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FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
PRECAUTIONS
PREFACE
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Chapter 2: OPERATING PRINCIPLES
- 2.1 Overview
Chapter 3: TROUBLESHOOTING
Chapter 4: DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY
- 4.1 Overview
- 4.2 Disassembly and Assembly
Chapter 5: ADJUSTMENTS
- 5.1 Adjustment Overview
  - 5.1.1 Required Adjustments
  - 5.1.2 Adjustment Tools
- 5.2 Adjusting and Resetting the Printer
Chapter 6: MAINTENANCE
- 6.1 Preventive Maintenance
- 6.2 Lubrication
APPENDIX

6(59,&(0$18$/

9 Pin Impact Dot Printer

EPSON FX-2180

TM-FX2180

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT

FOR AMERICAN USERS

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable

protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance

with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio and television reception. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this

equipment does cause interference to radio and television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the

interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

WARNING

The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels that exceed the limits

established by the FCC for this equipment. It is the responsibility of the user to obtain and use a shielded equipment interface cable with this device. If this equipment has more than one

interface connector, do not leave cables connected to unused interfaces.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate the printer.

FOR CANADIAN USERS

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le materiel brouilleur du Canada.

recording, or otherwise, without the written permission of Epson America, Inc. No patent liability is assumed with respect to use of the information contained herein. Neither is any

liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, Epson America, Inc.

assumes no responsibility for errors and omissions.

Neither Epson America, Inc., nor its affiliates shall be liable to the purchaser of this product or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses incurred by purchaser or third parties

as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or unauthorized modifications, repairs, or alterations to this product.

Epson America, Inc., shall not be liable against any damages or problems arising from the use of any options or any consumable products other than those designated as Original

EPSON Products or EPSON-Approved Products by Seiko Epson Corporation.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual

TRADEMARKS

EPSON® and ESC/P® are registered trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation.

General Notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective companies. EPSON disclaims any and all rights in

those marks.

20770 Madrona Avenue

Torrance, CA 90503

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual

PRECAUTIONS

There are cautionary notes throughout the text to help you avoid personal injury or equipment damage.

WARNING

Signals a precaution which, if ignored, could result in serious or fatal personal injury. Great caution should be exercised in performing procedures preceded by a

WARNING heading.

CAUTION

Signals a precaution which, if ignored, could result in damage to equipment.

Always observe the measures listed below when performing repair or maintenance procedures.

WARNING

1. Always disconnect the product from both the power source and host computer before performing any maintenance or repair procedure.

2. No work should be performed on the unit by persons unfamiliar with basic safety measures dictated for all electronics technicians in their line of work.

3. In performing testing described in this manual, do not connect the unit to a power source until instructed to do so. When the power supply cable must be connected,

use extreme caution in working on the power supply and other electronic components.

CAUTION

1. Repairs on EPSON products should be performed only by an EPSON-certified repair technician.

2. Make certain that the source voltage is the same as the rated voltage listed on the serial number/rating plate. If the EPSON product has a primary AC rating

different from the available power source, do not connect it to the power source.

3. Always verify that the EPSON product has been disconnected from the power source before removing or replacing printed circuit boards and/or individual chips.

4. To protect sensitive microprocessors and circuitry, use static discharge equipment, such as anti-static wrist straps, when accessing internal components.

5. Replace malfunctioning components only with those components recommended by the manufacturer; introduction of second-source ICs or other nonapproved

components may damage the product and void any applicable EPSON warranty.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual

PREFACE

This manual describes the basic functions, theory of electrical and mechanical operations, and maintenance and repair procedures of the EPSON

FX-2180. The instructions and procedures included herein are intended for the experienced repair technicians, and attention should be given to the precautions on the

preceding page. The chapters are organized as follows:

Chapter 1. Product Description

Provides specifications and a general overview of the printer.

Chapter 2. Operating Principles

Describes the electrical and mechanical operation of the printer.

Chapter 3. Troubleshooting

Provides step-by-step troubleshooting procedures.

Chapter 4. Disassembly and Assembly

Provides step-by-step instructions on disassembling and assembling the

printer.

Chapter 5. Adjustments

Provides Epson-approved adjustment methods.

Chapter 6. Maintenance

Provides preventive maintenance procedures and lists the Epson-approved

lubricants and adhesives required for servicing the printer.

Appendix

Provides the following additional reference information:

• Connector pin assignments

• Circuit board components layouts

• Circuit board schematics

• Exploded diagrams

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual

Table of Contents

1. Product Description.............................................................................................................1-1

1.1 Specifications.........................................................................................................1-1

1.1.1 Printing Specifications.............................................................................1-1

1.1.2 Print Speed and Printable Columns ........................................................1-1

1.1.3 Resolution ...............................................................................................1-2

1.1.4 Printable Area .........................................................................................1-2

1.1.5 Paper Feed Specifications ......................................................................1-5

1.1.6 Paper Specifications ...............................................................................1-5

1.1.7 Interface Specifications...........................................................................1-8

1.1.8 Software Specifications...........................................................................1-8

1.1.9 Environmental Conditions .......................................................................1-9

1.1.10 Electrical Specifications.........................................................................1-9

1.1.11 Physical Specifications..........................................................................1-9

1.1.12 Reliability...............................................................................................1-9

1.1.13 Safety Approvals.................................................................................1-10

1.1.14 CE Marking..........................................................................................1-10

1.1.15 Acoustic Noise.....................................................................................1-10

1.1.16 Ribbon Cartridge .................................................................................1-10

1.2 Operation.............................................................................................................1-10

1.2.1 Control Panel ........................................................................................1-10

1.2.1.1 Buttons ...................................................................................1-10

1.2.1.2 LEDs.......................................................................................1-11

1.2.1.3 Beeper....................................................................................1-12

1.2.2 Paper Release Lever Positions.............................................................1-12

1.2.3 Paper Thickness Lever Positions ..........................................................1-13

1.3 Special Functions ................................................................................................1-13

1.3.1 Printing a Self Test................................................................................1-13

1.3.2 Turning on the Double-strike Mode .......................................................1-13

1.3.3 Using the Bidirectional Adjustment Mode..............................................1-14

1.3.4 Changing Default Settings ....................................................................1-14

1.3.5 Printing a Hex Dump .............................................................................1-15

1.3.6 Clearing the EEPROM...........................................................................1-15

1.3.6.1 Clearing the Ribbon Cartridge Replacement Counter.............1-15

1.4 Consumables and Options...................................................................................1-15

1.4.1 Consumables ........................................................................................1-15

1.4.2 Options..................................................................................................1-15

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual

2. Operating Principles............................................................................................................2-1

2.1 Overview................................................................................................................2-1

2.1.1 Printer Mechanism...................................................................................2-1

2.1.2 Power Supply Circuit...............................................................................2-2

2.1.2.1 Power Supply Circuit Operation................................................2-2

2.1.3 Control Circuit..........................................................................................2-3

2.1.3.1 Control Circuit Operation ..........................................................2-3

3. Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................3-1

3.1 Overview................................................................................................................3-1

3.2 Troubleshooting Information ..................................................................................3-1

3.2.1 Print Head ...............................................................................................3-1

3.2.2 Sensors...................................................................................................3-2

3.2.3 Motors .....................................................................................................3-3

3.2.4 Error Conditions ......................................................................................3-3

3.3 Unit Level Troubleshooting ....................................................................................3-4

3.4 Repairing the Power Supply Board........................................................................3-7

3.5 Repairing the Main Board Assembly......................................................................3-9

3.6 Repairing the Printer Mechanism.........................................................................3-11

4. Disassembly and Assembly.................................................................................................4-1

4.1 Overview................................................................................................................4-1

4.1.1 Precautions .............................................................................................4-1

4.1.2 Tools .......................................................................................................4-1

4.1.3 Specifications for Screws........................................................................4-2

4.1.4 Service Check After Repair.....................................................................4-3

4.2 Disassembly and Assembly ...................................................................................4-4

4.2.1 Preparing to Disassemble the Printer......................................................4-5

4.2.2 Removing the Panel Board Assembly.....................................................4-6

4.2.3 Removing the Print Head ........................................................................4-7

4.2.4 Removing the HP Sensor........................................................................4-8

4.2.5 Removing the PW Sensor Assembly ......................................................4-8

4.2.6 Removing the Ribbon Mask ....................................................................4-9

4.2.7 Removing the Upper Housing Assembly...............................................4-10

4.2.8 Removing the Platen Assembly.............................................................4-11

4.2.9 Removing the Platen Gear....................................................................4-12

4.2.10 Removing the Case Open Sensor Assembly ......................................4-12

4.2.11 Removing the Printer Mechanism........................................................4-13

4.2.11.1 Removing the CR Motor Assembly.......................................4-15

4.2.11.2 Removing the PF Motor Assembly........................................4-16

4.2.11.3 Removing the PG Sensor Assembly.....................................4-17

4.2.11.4 Removing the Right Sub Frame Assembly ...........................4-18

4.2.11.5 Removing the Right Frame Assembly...................................4-18

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual

4.2.11.6 Disassembling the Right Frame Assembly............................4-19

4.2.11.7 Removing the Left Frame Assembly.....................................4.21

4.2.11.8 Removing the Ribbon Drive Assembly..................................4-22

4.2.11.9 Removing the CR Assembly.................................................4-23

4.2.11.10 Removing the Rear PE Sensor Assembly ..........................4.25

4.2.11.11 Removing the Front PE Sensor Assembly..........................4-26

4.2.11.12 Removing the Main Board Assembly..................................4-26

4.2.11.13 Removing the Power Supply Board Assembly....................4-28

5. Adjustments.........................................................................................................................5-1

5.1 Adjustment Overview.............................................................................................5-1

5.1.1 Required Adjustments.............................................................................5-1

5.1.2 Adjustment Tools.....................................................................................5-1

5.2 Adjusting and Resetting the Printer .......................................................................5-2

5.2.1 Platen Gap/Parallelism Adjustment.........................................................5-2

5.2.2 Bidirectional Print Alignment (Bi-d) Adjustment.......................................5-4

5.2.2.1 Performing the Bi-d Adjustment Using the Settings Diskette ....5-5

5.2.2.2 Performing the Bi-d Adjustment from the Control Panel...........5-6

5.2.3 Factory Settings ......................................................................................5-7

5.2.4 TPE Level Reset .....................................................................................5-8

6. Maintenance........................................................................................................................6-1

6.1 Preventive Maintenance ........................................................................................6-1

6.2 Lubrication .............................................................................................................6-1

Appendix ................................................................................................................................ A-1

A.1 Connector Summary............................................................................................. A-1

A.2 Circuit Board Component Layout Diagrams ......................................................... A-5

A.3 Circuit Board and Exploded Diagrams.................................................................. A-7

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

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EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-1

1.1 Specifications

This section provides detailed specifications for the EPSON® FX-2180

impact dot matrix printer. The FX-2180 is based on the FX-2170 printer,

and its main components are very similar to those of the FX-2170.

However, the FX-2180 provides a faster printing speed, better multi-part

form printing, and other enhancements.

Figure 1-1. Exterior View of the FX-2180

1.1.1 Printing Specifications

Print method: Impact dot matrix

Number of pins: 18

Print pin arrangement: 9 × 2

Print pin diameter: 0.0114 inch (0.29 mm)

Color: Black

Print direction: Bidirectional with logic seeking

1.1.2 Print Speed and Printable Columns

Table 1-1. Print Speed and Printable Columns

Printing Speed (cps)

Printing

Mode Character

Pitch (cpi) Printable

Columns Normal Copy 1* Copy 2**

High speed

draft

10 136 506 439 337

10 136 380 330 284

12 163 455 396 341

Draft

15 204 380 285 285

17 233 325 282 244Draft

condensed 20 272 380 330 284

Draft

emphasized

10 136 190 165 142

10 136 95 82 71

12 163 114 99 85

NLQ

15 204 94 71 31

* Paper thickness lever set to 3.

** Paper thickness lever set to 4 or more.

Note:



When the power supply voltage drops to the lower limit, the printer stops

printing, and then starts printing again on the same line at a slower

speed.



When the print head temperature rises to the upper limit, the printer

stops printing. When the head temperature returns to the normal level,

the printer starts printing again at a slower speed.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-2

1.1.3 Resolution

Table 1-2. Resolution

Printing Mode Horizontal

Density (dpi) Vertical

Density (dpi) Adjacent Dot

Printed

High speed draft 90 72 No

Draft 120 72 No

Draft condensed 240 720 No

Draft emphasized 120 72 Yes

NLQ 240 144 No

60, 72, 80, 90,

or 120

72 YesBit image

120 or 240 72 No

1.1.4 Printable Area

 Single sheets

printable area

LM RM

Figure 1-2. Printable Area for Single Sheets

Table 1-3. Printable Area for Single Sheets

Single Sheets Single-sheet Multi-part

Forms

PW (width) See Table 1-8 See Table 1-9

PL (length) See Table 1-8 See Table 1-9

LM (left

margin)

0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

(PW ≤ 14.33 in. or 364 mm)

0.98 in. (25 mm) or more

(PW = 16.5 in. or 420 mm)

0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

(PW ≤ 14.33 in. or 364 mm)

0.98 in. (25 mm) or more

(PW = 16.5 in. or 420 mm)

RM (right

margin)

0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

(PW ≤ 14.33 in. or 364 mm)

0.98 in. (25 mm) or more

(PW = 16.5 in. or 420 mm)

0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

(PW ≤ 14.33 in. or 364 mm)

0.98 in. (25 mm) or more

(PW = 16.5 in. or 420 mm)

TM (top

margin)

0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

(bottom

margin)

0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

Note: The maximum horizontal printable area is 13.6 inches (345.2 mm).

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-3

 Continuous paper PW

LM RM

printable area

Figure 1-3. Printable Area for Continuous Paper

Table 1-4. Printable Area for Continuous Paper

Continuous Paper

PW (width) See Table 1-12

PL (length) See Table 1-12

LM (left margin) 0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

RM (right margin) 0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

TM (top margin) 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

BM (bottom margin) 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

 Envelopes

printable area

LM RM

Figure 1-4. Printable Area for Envelopes

Table 1-5. Printable Area for Envelopes

Envelopes

PW (width) See Table 1-10

PL (length) See Table 1-10

LM (left margin) 0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

RM (right margin) 0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

TM (top margin) 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

BM (bottom margin) 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-4

 Postcards

printable area

LM RM

Figure 1-5. Printable Area for Postcards

Table 1-6. Printable Area for Postcards

Postcards

PW (width) See Table 1-11

PL (length) See Table 1-11

LM (left margin) 0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

RM (right margin) 0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

TM (top margin) 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

BM (bottom margin) 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

 Roll paper PW

LM RM

printable area

Figure 1-6. Printable Area for Roll Paper

Table 1-7. Printable Area for Roll Paper

Roll Paper

PW (width) See Table 1-14

PL (length) See Table 1-14

LM (left margin) 0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

RM (right margin) 0.12 in. (3 mm) or more

TM (top margin) 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

BM (bottom margin) 0.17 in. (4.2 mm) or more

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-5

1.1.5 Paper Feed Specifications

Standard feeding Friction front, rear

methods: Push tractor front, rear

Pull tractor front, rear, bottom

Push and pull tractor front, rear

Optional feeding Cut-sheet feeder (CSF),

methods: bin 1 or bin 2 rear (top)

Roll paper holder rear

Paper paths: Manual insertion front or rear in; top out

CSF rear in; top out

Tractor front, rear, or bottom in;

top out

Feed speed: Normal 61 ms for 1/6-inch line

feed

5.0 ips or 0.127 mps

(continuous paper)

Copy mode 83 ms for 1/6-inch line

feed

3.1 ips or 0.078 mps

(continuous paper)

1.1.6 Paper Specifications

 Single sheets

Table 1-8. Specifications for Single Sheets

Front Entry Rear Entry

Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum

Width

(inches)

(mm)

3.9

100

16.5

420

3.9

100

16.5

420

Length

(inches)

(mm)

5.8

148

16.5

420

3.9

100

16.5

420

Thickness

(inches)

(mm)

0.0025

0.065

0.0055

0.14

0.0025

0.065

0.0055

0.14

Weight

(lb)

(g/m2)

Quality Plain or recycled paper;

not curled, folded, or

crumpled

Plain or recycled paper; not

curled, folded, or crumpled

Note: Use recycled paper only under normal temperature and humidity

conditions.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-6

 Single-sheet multi-part forms

Table 1-9. Specifications for Single-sheet Multi-part Forms

Front Entry Rear Entry

Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum

Width

(inches)

(mm)

3.9

100

16.5

420

3.9

100

16.5

420

Length

(inches)

(mm)

5.8

148

16.5

420

3.9

100

16.5

420

Copies 1 original + 5 copies 1 original + 5 copies

Total

thickness

(inches)

(mm)

0.0047

0.012

0.018

0.46

0.0047

0.012

0.018

0.46

Weight

(lb)

(g/m2)

Quality Plain or recycled paper; not

curled, folded, or crumpled

Plain or recycled paper; not

curled, folded, or crumpled

Binding A line of glue at the top or

on one side of the form

A line of glue at the top of

the form

 Envelopes

Table 1-10. Specifications for Envelopes

Rear Entry

Minimum Maximum

No. 6 envelopes Width

(inches)

(mm)

6.5

165

Length

(inches)

(mm)

3.9

No. 10 envelopes Width

(inches)

(mm)

9.5

241

Length

(inches)

(mm)

4.1

105

Total thickness (inches)

(mm)

0.0063

0.16

0.020

0.52

Weight (lb)

(g/m2)

Quality Bond, plain, or airmail paper; not

curled, folded, or crumpled

Note:



Load envelopes using the rear (top) slot only; do not load envelopes in

the front slot.



