HP SCITEX FB700 (02) PDF MANUAL

Make sure the line voltage meets the requirements. See Appendix A, Technical Specifications in the PDF for details.

Use the supplied power cord. Plug it directly into a grounded electrical outlet. Do not lengthen the power cord with an extension cord; the resulting drop in voltage could damage the printer.

To maintain vacuum to the printheads during printer power-down or unexpected power outages, use the auxiliary 24 volt power supply (included in the accessory kit with universal power adapters). Connect the 24 VDC jack on the vacuum assembly to either of two options:

UPS – customer-supplied uninterruptable power supply, output 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, minimum of 15 watts of power, provides battery backup to the vacuum system in the event of a power failure.

Wall outlet — 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, provides temporary power to the vacuum system when it is necessary to power down the printer for service. See Appendix A, Technical Specifications, for details.

Connect printer to its own electrical circuit. Do not connect the RIP, auxiliary power supply, or UPS into the same circuit as the printer.

Make sure the room is well ventilated, with a temperature and relative humidity within specifications. Optimal printing occurs within these ranges. See Appendix A, Technical Specifications in the PDF for details.

The high power UV light emitted by the curing lamps reacts with oxygen and produces ozone. This formation tends to be greatest during lamp startup. The printer should be operated in a well-ventilated area to avoid minor effects such as headaches, fatigue, and dryness of the upper respiratory tract. Normal air movement will mix the ozone with fresh air, causing it to revert back to oxygen.

Store media and ink in an area with similar temperature and humidity conditions as the printer.

Locate the printer so that it can be connected to the RIP with the specified cable.

Locate the printer on a flat, level floor.

Locate the printer where its normal operating noise will not disturb quiet work areas.

DO NOT install the printer near humidifiers, refrigerators, fans, water faucets, heaters or similar equipment.

DO NOT install the printer in areas where the temperature changes abruptly, such as near air conditioners, in the path of direct sunlight, or near open doors or windows.

DO NOT expose the printer to flames or dust.

UV CURE INK IS PERISHABLE. Unlike other inks used in wide format printing, UV cure ink has a limited shelf life. White ink has a six month shelf life from the date of manufacture. Plan to rotate your ink stock and use it promptly by the date printed on the ink box.

CAUTION: When the UV lamps are switched off, they undergo a controlled cool-down cycle. Sudden removal of power from hot lamps, such as disconnecting the power cord or from a power outage, can result in overheating and permanent damage. The lamps should be switched off only via the printer software.

The media supply may be wound either printed-side-out or printed-side-in, but the takeup must be loaded printed-side-in.

The default head height is set to 2.2 mm (0.085 in) above the media. (The space below the carriage will measure 1.778 mm (0.070 in) due to the printhead protection frame around the outside of the carriage.) The head height can be adjusted up or down at the control panel (Printing page > Options).

The Media Wizard stores a set of operational parameters for predefined and user-defined media types. When you load a new media type, select an existing Media Wizard set, or create a custom set. Media Wizard parameter sets can be selected at any time from the control panel.

Wear cotton gloves when loading media to prevent fingerprints that could show after printing. You can use a 90% solution of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to clean fingerprints and reduce static electricity on synthetic media (allow to dry five minutes before printing).

DO NOT reprint over any output that has not completely cured (for example, due to a UV lamp malfunction).

DO NOT rest or store a media roll on end, or you could cause edge creases that could strike the printheads during printing. To avoid bowing, store sheet-fed media flat, not standing on end.

DO NOT set heavy objects on the power cord or printer cable; do not bend the cables or force them into contorted positions.

DO NOT place heavy objects anywhere on the printer.

Since automatic head maintenance cannot occur when the printer is powered down, keep the printer powered on at all times if possible. The printer will enter a power-saving Sleep Mode if idle for a user-defined period of time. If automatic head maintenance does not occur for an extended period, manual purging may be necessary to restore the printheads to working condition. If all power is lost to the printer, ink will drip from the printheads due to loss of printhead vacuum, collect on the bottom of the carriage, and drip into the printer or onto the media drive belt. Keep the printer connected to a UPS to prevent vacuum loss to the printheads.

