrieve the temperature during start-up. If you get this error, it indicates, a flatcable is not connected
properly. Verify all flatcable connections. Please refer to flatcable treatment.
In future firmware releases, this error can as well be a fatal error or a non-fatal error (warning message).
Please check the flatcable-treatment chapter for more information how to solve the problem.
Step 1 : The lever motor is drawing too much power. Replace the lever motor.
Step 2 : Verify for any short circuits in the motor wiring between the motor and the mainboard.
The lever up / down sensor of the lever motor did not respond within a certain time or the Up-Down sensor is
failing.
Step 2 : Verify if the gear-wheel / sensor flag of the pinch rollers is properly activating both sensors
Step 3 : Verify if the lever-motor is working and properly geared. Therefore you need to remove the A-
heater platen to be able to verify this.
The cap sensor detects if the capping station-assy is in the downward position. It’s a photo sensor that is
fixed inside the capping-station.
Step 1 : Verify if the sensor is working properly. Insert a non-transparent piece of material inside the
optical U-sensor to activate the sensor. The default value is OFF and should switch ON.
Menu location:
Start up in diagnostics – Test – Sensor – Cap
Step 2 : Push the capping station down and turn the stepper motor to keep it down. Check if the Cap-
sensor goes into the U-sensor properly + verify in sensor diagnostics (see previous step)
Step 4 : Verify if the optical U-sensor is clean and not covered with ink or contamination
Step 5 : Check the U-sensor cable connection on the sensor and the mainboard
Menu location:
Start up in diagnostics – Test – Life – Head Lock – Select Wiper U/D off
Step 2 : If the stepper motor is not working properly or loosing torque, verify if the gears and plastic parts
are properly lubricated/greased.
The wiper sensor, located below the wiper assembly was not activated when the heads were being wiped.
Sensor diagnostics
Step 1 : Verify if the sensor is working properly. Unlock the carriage from the capping station, using the
Head Unlock in Diagnostics. Move the head on the side. Remove the wiper plate assembly.
Insert a non-transparent piece of material inside the optical U-sensor to activate the sensor. The
default value is OFF and should switch ON.
Menu location:
Step 2 : Mount the wiper plate assembly back on the capping station. Move the wiper assy to the outer
position to activate the U-sensor. Check if the Cap-sensor goes into the U-sensor properly and if
the value on the display switches ON and OFF.
Step 4 : Verify if the optical U-sensor is clean and not covered with ink or contamination
Step 5 : Check the U-sensor cable connection on the sensor and the mainboard.
Menu location:
Start up in diagnostics – Test – Life – Head Lock – Select Wiper U/D on
Step 2 : If the stepper motor is not working properly or loosing torque, verify if the gears and plastic parts
are properly lubricated/greased.
If an error occurs, problems occur or the free space for parameters is very low (<100) try the following:
Diagnostics – MOD Level – Reset to 0, reboot the machine and wait until completed.
Then repeat the diagnostics. If still not ok, clear NVRAM, reboot.
1) Try to disconnect all possible boards (network card, slave boards, print heads, etc.) to exclude
any short-circuits. It works; reconnect every board step-by-step to find the possible cause.
Pin out to measure the main power supply connected to J101 on the mainboard:
Pin out of the supplemental 12V power supply connected to J102 on the mainboard:
Pin 4 = Power On
Pin 5 = 5V
Remark: The machine contains a switching power supply and must always be measured when it is under
load. (This means: connected on the mainboard)
The fuses protect the electronic driver components on the mainboard. Every ink-channel has a separate
fuse, so every printhead have 2 fuses, located on the main board below the Head Driver Board.
Old revision mainboards need some soldering, to remove the old fuse and to put a new one.
New revision boards (RoHS) do not need soldering. The fuse can easily be replaced as it is socketed.
Important
ONLY USE THE FUSE DEFINED IN THE SPARE PARTS FROM MUTOH. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER FUSE AS WE
CANNOT GUARANTEE THE CORRECT TYPE USED.
PLEASE REFER TO TIB 188 FOR MORE INFORMATION
The mainboard failed to make contact with the NMPS (“New Maintenance Pump System”) –board.
Possible causes:
The LVDS-cable is not properly connected to the NMPS-board Verify LVDS cable and
connections
Incorrect firmware version in the NMPS-board. Firmware MUST always match with all
boards Initiate a firmware-update of the slave-boards by starting up the machine + Cancel
+ Enter.
Verify if there is no error LED indication on the NMPS-board
Verify if the ALIVE LED on the NMPS-board is flickering If not, verify power supply and
replace when necessary
Verify if the CAN-LED’s are not burning continuously This can indicate a communication
problem or a malfunctioning CAN bus malfunction.
Always check:
If all RJ45 cable connections on all the slave-boards are properly connected
If after all those above described actions, the same problem still occurs, replace the
mainboard.
The mainboard failed to make contact with the “Contact Heater System” board during the start-up process.
Possible causes:
o Incorrect firmware version – Firmware MUST always match with all boards, inside the machine
o Firmware update failed on the Contact Heater System board
If the firmware-update failed on that board, check if during run-time, the ALIVE-LED is
flickering.
If that LED is not functional the board must be replaced.
o If you are sure the firmware is ok, please check:
If the CAN communication is working properly (check all the CAN-cables)
The LVDS-LED’s on the board should flicker during communication (start-up, pump-control,
etc)
There error LED’ on the CHS board have no functionality, please ignore them
If the alive LED is flickering
If the CAN LED’s are not burning continuously or bad contact on the CAN interface cable or
chips.
- Try to reinstall firmware, make sure all PCB-firmware’s (mainboard, NMPS and CHS) are
synchronised with the correct version
- If the error persists, replace NMPS board. Always verify if the board version is ok after replacement!
The NMPS board failed to start. As a result the internal firmware might not run properly.