Insert the envelope into the printer with the flap side on top and the

printable side down.



Before printing on envelopes, set the paper thickness lever to a

minimum of position 4 or 5 and turn on the card mode by pressing the

Tear Off/Bin button until both Tear Off/Bin lights are on. After you finish

printing on envelopes, press the Tear Off/Bin button once to exit the

card mode.



Use envelopes only under normal temperature and humidity conditions.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-7

 Postcards

Table 1-11. Specifications for Postcards

Front Entry Rear Entry

Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum

Width

(inches)

(mm)

3.9

100

5.83

148

3.9

100

5.83

148

Length

(inches)

(mm)

5.83

148

5.83

148

3.9

100

5.83

148

Thickness

(inches)

(mm)

0.0087

0.22

Weight

(lb)

(g/m2)

192

Note:



Before printing on postcards, set the paper thickness lever to position 3

or higher and turn on the card mode by pressing the Tear Off/Bin

button until both Tear Off/Bin lights are on. After you finish printing on

envelopes, press the Tear Off/Bin button once to exit the card mode.



Use postcards only under normal temperature and humidity conditions.

 Continuous paper

Table 1-12. Specifications for Continuous Paper

Front Entry Rear Entry Bottom Entry

Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max.

Width

(inches)

(mm)

101.6

406.4

101.6

406.4

101.6

406.4

Length

(inches)

(mm)

101.6

558.8

101.6

558.8

101.6

558.8

Copies* 1 original + 5

copies

1 original + 5

copies

1 original + 5

copies

Total thickness

(inches)

(mm)

0.0025

0.065

0.018

0.046

0.0025

0.065

0.018

0.046

0.0025

0.065

0.018

0.046

Weight

(ordinary page)

(lb)

(g/m2)

Weight (one

sheet of a

multi-part form)

(lb)

(g/m2)

Quality Plain or recycled paper, carbonless multi-part forms

Binding Dots of glue or paper staples on both sides (front,

bottom, or rear entry) or dots of glue on only one side

(rear entry)

* To print 1 original + 6 copies, you must use the pull tractor along with

the front or rear tractor.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-8

 Continuous paper with labels

Table 1-13. Specifications for Continuous Paper with Labels

Front Entry Bottom Entry

Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum

Label size

(inches)

(mm)

15/16 × 2.5

23.8 × 63.5

15/16 × 2.5

23.8 × 63.5

Width

(inches)

(mm)

101.6

406.4

101.6

406.4

Length

(inches)

(mm)

101.6

558.8

101.6

558.8

Backing sheet

thickness

(inches)

(mm)

0.0028

0.07

0.0035

0.09

0.0028

0.07

0.0035

0.09

Total thickness

(lb)

(g/m2)

0.16

0.0063

0.19

0.0075

0.16

0.0063

0.19

0.0075

Label weight

(lb)

(g/m2)

Quality Avery continuous form

labels, Avery mini-line

labels, or equivalent

quality labels

Avery continuous form

labels, Avery mini-line

labels, or equivalent

quality labels

Note:



Use only continuous labels; do not use labels with single-sheet backing

paper.



Load continuous paper with labels only in the front or bottom slot; do not

load labels in the rear slot.

 Roll paper

Table 1-14. Specifications for Roll Paper

Rear Entry

Minimum Maximum

Width (inches)

(mm)

8.5

216

Length (inches)

(mm)



Thickness

(inches)

(mm)

0.0028

0.07

0.0035

0.09

Weight (lb)

(g/m2)

Quality Plain paper; not curled, folded, or crumpled

1.1.7 Interface Specifications

Standard: Bidirectional parallel interface

(IEEE-1284 nibble mode supported)

Optional: Type B interface, level 2

1.1.8 Software Specifications

Control codes: ESC/P®

IBM® 2381 Plus emulation

Fonts: 1 draft bitmap and 2 LQ typefaces

8 barcode fonts

Character tables: Standard version: 11 tables

NLSP version: 20 tables

Input buffer: 64 KB

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-9

1.1.9 Environmental Conditions

Temperature

Operating: 41° to 95° F (5° to 35° C)

When using recycled

paper, envelopes, labels,

or roll paper: 59° to 77° F (15° to 25° C)

Non-operating (storage): −22° to 140° F (−30° to 60° C)

Humidity

Operating: 10% to 80% RH

When using recycled

paper, envelopes, labels,

or roll paper: 30% to 60% RH

Non-operating (storage): 0% to 85% RH

1.1.10 Electrical Specifications

120 V model

Rated voltage: 120 VAC

Input voltage range: 99 to 132 VAC

Rated frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz

Input frequency range: 49.5 to 60.5 Hz

Rated current: 1.0 A (1.8 A maximum)

Power consumption: Approx. 46 W (ISO/IEC 10561 letter pattern)

Energy Star compliant

Insulation resistance: 10 MΩ minimum (between AC line and

chassis, 500 V)

Dielectric strength: 1000 VAC rms. 1 minute or 1200 VAC rms.

1 second (between AC line and chassis)

220 to 240 V model

Rated voltage: 220 to 240 VAC

Input voltage range: 198 to 264 VAC

Rated frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz

Input frequency range: 49.5 to 60.5 Hz

Rated current: 0.5 A (0.9 A maximum)

Power consumption: Approx. 46 W (ISO/IEC 10561 letter pattern)

Energy Star compliant

Insulation resistance: 10 MΩ minimum (between AC line and

chassis, 500 V)

Dielectric strength: 1500 VAC rms. 1 minute (between AC line

and chassis)

UPS (Universal Power Supply) model

Rated voltage: 100 to 120 VAC or 220 to 240 VAC

Input voltage range: 90 to 132 VAC or 198 to 264 VAC

Rated frequency range: 50 to 60 Hz

Input frequency range: 49.5 to 60.5 Hz

Rated current: 1.1 A (2.2 A maximum) or 0.6 A (1.1 A

maximum)

Power consumption: Approx. 46 W (ISO/IEC 10561 letter pattern)

Energy Star compliant

Insulation resistance: 10 MΩ minimum (between AC line and

chassis, 500 V)

Dielectric strength: 1500 VAC rms. 1 minute (between AC line

and chassis)

1.1.11 Physical Specifications

Dimensions: 25.16 in. (W) × 15.83 in. (D) × 10.12 in (H)

639 mm (W) × 402 mm (D) × 257 mm (H)

(with CSF bin 1): 25.16 in. (W) × 18.46 in. (D) × 14.96 in (H)

639 mm (W) × 469 mm (D) × 380 mm (H)

(with CSF bin 2): 25.16 in. (W) × 23.54 in. (D) × 16.18 in (H)

639 mm (W) × 598 mm (D) × 411 mm (H)

Weight: Approx. 28.66 lb (13 kg)

(with CSF bin 1): Approx. 35.94 lb (16.3 kg)

(with CSF bin 2): Approx. 37.92 lb (17.2 kg)

1.1.12 Reliability

Total print volume: 7.5 million lines (except print head)

MTBF: 10,000 power-on hours (POH)

Print head life: Approx. 300 million characters

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-10

1.1.13 Safety Approvals

120 V model

Safety standards: UL1950

CSA C22.2 No. 950

EMI: FCC part 15 subpart B class B

CSA C108.8 class B

220 to 240 V model

Safety standards: EN 60950 (TÜV, NEMKO)

EMI: EN 55022 (CISPR pub. 22) class B

AS/NZS 3548 class B

UPS model

Safety standards: UL1950

CSA C22.2 No. 950

EN 60950 (TÜV, NEMKO)

EMI: FCC part 15 subpart B class B

CSA C108.8 class B

EN 55022 (CISPR pub. 22) class B

AS/NZS 3548 class B

1.1.14 CE Marking

220 to 240 V and UPS models

Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC: EN60950

EMC Directive 89/336/EEC: EN55022 class B

EN61000-3-2

EN61000-3-3

EN50082-1

IEC801-2

IEC801-3

IEC801-4

1.1.15 Acoustic Noise

Level: Approx. 55 dB(A), according to ISO 7779

pattern

1.1.16 Ribbon Cartridge

Type: Fabric

Color: Black

Ribbon life: Approx. 12 million characters

(draft, 10 cpi, 14 dots/character)

1.2 Operation

This section provides detailed information about the control panel buttons

and LEDs, and explains the printer’s beep patterns.

1.2.1 Control Panel

The control panel contains seven non-locking pushbuttons and nine LEDs,

as shown below.

Figure 1-7. Control Panel

1.2.1.1 Buttons

WARNING

The power switch is wired in the secondary

circuitry of the power supply board. Therefore, the

power supply’s primary circuitry remains live

even after the printer is turned off.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-11

Table 1-15. Button Functions

Button Function

Operate Turns the printer on and off. The printer is off when the top

of this button is even with the button protectors.

Pause • Stops printing temporarily, and resumes printing when

pressed again. (Selects on line or off line status.)

• When held down for three seconds when the printer is in

the standby state, enters the micro adjust mode. When

pressed again, exits the micro adjust mode.

Load/Eject • Loads continuous paper from the standby position.

• Feeds continuous paper backward to the standby

position.

• Loads a single sheet of paper from the paper entry slot.

• Ejects a single sheet of paper if a sheet is loaded.

LF/FF • When pressed, executes a line feed.

• When held down, executes a form feed. This advances

continuous paper to the next top-of-form position or

ejects a single sheet.

Tear

Off/Bin

• Feeds continuous paper forward to the tear-off position.

• Feeds continuous paper backward from the tear-off

position to the top-of-form position.

• Selects a cut-sheet feeder bin when the cut-sheet feeder

is installed.

• Enters the card mode to print on postcards and

envelopes.

Font Selects one of the following fonts: Draft, Roman, or Sans

Serif.

Pitch Selects one of the following font widths: 10 cpi,

12 cpi, 15 cpi, 17 cpi, 20 cpi, or PS (proportional spacing).

Micro

Adjust ↑ / ↓In the micro adjust mode, executes a micro feed (moves

the paper forward or backward 1/216 inch). Depending on

the position of your paper, you can use this button to adjust

the top-of-form or tear-off position.

1.2.1.2 LEDs

Table 1-16. LED Indicators

LED(s) Color Description

Pause Orange • On when the printer is paused.

• Off when the printer is on line.

• Flashes when the printer is in the micro

adjust mode or the print head is

overheated.

Paper Out Red • On when no paper is loaded or paper is

not loaded correctly in the selected paper

source.

• Off when paper is loaded correctly in the

selected paper source.

• Flashes when paper has not been fully

ejected or a paper jam has occurred.

Tear Off/Bin Green • o o when continuous paper is not in the

tear-off position.

• f f when continuous paper is in the tear-

off position.

• o n when bin 1 of the optional cut-sheet

feeder is selected.

• n o when bin 2 of the optional cut-sheet

feeder is selected.

• n n when the printer is in the card mode.

n = on o = off f = flashing

Font Green Indicates which font is selected.

Pitch Green Indicates which font size is selected.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-12

1.2.1.3 Beeper

The printer beeps during the error conditions described in Table 1-17.

Table 1-17. Error Conditions

Error Beep Pattern

Paper out ❍ ❍ ❍

Cover open ❍ ❍ ❍

Paper release lever operation ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍

Illegal panel operation ❍

❍ indicates the beeper sounds for approximately 100 ms with an interval of

approximately 100 ms.

1.2.2 Paper Release Lever Positions

Use the paper release lever to select which paper path you want the printer

to load paper from. The table below shows the corresponding paper path(s)

for each paper release lever position.

Table 1-18. Paper Release Lever Positions

Lever Position Description

Single-sheet For loading single sheets from the top or

front slot.

Rear push tractor For loading continuous paper from the

tractor installed in the rear push position.

Also set the lever to this position when

using the rear push and pull tractors in

combination.

Front push tractor For loading continuous paper from the

tractor installed in the front push position.

Also set the lever to this position when

using the front push and pull tractors in

combination.

Pull tractor For loading continuous paper from the

tractor installed on top of the printer in the

pull position.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-13

1.2.3 Paper Thickness Lever Positions

You need to set the paper thickness lever for the type of paper you are

using, as shown in the table below.

Table 1-19. Paper Thickness Lever Positions

Paper Type Lever Position

Ordinary paper (single sheets or continuous paper) 0

Carbonless multi-part forms with:

2 parts (original + 1 copy)

3 parts (original + 2 copies)

4 parts (original + 3 copies)

5 parts (original + 4 copies)

6 parts (original + 5 copies)

7 parts (original + 6 copies)

Thin paper -1 or 0

Continuous paper with labels 2

Envelopes 4 or 5

Postcards 3

1.3 Special Functions

You can access the printer’s special functions by holding down the button

indicated while turning on the printer.

1.3.1 Printing a Self Test

To perform a self test, follow these steps:

1. Make sure paper is loaded and the printer is turned off.

2. To run the test using the draft font, hold down the LF/FF button while

you press the Operate button to turn on the printer. To run the test

using the printer’s near letter-quality fonts, hold down the Load/Eject

button while you turn on the printer.

After a few seconds, the printer loads the paper automatically and

begins printing the self test. A series of characters is printed.

3. To end the self test, press the Pause button to stop printing. If a printed

page remains in the printer, press the Load/Eject button to eject it.

Then turn off the printer.

1.3.2 Turning on the Double-strike Mode

If the printing on the bottom copies of your thick multi-part forms is faint,

turn on the double-strike mode as described below. In the double-strike

mode, the printer prints draft and bitmap images using double-strike

printing. The printer does not use two-pass printing in this mode.

Note:



The double-strike mode is available only when the paper thickness lever

is set to position 4 or higher and the paper release lever is set to the pull

tractor position.



Always turn on the double-strike mode before printing on multi-part

forms with seven parts.



Use double-strike mode only under normal temperature and humidity

conditions.



When the printer is in the double-strike mode, the print speed is

reduced.

1. Load your multi-part forms on the pull tractor.

2. Make sure the printer is turned off.

3. While holding down the Font button, press the Operate button to turn

on the printer. The printer beeps twice to indicate double-strike mode is

on.

To exit the double-strike mode, turn off the printer, then hold down the Font

button and press the Operate button to turn the printer back on. The printer

beeps once to indicate double-strike mode is off.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-14

1.3.3 Using the Bidirectional Adjustment Mode

If the vertical lines in the printout are not properly aligned, you can use the

printer’s bidirectional adjustment mode to correct this problem. See

Chapter 5 for instructions on performing the bidirectional adjustment.