If the printer will be completely powered down for an extended period (such as over a long holiday period), all printheads should be emptied of ink and the bottom of the carriage cleaned. To resume printing, the printheads must be refilled with ink, purged, and restored to working condition. See User cleaning and Startup and check jet health instructions in the PDF.

UV light – the ultraviolet (UV) curing lamps emit high power UV light. The printer must be operated with all safety shielding installed to protect the operator from eye and skin damage. When operated according to manufacturer’s instructions, safety glasses or other protective clothing are not necessary.

Mechanical hazards — Keep fingers away from carriage and media path. Do not exceed the maximum weight load of the input or output tables, as printed on the label.

Ink — read and practice safety guidelines as outlined in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the ink, and post the document in the work area as required by prevailing law. Avoid any contact with skin and eyes. Provide adequate general and local exhaust ventilation. Avoid breathing vapors. Respirator protection may be required under exceptional circumstances when excessive air contamination exists. None of the component substances have established exposure standards per OSHA, NIOSH or ACGIH. Collect waste ink in container provided. Dispose of ink according to MSDS and local regulations. Keep the waste-ink spigot closed during printing.

Special ventilation is not required to meet US OSHA requirements on occupational exposure to VOCs from the HP UV-curable inks used with the printer. Special ventilation equipment installation is at the discretion of the customer; no specific HP recommendation is intended. Customers should consult state and local requirements and regulations.

Electrical — WITH THE POWER SWITCH IN THE OFF POSITION, POWER MAY STILL BE SUPPLIED TO THE PRINTER COMPONENTS. To completely cut power from the printer, you must unplug the power cord from the power outlet.

Ozone — the high power UV light emitted by the curing lamps and ionizer bar reacts with oxygen and produces ozone. This formation tends to be greatest during lamp startup. The lamps include ozone filters to reduce ozone production. The printer should be operated in a well-ventilated area to avoid minor effects such as headaches, fatigue, and dryness of the upper respiratory tract. Normal air movement will mix the ozone with fresh air, causing it to revert back to oxygen.

Hazardous waste — THE PRINTER ELECTRONICS ASSEMBLY CONTAINS A LITHIUM BATTERY DEVICE. THERE IS A DANGER OF EXPLOSION IF THE BATTERY IS INCORRECTLY REPLACED. The battery must be replaced only by authorized service providers, and must be replaced only with the same or equivalent type. Dispose of this lithium battery device in accordance with local, state (or province), and Federal (or country) solid waste requirements.

Printheads are variable drop size, piezoelectric printheads.

Off-Head System (OHS) — bulk ink boxes with integrated filters. No-drip quick connectors simplify ink box replacement.

Onboard vacuum system — provides vacuum to maintain negative printhead pressure.

Patent-pending automated printhead service station — fully maintains the health of the printheads while idle or in service, without operator intervention.

HP White Ink Homogenizer — part of the optional white ink upgrade accessory kit, keeps white pigments dispersed for optimal print quality. The white ink upgrade option and white ink cartridge are required to print with white ink.

Automatic head height — printer automatically sets the correct head height above the height of sheet-fed media.

Automatic media width sensing — automatically detects the width and position of sheet-fed media, for precise image placement (for white or light-colored media that the printer can detect).

Built-in static charge abatement — ionizer bars help dissipate static electric charge from synthetic media.

Rigid media tables feature a flip-up top for space-saving storage.

Optional extension tables can be added to the ends of the standard tables to handle longer sheets of media.

Optional roll-fed media supply and takeup system is available to handle roll-fed media.

The printer uses a high-resolution digital imaging sensor (camera) and embedded software to align the printheads, and detect and replace missing jets. Manual and automatic calibrations are available.