This may result in an “E240 No Slave Boards” error notification
- Try to reinstall firmware, make sure all PCB-firmware’s (mainboard, NMPS and CHS) are
synchronised with the correct version
- If the error persists, replace NMPS board. Always verify if the board version is ok after replacement!
The firmware installed is not compatible with the installed main PCB board.
Old firmware only works on older mainboards. Newer firmware versions are downward compatible with the
older mainboards.
Just make sure you install the latest firmware release version on the correct machine, to avoid all kinds of
problems!
The firmware version installed on the NMPS board is not compatible with the mainboard.
Make sure you install the latest firmware release on the mainboard.
Also make sure, the NMPS-firmware is updated to the correct version (synchronized with the mainboard’s
firmware)
The firmware version installed on the Contact Heater System-board is not compatible with the mainboard.
Make sure you install the latest firmware release on the mainboard.
Also make sure, the CHS-firmware is updated to the correct version (synchronized with the mainboard’s
firmware)
The firmware installed is not compatible with the installed main PCB board.
Old firmware only works on older generation mainboards.
Always use the correct firmware version for the correct hardware:
o Non-RohS mainboards have the extension SP (e.g. 3.00sp as for Spitfire 65-90) and SF (e.g. sf4.00
for Spitfire 100)
o RohS-compliant mainboards have the extension SX (e.g. 3.00sx as for Spitfire 65-90) and SF (e.g.
se4.00 for Spitfire 100) and should be solely used in the ‘extreme’ machine versions!
Always use the latest firmware-version. Older firmware-versions will possibly not be compatible with
newer hardware (especially non-RohS PCB’s.
Using the latest firmwares also offers you to use the latest advantages and I² features to improve the
printer’s performance.
Contact the Mutoh service department. When reporting this error notification, always mention the machine-
type, mainboard type (RohS or non-RohS + revision) and serial number!
This is a smart-chip, wallet or CLIB-related problem, including flatcable connection to the mainboard. As this
can be a very complicated problem, the analysis needs to be followed step-by-step.
2 possibilities:
One smart-chip inside the cartridge-reader, is interfering the cartridge-smartchips or the internal wallet-
SIMM card. All the smart-chips are connected to 1 serial bus. This communication-bus can be
disturbed, preventing some of all smart chips and the wallet, to be ‘read’.
The sim card or sim card reader is not available or defect. Verify if:
o The Card-reader is properly connected
o The SIMM-card is inserted in its socket properly
o The CLIB board is not properly functioning or badly connected
Verify flatcable connections thoroughly!
Step 1 : Verify if the SIMM card and the SIMM card reader is functional:
Remove all the cartridges that have a smart-chip.
Reboot the machine, go to diagnostics mode > ChipMgr
Verify the chip-status. If the SIMM-chip is ok, go to step 2.
If the SIMM card is NOT ok:
o And taking into account, all the cartridges have been removed, following parts can be
faulty:
The SIMM chip is broken; proceed to the service-chip procedure. Check the
specific error-number via diagnostics mode > ChipMgr
The CLIB board is improperly connected to the Mainboard. Try to swap the 2
flatcables on both sides, to see if the problem ‘shifts’ to other cartridges or
becomes OK.
Step 2 : Go to user-mode, menu “Ink Status”, verify ink status of all cartridge-smartchips separately
Verify with each inserted cartridge, if the SmartChip is properly recognised. Cartridges with non-
readable SmartChips should be reinserted several times to be sure it’s not bad contact. Check the
smart-chip issues documentation.
If the SmartChip remains unreadable, try another analogue cartridge or swap cartridges located on
another location inside the cartridge-station. Check if the SmartChip can be ‘read’ on this other
location. If still not ok, the chip might be defect.
Verify the 2 flatcables if they are properly connected, swap the 2 flatcables to verify if the problem
‘shifts’ to another location.
Step 3 : If cartridge SmartChips and wallet can ALL properly be read and the same problem still re-
occurs after rebooting:
Remove all the cartridges again
Insert all cartridges one by one, for each inserted cartridge, reboot again. Where the problem
possibly reoccurs, remove the cartridge. Retry with another cartridge. If still not ok:
o The CLIB board might be improperly connected to the Mainboard via the 2 flatcables.
o Try to swap the 2 flatcables on both sides, to see if the problem ‘shifts’ to other cartridges
or another problem appears.
Check and make sure that the correct firmware is installed on the correct machine, eg. Spitfire firmware on
Spitfire machine. Blizzard firmware on the blizzard, spitfire 100 on spitfire 100 machine, extreme firmware on
an ‘extreme’ machine, etc.
In normal circumstances the chip should indicate, everything is ok and the amount of ml should be visible.
Other errors:
SIMM-card errors can be due to the Wallet-SIMM card, mounted inside the machine.
However, problems might also occur due to the printer cartridges (e.g. “Not Original Ink”). In fact, in this
case it’s the smart-chips that might be causing this issue. The internal SIMM and the smart-chip
management system (8 smartchip-cartridge-readers) are al interconnected. One chip can interfere with the
others and potentially give an error.
So when you know, cartridges with smart-chips are inside the machine and an [Exx]-error occurs, the error
can be caused by 2 possible reasons:
The internal SIMM Card
One of the 8 cartridges with smart-chips
Step 1 : Shutdown the machine and remove all cartridges with SmartChips
Step 2 : Check flatcables between mainboard and cassette led interface board (CLIB)
Step 5 : Check all connections on the CLIB expander board (SPFR100 only)
Step 6 : Restart the machine without any cartridges, verify if the error still occurs if not, check TIB252
Step 7 : If the error doesn’t occur, insert every cartridge back one-by-one and verify if every cartridge is
properly recognised in “ink status”
In the case, those cassette-smart-chips are responsible for causing an [Exx]-error, you can try the following
topics:
If the internal wallet is used, the smart-chips on the cartridges can be removed. The credits can be
downloaded inside the printer. Beware that there is no glue or self-adhesive remaining on the smart-chip
or cartridge. This to avoid contamination of the smart-chip reader!
o Ink end will always be detected as this is a physical switch detection
o Ink levels per cartridge will not be readable when using the internal wallet. Only the total ink amount
charged inside the wallet will be readable.