1.3.4 Changing Default Settings

You can change the printer’s default settings using the default-setting

mode. To enter the default-setting mode, hold down the Pitch button and

press the Operate button to turn on the printer. The printer prints the

language selection instructions. Select the language you want, and then

press the Font button to print the default-setting mode instructions. The

printed instructions list the settings you can change, describe how to

change them, and show you how the control panel lights help you make

settings.

Table 1-20 summarizes the default settings and options. Factory settings

are bold.

Table 1-20. Default Settings

Setting Options

Page length for front tractor* Length in inches: 3, 3.5, 4, 5.5, 6, 7, 8,

8.5, 11, 70/6, 12, 14, 17

Page length for rear tractor* Length in inches: 3, 3.5, 4, 5.5, 6, 7, 8,

8.5, 11, 70/6, 12, 14, 17

Skip over perforation Off, On

Auto tear-off Off, On

Auto line feed Off, On

Print direction Bi-D, Uni-D

I/F (interface) mode Auto, Parallel, Optional

Auto I/F (interface) wait time 10 seconds, 30 seconds

Software ESC/P, IBM 2381 Plus

0 slash Off, On

High speed draft Off, On

Input buffer Off, On

Buzzer Off, On

Auto CR (IBM 2381 Plus)** Off, On

IBM character table** Table 2, Table1

Character table Standard model: Italic, PC 437, PC

850, PC 860, PC 863, PC 865, PC

861, BRASCII, Abicomp, Roman 8,

ISO Latin 1

International character set for

Italic table

Italic U.S.A., Italic France, Italic

Germany, Italic U.K., Italic Denmark 1,

Italic Sweden, Italic Italy, Italic Spain 1

* The options available vary depending on the country.

** These settings take effect only when IBM 2381 Plus emulation is

selected.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 1 Product Description

1-15

1.3.5 Printing a Hex Dump

You can print a hexadecimal dump to isolate communication problems

between the printer and a software program. To enter hex dump mode,

hold down both the LF/FF and Load/Eject buttons while you press the

Operate button to turn on the printer. Then open a software program and

send a print job to the printer.

Your printer prints all the codes it receives in hexadecimal format. If

characters are printable, they appear in the right column as ASCII

characters. Nonprintable codes, such as control codes, are represented by

dots.

To exit hex dump mode, press the Pause button to stop printing and the

Load/Eject button to eject the printed page. Then turn off the printer.

1.3.6 Clearing the EEPROM

To clear the EEPROM, hold down the Font and Tear Off/ Bin buttons

while you press the Operate button to turn on the printer. The settings in

EEPROM area 1 are reset to the factory defaults, with the exception of the

counters that provide the following information:

 Total lines printed since production

 Total power-on hours (in minutes)

 Total lines printed since a new ribbon cartridge was installed

 Starting year, month, and date. This is the date of printer production,

and helps you determine if it is better for the user to repair or replace the

printer.

See the FX-2180 specifications for more information.

CAUTION

The printer stores the values for the total lines

printed since production, total power-on hours,

total lines printed since ribbon cartridge

replacement, and starting year, month, and date in

the EEPROM on the main board.

1.3.6.1 Clearing the Ribbon Cartridge Replacement Counter

To reset the EEPROM’s ribbon cartridge replacement counter to zero, hold

down the LF/FF and Tear Off/Bin buttons while you press the Operate

button to turn on the printer.

1.4 Consumables and Options

1.4.1 Consumables

Ribbon cartridge: S015086

Ribbon pack: S010033

1.4.2 Options

Paper Handling Options

High-capacity cut-sheet feeder (bin 1): C806731

Second-bin cut-sheet feeder (bin 2): C806741

Pull tractor: C800321

Roll paper holder: #8310

Optional Interface Cards

Serial I/F card: C823051

32KB intelligent serial I/F card: C823071

Coax I/F card: C823141

Twinax I/F card: C823151

Type B IEEE-1284 bidirectional parallel I/F card: C823452

Multi-protocol Ethernet print server I/F card: C823572

OPERATING PRINCIPLES

&+$37(5



EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 2 Operating Principles

2-1

2.1 Overview

The printer’s main components include the printer mechanism, power

supply circuit, control circuit, control panel, and housing. This chapter

describes the operating principles of the main components.

2.1.1 Printer Mechanism

The printer mechanism consists of the following parts:

 Print head

The print head prints dots on paper using the ink ribbon. Print data

comes from the control circuit.

 Carriage mechanism

The main parts of the carriage mechanism are the carriage unit,

carriage (CR) motor, timing belt, driven pulley, and CR guide shaft. The

carriage unit contains the print head. The carriage mechanism moves

the carriage unit along the CR guide shaft between the left and right

ends of the printable area.

 Platen gap mechanism

The platen gap is the gap between the platen and the print head. You

adjust the platen gap to maintain print quality when using paper of

different weights or thicknesses. The platen gap mechanism consists of

the CR guide shaft, the platen gap adjustment bushing, and the platen

gap (PG) adjustment lever. The platen gap mechanism moves the print

head toward or away from the platen, depending on the position of the

PG adjustment lever.

 Paper feed mechanism

The main components of the paper feed mechanism are the paper feed

(PF) motor, the rear or front tractor, and the platen. Using the PF

motor, the paper feed mechanism picks up continuous or single-sheet

paper, moves it to the print head for printing, and ejects it from the

printer after the page has been printed.

 Disengage mechanism

The disengage mechanism consists of two disengage gears. It

switches the paper feed torque from the PF motor to the tractor(s) or

the paper feed rollers depending on the selected paper feed method

(friction, front push tractor, rear push tractor, pull tractor, or push-pull

tractor feeding).

 Ribbon advance mechanism

The main components of the ribbon advance mechanism are the ribbon

feed roller and the driven pulley. The ribbon advance mechanism winds

the ink ribbon in one direction. This allows the printer to use a fresh

ribbon surface for printing.

rear tractor

front tractor

platen

print head

PF motor

CR motor

disengage gear 1

disengage gear 2

ink ribbon

CR guide shaft

carriage unit

timing belt

ribbon feed roller

driven pulley

PG adjustment bushing

Figure 2-1. Printer Mechanism

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 2 Operating Principles

2-2

2.1.2 Power Supply Circuit

The printer can be powered by one of the following three power supply

boards: C166 PSB (120 V), C166 PSE (220 – 240 V), or C244 PSH

(120 V / 220 – 240 V). The boards function in the same way, except each

board has a different primary circuit. The table below lists the input

voltages and fuse ratings of the boards.

Table 2-1. Power Supply Board

Board Input Voltage Fuse F1 Rating

C166 PSB 103.5 – 132 V 3.15 A / 125 V

C166 PSE 198 – 264 V T 2.0 AH / 250 V

C244 PSH 85 – 138 V / 187 – 276 V 5HT4

2.1.2.1 Power Supply Circuit Operation

The power supply board has two DC power outputs: one for the control

circuit and one for the printer mechanism. The table below lists the

applications of the output voltages.

Table 2-2. Power Supply Output Applications

Output Voltage Applications

+5 VDC • Control circuit board logic

• Sensors

• Control panel LEDs

+35 VDC • CR motor

• PF motor

• Print head

When AC power enters the printer from an external power source, the filter

circuit removes the noise. Then the AC voltage undergoes full-wave

rectification and is smoothed to produce direct voltage. In the C244 PSH

board, the AC voltages undergo voltage doubler rectification in the

automatic switching IC and are smoothed to produce direct voltage. The

voltage is fed to the gate port for switching FET Q1 through resistors R18

and R31. Then the switching circuit operates.

The secondary smoothing circuit produces a stepped down +35 VDC

voltage. The +5 VDC voltage is generated and stabilized by feeding the

+35 VDC voltage through the +5 VDC power supply circuit. The power

supply circuit includes a ZC-RCC (zero cross-ringing choke converter),

which contributes to the power supply circuit’s high stability, efficiency, and

portability.

The secondary circuit system of the power supply circuit includes the

Operate (power) button. The Operate button is located on the printer’s

control panel and controls the power supply circuit.

A +35 V line constant voltage control circuit and over-current/over-voltage

protection circuits are provided to protect the printer and control circuits.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 2 Operating Principles

2-3

The figure below shows the power supply circuit block diagram.

filter circuit full-wave

rectification

circuit

smoothing

circuit switching

circuit

AC input

smoothing

circuit

+5 V switching

regulator

+5 V over-current

protection circuit

+35 VDC

+5 VDC

photo-

coupler

photo-

coupler +35 V line

over-voltage

protection circuit

+35 V line

overload

detector circuit

+35 V line

over-current

protection circuit Operate

(power) button

secondary circuit

CPU

port 20

+35 V line

constant voltage

control circuit

+5 V line

over-voltage

protection circuit

+5 V constant voltage

control circuit

voltage

doubler

rectification

automatic

switching

circuit

C244 PSH only

primary circuit

Figure 2-2. Power Supply Circuit Block Diagram

2.1.3 Control Circuit

The printer’s control circuit consists of the C244 MAIN control board and

the control panel board.

2.1.3.1 Control Circuit Operation

The control circuit includes a TMP96C141BF CPU that runs at 17.20 MHz,

an E05B50** gate array, a 2 Mbit PROM (or 2 Mbit / 4 Mbit flash ROM), a 1

Mbit / 4 Mbit PS-RAM (or SRAM), a serial (or parallel) EEPROM, and other

circuits. The control circuit controls all the printer’s components. Figure 2-3

shows the control circuit block diagram.

gate array

CPU

CSF driver CSF

sensor

rear PE

sensor

front PE

sensor

TOP

sensor

home

position

sensor

paper

release

lever sensor

platen gap

lever

sensor

+35 V voltage

sensor

print head

driver

print head

temperature

sensor

EPROM PS-RAM

or SRAM

serial

EEPROM

reset IC

PF driver CR driver

control panel

buttons & LEDs

Operate button

parallel I/F

type B I/F

5 V

35 V

IC2

IC1

E05B50**

TMP96C141BF

Q2-Q19

IC12

SLA7024M

UDN2917EB

IC8

IC15

: data bus

: address bus

IC3

IC5

PSC

PWDN

power supply

board

IC9

Figure 2-3. Control Circuit Block Diagram

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 2 Operating Principles

2-4

The table below identifies and describes the main components of the

control circuit on the C244 MAIN board.

Table 2-3. Main Components of the Control Circuit

Component IC Function(s)

Gate array

(E05B50**)

IC1 • System control

• Peripheral device control

CPU

(TMP96C141BF)

IC2 • Receives data from the host

computer and sends it to the input

buffer in RAM

• Extends the input data held in the

buffer to create image data

• Loads image data to the image data

buffer

• Transfers image data to the print

head

1 Mbit / 4 Mbit

PS-RAM

IC3 Contains the buffer and the working

area

2 Mbit PROM IC5 Contains the character tables and the

program that runs the CPU

Serial EEPROM

(AT93C46)

IC8 Contains data including:

• Default setting values

• Market data

• Mechanism and print head

parameters

SLA7024M IC9 Driver circuit for the CR motor

A2917SEB IC12 Driver circuit for the PF motor

Reset IC

(BH6150F)

IC15 Generates the reset signal at power on

and power down, and resets the CPU

and the gate array

TROUBLESHOOTING



EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-1

3.1 Overview

This chapter contains flowcharts and checkpoint tables for

troubleshooting the printer. The flowcharts tell you which printer unit or

part to replace based on the printer’s symptoms. The checkpoint tables

list the correct values and ranges for printer part characteristics, such as

resistance and continuity. You can compare the characteristics of a printer

part to the checkpoint values to identify defective parts.

3.2 Troubleshooting Information

This section describes how to determine whether various printer units or

parts are defective.

3.2.1 Print Head

To determine whether a print head is defective, measure the print head’s

coil resistance as described in the table below. Then compare the coil

resistances with the correct meter reading in the table.

Table 3-1. Print Head Coil Resistance Test Points

Common pin numbers See Figure 3-1

Test pin numbers See Figure 3-1

Test method Turn off the printer and disconnect the

print head. Set the meter to ohms, and

place one lead on each pin and the other

lead on each common pin.

Meter reading 16.4 Ω ± 10% at 77° F (25° C)

315 C5 2 C6 5 16 11 C7 17 C8 14 4 8

1913 7C1 18 C2 12 C3 C4 610TT

XX X

COM. C1 C2 C3 C4

1, 7, 13 9 10, 18 6, 12

COM. C5 C6 C7 C8

2, 5, 11 3, 15 16, 17 4, 8, 14

Pin No. Pin No.

T: Thermistor terminal

X: Not used

Figure 3-1. Print Head Connector Pin Alignment

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-2

3.2.2 Sensors

Table 3-2. Sensor Test Points

Sensor

Connector

Test Pin

Numbers

Test Method

(Set the meter to DC

voltage.)

Meter Reading

CN4

(HP sensor)

1: HP

2: GND

3: +5 V

Place one lead on pin 1 and

the other lead on pin 2.

Check the resistances while

blocking the two sensor

terminals.

• Open: +5 V

(home position)

• Short: 0 V

(not in home

position)

CN5

(rear PE

sensor)

1: +5 V

2: PE

3: GND

Place one lead on pin 2 and

the other lead on pin 3.

Check the resistances while

toggling the rear PE sensor

lever.

• Open: +5 V

(Paper is loaded.)

• Short: 0 V

(No paper is

loaded.)

CN6

(front PE

sensor)

1: PE

2: GND

Place one lead on pin 1 and

the other lead on pin 2.

Check the resistances while

toggling the front PE sensor

lever.

• Open: +5 V

(Paper is loaded.)

• Short: 0 V

(No paper is

loaded.)

CN7

(TOP sensor)

1: E

2: GND

3: +5 V

4: A

Place one lead on pin 2 and

the other lead on pin 3.

Check the resistances while

inserting and removing paper

between the platen and the

sensor.

• Open: 0 V

(No paper is

loaded.)

• Short: +5 V

(Paper is loaded.)

Table 3-2. Sensor Test Points (Continued)

Sensor

Connector

Test Pin

Numbers

Test Method

(Set the meter to DC

voltage.)

Meter Reading

CN12

(paper release

sensors 1 and 2)

1: Release 1

2: GND

3: Release 2

4: GND

1. Place one lead on

pin 1 and the other

lead on pin 2. Check

the resistances

while toggling the

paper release lever.

2. Place one lead on

pin 3 and the other

lead on pin 4. Check

the resistances

while toggling the

paper release lever.

• Open: +5 V

• Short: 0 V

CN13

(PG sensors 1

and 2)

1: PG 1

2: GND

3: PG 2

4: GND

Place one lead on pin 1

and the other lead on

pin 2. Check the

resistances while

toggling the PG sensor

lever.

• Open: +5 V

• Short: 0 V

CN2 on the

control panel

board

(cover open

sensor)

1: COPEN

2: GND

Place one lead on pin 2

and the other lead on

pin 3. Check the

resistances while

toggling the cover open

sensor lever.

• Open: +5 V

(The cover is

open.)

• Short: 0 V

(The cover is

closed.)

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-3

3.2.3 Motors

Table 3-3. Motor Test Points

PF Motor

Motor connector CN10

Common pin number 

Test pin numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4

Test method Turn off the printer and disconnect the PF

motor from the control board. Set the meter to

ohms, and place one lead on pin 1 and the

other lead on pin 3. Then place one lead on

pin 2 and the other lead on pin 4.

Meter reading 16.1 Ω ± 10% per phase at 77° F

(25° C)

CR Motor

Motor connector CN11

Common pin number 5

Test pin numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4

Test method Turn off the printer and disconnect the CR

motor from the control board. Set the meter to

ohms, and place one lead on pin 5 and the

other lead on each of the four test pins.

Meter reading 2.7 Ω ± 10% per phase at 77° F (25° C)

3.2.4 Error Conditions

Table 3-4. Error Conditions

LightsError

Pause Paper

Out

Tear

Off/Bin

Pitch Font

Beep

Pattern

Paper out On On ❍ × 3

Paper jam

(The paper is

not ejected

completely.)