AutoSet calibration — automatically aligns printheads bidirectionally for precise positioning of inkjet pixels, and runs AutoJet.

AutoJet calibration— compensates for most lost or misfiring jets by locating them and using substitute jets without slowing printing speed.

Media Wizard — stores and recalls a set of operating parameters by media type and print mode, for optimal printing performance. Includes a set of predefined settings for standard media. You can also create and save custom settings for other media.

Edge-to-edge printing — provides the look of “full bleed” prints without trimming.

Stored jobs — stores print jobs on the printer’s internal hard disk drive for subsequent reprinting without having to resend it from the RIP.

Simplified control panel interface — touch-screen control panel with graphical interface presents frequently-used functions. A menu provides access to less-frequently used functions and troubleshooting help.

User assistance — control panel features online help, interactive procedures, scheduled cleaning reminders, and diagnostics to assist the user, reducing training and troubleshooting time.

HP Embedded Web Server — by entering the printer’s IP address into the address bar of any web browser on your local area network, you can view printer status, change certain settings, upgrade the printer firmware, and download system log files.

When the printer is connected to your local area network (LAN), you can enter the printer’s IP address into the address bar of your web browser to display printer status, set the internal date and time of the printer, download a log file, update the printer firmware, and transfer a custom Media Wizard definition.

To connect to the Embedded Web Server, open a web browser on any computer connected to the same network as the printer, and enter the printer’s IP address into the browser (http://[ip-address]). The printer’s IP address is displayed on the System screen of the printer’s control panel. When the browser connects to the printer, the Embedded Web Server displays its home page.

To display the printer status, including media type loaded and amount of ink remaining, select the printer status option from the Embedded Web Server menu.

To display an image of the screen that is currently displayed on the control panel, select the option from the Embedded Web Server menu.

To set the printer date and time, select this option from the Embedded Web Server menu. Enter the current date and time as specified on this screen, and click the Set Time button. NOTE: To ensure the proper scheduling of automatic maintenance operations and times and dates in event logs, verify the correct local time on the printer, and adjust as needed for daylight savings time changes if observed at your location.

The printer maintains a continuous log of its operations and settings in plain text files, which it stores on its internal hard disk drive. These files are useful for troubleshooting. To access these files, select the Get Printer Events Files option from the Embedded Web Server menu. From the list of files, click the link to the file you want to view or save to your computer.

HP occasionally issues new versions of the embedded software (printer firmware). After obtaining an update file, you can use the Embedded Web Server to install it onto the printer. From the Embedded Web Server, select the Update Printer Software option from the menu. Follow the onscreen instructions to upload and install the software update.

The Media Wizard enables you to define custom media definitions. You can use the Embedded Web Server to download a custom media definition from a printer to your computer, then upload it to a different printer.

When you select Retrieve Custom Media File from the web server, the web server displays a list of custom media definitions that exist on the printer. Select one of these definitions, and it is saved to your computer.

To send a custom media definition to a printer, enter its IP address into the web browser. When you choose Select Custom Media File to Install from the web server, the web server prompts you to browse to and enter the name of the file you want to send to the printer. When you click Send, the file is sent to the printer. After the printer receives the file, it should be visible on the printer’s control panel in the list of media.

Select Job Accounting to display information for each print job, such as date and time printed, and amount of media and ink used.

Select Printer Usage to display the cumulative amounts of sheet-fed media, roll-fed media, and ink used for the life of the printer.

Before the printer will accept a print job, it must be configured for a specific media type. The currently-configured media type, if any, is displayed on the Home page of the control panel.

1. If the control panel displays the media type you intend to load, press Load and proceed to load the media. Otherwise, continue to the next step.

2. In the Activity Tray on the control panel, press the Media icon. The Media screen appears.

3. Press Configure.

The Select Media to Load menu appears.

4. Press a media name, or Create Media Type.

The list of media types ends with the option Create Media Type (page down to the end of the list by pressing the page down button).

If you press a media name, a list of settings appears for you to review. See Media Wizard information for a description of the settings.