If smart-chips are used, follow the TIB252, flowchart “not original ink”.
3 TROUBLESHOOTING WHEN
DISPLAYING NO MESSAGES
This chapter explains the messages displayed when the product is not operating normally and no specific
error notification is given.
These error types have been divided into the following sections:
Sections
3.1 Start-up related problems
3.2 Paper feed related problems
3.3 Problems during printing operation
3.4 Audible noise and interference problems
3.5 Paper cutting related problems
3.6 Internal firmware and operation problems
3.7 Miscellaneous problems
3.8 Parameter and print related issues
3.9 Pump, suction, nozzle & cleaning problems
3 Ink load cannot be performed. (1) Check if “Cover Open” is • Adjust the cover sensor.
displayed on the LCD when the Check if both sensors are
front cover is closed. ‘clicking’ when closing the
cover.
(2) Make sure that the •Redo the connections of the
connections of the panel cable following connectors.
connectors at the panel unit • Mainboard : J105
assembly side and the • Panel board : J301
Mainboard assembly side is
good.
• Check the panel cables for
skewed insertion.
• Make sure that they are
securely locked.
(3) Check if “LeverUp” is • Replace the transmission
displayed on the LCD when the photo sensor at the lever.
pressure arm is at the lower
position.
(4) The ink ID board assembly • Replace the ink ID board
may be damaged. assembly.
(5) The JUNCTION board • Replace the JUNCTION board
assembly may be damaged. assembly.
4 Although ink load has started, (1) The maintenance parts may Check the capping station and
the ink has not reached the be damaged. caps. Verify also if there is no
head. air-ink-leak in the tubings.
(2) The damper may be • Replace the damper.
damaged.
(3) The ink tube may be • Replace the ink tube.
damaged.
(4) The cartridge frame may be • Replace the cartridge frame
damaged. assembly.
5 Ink is not supplied when ink load (1) Make sure that the • Redo the connections of the
is complete. connections of the head cable head cables to the connectors.
connectors at the CR board
assembly side and the print
head side is good.
• Check the head cables for
open conditions.
• Make sure that they are
securely connected.
(2) Check the head cables for • Replace the head cables.
the open conditions.
(3) The print head may be • Replace the print head
damaged. assembly.
(4) Check the CR cables for • Replace the CR tape power
open conditions. cables.
(5) The HEAD_DRV board • Replace the HEAD_DRV
assembly may have a problem. board assembly.
(6) The Mainboard assembly • Replace the Mainboard.
may have a problem
6 Operation does not take place at (1) Check if “Cover Open” is •Adjust the cover sensor.
all after the power is supplied. displayed on the LCD when the • Redo the connections of
front cover is closed. connectors J155 and J156 on
7 When power is supplied, Check the proper operation of the Mainboard assembly.
“Initialize” is displayed, then the cover sensory assembly via • Replace he cover sensor
reset. “TEST: Sensor” of the self- assembly.
A simplified, automatic procedure for loading the appropriate cleanings and inks has been developed and is
executed via firmware.
This makes it easier for the customer to load the correct liquids inside the printer. The big advantage of the
smart-chip management system is that it can identify, if the correct cartridge inserted. It also assures that
the correct procedure is followed like described in the user’s manual. So there is a double security!
This procedure is of utmost importance as not all solutions and inks are directly compatible. If not-
compatible solutions and inks are mixed, the heads and ink tubings inside the printer might block resulting in
replacement and a lot of work.
As you can see in the chart, ECO-Solvent Inks, are also NOT compatible with either water-based, either,
Mild solvent Cleanings or Ink. So avoid the mixture of these solutions in any case inside the machine’
tubings and heads!
Brand-new machines are shipped are standard delivered with a water-based solution:
Inside the ink-tubings
Inside the dampers
Inside the heads
The chart shows that water-based solution and solvent inks are NOT compatible!
When Solvent inks are mixed with water-based solution, the pigments of the ink will decay and it will block:
The ink tubings
The dampers
The heads
To avoid this, multiple cleaning cycles are required to convert the machine into the correct configuration.
So both flags indicate what the machine has to do, when starting-up the printer. When the flag is SET, the
machine is requested to do the specific action. When the flag is RESET, the printer will assume no action is
required.
Automatic Ink Load Cycle – Spitfire – Automatic Ink Load Cycle – RHIII – Blizzard
Blizzard ECO solvent inks
Mild solvent inks
Machine will automatically proceed to: Machine will automatically proceed to:
1st phase: 1st phase:
Water-Based STL-Liquid Water-Based STL-Liquid
1) The printer will only accept ECO Status flags after loading ECO-cleaning:
cleaning. The printer will try to load Ink fill flag = SET
ECO cleaning for initial ink load. SolPrepare flag = RESET
SMS flag = RESET
2) The printer will only accept ECO- Machine will then automatically proceed to:
Cleaning cartridges 2nd phase
ECO Solvent Cleaning Loading ECO
3) These are factory values for a new Solvent Ink
shipped machine
Machine automatically detects ECO Solvent
Status flags after loading ECO-Cleaning inks.
Ink Fill flag = SET Status flags after loading Eco-Inks:
SolPrepare flag = RESET Ink fill flag = SET
SMS flag = RESET SolPrepare flag = RESET
SMS flag = RESET
Machine will then automatically proceed to:
2nd phase
ECO Solvent Cleaning MS cleaning
Important
When machines are started-up, the technician must always verify if the according cleaning-
cartridge has emptied after the pumping cycle.
If the cartridge liquid level has not decreased
DO NOT CONTINUE LOADING THE NEXT LIQUID Charging-PHASE YET!!