On Flashes ❍ × 3

Print head

overheated

Flashes  

Cover open On ❍ × 3

Fatal error Flashes Flashes Flashes Flashes Flashes ● × 5

❍Indicates the beeper sounds for approximately 100 ms with an interval

of approximately 100 ms.

●Indicates the beeper sounds for approximately 500 ms with an interval

of approximately 100 ms.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-4

3.3 Unit Level Troubleshooting

You may be able to identify a defective printer unit simply by observing

the printer’s symptoms. The table below lists the symptoms for several

printer problems. After you determine the type of printer problem you

have, see the corresponding flowchart to isolate the cause of the problem

and repair the printer.

Table 3-5. Printer Symptoms and Problem Descriptions

Symptom Problem Description Flowchart

Abnormal

carriage

operation

• The carriage does not move at all.

• When you turn on the printer, the carriage

moves away from the home position and then

stops. All the indicator LEDs on the control

panel flash.

Flowchart 1

Abnormal

paper

feeding

• The printer does not feed the paper at all.

• When you turn on the printer, the printer ejects

the paper automatically.

• After you load paper, the printer ejects the

paper automatically and then indicates it is in

the ready state.

Flowcharts

2-1 and 2-2

Abnormal

power

operation

• The control panel indicator LEDs do not

come on.

• The Operate button does not work.

• The control panel buttons do not work.

Flowchart 3

Abnormal

printing

• No image is printed.

• Printing is faulty; some dots are not printed.

Flowchart 4

The flowcharts use the following symbols:

START Start

Instructions

Refer to the

specified flowchart

Decision

Branching

END

Return to the start

of the flowchart

END

Figure 3-2. Flowchart Symbols

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-5

1. Abnormal Carriage Operation

START

When you turn on

the printer, does the CR

motor rotate?

Is CN11 connected

properly? Connect CN11.

Check the CR motor

coil resistance.

See Table 3-3.

Is the problem

solved?

Does the CR motor

stop during or after

initialization?

END

Is it OK?

YES

Replace the main

board. Replace the CR

motor.

NOYES

When you

move the CR by hand

with the printer off, does

it move freely?

YES

Is the platen gap

adjusted properly?

Is CN4 connected

properly?

END

Adjust the platen gap.

See Chapter 5.

Replace the oil pad on the

carriage unit. Clean and

lubricate the CR shaft.

Is the problem

solved?

END

Connect CN4.

Is the problem

solved?

END

Does the HP sensor

work correctly?

See Table 3-2. Replace the

HP sensor.

Is the problem

solved?

Is the resistance of

the CR motor correct?

See Table 3-3.

Replace the

CR motor.

Is the problem

solved?

Replace the main

board.

END

YES

NO YES

END

NO YES

YES

END

YES

YESYES

Figure 3-3. Flowchart 1

2-1. Abnormal Paper Feeding

START

END

Does the PF

motor rotate?

Is CN10

connected

properly?

Connect CN10.

Is the problem

solved?

Is paper

ejected automatically

when you turn on the

printer?

See Flowchart

2-2.

Does a paper out

error occur after the

paper is ejected?

Is the resistance of the

PF motor coils correct?

See Table 3-3. Replace the PF

motor.

Replace the

main board. Is the problem

solved?

YES

Does the

printer indicate it is

ready after the paper is

ejected?

YES

Is foreign

material stuck on the

TOP sensor?

Is foreign

material jammed

between the front

or rear PE sensor

and the platen?

Are CN5 and

CN6 connected

properly?

Remove the

substance

blocking the

TOP sensor.

Does the

TOP sensor work

properly?

Is the

problem

solved?

END

YES

END

Replace the

TOP sensor.

Is the

problem

solved?

END

Replace the

main board.

Remove the

foreign material.

Is the

problem

solved?

END

YES

Do the

front and rear

PE sensors work

correctly?

YES

YES NO

YES

Replace the defective

PE sensor.

Is the

problem

solved?

END

Connect CN5

and CN6.

Is the

problem

solved?

END

Replace the main

board.

YES

Figure 3-4. Flowchart 2-1

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-6

2-2. Abnormal Paper Feeding

START

END

When paper is

loaded, is it ejected

automatically?

Is the problem

solved?

Is CN7

connected

properly? Connect CN7.

Does the printer load

sin

le sheets properly, but

not load continuous

paper at all?

Is CN12

connected

properly?

Connect

CN12.

Is the problem

solved?

END

Is the FFC

cable OK?

Replace the

cable.

Does the

TOP sensor work

correctly? See

Table 3-2.

Is the problem

solved?

END

Replace the

TOP sensor.

Is the problem

solved?

END

Replace the main

board.

END

Does the

release sensor work

correctly?

Replace the

release

sensor.

Is the

problem

solved?

END

Replace the

main board.

END

YES

NO YES

YES

NO YES

YES

Figure 3-5. Flowchart 2-2

3. Abnormal Power Operation

START

END

Does the Operate

button turn the printer

on and off?

Is the problem

solved?

Is CN7

connected

properly?

Connect CN7. Is the Operate

button working

correctly?

Replace the control

panel board.

Is the problem

solved?

END

Is the FFC

OK?

Is the problem

solved?

END

Replace the FFC.

Is the problem

solved?

END

Replace the main

board.

END

Is control panel

FFC connected

correctly?

Connect the

cable.

Is the problem

solved?

END

Replace the power

supply board.

END

YES

Check the Operate button

on the control panel using

a multimeter.

Is control panel

FFC connected

correctly?

Connect the

cable.

Check the FFC

using a multimeter. Check pin 19 of the FFC.

Is FFC

OK?

Replace the

FFC.

Is the problem

solved?

END

YES

Figure 3-6. Flowchart 3

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-7

4. Abnormal Printing

START

Is the self test

printed correctly?

Check the data from the

host PC using the hex

dump mode.

Are all the

dots printed

correctly?

Are any print head

wires broken?

Is the problem

solved?

Are the printer

settings correct? Reset the settings

to their defaults.

END

Are the correct

printer drivers

installed? Install the correct

printer drivers.

Is the problem

solved? END

Does the printer

work correctly with

another printer

cable? Replace the

cable.

Replace the main

board.

END

YESNO

YES

Is the problem

solved?

The computer is the

source of the

problem.

YES

Perform the

bidirectional alignment.

(See Chapter 5.)

Is the

problem

solved?

END

Are all the

dots aligned

correctly?

Check the platen

gap/parallelism. (See

Chapter 5.)

Is the

problem

solved?

END

Replace the

print head.

END

Check the print head's

coil resistance as

described in Table 3-1.

Is the print head

coil resistance

correct?

Check the FFC

using a multimeter.

Is the FFC

OK?

Are the bottoms of the

characters missing?

Replace

the FFC.

Is the

problem

solved?

END

Reinstall

the ribbon

mask.

Is the

problem

solved?

END

Test the print

head drivers on

the main board

as described in

Table 3-7.

Are the print

head drivers on

the main board

OK?

Replace the

print head

and the main

board.

END

Replace the

print head.

END

YES

Figure 3-7. Flowchart 4

3.4 Repairing the Power Supply Board

The table below provides instructions on how to repair the power supply

board assembly. It lists various power supply board problems and

provides likely causes, checkpoints, and solutions. To determine whether

a component is defective, compare its readings with the correct

waveforms, resistances, and other values listed in the table below. Then

replace the component if necessary.

WARNING

The OPERATE button on the control panel only

turns the secondary power circuit on or off, so the

primary circuit is live as long as the printer is

connected to an AC power outlet. Before you

touch the power supply board or repair it,

disconnect the printer from the AC power outlet.

Note:

Use an oscilloscope to check the waveforms in Table 3-6.

Table 3-6. Repairing the Power Supply Board

Problem Cause Checkpoint Solution

The +35 V and +5

V lines are not

output when the

printer is turned

on.

Diode bridge DB1

is dead.

Measure the DC

voltage between pins

3 and 4 of DB1.

Replace

DB1.

Transformer coil

T1 is open.

Measure the

resistances of the T1

transformer coils at

pins 12 and 15, 9 and

11, 7 and 8, and 3

and 4.

Replace

T1.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-8

Table 3-6. Repairing the Power Supply Board (Continued)

Problem Cause Checkpoint Solution

The +35 V and

+5 V lines are

not output

when the

printer is

turned on.

Switching

FET Q1 is

dead.

• Check that the resistance

between the source and the

drain is infinite.

• Check the voltage waveform

between the source and the

drain of Q1.

Figure 3-8. Waveform 1

Replace

Q1.

PC1 is

dead.

Check the waveform between

pins 3 and 4.

Figure 3-9. Waveform 2

Replace

PC1.

Q32 is

dead.

Check that the resistance

between the collector and the

emitter is infinite.

Replace

Q32.

Q31 is

dead.

Check that the resistance

between the source and the drain

is infinite.

Replace

Q31.

Table 3-6. Repairing the Power Supply Board (Continued)

Problem Cause Checkpoint Solution

The +5 V line

is not output.

Chopper IC

IC51 is

dead.

Check the waveform at pin 8

of IC51.

Figure 3-10. Waveform 3

Replace IC51.

Q51 is

dead.

Check the waveform at

the collector of Q51.

Figure 3-11. Waveform 4

Replace Q51.

L51 is

dead.

Check the resistance

between the terminals of

L51.

Replace L51.

The PWDN

signal is

constantly

HIGH.

IC51 is

dead.

Check if the voltage of pin 6

exceeds 1.3 V. If it does,

IC51 is dead.

Replace IC51.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-9

3.5 Repairing the Main Board Assembly

The table below provides instructions on how to repair the main board

assembly. It lists various main board problems and provides likely causes,

checkpoints, and solutions. To determine whether a component is

defective, compare its readings with the correct waveforms, resistances,

and other values listed in the table below. Then replace the component if

necessary.

Note:

Use an oscilloscope to check the waveforms in Table 3-7.

Table 3-7. Repairing the Main Board Assembly

Problem Cause Checkpoint Solution

The printer

does not

operate at all.

Reset IC

IC15 is

defective.

Check the voltage waveforms of

the VCC signal (CH 1: pin 7 of

IC15) and the /RESET signal

(CH 2: pin 5 of IC15) when the

printer is turned on.

CH 1

CH 2

Figure 3-12. Waveform 5

Replace the

main board or

IC15.

Table 3-7. Repairing the Main Board Assembly (Continued)

Problem Cause Checkpoint Solution

The printer

does not

operate at

all.

The PROM

(IC5) is not

selected.

Check for a change in the

signal (HIGH to LOW or LOW

to HIGH) at pin 137 of IC1.

Figure 3-13. Waveform 6

Replace the

main board.

The PSRAM

(IC3) is not

selected.

Check for a change in the

signal (HIGH to LOW or LOW

to HIGH) at pin 132 of IC1.

Replace the

main board.

The CPU

(IC2) is

defective.

Check the oscillator signal at

pin 26 or 27 of the CPU.

Figure 3-14. Waveform 7

Replace the

main board.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-10

Table 3-7. Repairing the Main Board Assembly (Continued)

Problem Cause Checkpoint Solution

Carriage

operation is

abnormal.

The CPU or

IC9 is

defective.

• Check the input signal

waveforms (CH 1) at

pins 5, 6, 16, and 17 of

IC9.

• Check the output signal

waveforms (CH 2) at

pins 1, 8, 11, and 18 of

IC9.

CH 1

CH 2

Figure 3-15. Waveform 8

• If an input

signal is not

correct,

replace the

main board.

• If an output

signal is not

correct,

replace IC9 or

the main

board.

IC1 is

defective.

Check the output signals at

pins 62, 63, 64, and 65 of

IC1.

If an output signal

is not correct,

replace the main

board.

Table 3-7. Repairing the Main Board Assembly (Continued)

Problem Cause Checkpoint Solution

Paper

feeding is

abnormal.

IC1, IC2, or

IC12 is

defective.

• Check the input signal

waveforms (CH 1) at

pins 26 and 43 of IC12.

• Check the output signal

waveforms (CH 2) at pins 3,

6, 18, and 21 of IC12.

CH 1

CH 2

Figure 3-16. Waveform 9

• If an input signal

is not correct,

replace the

main board.

• If an output

signal is not

correct, replace

IC12 or the main

board.

No data is

printed.

The CPU is

defective.

Check the output signal

waveforms at pin 15 or 19 of

IC2.

Figure 3-17. Waveform 10

If an output signal

is not correct,

replace the main

board.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-11

Table 3-7. Repairing the Main Board Assembly (Continued)

Problem Cause Checkpoint Solution

A particular

dot does not

print.

IC1 is

defective, or

one of the

print head

drive

transistors

(Q2 − Q19) is

defective.

• Check the input signal

waveform (CH 1) at the

base of each transistor.

• Check the output signal

waveform (CH 2) at the

collector for each transistor.

CH 1

CH 2

Figure 3-18.

Waveform 11

• If an input

signal is not

correct, replace

the main board.

• If an output

signal is not

correct, replace

the transistor or

the main board.

3.6 Repairing the Printer Mechanism

The table below describes how to repair the printer mechanism. It lists

various printer mechanism problems and symptoms, and provides likely

causes, checkpoints, and solutions. The checkpoint column lists what to

check and indicates how the printer mechanism works when it is operating

properly. The solution column tells you how to repair the printer

mechanism.

For replacement and adjustment instructions, see Chapter 4,

“Disassembly and Assembly,” and Chapter 5, “Adjustment.” If the same

symptom recurs after you repair the printer mechanism, select another

probable cause and repair the printer mechanism again.

Table 3-8. Repairing the Printer Mechanism

Problem Symptom Cause Checkpoint Solution

Carriage

operation is

abnormal.

When you turn on

the printer, the CR

motor does not

rotate at all.

The CR

motor is

defective.

Measure the

CR motor’s coil

resistance. It

should be

approx. 2.7 Ω.

(See Table

3-3.)

Replace

the CR

motor.

When you turn on

the printer, the CR

motor does not

rotate at all and

the control panel

LEDs flash.

CN11 is not

properly

connected to

the main

board.

Check the

connection.

Connect

CN11.

When you turn on

the printer, the CR

motor rotates but

the carriage does

not move.

The timing

belt has

come off the

pinion gear of

the CR

motor.

Check the

timing belt.

Replace

the timing

belt.

The carriage

moves slightly and

then stops.

The platen

gap is too

narrow.

Move the

carriage by

hand to check if

it moves

smoothly.

Check the

platen gap

and adjust

it if it is too

small. See

Chapter 5.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-12

Table 3-8. Repairing the Printer Mechanism (Continued)

Problem Symptom Cause Checkpoint Solution

Carriage

operation is

abnormal.

The carriage

moves slightly

and then stops.

There is a lack

of lubrication,

or foreign

material is

stuck on the

CR shaft or oil

pad.

• Move the

carriage by

hand to check if

it moves

smoothly.

• Check the CR

shaft and oil

pad to see if

they are

sufficiently

lubricated.

Replace

the oil

pad.

Remove

the CR

shaft,

clean it,

and then

lubricate

it.

The HP sensor

is defective.

Check the

operation of the

HP sensor. (See

Table 3-2.)

Replace

the HP

sensor.

Foreign

material is

lodged

between the

HP sensor

terminals.

Check the HP

sensor.

Remove

any

foreign

material.

The HP sensor

is not properly

connected to

CN4.

Check the

connection.

Connect

CN4.

The carriage

moves left

(toward the

home position)

and strikes the

printer frame.

The HP sensor

is defective.

Check the

operation of the

HP sensor. (See

Table 3-2.)

Replace

the HP

sensor.

Table 3-8. Repairing the Printer Mechanism (Continued)

Problem Symptom Cause Checkpoint Solution

Printing is

abnormal.

No image is

printed.

The common

wires in the

print head FFC

are dis-

connected or

there is no

continuity.

Check the

common wires

in the print head

FFC.

Replace

the print

head FFC.

The printer

does not print

certain dots.

The print head

is defective.

Measure the coil

resistance of the

print head. It

should be

approx. 16.4 Ω.

(See Table 3-1.)

Replace

the print

head.

The common

wires in the

print head FFC

are dis-

connected, or

there is no

continuity.

Check the

continuity in the

FFC.