If you press Create Media Type, the control panel prompts you to select a standard media type to use as a starting point for the new media type settings. After you select a standard media type, the control panel prompts you for a name for the new media type, then a list of settings appears for you to review and change if necessary. See Media Wizard information for a description of the settings.

TIP: Start by using one of the standard media types. If you are not using a standard media type, select the standard media type that most closely matches the media you are using. Then only if necessary, create a new media type using the standard type you selected as a starting point, and adjust it as needed.

5. Review and change (for previously-created custom media types only) the media settings as needed.

6. Press Out or Proceed once or twice until the printer displays the prompt “Load media now?”

7. Press No to save your configuration and cancel the load process, or press Yes and proceed to load the media.

NOTE: When you create a custom media type on the printer, in order to print on the new media type, you must also add the new media type using Media Manager for the Onyx RIP, or EasyMedia for the Caldera RIP. Refer to the documentation for your RIP for instructions.

To view or delete settings for an existing media type, press Media Wizard. The Media Wizard also lets you create a media type without configuring it as the currently-loaded media. For each media type, the Media Wizard stores settings like General Media Settings and Print Mode Specific Settings.

Vacuum Fan Level — adjusts the amount of vacuum at the media drive belt. Observe the media as the fan speed changes. If the media is lifting off the belt, increase the fan speed. If the media advance seems impeded by the vacuum, decrease the fan speed.

Feed Method — Rollfed (with optional supply and takeup system installed) or Cut Sheet.

Visible to Printer — if Yes, the media sensor and image sensor will be used. If No, the media sensor and image sensor will not be used (with clear films, for example).

Use Rollers — sets whether the Input and Output media rollers are used (yes) or not used (no) with the Flat Media setting. When set to Yes, the rollers will move up or down as needed to be just above the surface of the media. When set to No, the rollers will move to their highest point and remain there.

Weight — sets the media belt drive motor and media advance amount to handle Light (up to 22 kg (50 lb)) or Heavy (22-113 kg (50-250 lb)) media.

CAUTION: The input and output tables are rated at a maximum load of 68.0 kg (150 lb). Do not exceed this maximum load.

For custom media types, this screen enables you to adjust the settings for each print mode and color set combination.

Print Mode — select the print mode whose settings you want to change.

Color Set — select the color set whose settings you want to change.

Change Print Mode Specific Settings — press this button to change the UV Lamps settings and Printing Delay for the print mode and color set you selected. A higher lamp setting increases ink curing power, important at high speeds and for older lamps that are losing their intensity; a lower setting for newer lamps extends their life.

Closing the shutter on the trailing lamp blocks the UV light from the lamp, which allows the drop of jetted ink to spread out more before it is cured, resulting in a glossier look to the print. The color profile used must take this into account for accurate color matching.

A longer printing delay helps dissipate heat from heat-sensitive substrates, while a shorter delay speeds printing throughput.

The printer includes a set of standard input (2) and output (1) tables for rigid media handling. These tables are assembled, installed and leveled when the printer is installed. The tables are designed to be used only when the tabletop is in the horizontal position and latched to the printer. The latches are needed for safety, print quality, and to provide a ground path to discharge electrostatic charge from synthetic media.

The tabletop can be pivoted to a near-vertical position to save space during storage. After detaching the tables from the printer, release the tabletop latches by pulling the release cable under the tabletop. To return the tabletop to its operating position, pivot the table top down and press down firmly to engage the latches.

Optional extension tables are also available as an accessory. When properly assembled and attached to the ends of the standard tables, the extension tables enable safe and reliable handling of large media sheets. During use, the extension tables must be latched to the standard tables for safety, print quality, and electrostatic discharge.

CAUTION: The standard and accessory extension tables are intended for use only when attached to the printer as described. When not in use, the tables should be stored with the table tops folded in the storage position. Use caution when operating the table tops and moving the tables, to avoid personal injury or damage to property.