Notes
When putting Solprepare on Set, the ink fill flag will automatically RESET. When the Solprepare is
enabled logically the firmware assumes that there is no ink inside the machine.
In this phase it might be necessary, that the solution of the failed ink-line needs to be loaded into the head
manually, with help of a syringe before proceeding to the next step. Make sure at least 160ml is loaded into
the ink system.
The following chart will clearly explain the ink-loading cycle during an automatic start-up. In case something
goes wrong, actions and parameters are described what can be done do in case of failures like:
- Power interruptions
- Fatal machine errors
Step 2 : Carefully remove the pump connection on the corresponding capping station nipple (which goes
to the head)
Step 3 : Connect the syringe and fill it carefully by sucking (pulling-out) the syringe.
Step 4 : Repeat this procedure until sufficient solution has circulated into the ink-system.
Scenario 1
Symptom:
On-off switching is NOT possible on the LCD control panel, machine remains dead
Procedure:
The machine can be forced switched on when short-circuiting pin connectors 2 and 3 on the main power
connector J101.
Notes
The contacts must permanently be short-circuited to proceed the complete boot and shutdown
process. Loosening the contact during the boot process, will immediately CUT power with risk
of parameter loss.
The machine will automatically do a complete and repeating boot-shutdown cycle when those 2 pins are
permanently connected. Only disconnect those pins after shutdown of machine software (you will hear the
Y-motor relay clicks ‘OFF’ and fans stop turning) to avoid parameter-loss during this test.
The LCD panel is protected via a round, red-brown fuse located next to the LCD connector on the
mainboard. If the fuse is blown either:
o The Flatcable was misconnected
o The LCD control panel is broken
Scenario 2
You try to startup the machine. The machine starts up and immediately shuts down again = short circuit!
Wait a few minutes and check if the machine can be powered ON again. (= thermal protection)
The machine’s power supply automatically protects itself by shutting down. Short-circuits can only be solved
by disconnecting the respective short-circuiting electronic part.
Step 1 : Disconnect all the cables on the main board. (except the LCD cable + panel + power supplies.)
Step 2 : Check if the machine’s power supply can start up.
Step 3 : Reconnect all cables on by one and try again.
Step 4 : Beware for the head flatcables as these must be connected per pair (A and B channel)
Notes
BE AWARE THAT WHEN ALL CABLES ARE DISCONNECTED, THE MACHINE MAY GIVE COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
ERRORS.
(7) The print head assembly • Replace the damaged print head
may be damaged. assembly.
(8) Check if the remaining • If “Near End” or “Ink End” is not
amount of ink in the displayed when the remaining
cartridge is sufficient. amount of ink is insufficient, the ink
sensor assembly may have a
problem.
(9) The ink pump assembly • Replace the ink pump assembly.
may have a problem.
(10) The maintenance • Replace the maintenance
assembly may have a assembly.
problem.
(11) The Mainboard • Replace the Mainboard assembly.
assembly may have a
problem.
5 Nothing has been printed (1) Check the head and CR • Redo the connections of the
cables for skewed insertion. following connectors. Connectors
for the print head.
• CR board : J201 – J232
• Mainboard : J137 – J152
6 Only specific colours are not (2) The head and CR • Replace the CR tape power
printed. cables may be damaged. cables.
(3) Check ink tubes for • Replace the damaged ink tubes.
bends, flaws, air leaks, etc.
(4) The print head assembly • Replace the print head assembly.
may be damaged.
(5) The damper may be • Replace the damaged cable.
damaged.
(6) The ink pump assembly • Replace the ink pump assembly.
may have a problem.
(7) The maintenance • Replace the maintenance
assembly may have a assembly.
problem.
(8) The CR board assembly • Replace the CR board assembly.
may have a problem.
(9) The HEAD_DRV board • Replace the HEAD_DRV board.
may be damaged.
(10) The Mainboard • Replace the Mainboard assembly.
assembly may have a
problem.
7 Drawn black on a full screen (Or (1) Check the head and CR • Redo the connections of the
other specified colour) cables for skewed insertion. following connectors. Connectors
for the print head.
• CR board : J201 – J232
• Mainboard : J137 - J152
(2) The head and CR • Replace the CR tape power
cables may be damaged. cables.
(3) The print head assembly • Replace the print head assembly.
may be damaged.
(4) The CR board assembly • Replace the CR board assembly.
may have a problem.
(5) The HEAD_DRV • Replace the HEAD_DRV
assembly board may be assembly board
damaged.
(6) The Mainboard • Replace the Mainboard assembly.
assembly may have a
problem.
8 Light and slight printing occurs. (1) Check if the use • Be sure to use the product under
conditions are within the the guaranteed operation
normal operation conditions.
conditions.
(2) Check if printing began • The following phenomena may
immediately after ink load. occur for the first printing that is
processed immediately after ink
load.
• Faint lines are drawn.
• White streaks appear on the
printing.
• If these conditions are observed,
perform cleaning a couple of times
before printing, then check the
result.
• If cleaning does not improve the
result, leave the products for at least
several hours, redo the cleaning
operation, then check the results
again.
9 Irregularities occur in the image (1) Check the band feed • Adjust the band feed.
picture. adjustments.
10 The lines in the CR direction (1) Check the head • Adjust the head.
split. adjustments.
11 Black or white streaks occur in (1) Step could be badly • Adjust the step.
printings. adjusted
(2) Check if the suction fans • Check the connections of the
are operating correctly via following connections.
“Test: Fan” of the self- • Mainboard : J111-J116
diagnostic function.
(3) If the paper in concern is • Make sure the scroller receivers
roll paper, check if the are installed in the correct position.
scroller is rotating smoothly. • Replace the rollers of the scroller.
(4) Make sure that the PF • Adjust the tension of the PF
belt tension is adjusted reduction belt.
correctly.
(5) Check if the pump is • Check that the connections of
running during the cleaning Mainboard connectors J160-J161
operation. are good.
• Replace the pump motor.