Replace

the print

head FFC.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-13

Table 3-8. Repairing the Printer Mechanism (Continued)

Problem Symptom Cause Checkpoint Solution

Printing is

uneven (lighter

or darker on the

left side of the

page than on

the right side).

Platen

parallelism is

not adjusted

properly.

Check the

platen

parallelism.

(See Chapter 5.)

Adjust the

platen

parallelism.

(See

Chapter 5.)

Printing is too

light.

The platen gap

is too wide.

Check the

platen gap. (See

Chapter 5.)

Adjust the

platen gap.

(See

Chapter 5.)

The print head

is defective.

Check if the tips

of the dot wires

are worn.

Replace

the print

head.

The print head

drivers on the

main board are

bad.

Check the print

head drivers on

the main board.

(See Table 3-7.)

Replace

the main

board.

Table 3-8. Repairing the Printer Mechanism (Continued)

Problem Symptom Cause Checkpoint Solution

Paper

feeding is

abnormal.

The PF motor

does not rotate

at all.

The PF motor is

defective.

Measure the coil

resistance of the

PF motor. It

should be

approx. 16.1 Ω.

(See Table 3-3.)

Replace

the PF

motor.

CN10 is not

properly

connected to the

main board.

Check the

connection.

Connect

CN10.

The front or rear

PE sensor is

defective.

Check the

operation of the

front and rear PE

sensors.

(See Table 3-2.)

Replace

the front or

rear PE

sensor.

The front or rear

PE sensor is not

installed

correctly.

Check the front

and rear PE

sensor

connections.

Install the

front and/or

rear PE

sensor

correctly.

When you turn

on the printer,

it ejects the

paper

automatically

and then

indicates it is in

the ready

state.

Foreign material

is stuck on the

TOP sensor.

Check the TOP

sensor.

Remove

any foreign

material

from the

TOP

sensor.

The TOP sensor

is defective.

Check the

operation of the

TOP sensor.

(See Table 3-2.)

Replace

the TOP

sensor.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 3 Troubleshooting

3-14

Table 3-8. Repairing the Printer Mechanism (Continued)

Problem Symptom Cause Checkpoint Solution

Paper

feeding is

abnormal.

When you turn

on the printer, it

ejects the

paper auto-

matically and a

paper out error

occurs.

Foreign

material is

lodged

between the

front or rear PE

sensor and the

platen.

Remove and

check the platen.

Remove

any foreign

material

from the

platen.

CN5 or CN6 is

disconnected.

Check the

connections.

Connect

CN5 and/or

CN6.

The front or

rear PE sensor

is defective.

Check the

operation of the

front and rear PE

sensors. (See

Table 3-2.)

Replace

the front or

rear PE

sensor.

When you load

paper, the

printer ejects it

automatically.

The TOP

sensor’s FFC is

not properly

connected to

CN7.

Check the

connection.

Connect

the FFC.

The FFC is

defective.

Check the FFC’s

continuity using a

multimeter.

Replace

the FFC.

The TOP

sensor is

defective.

Check the

operation of the

TOP sensor.

(See Table 3-2.)

Replace

the TOP

sensor.

Table 3-8. Repairing the Printer Mechanism (Continued)

Problem Symptom Cause Checkpoint Solution

Paper

feeding is

abnormal.

The printer loads

single-sheet

paper correctly,

but does not

load continuous

paper at all.

CN12 is not

connected

properly.

Check the

connection.

Connect CN12.

One of the

paper release

sensors is

defective.

Check the

operation of the

paper release

sensors. (See

Table 3-2.)

Replace the

paper release

sensor.

Ribbon

feeding is

abnormal.

The printer does

not feed the

ribbon.

The ribbon

cartridge is

defective.

Remove the

cartridge, and

turn the ribbon

feed knob by

hand to check if

the ribbon

cartridge feeds

the ribbon

normally.

Replace the

ribbon

cartridge.

Foreign

material is

caught in the

ribbon driving

gears.

Check the

ribbon driving

gears.

Remove any

foreign material

caught in the

gears or

replace the

ribbon

cartridge.

The ribbon feeds

properly only

when the

carriage moves

in one direction.

The ribbon

driving gears

are defective.

Move the

carriage by

hand to check if

the gears

function

normally.

Replace the

ribbon driving

mechanism.

DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY



EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-1

4.1 Overview

This section provides warnings and cautions about disassembling and

assembling the printer, and information about tools and screws. It also

describes how to check the printer after you repair it to make sure it is

operating properly.

4.1.1 Precautions

Follow the precautions below when disassembling or assembling the

printer.

WARNING

Before disassembling, assembling, or adjusting

the printer, disconnect the power supply cable

from the AC power socket. Failure to do so can

cause physical injury.

The power switch is wired in the secondary

circuitry of the power supply board. Therefore,

the power supply’s primary circuitry remains

live even after the printer is turned off.

Never touch primary parts of the power supply

unit (including the heat sink) while the printer is

plugged in.

CAUTION

To maintain efficient printer operation:

Use only recommended tools for repair or

maintenance work.

Use only recommended lubricants and

adhesives. (See Chapter 6.)

Adjust the printer only as described in this

manual.

4.1.2 Tools

Tables 4-1 and 4-2 list the tools recommended for disassembling,

assembling, or adjusting the printer. Use only tools that meet these

specifications.

Table 4-1. Recommended Tools

Tool Part No.

Round-nose pliers B740400100

Wire cutters B740500100

Tweezers B741000100

Soldering iron B740200100

E-ring holder #2.5 B740800400

Phillips screwdriver No. 2 B743800200

Standard screwdriver B743000100

Thickness gauge B776702201

Needle-nose pliers —

Pin drive —

Note: All tools are commercially available.

Table 4-2. Equipment Required for Maintenance

Description Specification

Multimeter —

Oscilloscope 50 MHz

Note: An oscilloscope is required only for servicers who repair to the

component level.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-2

4.1.3 Specifications for Screws

Table 4-3 lists the abbreviations used in this chapter for small parts, such

as screws and washers.

Table 4-3. Screw Types and Abbreviations

Abbreviation Part Name

CPS Cross-recessed pan head S-tight screw

CBB Cross-recessed bind head B-tight screw

CBS Cross-recessed bind head S-tight screw

CBN Cross-recessed bind head N-tight screw

CBC Cross-recessed bind head C-lamitite screw

CBA Cross-recessed bind head A-lamitite screw

CB(O) Cross-recessed bind head with outside-toothed lock

washer

Table 4-4 illustrates the various screw types.

Table 4-4. Screw Types

Cross-recessed head Bind

Normal

Top Side

(with notch)

S-tight

B-tight

C-lamitite

A-lamitite

Pan

Body

Head

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-3

4.1.4 Service Check After Repair

After you repair the printer and before you return it, use the checklist in

Table 4-5 to make sure the printer is operating properly.

Table 4-5. Inspection Checklist for the Repaired Printer

Category Item to

Check Question to Answer Checkmark

Are any wires broken? Checked

Not necessary

Print head

Are any wires worn out? Checked

Not necessary

Does the carriage move

smoothly?

Movement noisy

Mechanism dirty

Mechanism oily

Checked

Not necessary

Carriage

mechanism

Is the CR motor running

at the correct

temperature (not

overheating)?

Checked

Not necessary

Is paper advancing

smoothly?

Movement noisy

Mechanism dirty

Mechanism oily

Checked

Not necessary

Printer unit

Paper

advance

mechanism

Is the PF motor running

at the correct

temperature (not

overheating)?

Checked

Not necessary

Table 4-5. Inspection Checklist for the Repaired Printer

(Continued)

Category Item to

Check Question to Answer Checkmark

Is the type of paper in the

printer feeding smoothly?

Checked

Not necessary

Is the tractor feeding

paper correctly?

Checked

Not necessary

Is the paper path clear of

all obstructions?

Checked

Not necessary

Paper path

Is the platen free of

damage?

Checked

Not necessary

Printer unit

(continued)

Ribbon

mask

Is the ribbon mask free of

distortion?

Checked

Not necessary

Testing Self test Does the self test print

correctly?

Checked

Not necessary

Online test Does the online test print

correctly?

Checked

Not necessary

Adjustment Print head Is the platen gap adjusted

correctly?

Checked

Not necessary

Is the bidirectional print

position adjusted

correctly?

Checked

Not necessary

Default

settings

Have the user-change-

able settings been reset

to the default settings?

Checked

Not necessary

System

upgrade

ROM

version

What is the ROM

version? Install the latest

ROM version, if

necessary.

Checked

Not necessary

Shipment Has the ribbon been

removed?

Checked

Not necessary

Are all the necessary

parts included in the

shipment?

Checked

Not necessary

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

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4.2 Disassembly and Assembly

This section describes procedures for disassembling and assembling the

main components of the printer. When the procedure for installing a

component is simply the reverse of removing the component, this chapter

does not describe the assembly procedure. If necessary, special notes on

assembling or adjusting a component are given at the end of the

description of each procedure. Be sure to follow the instructions in these

notes.

The exploded diagrams in the appendix show how the components fit

together. Refer to them as necessary.

CAUTION

Before you disassemble any part of the printer,

read the warnings in section 4.1.1.

Before you disassemble the printer, follow the

instructions in section 4.2.1.

Whenever you repair the printer, wipe the

surface of the paper width (PW) sensor

assembly with a soft cloth, and keep it clean to

avoid abnormal operation. If the surface is dirty

because of any adhering material, sensor

sensitivity decreases and printer operation is

impaired.

The flowchart below shows the order in which to disassemble the printer.

START

Disconnect the printer's power

cord and interface cable

Prepare for disassembly

Remove the panel

board assembly Remove the

print head

Remove the

HP sensor Remove the

PW sensor Remove the

platen assembly

Remove the upper

housing assembly

Remove the case

open sensor

Remove the CR motor

assembly

Remove the

printer mechanism

Remove the

main board

Remove the power

supply board

Remove the PF motor

assembly Remove the

PG sensor

Remove the right

frame assembly

Disassemble the

right frame assembly

Remove the left frame

assembly

Remove the RD assembly

Remove the CR assembly

Remove the rear PE

sensor Remove the front

PE sensor

Remove the

platen gear

Remove the

ribbon mask

Remove the right sub

frame assembly

Figure 4-1. Flowchart for Disassembling the Printer

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-5

4.2.1 Preparing to Disassemble the Printer

Before you disassemble the printer, disconnect the printer’s power cord

and interface cable, and remove any paper loaded in the printer. Then

remove the following parts from the printer:

front edge guide assembly rear tractor assembly bottom cover

rear edge guide assembly paper eject assembly printer cover

front tractor assembly front cover ribbon cartridge

platen knob

Refer to Figure 4-3.

CAUTION

Remove the paper eject assembly. Then remove

the front and rear tractor assemblies by pushing

the tabs to release the hooks on both sides. (See

Figure 4-2 to locate the tabs on the rear tractor.)

When reinstalling the tractors, be sure to snap the

hooks onto the projecting parts.

rear tractor tab

(1 of 2)

Figure 4-2. Removing the Rear Tractor

front edge guide assem bly front cover

fro n t tra c to r a s s e m b ly

rear tractor assem bly

paper eject assem bly

rear edge guide assem bly

printer cover

ribbon cartridge

platen knob

Figure 4-3. Parts to Remove Before Disassembling the Printer

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-6

4.2.2 Removing the Panel Board Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover and ribbon cartridge. (See section 4.2.1.)

2. Release the left clips for the panel board assembly by pushing them

from the cutout located on the inside front of the upper housing

assembly.

3. Release the flexible flat cable (FFC) by sliding the lock cover of

connector CN1 as shown in Figure 4-5. Then disconnect the FFC from

connector CN1 and disconnect connector CN2 from the panel board

assembly.

CN1

CN2

left clip

Figure 4-4. Removing the Panel Board Assembly

4. Remove the panel board assembly from the upper housing assembly.

IMPORTANT

Before disconnecting the FFC from CN1, slide

the lock cover for CN1 as shown in Figure 4-5.

Then disconnect the FFC from CN1. After you

reconnect the FFC for CN1, lock the lock cover.

The FFC must be connected properly, as shown

in Figure 4-5. Connect it so that the exposed

terminals of the FFC face upward against the

panel board.

lock cover for C N 1

CN1 FFC

S lide the lock cover

in th is d ire c tio n

F F C fa c e w ith e x p o s e d te rm in a ls

CN1 CN1

Figure 4-5. Disconnecting and Connecting CN1 and the FFC

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-7

4.2.3 Removing the Print Head

1. Remove the printer cover and ribbon cartridge. (See section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the two CBS screws (3 × 10) securing the print head to the

CR assembly.

3. Remove the print head from the CR assembly.

4. Disconnect the two wide FFCs from the print head and then

disconnect the narrow FFC from the connector on the CR cover.

CBS screws (3 x 10)

print head

FFCs

CR assem bly

Figure 4-6. Removing the Print Head

IMPORTANT

The FFCs must be connected properly, as

shown in Figure 4-7.

The tightening torque for the CBS screws is

0.59 - 0.78 Nm (6 - 8 Kgf-cm).

Perform the platen gap/parallelism, bidirectional

print alignment, factory settings, and TPE level

reset adjustments. (See Chapter 5.)

print head FFC s

direction the exposed term inals of the FFC s face

print head

Figure 4-7. Connecting the Print Head FFCs

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-8

4.2.4 Removing the HP Sensor

1. Remove the printer cover, ribbon cartridge, front edge guide, and front

cover. (See section 4.2.1.)

2. Disconnect the connector cable for the HP sensor.

IMPORTANT

Note the orientation of the HP sensor so you can

reinstall it the same way. See Figure 4-8.

3. Remove the HP sensor from the front paper entrance by pushing up

and releasing the two clips at the bottom of the HP sensor.

2 clips securing the HP sensor

Figure 4-8. Removing the HP Sensor

4.2.5 Removing the PW Sensor Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover and ribbon cartridge. (See section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the print head. (See section 4.2.3.)

3. Remove the CB screw (2.5 × 5) securing the PW sensor to the ribbon

mask holder.

4. Release the three clips on the CR cover that secure it to the bottom of

the CR assembly. Then lift the cover slightly.

5. Remove the FFC from the PW sensor connector on the CR cover.

6. Remove the PW sensor assembly along with the CR cover by pushing

and releasing the clip for the CR cover, as shown in Figure 4-9.

PW sensor assem bly

CB screw (2.5 x 5)

C R cover

CR assembly

PW sensor FFC

Figure 4-9. Removing the PW Sensor Assembly

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-9

IMPORTANT

Mount the PW sensor assembly onto the ribbon

mask holder groove, aligning the bottom line of

the micro photo sensor with the bottom line of

the groove.

Whenever you remove the PW sensor assembly,

clean the surface of the sensor by wiping it with

a soft cloth. If the PW sensor is not clean, the

printer may operate incorrectly. For example, it

may print on the platen surface.

The tightening torque for the CB screw is 0.08 -

0.12 Nm (0.8 - 0.12 Kgf-cm).

CB screw (2.5 x 5)

PW sensor assem bly

ribbon m ask holder

PW sensor view ed

through the

ribbon m ask holder

The bold dashed lines indicate the grooves.

m icro photo sensor

Figure 4-10. Installing the PW Sensor Assembly

After you replace the PW sensor assembly, reset

the TPE level. (See Chapter 5.)

4.2.6 Removing the Ribbon Mask

1. Remove the printer cover, ribbon cartridge, and print head. (See

sections 4.2.1 and 4.2.3.)

2. Using tweezers, remove the ribbon mask from the ribbon mask holder,

as shown in Figure 4-11.

ribbon mask

ribbon mask holder

Figure 4-11. Removing the Ribbon Mask

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

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4.2.7 Removing the Upper Housing Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, rear edge guide assembly, paper eject

assembly, and rear tractor unit. (See section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the four CBB screws (4 × 4) securing the upper housing

assembly. (Figure 4-13 shows the screw locations.)