NOTE: If the accessory tables were properly leveled when they were installed, they should not have to be leveled again. If sheet-fed media feed problems occur, make sure the accessory tables are securely latched to the standard tables, and verify that the tables are level. Use the built-in spirit levels or a separate level. Check level over the fixed support assembly first, then over the folding support, and adjust the table wheels up or down as necessary.

1. If the rigid media tables are not already installed, position the input and output tables at each end of the media drive belt, and engage the attachment latches to the printer. Make sure that the pivoting table tops are securely latched in the operating position. NOTE: If you have the optional roll-fed media accessory installed, remove the foam press rollers. The foam press rollers are not used with rigid media.

2. At the end of the Configure Media process, press Yes on the control panel OR from the Home page screen, press Load Media. Before you can load, you must configure the media.

3. On the control panel menu, press one of the following media rollers options, then press Proceed:

Flat Media – if the rollers were set to “Yes” in the media configuration, the rollers will move up or down as needed to be just above the surface of the media. If the rollers were set to “No”, the rollers will remain at their highest point and will not be used. In either case, the full imageable length of the sheet is available for printing.

Warped Media, Hold Down — when a sheet is loaded, the leading edge is advanced so that it is underneath the output roller. Printing is allowed only until the trailing edge of the sheet has reached the input roller. The imageable area of the sheet is reduced by 65.4 cm (25.8 in) from both the leading and trailing edges.

Short Media — enables printing on sheets that are not long enough to reach the output roller and thickness sensor at the same time. The media length can be less than 33 cm (13 in) but at least 11 cm (4 in).

NOTE: The media rollers are lowered to just above the media with minimal force or pressure. They are designed to hold down lighter weight media with moderate warping. They may have no effect on heavier, badly warped media. For best results, use the flattest available media.

4. On the control panel, enter the approximate or exact thickness of the media you are loading, then press Proceed.

5. Load the sheet of media onto the input table, sliding it forward against the media alignment bar (under the printhead carriage rail), then left along the media alignment bar until the media touches the leftmost alignment pin.

6. Press Sheet Ready on the control panel, or Cancel to cancel the media load process. TIP: Before you press Sheet Ready, you can press Turn On Lamps on the control panel to initiate their warm-up cycle while you complete subsequent steps. This enables printing to begin sooner. You can also change the head height at this time.

7. Select the media length from the list, or enter a length manually, then press Proceed.

8. Enter the number of sheets:

Single sheet

N-UP — for two or more sheets loaded at once across the width of the printer

The printer measures the media, and the control panel displays a summary screen.

9. Press Proceed, and press Proceed again to confirm that the media has loaded. The Media page appears.

10. Send a print job from the RIP or print a Stored Job from the printer. For multiple copy jobs ejected to the output side, the control panel will prompt for the next sheet shortly before the previous sheet finishes printing. Load the subsequent sheet against the media alignment bar, and press Sheet Ready. The printer prints on the next sheet using the same options.

The on-carriage camera is used to locate the position of each sheet as part of the load process. To specify load options:

1. On the Printing page, press Options.

2. From the Options menu, press Measure Media.

The Measure Media Frequency menu appears:

Measure only on first load — only the first row is measured, and those measurements are used for all subsequent rows. Use the alignment pins to locate the sheets in subsequent rows. This speeds throughput by eliminating the measurement step for each row.

Measure on all loads — each sheet in every row of sheets will be measured, and reported to the server. This aids in accurate placement of edge-to-edge images. In this mode, use of the alignment pins is unnecessary.

Don’t measure media — does not measure the sheets, for fastest throughput. Use only if there are wide margins on all four sides, or for transparent media, which the printer cannot detect. Use the alignment pins to locate the sheets.

3. Press a Measure Media option.

When you select a Measure Media option (from Measure Media Frequency), the Measure Media Type menu appears. This enables you to select a trade-off between image placement accuracy and throughput:

Minimal — measures the media width once, locates leading edge near the user side on subsequent loads.