• Replace the Mainboard assembly.
(6) Check if he nozzle face • Using the wiper, wipe the nozzle
is wiped correctly. face well.
(7) Check the cleaning • Using the provided cleaning cloth
wipers for contamination. for cleaning the wipers, slightly
dampen it with cleaning liquid and
wipe the surface of the cleaning
wipers, then recheck their condition
by performing the cleaning
operation.
• If the ink is solid and does not
come off by wiping, replace the
wiper.
(8) Check the T fence for • Clean the T fence.
contamination • If contamination cannot be cleaned
up, replace the T fence
14 Fiber tracking is shown in prints. (2) Check if printing began • The following phenomena may
immediately after ink load. occur for the first printing processed
immediately after ink load.
• Faint lines are drawn.
• White streaks appear on the
printing.
• If these conditions are observed,
perform cleaning a couple of times
before printing, then check the
results.
• If cleaning does not improve the
results, leave the products for at
least several hours, redo the
cleaning operation, then check the
results again.
15 Lines look blurred when printed. (3) Check if the tension of • Adjust the steel belt tension.
the steel belt is properly
adjusted.
(4) Check the head • Adjust the head.
adjustments.
(5) Check the T fence for • Clean the T fence
contamination. • If contaminants cannot be cleaned
up by cleaning, replace the T fence.
(6) Make sure that the • If they interfere with each other,
CR_ENC assembly and the adjust the installation positions of
T fence are not interfering. the CR_ENC assembly and the T
fence.
• If the adjustments do not improve
this, replace the CR_ENC assembly
and the T fence.
(7) Check if the pumps are • Check if all cables are well
running during the cleaning connected to the NMPS board
operation. • Check if all tubes are well
connected
(8) Check if the nozzle face • Using the wiper, wipe the nozzle
is wiped correctly. face well.
(9) Check the cleaning • Using the provided cleaning cloth
wipers for contamination. for cleaning the wipers, slightly
dampen it with cleaning liquid and
wipe the surfaces of the cleaning
wipers, then recheck their conditions
by performing the cleaning
operation.
• If the ink is solid and does not
come off by wiping, replace the
wiper.
(10) Check if the QR code • Input the correct QR codes.
is input correctly.
(11) The head assembly • Replace the damaged head
may be damaged. assembly
(12) The ink tube may be • Replace the ink tube.
damaged.
(13) The CR board may • Replace the CR board assembly.
have a problem.
(14) The Mainboard • Replace the Mainboard assembly.
assembly may have a
problem.
16 Mixed colour lines do not (1) Check if the tension of • Adjust the steel belt tension.
overlap. the steel belt is properly
adjusted.
17 The positions of black and (2) Check the head • Adjust the inclination and height of
colours are not aligned. inclination and height the head.
adjustments.
(3) Check the two-way • Adjust the two-way printing
printing position alignment position alignment.
for problems.
(4) Check if CW • Perform the CW adjustments.
adjustments are made
correctly.
(5) Check if the QR code is • Input the correct QR codes.
input correctly.
(6) Make sure that the • If they are interfering with each
CR_ENC assembly and the other, adjust the installation
T fence are not interfering. positions of the CR_ENC assembly
and the T fence.
• If the adjustments do not improve
this, replace the CR_ENC assembly
and the T fence.
(7) The head assembly may • Replace the damaged head
be damaged. assembly.
18 A limited line in the head travel (1) Check if the use • be sure to use the product under
direction is not accurate (in the conditions are within the the operation conditions.
main scanning direction) normal operation
conditions.
(2) Check if the tension of • Adjust the steel belt tension.
the steel belt is adjusted
correctly.
(3) Check the T fence for • Clean the T fence
contamination. • If the contaminants cannot be
cleaned up, replace the T fence.
(4) The internal process • Check the operation again after
operation of the Mainboard initializing parameters and re-
assembly may be inputting and re-adjusting them.
A: Paper discharging direction malfunctioning.
19 Straight lines in the head travel (1) Make sure that the PF • Adjust the tension of the PF
direction are not accurate reduction belt tension is reduction belt.
(straightness) adjusted correctly.
(2) Check the rotation of the • If the surrounding area of the
pressure roller with the pressure arm is contaminated by
pressure arm at the raised paper, wipe it with a soft dampened
position. cloth.
(3) Check if rattles are •Clean the dust from the carriage
heard when the carriage is bearings and roller guide. When the
moved from side to side. roller guide is cleaned, apply a light
coat of grease on the roller guide
using a cloth soaked in grease
spray.
A: Paper discharging direction • Replace the CR carriage assembly
(4) Check if the winding • Adjust the swingbars
system is well installed
20 A limited line in the paper feed (1) Check if the use • Be sure to use the product under
direction is not accurate ( in the conditions are within the the operation conditions.
sub scanning direction) normal operation
conditions.
(2) Check if distance is • Compensate the distance.
compensated for the paper
in use.
(3) Check the PF drive • Replace the PF motor assembly.
pulley for looseness.
Step 1 : Never remove cartridges out of the printer when it’s uncapped!
If cartridges are removed when the machine is not on its capping station, ink will leak out from
heads and air will be sucked through the cartridge-needle.
Step 2 : Once air-bubbles inside the tubing, the risk of smudging and destroying the print is possible!
Step 3 : To solve: proceed with ink load to remove all ink-bubbles from the tubing
InkManager Ink load
Step 4 : Avoid dust particles below the printer heads by any means. 1 piece of dust on the nozzle-plate
will suck out ink from the heads resulting in ink drops.
Avoid placing the printer in dirty and dusty environments. Clean the machine on a regular basis.
Step 5 : Verify if wipers are in good shape. After wipe action, before printing, verify if the nozzle-plate
around the nozzles, is 100% clean. If not, clean the wipers. If the wipers are not straight
anymore, replace wipers.
Step 6 : The printer is a high-precision instrument that needs care and maintenance, this due to the
nature of the solvent inks.