4. Remove the platen knob.

5. Release the two hooks from the holes on both sides of the upper

housing assembly near the front, and release the tab in the middle

front of the upper housing assembly. Then lift up the front of the upper

housing assembly.

tab

Figure 4-12. Releasing the Upper Housing Assembly Hooks and Tab

6. Remove the upper housing assembly.

CBB screws (4 x 4)

Figure 4-13. Removing the Upper Housing Assembly

IMPORTANT

The tightening torque for the four CBB screws is

0.98 - 1.22 Nm (10 - 12 Kgf-cm).

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-11

4.2.8 Removing the Platen Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, ribbon cartridge, and platen knob. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the print head, ribbon mask, and upper housing assembly.

(See sections 4.2.3, 4.2.6, and 4.2.7.)

3. Move the paper release lever to the pull tractor position.

4. Release the locks for the left and right bushings (8 mm) by pushing

the lever holders for the bushings out and then forward, as shown in

Figure 4-14.

left and ri

ht bushin

s (8 mm)

Figure 4-14. Releasing the Locks for the Bushings

5. Slide the platen assembly to the right, and move the print head to the

right edge.

6. Pull up the left edge of the platen assembly by tilting it backward.

Then pull up the right edge of the platen assembly.

Figure 4-15. Removing the Platen Assembly

IMPORTANT

Before installing the platen assembly in the

printer mechanism, move the print head to the

right edge of the CR shaft, and move the paper

release lever to the pull tractor position.

This

helps you mount the platen assembly more

easily.

After installing the platen assembly in the

printer mechanism, make sure the locks for

both the left and right bushings (8 mm) are

locked completely.

Be careful handling the lever holders for the left

and right bushings (8 mm); they are fragile.

Adjust the platen gap/parallelism and reset the

TPE level. (See Chapter 5.)

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

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4.2.9 Removing the Platen Gear

1. Remove the printer cover, ribbon cartridge, and platen knob. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the print head, ribbon mask, and upper housing assembly.

(See sections 4.2.3, 4.2.6, and 4.2.7.)

3. Remove the platen assembly. (See section 4.2.8.)

4. Remove the retaining ring (C clip) by pushing both sides of it using

needle-nose pliers.

retaining ring

(#638)

Figure 4-16. Removing the Retaining Ring

5. Remove the spring pin (2 x 12) using a pin drive. Then remove the

platen gear (36 mm spur gear).

right

bushing

leaf spring plain

washer

platen gear (36

mm spur gear)

spring pin

(2 × 12)

Figure 4-17. Removing the Platen Gear

4.2.10 Removing the Case Open Sensor Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, rear edge guide assembly, paper eject

assembly, and rear tractor unit. (See section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Turn the upper housing assembly over and remove the case open

sensor assembly by loosening the CBB screw (3 × 8) securing the

sensor holder to the upper housing assembly.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-13

CBB screw

(3 x 8 )

CB screw

(2 x 8 )

sensor

holder

case open

sensor assem bly

upper housing assem bly

Figure 4-18. Removing the Case Open Sensor Assembly

4.2.11 Removing the Printer Mechanism

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and rear tractor unit. (See section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the three CBS screws (3 × 4) securing the upper shield plate

to the printer mechanism and remove the upper shield plate. Then

remove the upper I/F grounding plate from the main board assembly.

CBS screws

(3 × 4)

upper shield

plate

upper I/F

grounding plate

Figure 4-19. Removing the Upper Shield Plate and Upper I/F

Grounding Plate

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-14

5. Disconnect the cables from the following connectors on the main

board assembly.

Table 4-6. Main Board Connectors

Connector

Number Pins Connector

Color Connector

Number Pins Connector

Color

CN4 3 white CN5 3 black

CN6 2 white CN7 4 gray

CN8 18 gray CN9 16 gray

CN10 4 white CN11 5 white

CN12 4 white CN13 4 black

Note: To disconnect the cables from CN10 and CN11, pull up the

connector locks.

6. As shown in Figure 4-20, remove the four printer mechanism

mounting screws securing the printer mechanism.

7. Remove the printer mechanism.

IMPORTANT

When you connect the cables to CN10 and

CN11, align the red line in the cable with pin 1

of the connector.

The tightening torque for the four printer

mechanism mounting screws is 0.78 - 0.98 Nm

(10 - 12 Kgf-cm).

Adjust the bidirectional print alignment and reset

the TPE level. (See Chapter 5.)

printer mechanism mounting screws

Figure 4-20. Removing the Printer Mechanism

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

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4.2.11.1 Removing the CR Motor Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, rear edge guide assembly, paper eject

assembly, and rear tractor unit. (See section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Release the extension spring (15.7 g) and then disengage the timing

belt from the CR motor assembly.

6. Remove the two screws securing the CR motor assembly.

7. Remove the CR motor assembly from the printer mechanism.

C R m ounting screw s

extension spring (15.7 g)

CR motor assembly

Figure 4-21. Removing the CR Motor Assembly

IMPORTANT

The tightening torque for the two CR mounting

screws is 0.78 - 0.98 Nm (8 - 10 Kgf-cm).

Adjust the bidirectional print alignment and reset

the TPE level. (See Chapter 5.)

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

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4.2.11.2 Removing the PF Motor Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Move the paper release lever to the pull tractor position.

6. Remove the CBS screw (3 × 6) and the CB screw (3 × 8) securing the

PF motor to the right sub frame.

7. Remove the PF motor from the right sub frame.

IMPORTANT

Before attaching the PF motor to the right sub

frame, set the paper release lever to the pull

tractor position (full release position).

The CB screw (3 ×× 8) is used to secure the

upper part of the PF motor. The CBS screw

(3 ×× 6) is used to secure the lower part of the PF

motor.

The tightening torque for the CB and CBS

screws is 0.8 - 1.0 Nm (8 - 10 Kgf-cm).

CB screw (3 x 8)

C B S s c re w (3 x 6 )

P F m o to r

right sub fram e

paper release lever

Figure 4-22. Removing the PF Motor

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

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4.2.11.3 Removing the PG Sensor Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Loosen but do not remove the hexagonal nut (M4) securing the PG

sensor assembly to the right frame assembly.

6. Remove the PG sensor assembly from the right frame assembly.

hexagonal nut

PG sensor assembly

Figure 4-23. Removing the PG Sensor Assembly

IMPORTANT

When you connect the PG sensors to the PG

sensor holder, make sure the sensor with the

white connector is in the upper position, as

shown in Figure 4-24.

The tightening torque for the hexagonal nut is

1.18 - 1.37 Nm (12 - 14 Kgf-cm).

PG SW 1

(w hite connector)

PG SW 2

(black connector)

Figure 4-24. Connecting the PG Sensors to the PG Sensor Holder

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

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4.2.11.4 Removing the Right Sub Frame Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Remove the PF motor assembly. (See section 4.2.11.2.)

6. Remove the two CBS screws (3 × 6 and 3 × 8) securing the right sub

frame.

7. Remove the right sub frame from the right frame.

right sub fram e

CBS screw (3 x 6) CBS screw (3 x 8)

Figure 4-25. Removing the Right Sub Frame

IMPORTANT

The tightening torque for the CBS screws (3 ×× 6

and 3 ×× 8) is 0.78 - 0.98 Nm (8 - 10 Kgf-cm).

Adjust the bidirectional print alignment. (See

Chapter 5.)

4.2.11.5 Removing the Right Frame Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Remove the platen assembly. (See section 4.2.8.)

6. Remove the PG sensor assembly. (See section 4.2.11.3.)

7. Remove the right sub frame assembly. (See section 4.2.11.4.)

8. Remove the hexagonal nut (M4) securing the gap adjust lever. Then

remove the lever from the right frame assembly.

9. Remove the CBS screw (3 × 6) securing the platen cover to the right

frame assembly.

10. Remove the two CBS screws (3 × 6) securing the right frame

assembly at the positions shown in Figure 4-26.

11. Remove the right frame assembly.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-19

C B S screw s (3 x 6)

Figure 4-26. Removing the Right Frame Assembly

IMPORTANT

The tightening torque for the hexagonal nut is

1.18 - 1.37 Nm (12 - 14 Kgf-cm).

Adjust the platen gap/parallelism and

bidirectional print alignment, and reset the TPE

level. (See Chapter 5.)

4.2.11.6 Disassembling the Right Frame Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Remove the PF motor assembly. (See section 4.2.11.2.)

6. Remove the right sub frame assembly. (See section 4.2.11.4.)

7. Remove the right frame assembly. (See section 4.2.11.5.)

8. Remove the following 11 parts from the right frame assembly:

2 compression springs (200 g) 2 plain washers

2 spur gears (34.5 mm) 1 spur gear (34 mm)

1 spur gear (27 mm) 1 spur gear (21 mm)

1 combination gear (8 mm, 31.5 mm) 1 intermittent gear

IMPORTANT

When assembling the right frame assembly,

attach the 11 parts listed in step 8 to the right

frame assembly as shown in the following

figures.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-20

2 com pression springs

(200 g) and

2 plain w ashers

spur gear (34.5 m m )

spur gear (21 m m )

spur gear (34.5 m m )

com bination gear (8 m m , 31.5 m m )

interm ittent gear

spur gear (27 m m )

spur gear (34 m m )

Figure 4-27. Engaging the Right Frame Assembly Gears (1 of 2)

IMPORTANT

Engage the intermittent gear, release lever,

and release lever transmission as shown in

Figure 4-28.

Engage the release lever and release lever

transmission with the tractor clutch cam.

Attach the tractor clutch cam as shown in

Figure 4-29.

release lever

release lever transmission

intermittent gear

top end of release

lever shaft

top end of spur

gear (34.5 mm)

Figure 4-28. Engaging the Right Frame Assembly Gears (2 of 2)

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-21

tractor clutch cam

Figure 4-29. Engaging the Tractor Clutch Cam

Adjust the bidirectional print alignment. (See

Chapter 5.)

4.2.11.7 Removing the Left Frame Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Disconnect the cable connector from the release lever sensor, and

then disconnect the cable connector from the HP sensor.

6. Remove the print head and the ribbon mask holder. (See sections

4.2.3 and 4.2.6.)

7. Remove the platen assembly. (See section 4.2.8.)

8. Remove the CBS screw (3 × 6) securing the platen cover to the left

frame assembly.

9. Loosen the hexagonal nut (M4) securing the CR guide shaft and left

frame.

10. Remove the parallelism adjustment bushing.

11. Remove the four CBS screws (3 × 6) securing the left frame

assembly.

12. Remove the left frame assembly.

IMPORTANT

The tightening torque for the CBS screws (3 ×× 6)

is 0.78 - 0.98 Nm (8 - 10 Kgf-cm).

The tightening torque for the hexagonal nut is

1.18 - 1.37 Nm (12 - 14 Kgf-cm).

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-22

Adjust the platen gap/parallelism and

bidirectional print alignment, and reset

the TPE level. (See Chapter 5.)

CBS screws (3 × 6)

securin

the left frame

hexa

onal nut (M4)

platen cover CBS screw (3 × 6)

parallelism adjustment bushin

hexa

onal nut

Figure 4-30. Removing the Left Frame Assembly

4.2.11.8 Removing the Ribbon Drive (RD) Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Remove the CR motor tension spring and disengage the timing belt

from the CR motor pinion gear. (See section 4.2.11.1.)

6. Remove the left frame assembly. (See section 4.2.11.7.)

7. Remove the two CBS screws (3 × 8) securing the RD assembly to the

front frame.

8. Remove the RD assembly from the front frame.

9. Remove the timing belt from the RD assembly.

driven pulley assem bly

RD assembly

tim ing belt

Figure 4-31. Removing the RD Assembly

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-23

IMPORTANT

The tightening torque for the two CBS screws

(3 ×× 8) is 0.78 - 0.98 Nm (8 - 10 Kgf-cm).

Engage the RD assembly gears as shown in

Figure 4-32.

RD rachet com bination gear (7 m m , 23 m m )

driven pulley assem bly

spur gear (25 m m )

spur gear (11 m m )

Figure 4-32. Engaging the RD Assembly Gears

Adjust the platen gap/parallelism and

bidirectional print alignment, and reset the TPE

level. (See Chapter 5.)

4.2.11.9 Removing the CR Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Remove the left frame assembly. (See section 4.2.11.7.)

6. Remove the RD assembly. (See section 4.2.11.8.)

7. Remove the CR assembly from the front and rear CR guide shafts.

CR assembly

rear CR guide shaft

Figure 4-33. Removing the CR Assembly

8. Remove the CR assembly.

9. Remove the timing belt from the two holding slots under the CR

assembly.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-24

IMPORTANT

When installing the CR assembly, insert the

timing belt securely into the two holding slots

at the bottom of the CR assembly.

Make sure you take up all the slack in the

timing belt between the two slots, as shown

below.

timing belt

CR assembly

Figure 4-34. Inserting the Timing Belt

IMPORTANT

Insert the two oil pads into the proper positions in

the CR assembly, as shown in Figure 4-35.

oil pads

CR assembl

rear CR

uide shaft

Figure 4-35. Installing the Oil Pads in the CR Assembly

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-25

IMPORTANT

If you remove the rear CR guide shaft along

with the CR assembly, be sure to reinstall the

rear CR guide shaft in the printer mechanism.

The rear CR guide shaft has a hole near the

right edge. One side of the hole has a

chamfered edge; this side of the hole

should face up, as shown in Figure 4-36.

left frame assembl

chamfered hole

uide shaft

Figure 4-36. Installing the Rear CR Guide Shaft

Adjust the platen gap/parallelism and

bidirectional print alignment, and reset the TPE

level. (See Chapter 5.)

4.2.11.10 Removing the Rear PE Sensor Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Turn the printer over, and insert a standard screwdriver or other prying

tool into the hole in the rear frame.

6. Release the two clips while pushing up the rear PE sensor with the

screwdriver or other prying tool. See Figure 4-37.

7. Disconnect the rear PE sensor connector and then remove the rear

PE sensor assembly.

clips rear PE sensor assembly

rear frame

Figure 4-37. Removing the Rear PE Sensor Assembly

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-26

4.2.11.11 Removing the Front PE Sensor Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Remove the printer mechanism. (See section 4.2.11.)

5. Turn the printer over, and insert a standard screwdriver or other prying

tool into the hole in the rear frame.

6. Release the two clips while pushing up the front PE sensor with the

screwdriver or other prying tool. See Figure 4-38.

7. Disconnect the front PE sensor connector and then remove the front

PE sensor assembly.

clips

front P E sensor assem bly

re a r fra m e

Figure 4-38. Removing the Front PE Sensor Assembly

4.2.11.12 Removing the Main Board Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Disconnect the cables from the following connectors on the main

board assembly.

Table 4-7. Main Board Connectors

Connector

Number Pins Connector

Color Connector

Number Pins Connector

Color

CN3 10 white CN4 3 white

CN5 3 black CN6 2 white

CN7 4 gray CN8 18 gray

CN9 16 gray CN10 4 white

CN11 5 white CN12 4 white

CN13 4 black CN15 22 white

Note:

To disconnect the cables from CN10 and CN11, pull up the connector

locks.

To disconnect the cable from CN3, push down on the connector

cover.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-27

5. Remove the three CBS screws (3 × 4) securing the upper shield plate

to the printer mechanism and remove the upper shield plate. Then

remove the upper I/F grounding plate from the main board assembly.

CBS screws

(3 × 4)

upper shield

plate

upper I/F

grounding plate

Figure 4-39. Removing the Upper Shield Plate and Upper I/F

Grounding Plate

6. Remove the two CBS screws (3 × 12) securing the upper connector

cover.

7. Remove the five CBB screws (3 × 12) and one CBC lamitite screw

(3 × 8) securing the main board assembly to the lower housing

assembly.

8. Remove the optional I/F cage from the main board by releasing the

hooks that secure it to the main board.

9. Remove the main board assembly with the upper I/F grounding plate.

CBS screws

(3 x 12)

CBB screws

(3 x 12)

CBC screw

(3 x 8 )

CBB screws

(3 x 12)

upper connector cover

m ain board assem bly

Figure 4-40. Removing the Main Board Assembly

IMPORTANT

Insert the CBC lamitite screw (3 ×× 8) into the

appropriate screw hole as shown in Figure 4-40.

After you insert the cable connectors into CN10

and CN11, push down each connector’s lock.