Standard — measures the media width once, estimates skew by locating the leading edge near the user and service sides on subsequent loads.

One Edge — on first load, measures both edges; on subsequent loads, measures the left edge only.

Maximal — on every load, measures the media width at two points to estimate skew, finds the leading edge near the user side.

If the print job has wide margins, you can increase throughput with Minimal or One Edge. For edge-to-edge printing, increase accuracy by selecting Standard or Maximal.

After selecting a Measure Media Type option, press it. A message may appear reminding you to load the same number of sheets with every N-UP group. Press Proceed to dismiss this message and return to the printer options menu.

After printing is complete, you can reload a sheet of the same media type and dimensions without reconfiguring the media using Quick Load or Load. NOTE: This option is available if you select Measure only on first load from the Measure Media Frequency menu.

1. Press Load on the Home Page screen. The control panel displays a menu with Quick Load and Load options.

To load a sheet of media with the same media type and dimensions as the previous job, press Quick Load.

To load a sheet of media with the same media type and dimensions but different flatness, thickness, or number of N-UP sheets, press Load. The control panel allows you to respecify these options.

2. Place the media onto the media drive belt, push it flush against the media alignment bar, then left along the media alignment bar until it touches the leftmost alignment pin. At this point, the control panel allows adjustment of vacuum fans and head height.

3. Press Sheet Ready on the control panel.

The printer is ready for the next job from the RIP or Stored Jobs.

Multi-sheet N-UP allows printing a multiple-copy job on multiple sheets across the belt and in multiple rows until the job is complete. Use the built-in media alignment pins for quick positioning.

Align the left side of each sheet with one of the pins, leaving a small space from the right edge to the next pin for sheet dimension variations. Alternatively, position pins with zero clearance, but ensure pins are raised over the sheet thickness before each print to avoid skewing.

NOTE: When printing N-UP on media undetectable by the sensor (black, dark, reflective, clear), sheets in each row must be spaced equally.

To print N-UP, load multiple sheets, send a print job from the RIP with a quantity greater than or equal to the loaded sheets. The printer prompts for more sheets until the specified copies are printed. Stored Jobs can also be printed as N-UP.

Works best with wide margins, but edge-to-edge is possible by matching image and media dimensions. Margins are defined by the RIP. Image position is horizontal (left-right) as defined on the Printing screen (Options button).

You can print any number of copies in a multi-sheet N-UP job, even if the total number doesn’t divide evenly by the number of sheets per row. Only the last row may have a different number of sheets. For example, in a twenty-sheet job fitting three sheets per row, you might print six rows of three sheets, plus one row of two sheets (6×3=18, 1×2=2, 18+2=20). If the last row is partial, load the sheets from the user end toward the service end.

If the optional roll-fed media supply and takeup system is installed, you can print on roll-fed media. The general path involves feeding the media from the supply spindle (1), over the foam lift roller (2) (bypassing the foam press roller (3) initially), onto the belt up to the input media roller (4), under the output media roller (5), under the first dancer bar (6), over the second dancer bar (7), and onto the takeup spindle (8).

1. If installed, detach the rigid media input and output tables and set them aside.

2. Install the takeup spindle and empty cardboard core (8).

3. Load the media centered onto the supply spindle (1). NOTE: Wear gloves to prevent fingerprints.

4. Load the supply spindle onto the supply system bracket, centered. Print on either side by loading the spindle so media spools off the bottom or top.

5. Configure the media as explained in ‘Configure media’. At the end, press Proceed. OR If already configured, press Load from the Home page. NOTE: Enter the correct media thickness. The printer detects sheet-fed thickness only under the sensor. For roll-fed, use manufacturer’s spec or a caliper.

6. The control panel displays a graphic prompting removal of the foam press roller. Raise the foam press roller (3) to the upper position, then press Proceed.