Be sure to respect the recommended daily maintenance procedures according to the ink used, to
assure optimum performance.
Step 7 : Respect the environmental conditions as described in the installation guide. During winter-time
and cold periods, low environmental humidity will decrease print performance.
Step 10 : Very Low environmental humidity also causes plastic materials like banner and vinyl’s to charge
statically. Statically charged materials might cause printing anomalies like:
Ink drops
Nozzle inaccuracy and deflection
Bad printing quality
Step 11 : Printing materials need to be acclimatized in the same environment as the printer for at least 8
hours, before being ready for printing.
Step 2 : If nozzles still do NOT appear after a cleaning, try to connect a seringe and suck with the seringe
instead, be assured that the seringe is making a proper vacuum.
One head or one colour-channel is firing continuously over the whole print-length, over the whole length of
the movement of the carriage, as well over the edge of the media, as on the print platform.
In this situation, firing will occur starting from the flushing-box, over the print platform and over the edge of
the media up till where the carriage stops.
This can also give an indication, that there might be problems with the fuse of this head- or colour-channel.
Possible indications are (in order of most to less important reason):
When that kind of problem is reported it’s always recommended to have at least these spares available for
replacement.
To solve this problem, following the instructions described in TIB188 (Flat Cable Treatment) is strongly
recommended! Flatcables must be in perfect condition and must be connected 100% perfectly!
Notes
Fuses on the mainboard can be easily measured with an Ohm-meter. A fuse in good condition should
have approx 0 Ohms resistance. Fuses on non-RoHS mainboards must be re-soldered with a new
one, when broken. Fuses on a RoHS mainboard, can easily be replaced with tweezers.
Important
When replacing fuses, always remove the power-cord and discharge the machine, to avoid
static charge and damage to electronics!
2 Cutting has been (1) Check if the paper (output) size • Correct the paper (output) size on the
performed during on the application side is correct. application side.
printing. (2) The program ROM may have • Upgrade the firmware version.
failed.
(3) Check the CR cables for • Check the connections of the
skewed insertion. following connectors.
• CR board : J235
• CR board : J201-J216
• Mainboard : J137 – J152
(4) The CR board may have a • Replace the CR board.
problem.
3 The cutting operation (1) Check the cutter blade for • Replace the cutter.
is in process, but the shipping and deterioration.
paper has not been
cut.
4 The paper has not (2) Check if the cutter cap is • Reset the cutter cap securely.
been cut as smoothly securely installed.
as expected,
resulting in jamming.
(3) Check if the cutter moves up • Reinstall the cutter spring.
and down smoothly.
(4) Check the cutter grooves for • Remove the accumulated paper dust
accumulated paper dust and slips. along the direction of the grooves.
(5) Check if the cutter blade is • Make adjustments.
parallel with the groove.
5 The cutting operation (1) The sub-platen (cutter groove) • Clean the surface of the sub-platen
is in process but the requires daily maintenance.
paper does not fall (2) The sub-platen, paper guide or • Provide a proper ground.
off. the paper may be charged with • Check and adjust the ambient
static electricity. humidity so that it meets the normal
operation conditions of the product and
paper.
6 Inaccurate paper (1) Check the cutter blade for • Replace the cutter.
cutting chipping and deterioration.
(2) Has the cutter cap been • Reset the cutter cap securely.
securely installed?
(3) Check if the cutter moves up • Reinstall the cutter spring.
and down smoothly.
(4) Check the cutter grooves for • Remove the accumulated paper dust
accumulated paper dust and slips. along the direction of the grooves.
(5) Check if the cutter blade is • Make adjustments.
parallel with the groove.
(6) The cutter may have a • Replace the cutter.
problem.
7 Cutting starts after (1) Check the operation panel and • Change the settings.
the completion of the make sure the InkDryTime has not
print. been set.
(2) Check the LCD and see if • Printing data remains.
messages for an analysis have
been displayed.
4 A portion of the data (1) The program ROM may • Upgrade to the latest firmware version
has not been drawn have failed.
(is missing).
5 Garbled characters or (2) Check the T fence for • If contaminated with grease and dusts,
printings are contamination and bends. wipe with a dry cloth.
produced. • If contaminated with ink, wipe with a
lightly dampened cloth and then with a dry
cloth.
•If contamination is severe, replace the T
fence.
(3) Check the “Encoder:PF” via • Make sure that the connections of
“Test: Encoder” of the self- Mainboard assembly connector J132 are
diagnostic function good.
• Replace the T fence.
• Replace the CR_ENC assembly.
• Replace the CR motor.
• Replace the CR_BASE board assembly.
• Replace the CR flatcables.
(4) When after verifying all the • Replace the Mainboard assembly
flatcables, upgrading to the
latest FW and manual
parameter reset and re-
insertion doesn’t help, the
mainboard assembly may have
a problem.
6 After printing has (1) The program ROM may • Upgrade the firmware version.
been completed, the have failed.
paper is fed an extra (2) The rip may give the Check rip settings + source image
amount. command for feeding paper or
the image has white-space
2 The power has been cut off (1) Make sure that the power • Securely connect the power
during the printing operation. cables are not disconnected. cables.
(2) Check if there is power on • Check the power using a
the cable. Verify if the cable is multimeter.
not short-circuited.
(3) Check for leakage. • Check the cables for peeled off
insulation and contact with the
case.
If an error occurs, problems occur or the free space for parameters is very low (<100), proceed
to the next step
Step 5 : If the problem still persists, the NVRAM might be damaged replace mainboard
It is also recommended to use a directly connected (cross) network cable without any hubs or switches in
between when backing-up or restoring parameters.
In that case a parameter backup should not be taken because when you restore it, you might literally
‘restore the problem’ on another board.