The tightening torque for the four CBB screws

(3 ×× 12) is 0.78 - 0.98 Nm (8 - 10 Kgf-cm).

The tightening torque for the CBC screw (3 ×× 8)

is 0.78 - 0.98 Nm (8 - 10 Kgf-cm).

If you replace the main board, adjust the

bidirectional print alignment, reset the factory

settings, and reset the TPE level. (See Chapter 5.)

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 4 Disassembly and Assembly

4-28

4.2.11.13 Removing the Power Supply Board Assembly

1. Remove the printer cover, front and rear edge guide assemblies, front

cover, paper eject assembly, and front and rear tractor units. (See

section 4.2.1.)

2. Remove the panel board assembly. (See section 4.2.2.)

3. Remove the upper housing assembly. (See section 4.2.7.)

4. Disconnect the cable from CN3 on the main board assembly.

5. Disconnect the cable for the fan motor from CN3 on the power supply

board assembly. Then remove the fan motor.

6. Remove the five CBB screws (3 × 12) securing the power supply

board assembly.

7. Remove the power supply board assembly.

fan m otor

CN3 (power

supply)

pow er supply board assem bly

label side

m ain board

C N 3 (m ain board)

Figure 4-41. Removing the Power Supply Board Assembly

IMPORTANT

When installing the power supply board

assembly, insert the cable for CN2 on the power

supply board under the fan motor.

The tightening torque for the CBB screws

(3 ×× 12) is 0.78 - 0.98 Nm (8 - 10 Kgf-cm).

Install the fan motor so that the label side of

the fan faces the main board assembly. (See

Figure 4-41 above.)

ADJUSTMENTS

&+$37(5



EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-1

5.1 Adjustment Overview

5.1.1 Required Adjustments

This chapter describes the adjustments you need to perform after you

remove or replace certain printer parts. The table below indicates which

adjustments are required for each repair procedure.

Table 5-1. Required Adjustments

Repair Procedure/

Adjustment Platen Gap/

Parallelism Bidirectional

Alignment

Factory

Settings TPE

Level

Reset

Printer mechanism

replacement

✔✔

Print head removal

or replacement

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Main board

replacement

✔✔✔

PW sensor

assembly

replacement

   ✔

Platen assembly

removal or

replacement

✔✔

Carriage motor

assembly removal

or replacement

✔✔

Right frame

assembly removal

or replacement

✔✔✔

Right sub frame

assembly removal

or disassembly

✔ 

Table 5-1. Required Adjustments (Continued)

Repair Procedure/

Adjustment Platen Gap/

Parallelism Bidirectional

Alignment

Factory

Settings TPE

Level

Reset

Left frame removal

or replacement

✔✔✔

RD assembly

removal or

replacement

✔ ✔ ✔

Carriage assembly

removal or

replacement

✔✔✔

✔ Indicates that the adjustment is required.

 Indicates that the adjustment is not required.

IMPORTANT

When you replace or reassemble any printer part,

use the Check program on the Settings diskette to

print various check patterns and check the

printer’s performance and settings.

5.1.2 Adjustment Tools

The following table lists the tools required for each adjustment.

Table 5-2. Required Adjustment Tools

Adjustment Required Tool

Platen gap Thickness gauge (B776702201)

Bidirectional print

alignment

Settings diskette, Remote utility, or the

printer’s control panel

Factory settings Settings diskette

TPE level reset Settings diskette

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-2

5.2 Adjusting and Resetting the Printer

5.2.1 Platen Gap/Parallelism Adjustment

If you have rotated or reassembled the rear carriage guide shaft or

parallelism adjustment bushing, or if printing is too light or too dark even

when the PG lever is in the proper position, perform the platen

gap/parallelism adjustment.

Perform this adjustment at the following three positions: the far left, center,

and far right (about the 1st, 68th, and 136th) columns.

1. Remove the print head from the carriage assembly. (See Chapter 4.)

2. Using tweezers, remove the ribbon mask from the ribbon mask holder,

as shown in Figure 5-1.

ribbon mask

ribbon mask holder

Figure 5-1. Removing the Ribbon Mask

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-3

3. Attach the print head to the carriage assembly again and tighten the

two CBS screws (3 × 10).

4. Move the print head to the left end column position.

5. Set the paper release lever to the single-sheet position.

6. Loosen the hexagonal nut (M4) securing the PG adjustment lever and

set the PG adjustment lever to the second slot from the rear of the

printer mechanism, as shown in Figure 5-2.

PG SW2

PG adjustment slots

PG adjustment

lever

PG SW1

hexagonal nut

(M4)

Figure 5-2. Setting the PG Adjustment Lever

7. Hold the thickness gauge vertically and insert it between the print head

and platen.

8. Insert a thin screwdriver into the drilled hole located at the right edge of

the rear carriage guide shaft. Then adjust the platen gap by moving the

screwdriver forward or backward until the gap is large enough for a

0.42 mm thickness gauge, but too narrow for a 0.45 mm thickness

gauge.

drilled hole

Figure 5-3. Adjusting the Platen Gap

9. When the gap is correct at the left end column, check the platen gap at

the center and right end column positions.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-4

10. If the platen gap is wider at the left end column than at the right end

column, adjust the parallelism for the rear carriage guide shaft by

moving the parallelism adjustment bushing backward. If the platen gap

is narrower at the left end column than at the right end column, move

the parallelism adjustment bushing forward. See Figure 5-4.

parallelism adjustment bushing

hexagonal nut

Figure 5-4. Adjusting the Parallelism of the Carriage Guide Shaft

11. Continue performing steps 7 through 10 until the platen gap is correct

at all three positions (left end, right end, and center). After completing

the adjustment, remove the screwdriver from the drilled hole in the rear

carriage guide shaft.

12. Remove the print head from the carriage assembly.

13. Insert the ribbon mask into the ribbon mask holder. Then attach the

print head to the carriage assembly, and tighten the two CBS screws (3

× 8) to secure the print head.

14. Tighten the hexagonal nut (M4) to secure the PG adjustment lever.

5.2.2 Bidirectional Print Alignment (Bi-d) Adjustment

This section describes how to adjust the bidirectional print alignment. This

adjustment is required after you remove or replace the printer mechanism.

It is also necessary after you replace the main board assembly or the

EEPROM, because the adjustment values are written to the EEPROM on

the main board.

You can perform this adjustment using the Settings diskette, the control

panel buttons and lights, or the Remote utility. This section first describes

how to perform the bi-d adjustment using the Settings diskette, and then

describes how to perform the adjustment from the control panel.

IMPORTANT

9

When you replace the main board, reset the

factory settings as described in section 5.2.3

first, and then adjust the bidirectional print

alignment.



Do not adjust the bidirectional print alignment if

the input voltage is fluctuating significantly.



Before you run GWBASIC, exit Windows and go

to the DOS prompt.



When you adjust the bidirectional print

alignment, use continuous paper that is

15 inches (381 mm) wide.



Clearing the EEPROM does not reset the

bidirectional adjustment values.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-5

5.2.2.1 Performing the Bi-d Adjustment Using the Settings

Diskette

1. Make sure the PC is turned off. Insert the Settings diskette into drive A

of the PC and turn on the PC.

2. Exit Windows and go to the DOS prompt.

3. At the DOS prompt, type GWBASIC J10a72v.bas and press Enter.

You see the Printer Select menu.

Program : J****** Setting : *****

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Printer select ]

> (1) 9 pins

(2) 24 pins

Figure 5-5. Printer Select Menu

4. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight 9 pins and then press Enter. You see

the Setting File menu.

Program : J****** Setting : ******

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Setting File ]

> (1) DEFSTD

(2) EURSTD

(3) NLSP

(4) ITALIC

(5) RUSSIAN

Figure 5-6. Setting File Menu

5. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight the factory setting for the printer’s

destination and press Enter. Refer to Table 5-3 for destination settings.

Table 5-3. Destination Settings

Destination Setting Destination Setting

EAI USASTD EAI (Latin) USASTD

EIRO EURSTD EDG EURSTD

EUL EURSTD EUL

(SCANDINAVIA)

EURSTD

EFS EURSTD EIS EURSTD

EIB EURSTD EDG (NLSP) NLSP

EUL (MIDDLE

EAST)

DEFSTD EAL DEFSTD

ESP DEFSTD EHK DEFSTD

After you select the destination setting, you see the Main menu.

Program : J****** Setting : *****

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Main MENU ]

> (1) Bi-d Adjust (6) Envelope

(2) FF paper (7) ---- N/A ----

(3) A3 Cut sheet (8) -- SUB MENU

(4) A4 1P Cut sheet

(5) A4 6P Cut sheet

Figure 5-7. Main Menu

6. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight Bi-d Adjust and press Enter.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-6

You see the Bi-d Adjustment menu.

< Bi-d adjustment >

> Mode 0 = 0

Mode 1 = 0

Mode 2 = 0

Cancel Print Speed Value Write Default

[ ESC ] [ SPACE ] [ ] [ ] [ RET ] [ HOME ]

Figure 5-8. Bi-d Adjustment Menu

7. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight the mode. Then press the space bar to

print the current bi-d print alignment pattern for that mode.

Mode 0 VR0 = 0

HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Figure 5-9. Current Bi-d Print Alignment Pattern

8. If the bi-d pattern is not aligned properly, you need to adjust it by

changing the input value with the ← or → key. If the second row is

shifted to the right of the first row, change the value by pressing the

← key. If the second row is shifted to the left of the first row, change

the value by pressing the → key. Press the space bar to print the new

bi-d pattern.

9. Perform steps 7 and 8 for each mode (0,1, and 2).

10. After you correct the bidirectional print alignment for each print mode,

press Enter to print the adjustment values. The program returns to the

Main menu.

11. To exit the program, press Esc until you return to the DOS prompt.

IMPORTANT

The adjustment values are stored in the EEPROM

only when you turn off the printer. Turn the printer

off and then on again after you perform the bi-d

adjustment.

5.2.2.2 Performing the Bi-d Adjustment from the Control

Panel

1. Make sure that continuous paper is loaded and the printer is turned off.

2. Turn on the printer while holding down the Pause button to enter

bidirectional print alignment adjustment mode. The printer prints an

instruction sheet that contains 25 Super Draft mode alignment

patterns.

Figure 5-10. Super Draft Alignment Patterns

3. Look for the pattern with the best alignment on the sheet.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-7

4. Press the LF/FF or Load/Eject button until the Pitch lights indicate the

number of the pattern with the best alignment, as shown in

Figure 5-11.

1o o o 14 n n n

2o o n 15 n n f

3o o f 16 n f o

4o n o 17 n f n

5o n n 18 n f f

6o n f 19 f o o

7o f o 20 f o n

8o f n 21 f o f

9n f f 22 f n o

10 n o o 23 f n n

11 n o n 24 f n f

12 n o f 25 f f o

13 n o o

Figure 5-11. Pitch Lights

5. Press the Font button to save your selection. The printer then prints 25

Draft mode alignment patterns.

6. Repeat steps 3 through 5 for the Draft and NLQ modes.

7. After you perform the NLQ mode bi-d adjustment, turn off the printer to

save the bi-d values you selected in the EEPROM on the main board.

Turning off the printer also exits the bidirectional adjustment mode.

5.2.3 Factory Settings

This section describes how to reset the factory settings. You must reset

the factory settings after you replace the main board or the EEPROM. You

can perform this procedure only with the Settings diskette.

IMPORTANT

After you select the factory settings in the Setting

File menu, be sure to run the Check program from

the Main menu. Running the Check program

writes the selected factory settings to the

EEPROM and prints several check patterns.

1. Make sure the PC is turned off. Insert the Settings diskette into drive A

of the PC and turn on the PC.

2. Exit Windows and go to the DOS prompt.

3. At the DOS prompt, type GWBASIC J10a72v.bas and press Enter.

You see the Printer Select menu.

Program : J****** Setting : *****

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Printer select ]

> (1) 9 pins

(2) 24 pins

Figure 5-12. Printer Select Menu

4. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight 9 pins and then press Enter. You see

the Setting File menu.

Program : J****** Setting : ******

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Setting File ]

> (1) DEFSTD

(2) EURSTD

(3) NLSP

(4) ITALIC

(5) RUSSIAN

Figure 5-13. Setting File Menu

5. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight the factory setting for the printer’s

destination and press Enter. Refer to Table 5-3 for destination settings.

After you select the factory setting, you see the Main menu.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-8

Program : J****** Setting : *****

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Main MENU ]

(1) Bi-d Adjust (6) Envelope

>(2) FF paper (7) ---- N/A ----

(3) A3 Cut sheet (8) -- SUB MENU

(4) A4 1P Cut sheet

(5) A4 6P Cut sheet

Figure 5-14. Main Menu

6. Select one of the Check programs (selections 2 through 6) depending

on the paper loaded in the printer. Run the Check program to write the

selected factory settings to the EEPROM and print several check

patterns.

7. To exit the program, press Esc until you return to the DOS prompt.

5.2.4 TPE Level Reset

This section describes how to reset the TPE (top paper end) level (value).

Table 5-1 lists when you need to reset the TPE level. For example, if you

do not perform this adjustment after you replace the PW sensor assembly,

the printer does not recognize that the PW sensor has been replaced, and

the ability of the new sensor to operate properly is limited. You can perform

this procedure using the Settings diskette only.

IMPORTANT

After you perform the TPE level reset adjustment,

the printer automatically prints the reset value for

the TPE level. Check that the reset value is FF.

1. Make sure the PC is turned off. Insert the Settings diskette into drive A

of the PC and turn on the PC.

2. Exit Windows and go to the DOS prompt.

3. At the DOS prompt, type GWBASIC J10a72v.bas and press Enter.

You see the Printer Select menu.

Program : J****** Setting : *****

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Printer select ]

> (1) 9 pins

(2) 24 pins

Figure 5-15. Printer Select Menu

4. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight 9 pins and then press Enter. You see

the Setting File menu.

Program : J****** Setting : ******

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Setting File ]

> (1) DEFSTD

(2) EURSTD

(3) NLSP

(4) ITALIC

(5) RUSSIAN

Figure 5-16. Setting File Menu

5. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight the factory setting for the printer’s

destination and press Enter. Refer to Table 5-3 for destination settings.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-9

After you select the factory setting, you see the Main menu.

Program : J****** Setting : *****

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Main MENU ]

(1) Bi-d Adjust (6) Envelope

(2) FF paper (7) ---- N/A ----

(3) A3 Cut sheet > (8) -- SUB MENU

(4) A4 1P Cut sheet

(5) A4 6P Cut sheet

Figure 5-17. Main Menu

6. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight SUB MENU and press Enter. You see

the following submenu:

Program : J****** Setting : *****

9 pins VR 0 = 0 VR 1 = 0 VR 2 = 0

[ Sub MENU ]

(1) Memory SW Print (6) EEPROM Print

(2) EEPROM Reset (7) -- EXIT

>(3) TPE Adjust

(4) Pitch 1P

(5) Pitch 20P

Figure 5-18. Submenu

7. Use the ↑ or ↓ key to highlight TPE Adjust and press Enter.

8. Insert an A4-size sheet of paper into the printer’s rear paper guide.

Make sure the paper is positioned in the portrait orientation. The TPE

check pattern and the current TPE position value is printed, as shown

in Figure 5-19.

9. Measure the distance from the top of the paper to the 0 level line, as

shown below. Check whether the distance equals 0.335 inches

± 0.020 inches (8.5 mm ± 0.5 mm).

-9 -6 -3 0 3 6 9

TOF

TPE position = 00,

Figure 5-19. TOF Measurement

After the page is printed, you see the following menu:

< TPE adjustment >

TPE Pos. = 0

Exit Print Value Write Default

[ESC] [SPACE] [ (0-9)] [RET] [HOME]

Figure 5-20. TPE Adjustment Menu

10. If your TOF measurement is not equal to 0.335 inches ± 0.020 inches

(8.5 mm ± 0.5 mm), use the ↑ or ↓ key to change the TOF value. Then

press Enter.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 5 Adjustments

5-10

11. To exit the program, press Esc until you return to the DOS prompt.

IMPORTANT

The adjusted TPE value is stored in the EEPROM

only when you turn off the printer. Turn the printer

off and then on again after you perform the TPE

level reset adjustment.