7. Pull media from the roll, over the foam lift roller (2) (roller 3 should not be in position yet) and lay it on the belt up to the input media roller (4). Press Proceed. TIP: For heavier, less flexible stock (e.g., photobase papers), feeding underneath both foam rollers (2 and 3) may prevent feed errors.

8. On the control panel, press the upper (forward) Advance Media arrow to advance media with vacuum fans on. Hold media down until vacuum grabs it.

9. Advance media until it hangs on the exit side down to the takeup roller (8). Do not tape yet.

10. On the control panel, press Turn Off Fans.

11. Hold the upper (forward) Advance Media button down for about five seconds to smooth wrinkles and equalize tension. Since fans are off, media shouldn’t advance. If it moves, hold media with right hand while pressing Advance Media with left hand.

12. Place the foam press roller (3) into operating position. Press Proceed.

13. On the control panel, press Turn On Fans.

14. Lower the input (4) and output media rollers (5) to their operating positions.

15. Check for wrinkles across the full length and width of the belt. If seen, turn off fans and smooth wrinkles by hand.

16. Align the cardboard takeup core to the media and tighten stops to lock the core in place.

17. Lift the first dancer bar (6) (with gears) and lock in the upper position.

18. Pull media under the first dancer bar (6), over the second dancer bar (7), and down to the printer side of the takeup roller (8).

19. Looking down the takeup roller from the user end, ensure media wraps clockwise as shown in the diagram (8).

20. Tape the end of the media to the printer side of the takeup roller, starting in the middle and working out. Maintain even tension.

21. Release the dancer bar locking lever.

22. Press Proceed.

23. On the Select Thickness Units screen, press the option corresponding to your units.

24. Enter the media length or press Cancel for an undefined length. The printer measures media width.

25. On the Front Page screen, press Proceed. The Front Page screen appears.

For roll-fed media, you can choose between two levels of precision for finding the left (user end) and right (service end) edges:

1. On the Printing page, press Options.

2. From the Options menu, press Measure Media.

The Measure Media Frequency menu appears:

When loading — locates the left and right edges only when loading a roll of media.

Before each copy — locates the left and right edges of the media before each print. This enables the printer to compensate for any “drifting” of the media and print the image at the correct location.

3. Press a Measure Media Type option (Note: This step seems mislabeled in the PDF, likely meant Measure Media Frequency option). The Options menu reappears.

NOTE: UV inks have a limited shelf life. Check the Warranty Ends date on the ink box label when ordering, rotating inventory, and planning jobs. Printing after this date may result in substandard quality.

The amount of ink is tracked by software and recorded on its profiler. The control panel displays ink levels. When low, replace the ink box with a full one of the same color and replace the profiler.

NOTE: Wear gloves (latex or nitrile) and have a paper towel handy for potential drips during connection.

1. Remove the profiler.

2. Lift the box out of its holder and turn it upside down so the ink tube points up.

3. Grasp the metal connector where the ink tube enters the printer and push it up to release the supply tube.

4. Remove and dispose of the ink box (refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet for proper disposal).

1. Open the new ink box and locate the supply connector.

2. Locate and remove the profiler from the empty box (if applicable) and set it aside until step 5.

3. NOTE: Pigments can settle. To reduce inaccurate color, invert and vigorously shake the ink box for at least one minute before installing.

Shake, invert and install the ink box into position in the holder, so the ink supply tube is at the bottom.

4. Insert the ink tube connector into the metal connector on the printer. The position for each color is shown on a label below each box and next to the profiler docking station. White ink has a split “Y” line connecting to two ports (Light Cyan/White and Light Magenta/White).

5. Install the profiler in the corresponding docking station slot.

NOTE: Printing with white ink requires installing the optional White Ink Upgrade Kit and performing a white ink conversion.