Important
BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH THIS PROCEDURE, ALWAYS USE THE LATEST FIRMWARE VERSION. IF THIS IS NOT
DONE, YOU MIGHT LOSE THE SETTINGS AND WILL MAKE YOUR MACHINE TOTALLY UNUSABLE. IN THIS CASE
MAINBOARD REPLACEMENT IS THE ONLY OPTION.
This procedure takes much more time and is more complicated (the machine doesn’t know if there is ink
inside, eco ink or mid solvent ink, or cleaning, the serial number is gone, head adjustments in parameters
must be re-programmed, distance adjust, etc…). This manual programming, will take much more labour-
time… (up to a few hours)
Step 3 : Try to connect to another computer, try to print with a pre-ripped file (e.g. Mutoh adjustment-files)
Step 4 : If still not ok, replace the Network-card and try again
There are several possibilities why the suction doesn’t work properly:
Step 1 : Starting-up and running the machine in a very dirty environment, can potentially contaminate one
or more caps. Therefore there is a risk, the cap air-release valve causing suction problems on
the head.
Possible solutions:
Multiple tubing flushes with cleaning fluid
Replace cap
Misalignment of one or more caps. Caps need to be perfectly centred on the nozzle plate and making firm
contact.
Another (however much less reliable) test is to put a 100% flat piece of metal (for example, the head height
jig tool) on top of the cap. When the pump is sucking, the jig tool should be fixed thoroughly on the cap as
the negative pressure is holding it.
1) Verify the MOD-level in the machine-parameters. When MOD level is 8 internal parameters can
confuse the machine-configuration and must be reset. Try to set it on 0.
Diagnostics Parameter Update MOD Level
2) Reboot the machine and wait until completion, it can take a while
3) Verify first if LED’s LD1, LD2, LD3 and LD4 are burning during pump-actions. If not, the pump board
doesn’t get signal from the mainboard. Verify cable-connections, replace mainboard when
necessary.
4) If still not ok and the 4 LED are working, verify the other LED’s on the pump board:
For motor 1 to run : LD1,2 LD7 LD11 must be lit, LD12 remains OFF
For motor 2 to run : LD3,4 LD8 LD13 must be lit, LD14 remains OFF
For motor 3 to run : LD1,2 LD7 LD12 must be lit, LD11 remains OFF
For motor 4 to run : LD3,4 LD8 LD14 must be lit, LD13 remains OFF
If one of these combinations is not matching, the pump PCB board might be broken. The complete
LED-functionality can be found in the MM.
Step 3 : Start-up machine, push “up-down” simultaneously to select the correct machine-type
Step 4 : Change the ink-fill flags according to the loaded ink inside the machine
If you have a parameter-backup that is ok, you also restore parameters this way of course. Take into
account, exceptions described elsewhere in this troubleshooting guide.
Before explaining how to diagnose the boards, a brief explanation is required to explain how things work:
More recent machines starting from serial N° MS3K have an extra PCB-board in the CAN-chain, the CLIB
Expander Board (= CLE)
The LVDS bus (green line) is responsible for the communication between the mainboard and the slave
boards. It is connected to the mainboard, via an on-board RJ-45 Ethernet-like connector and goes to the
NMPS board. This NMPS board translates the LVDS signal to a CAN signal to be able to work with the more
modular CAN network.
The CAN bus (blue line) is responsible for the communication between all the slave boards inside the printer.
The CAN bus is inherited from the automation and automotive industry and has the big advantage, that it is a
very reliable and modular system where more boards can be interconnected to each other. The
interconnection goes via 9 pin connectors.
A typical characteristic of the CAN bus is that it is a ‘closed’ bus. This means that the CAN-bus needs
always to be terminated on both sides. If not properly terminated, electrical interference in this bus can
disturb the functionality of all the boards in the CAN-chain.
Every PCB board has a CAN-IN and a CAN-OUT connector plug. If the PCB board only has a CAN-IN and
no CAN-OUT connector, this mostly means that the board is terminated internally.
In our example, the Spitfire 100 the CAN bus starts from the NMPS-board and goes to the CHS-board. You
can clearly see that:
- The CAN bus on the NMPS is terminated on the CAN-IN connector
- The CAN bus on the CHS board is terminated via the CAN-OUT connector
Mainly CAN and LVDS communication problems can be diagnosed during start-up of the machine. Before
CAN and LVDS problems can be identified, we need more information about the slave boards. The start-up
sequence of all these boards are chronologically numbered:
Warning
The firmwares between the boards internally, MUST always be compatible!!
Every PCB-board with CAN-capability has a certain level of ‘intelligence’ driven by a
microprocessor and software.
If the firmware versions don’t match like mentioned in the firmware update package, the slave-
board might not be able to communicate with other boards.
Every PCB board that contains ‘intelligence’ and CAN connections, has some LED’s which gives the
technician the capability to check if the communication is ok.
Via the activity of the LED’s on every slave board, you can verify the communication between the boards.
The 2 photo’s below gives a clear understanding, where these LED indicators are and how these can be
interpreted.
The NMPS board receives 2 power supply signals coming straight from the machine’s power supply.
24 volt (28 volt) between wires black and yellow.
5 volt between wires black and red.
The CHS board receives 2 power sypply signals coming straight from the machine’s power supply (looped
via the NMPS board.)
24 volt (28 volt) between wires black and yellow.
5 volt between wires black and red.
Notes
The CHS board is an universal PCB board that is 100% mechanically compatible in different
machines eg Spitfire 100, Viper 100. Please be aware to use the correct partnumber for the
corresponding machine, as the boards are not compatible due to hardware and firmware
differences.
When a heater self-test is performed, the self-test proceeds in the following order:
- Top heater power board (closest to CHS) is activated first.
- LED of relay on this board starts burning and every heater strip is activated during several seconds.