MAINTENANCE

&+$37(5



EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 6 Maintenance

6-1

6.1 Preventive Maintenance

To keep the printer operating properly, regularly clean the exterior case

using denatured alcohol and also vacuum the inside of the printer to

remove any dust and paper debris.

After you clean the printer, check that it is adequately lubricated as

described in the next section. Before returning the printer to the customer,

inspect the springs and paper feed rollers, and check the basic operation of

the printer.

WARNING

Disconnect the printer from the external AC power

source before you perform any maintenance

procedures.

CAUTION

Do not use thinner, trichloroethylene, or ketone-

based solvents on the plastic components of the

printer.

6.2 Lubrication

Table 6-1 provides information about the recommended lubricants. These

lubricants are EPSON G-26 and O-2, which have been tested extensively

and found to comply with the needs of the printer.

EPSON recommends the printer be lubricated at the points illustrated in

Figures 6-1 and 6-2. Table 6-2 lists each lubrication point along with the

lubricant and amount recommended for that point.

Before applying a lubricant, be sure the surface to be lubricated is clean.

Do not apply too much lubricant, because this may damage nearby printer

parts.

Table 6-1. Lubricants

Type Name Quantity Availability Part Number

Grease G-26 40 g EPSON B702600001

Oil O-2 40 cc EPSON B710200001

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 6 Maintenance

6-2

Table 6-2. Lubrication Points

Ref. No. Lubrication Points Quantity Lubricant

1 Cam surfaces of the 34.5 mm

spur gears

2 mm width,

halfway

G-26

2The platen gap adjustment

slots on the right frame

2 mm width,

from the top

slot to the 3rd

slot from the

bottom

G-26

3 The end of the shaft of the

drive roller assembly and the

cutout section on the left frame

About ½ the

size of a grain

of rice

G-26

4Oil pads Half of the pads O-2

5 RD planetary shaft and

planetary lever leaf spring

About ½ the

size of a grain

of rice

G-26

6RD housing

• Side of shafts: 3 points

• Inside hole: 1 point

About ½ the

size of a grain

of rice

G-26

7 5 points on the RD assembly

gear teeth

About ½ the

size of a grain

of rice

G-26

8The side of the RD ratchet

shaft

About the size

of a grain of

rice

G-26

9 10 contact points between the

paper guide and the release

shaft

About the size

of a grain of

rice

G-26

Note: Apply lubricants when you are reassembling the printer. For

lubrication points, see the following figures.

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Chapter 6 Maintenance

6-3

34.5 mm spur gear

platen gap adjustment slots

platen gap adjustment lever

Figure 6-1. Lubrication Points (1 of 2)

777

rear frame

RD ratchet

Figure 6-2. Lubrication Points (2 of 2)

APPENDIX

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Appendix

A-1

A.1 Connector Summary

The figure below shows how the primary components of the printer are

connected. Table A-1 summarizes the functions and sizes of the

connectors.

printer mechanism

PG sensor

release lever position sensor

rear PE sensor

front PE sensor

HP sensor

PW sensor

print head

C244 MAIN board assembly

CN13

CN5

CN6

CN4

cover open sensor

C166 PSB/PSE

C244 PSH board assembly

CN3CN12

CN7

CN8

CN9

PF motor

CR motor

CN11 CN10CN15

CN2

CN1

PNL board assembly

CN14

CSF

bin 1 CN1

host

computer

parallel I/F

CN2 optional I/F

Figure A-1. Cable Connections

Table A-1. Connector Summary

Board Connector Function Pins

CN1 Parallel interface 36

CN2 Type B interface 36

CN3 Power supply board 10

CN4 HP sensor 3

CN5 Rear PE sensor 3

CN6 Front PE sensor 2

CN7 PW sensor 4

CN8 Print head 18

CN9 Print head 16

CN10 PF motor 4

CN11 CR motor 5

CN12 Release lever position sensor 4

CN13 PG sensor 4

CN14 CSF bin 1 10

Main

Board

Assembly

CN15 PNL board 22

Table A-2. Connector Pin Assignments − CN3

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1GP 

2GP 

3 I +35V +35 VDC line

4 I +35V +35 VDC line

5GND Signal ground

6GND Signal ground

7 I +5V +5 VDC line

8 I +5V +5 VDC line

9 I PWDN Power down detection signal

10 O PSC Power switch on/off signal

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Appendix

A-2

Table A-3. Connector Pin Assignments − CN4

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1 I HP CR home position signal

2GND Signal ground

3+5V +5 VDC

Table A-4. Connector Pin Assignments − CN5

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1+5V +5 VDC

2 I PE Rear paper end signal

3GND Signal ground

Table A-5. Connector Pin Assignments − CN6

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1PE Front paper end signal

2 I GND Signal ground

Table A-6. Connector Pin Assignments − CN7

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1 I E PW sensor signal

2GND Signal ground

3+5V +5 VDC line

4A +5 VDC line

Table A-7. Connector Pin Assignments − CN8

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1NC Not connected

2 O HD1 Head data 1

3 O HD9 Head data 9

4 O HD13 Head data 13

5 O HD7 Head data 7

6+35V +35 VDC line

7NC Not connected

8 O HD18 Head data 18

9+35V +35 VDC line

10 O HD12 Head data 12

11 +35V +35 VDC line

12 +35V +35 VDC line

13 NC Not connected

14 O HD6 Head data 6

15 O HD10 Head data 10

16 I HTMP Head temperature signal

17 +5V +5 VDC line

18 NC Not connected

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Appendix

A-3

Table A-8. Connector Pin Assignments − CN9

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1 O HD3 Head data 3

2NC Not connected

3 O HD15 Head data 15

4+35V +35 VDC line

5 O HD2 Head data 2

6+35V +35 VDC line

7 O HD5 Head data 5

8 O HD16 Head data 16

9 O HD11 Head data 11

10 +35V +35 VDC line

11 O HD17 Head data 17

12 +35V +35 VDC line

13 NC Not connected

14 O HD14 Head data 14

15 O HD4 Head data 4

16 O HD8 Head data 8

Table A-9. Connector Pin Assignments − CN10

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1 O PF A PF motor phase A signal

2 O PF B PF motor phase B signal

3 O PF −A PF motor phase /A signal

4 O PF −B PF motor phase /B signal

Table A-10. Connector Pin Assignments − CN11

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1 O CR A CR motor phase A signal

2 O CR −ACR motor phase /A signal

3 O CR B CR motor phase B signal

4 O CR −BCR motor phase /B signal

5CR COM CR motor common

Table A-11. Connector Pin Assignments − CN12

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1 I RELEASE1 Release sensor 1 signal

2GND Signal ground

3 I RELEASE2 Release sensor 2 signal

4GND Signal ground

Table A-12. Connector Pin Assignments − CN13

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1 I PG1 Platen gap sensor 1 signal

2GND Signal ground

3 I PG2 Platen gap sensor 2 signal

4GND Signal ground

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Appendix

A-4

Table A-13. Connector Pin Assignments − CN14

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1 O A CSF motor phase A signal

2 O B CSF motor phase B signal

3O −A CSF motor phase /A signal

4 O −BCSF motor phase /B signal

5 O HOLD CSF motor hold signal

6+5V +5 VDC line

7GND Signal ground

8GND Signal ground

9+35V +35 VDC line

10 +35V +35 VDC line

Table A-14. Connector Pin Assignments − CN15

Pin I/O Signal Name Function

1 I COPEN Cover open sensor signal

2 O PAUSE Pause LED signal

3+5V +5 VDC line

4 O POUTL Paper out LED signal

5 O RESRVL Pitch select LED signal

6 I PAUSSW Pause button signal

7 O TBIN2L Tear off/bin select signal

8 O TBIN1L Tear off/bin select signal

9 O PITC1L Pitch select LED

10 O PITC2L Pitch select LED

11 FONT3L Not connected

12 O FONT2L FONT LED signal

13 O FONT1L FONT LED signal

14 GND Signal ground

15 GND Signal ground

16 I FONTSW Font button signal

17 I PITCSW Pitch button signal

18 I TBINSW Tear off/bin button signal

19 I PSC Operate button signal

20 I LDEJSW Load/Eject button signal

21 I LFFFSW LF/FF button signal

22 FG Frame ground

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Appendix

A-5

A.2 Circuit Board Component Layout

Diagrams

Figure A-2. C244 MAIN Board Component Layout Diagram (1 of 2)

Figure A-3. C244 MAIN Board Component Layout Diagram (2 of 2)

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Appendix

A-6

Figure A-4. C166 PSB Board Component Layout Diagram Figure A-5. C166 PSE Board Component Layout Diagram

EPSON FX-2180 Service Manual Appendix

A-7

A.3 Circuit Board and Exploded Diagrams

This section provides the following diagrams:

 C244 MAIN circuit board diagram

 C166 PSB circuit board diagram

 C166 PSE circuit board diagram

 C244 PSH circuit board diagram

 FX-2180 exploded diagram (1 of 3)

 FX-2180 exploded diagram (2 of 3)

 FX-2180 exploded diagram (3 of 3)

D86

1SS120

R82

DB1

D3SBA60

TH1

10ohm/25C

C11

820u/200V R18

150K/0.5W

C55

0.1u

D52

ERB43-02

R91

PT-75

R55

20K

ZD54

HZS6A-2 C56

33u/16V

R54

R58

200K

R60

4.7K

ZD55

HZS6A-1L

R59

4.75K 1%

R81

84.5K

R61

300

C59

330p

IC51

TL494CN

Q51

A1680

R51

470/2W

R88

R53

L51

HCD-6471HS

R64

2.4K

C54

1000u

D55

ERB83-004

+5V/0.7A

+35V/1.0A

CN2

RB93-F4-907

ZD52

HZS22-1L

R65

20K

C82

0.01u

R66

200K

C58

0.01u

R63

3.6K

C81

2200p

R67 3K

ZD86

HZS7B-2

ZD51

HZS6A-2

ZD81

HZS6A-2

D51 F5KQ100

A1015

C13

4700p

R31

10K

C4408

R15

120

ERA83-006

R11

620

*Q1

K2126

C14

2200p

C15

1500p/1.2kV

FQ31

K1725

0.5W

ERA82-004

R29

1.2M

R22

1.2M

2200p

0.1u

4700p

R20

2.4K

R21

4.7K

R12

0.39/2W

R19

20K

0.5W

35V

R13

4.7K

R14

510

C12

220u

R16

270

R32

20K

C31

2200p

IC1

TL431CLP

R56

150

C51

2200u/50V

9 6

C52 ZD82

HZS6A-2

ZD83

HZS6A-2

ZD84

HZS6A-2

ZD85

HZS6A-2

D81

1SS120

D84

1SS120

D85

1SS120

R72

6.2K

R73

1.2K

R71

1.5K

R70

10K

Q53

A1015

C57

470u/6.3V

R74

10K

R75

2.7K

D82

1SS120

R89

1.2K

ZD53

HZS7B-2

ZD87

HZS22-1L

Q55

DTC123ESA

Q81

DTA113ZSA

R90

1.2K

Fan

CN3

00 8263 0212 00 000

CN2

PSC

CN2

PWDN

R87

3.6K

R86

270K

Q54

C1815 D83

1SS120

Q82

DTA113ZSA

R83

51K

R57

270

R68

10K R69

1.5K

PC1

TLP521-2

Q32

DTC124GSA

1M/0.5W

0.22u

3.15A/125V

ELF-18D450D

B2P3-VH

CN1

B2P3-VH

R85

20K

R84

20K

6 7

4IC52B

NJM2903D

* : Heat sink (Q1,D51)

: CN3 is not mounted. Model : FX-2180

Board : C166PSB BOARD

Sheet : 1 of 1

Rev. : B

D86

1SS120

R82

DB1

D2SBA60

TH1

10ohm /25C

C11

180u/400V

R33

R34

ZD31 R28

150K/0.5W

C55

0.1u

D52

E R B43-02

R91

PT-76

R55

20K

ZD54

HZS6A-2 C56

33u/16V

R54

R58

200K

R60

4.7K

ZD55

HZS6A-1L

+I1 1

-I1 2

FB 3

DTC 4

CT 5

RT 6

GND 7

C1 8

+I2

-I2

VCC

IC 5 1

TL494

R59

4.75K 1%

R81

84.5K

R61

300

C59

330p Q51

A1680

R51

470/2W

R88

R53

L51

H C D -6471H S

R64

2.4K

C54

1000u

D55

E R B83-004

+5V /0.7A

+ 3 5 V /1 .0 A

CN2

R B 93-F4-907

ZD52

H ZS 22-1L

R65

20K

C82

0.01u

R66

200K

C58

0.01u

R63

3.6K

C81

2200p

R67 3K

ZD86

HZS7B-2

ZD51

HZS6A-2

ZD81

HZS6A-2

D51 F5KQ 100

A1015

C13

4700p

R31

10K

C 4408

R15

120

E R A83-006

R18

150K/0.5W

R11

*Q1

K2130

C14

2200p

FQ31

K1725

0.5W

2200p

E R A82-004

R29

1.1M

R22

1.1M

C15

750p/1.5kV

TH2

10ohm /25C

0.1u

2200p

R20

2.4K

R21

4.7K

R12

0.62/2W

R19

20K

0.5W

35V

R13

4.7K

R14

510

C12

220u

R16

270

R32

20K

C31

2200p

IC 1

TL431C LP

R56

150

C51

9 6

ZD82

HZS6A-2

ZD83

HZS6A-2

ZD84

HZS6A-2

ZD85

HZS6A-2

D81

1SS120

C52

2200u/50V X2

D84

D85

1SS120

R72

6.2K

R73

1.2K

R71

1.5K

R70

10K

Q53

A1015

C57

470u/6.3V

R74

10K

R75

2.7K

D82

1SS120

R89

1.2K

ZD53

HZS7B-2

ZD87

H ZS 22-1L

Q55

DTC123ESA

Q81

D TA 113ZS A

R90

1.2K

Fan

CN3

00 8263 0212 00 000

CN2

PSC

CN2

PW DN

R87

3.6K

R86

270K

Q54

C 1815 D83

1SS120

Q82

D TA 113ZS A

R83

51K

R57

270

R68

10K R69

1.5K

PC1

PS 2561L1-2-V

Q32

D TC 124G SA

1 M /0 .5 W

T2.0AH /250V

0.47u

S S24H -08150

B2P3-VH

CN1

B2P3-VH

R85

20K

R84

20K

6 7

4IC 52B

N JM 2903D

* : H eat sink (Q 1, D 51)

: C N 3,ZD 31,R 33 and R 34 are not m ounted.

M odel : FX -2180

Board : C166PSE BO ARD

S h e e t : 1 o f 1

R e v . : B

EXPLODED DIAGRAM FOR FX-2180(1)

128

122

113 127

137

117

200

109

104

450

400

401

400

122

112

110

100

107

621

133

128

116

111

127

122

300

127

127 127

127

632

106

121

380

121

129

102

125

119

124

330

126

103

126

541

555

126

118

115

114

500 120

643

105

101

130

123

124

617

524

631

609

636

611

511

580

636

591

603

571

636

601 637 595

602

593

590

108

586

608

501 643

598

594

526

535

528

639

607

599

606

531

620

533

527

530

525

585

584

578

532

634

638 572597

637

570

600

583

569

650

581

568

567

630

588

565

575

614

604

574

589

538

502

577

643

610

636

573

524

631

605 521

643

615

524

613

640

587

503

552

626

529

EXPLODED DIAGRAM FOR FX-2180(2)

592

638

644 534

566

522

536

523

635

582

539 576

635

596

601 637 595

504

641

579

551

549

547

543

550

542

546

551

548

545

544

633

551

625

547

543

550

542

546

551

624

545

633

557

564

559

639

638

639

638

612

561

562

558

629

642 629

642

628 560

627 628 560

627

556

EXPLODED DIAGRAM FOR FX-2180(3)

Epson TM FX2180 SunG+_1 User Manual To The 420af76a 2675 4d94 947f Fe49d324600c

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