- LED of relay on this board de-activates after test
- Bottom heater power board (furthest to CHS) is activated afterwards
- LED of relay on this board starts burning and every heater strip is again activated during several
seconds
- After successful test both relays on boards switches off and LCD indicates the test finished
During the self-test, every solid-state relay is activated during a few seconds. Every relay controls a heat-
strip separately. When a heatstrip – sensor or relay fails, the error status LED’s will immediately appear on
the CHS control board. This can give a first impression which part is failing.
Boot-up the machine, during booting, press simultaneously “cancel – enter”. The slave boards will update
automatically.
Important
Do not reboot the machine during updating. If doing so, the boards can be damaged!!
If the self-test or the CHS-board failed, an error-message will appear on the LCD display on the machine.
On the CHS board, the following LED-combinations also indicate the same problem like the LCD:
- A1, A2 = approx 77
- B1, B4 = approx 125
- B2, B3 = approx 154
- C1, C2 = approx 76
- D1, D2 = approx 58,4
3 (0 0 1 1) No temperature No temperature Bad sensor connection, check
rise detected rise detected on connections on C-D heater
during none of all platen and on the heater sensor
heater/sensor sensors after board
self test having heated a
specific heat Wrong configuration file
strip for a update firmware to latest version
maximum of 15
seconds.
4 (0 1 0 0) Bad sensor For one or more
sensors, all
samples were
out of range
This actually
means, the 5 volt
reference
voltage for the
ADC is not
correctly
adjusted.
Sensor malfunctioning
replace sensor
8 (1 0 0 0) No keep active No keep active Can connection gone
received from RJ property set check CAN and
received from
master LVDS connections
sequencer for
the last 90 Firmware or mainboard may
seconds. Keep be crashed Use latest
active set firmware versions,
expected at least check if slaveboard firmwares
every 30 are matching with mainboard
seconds (one of firmware
the possible
causes: CAN
connection gone,
RJ crashed,…).
Machines with serial number MS3K or higher, have a RoHS compliant mainboard. These machines MUST
have this CLE boards. Machines with a serial N° lower than MS3K do not require this CLE board.
Please beware that the CAN and LVDS-LED’s between the boards mostly ONLY flicker:
- During initialization of the slave boards
- When some action has to be done, by the respective slave board
For example:
- If the machine needs to pump:
o The mainboard will send a message via the LVDS cable to the CAN bus to the NMPS board,
to enable/disable pumps. In this case both LVDS LED’s will flicker.
- If the heaters need to be activated or started up:
o The mainboard sends information via the LVDS cable, LVDS LED’s will flicker
o The NMPS transfers the message via the CAN-bus to the heater-control board, CAN LED’s
on the NMPS will flicker
o The heater-control board receives the message, CAN LED’s on the heater control board will
flicker.
When powering On the machine, first the primary 5V power supply switches ON. The 24V power supply is
enabled afterwards (between 8 and 30 seconds) and then only the sensor board will be activated.
The spitfire 100 has 2 heater power boards. The power boards are directly connected to the CHS board,
which controls the power boards via the grey colored flat cables.
Each power board contains 6 solid state relays that switches ON / OFF the 230V power supply to the
connected heater wire. The heater wire and heater boards are connected in the following order.
Each solid state relay can easily be checked if it’s working properly.
There are two methods to check if the relay is workin:
Monitoring the input and output LED’s (quick –check, but however,
sometime difficult)
If the 5V input LED is burning, the 230V output LED must always burn.
So both must always work on the same time. If one LED is working and
the other one is not, the relay might not be working properly.
If the resistances are deviating too much and you experience sever
heater problems, replace the heater power board.
Appendix
Media Feed – Distance adjustment basic principles
Between 2 print passes, there is a media-forward movement. Each movement has a maximum tolerance of
20 µm. There are different factors that can influence the media-forward movement!!
Mechanical toleration:
Drive-rolls or Grid-rolls are the rolls that drives the paper into X-direction. This media-movement varies,
depending of the circumference of the drive-roll. The drive-roll tolerance is compensated and in and
adjustable parameter, called the “PaperFeedLen”.
The grid rollers are composed of multiple steel bars, coated with a very hard material. This coating ensures
that the material isn’t frictioning during media feed. Therefore the media feed can be extremely accurate as
the feeding-tolerance is maximum 20 µm.
To make the initial calibration of the grid-roller tolerances, we defined the PaperFeedLen parameter. This
Feed-Adjustment procedure needs to be done inside the diagnostics menu.
Notes
When proceeding with the adjustment, make sure in the “ready to work” mode, the printer is configured
on the native head-resolution, 360x360 dpi! Other resolutions might cause unreliable results.
It is recommended to make all the machine calibrations under this setting.
Important
Any change in this specific parameter, means that all the distance adjustments found for all the
materials used on this printer need to be recalibrated again.
If the PaperFeedLen parameter has been changed for some reason, all the distance
adjustments you have for your materials will be invalid and have to be recalibrated.
Media toleration
Depending of the media-type used, the radius of the Grid-rollers will change.
This is clearly explained in following illustration:
Media 1
Is a soft material or has a soft backing. Due to the softer backing, the coating on the grid-rollers is slightly
pushed inside the material. When the Grid Roll is turning, the media is feeding forward with radius R1.
Media 2
Is a hard material or has a hard backing. Therefore the grid rolls are pushed less inside the printing material.
When the Grid Roll is turning in exactly the same amount between every pass, the media moves more
forward than the case with Media 1.
The reason is because the circumference of this Grid-roll is bigger because of the bigger radius R2.
This theory proves that the distance-adjustment is strongly depending of the kind of material you like to print.
For this, each material needs at least once, a distance-adjustment calibration for achieving the most optimum
and fine-tuned media-feed movement between each print-pass!
Therefore a fine-tuning-mechanism exists, calling the “Distance Adjustment” or “Feed Adjust”. This distance-
adjustment adjustable in hundreds of a percentage needs to be executed, for each new material-type, used
on the printer. This procedure can be done via the ‘distance adjustment’ procedure in “Ready to work
media”
The distance-adjustment can also be adjusted “on the fly” during printing!