You can order the following ink supplies:

Cartridge	Part number
HP FB250 3L Cyan Scitex Ink Cartridge	CH216A
HP FB250 3L Magenta Scitex Ink Cartridge	CH217A
HP FB250 3L Yellow Scitex Ink Cartridge	CH218A
HP FB250 3L Black Scitex Ink Cartridge	CH219A
HP FB250 3L Light Cyan Scitex Ink Cartridge	CH220A
HP FB250 3L Light Magenta Scitex Ink Cartridge	CH221A
HP FB251 2L White Scitex Ink Cartridge	CQ123A

You can order the following cleaning supplies:

Printhead flush	Part number
HP UV Printhead Flush	CH122A

Select a print mode at the external RIP. Refer to RIP documentation. Stored jobs can be printed in the original mode or another mode with the same resolution. Higher quality modes are for closer viewing, faster modes for longer distances. Speeds are for six colors, four colors, or four colors plus white spot. White flood fills print at ~45% of other color modes. NOTE: White ink requires the optional White Ink Upgrade Kit and conversion.

FB500 print modes and maximum print speeds

	Print mode	Maximum speed, CMYKcm, CMYK, CMYK+W	Maximum speed, white flood
1	Max DPI — Saturated: for printing on backlit media) Viewing distance: less than 1 m (3 ft)	4.4 sqm/h 47 (sqft/h)	2.4 sqm/h 26 sqft/h
2	Photo Plus: near offset quality Viewing distance: less than 1 m (3 ft)	4.4 sqm/h 47 (sqft/h)	n/a
3	Photo: photo gloss Viewing distance: less than 1 m (3 ft)	8.6 sqm/h 93 (sqft/h)	3.6 sqm/h 39 sqft/h
4	Indoor Signage Plus: higher quality point-of-purchase (POP) Viewing distance: 1-2 m (3-6 ft)	11.1 sqm/h 120 (sqft/h)	4.4 sqm/h 48 sqft/h
5	Indoor Signage: standard point-of-purchase (POP) Viewing distance: 1-2 m (3-6 ft)	16.4 sqm/h 177 (sqft/h)	7.0 sqm/h 75 sqft/h
6	Outdoor Signage Plus: medium viewing distance signage Viewing distance: 2-3 m (6-10 ft)	21.3 sqm/h 229 (sqft/h)	7.9 sqm/h 85 sqft/h
7	Outdoor Signage: longer distance viewing signage (not available for white ink jobs) Viewing distance: 3-5 m (10-16 ft)	29.6 sqm/h 319 (sqft/h)	n/a
8	Express: very long distance viewing (not available for white ink jobs) Viewing distance: greater than 5 m (16 ft)	37.0 sqm/h 398 (sqft/h)	n/a

Select a print mode at the external RIP. Refer to RIP documentation. Stored jobs can be printed in the original mode or another mode with the same resolution. Higher quality modes are for closer viewing, faster modes for longer distances. Speeds are for six colors, four colors, or four colors plus white spot. White flood fills print at ~45% of other color modes. NOTE: White ink requires the optional White Ink Upgrade Kit and conversion.

FB700 print modes and maximum print speeds

	Print mode	Maximum speed, CMYKcm, CMYK, CMYK+W	Maximum speed, white flood
1	Max DPI — Saturated: for printing on backlit media) Viewing distance: less than 1 m (3 ft)	5.0 sqm/h 55 sqft/h	2.7 sqm/h 29 sqft/h
2	Photo Plus: near offset quality Viewing distance: less than 1 m (3 ft)	5.0 sqm/h 54 sqft/h	n/a
3	Photo: photo gloss Viewing distance: less than 1 m (3 ft)	9.9 sqm/h 107 sqft/h	4.1 sqm/h 44 sqft/h
4	Indoor Signage Plus: higher quality point-of-purchase (POP) Viewing distance: 1-2 m (3-6 ft)	12.8 sqm/h 138 sqft/h	5.1 sqm/h 55 sqft/h
5	Indoor Signage: standard point-of-purchase (POP) Viewing distance: 1-2 m (3-6 ft)	18.8 sqm/h 202 sqft/h	7.9 sqm/h 85 sqft/h
6	Outdoor Signage Plus: medium viewing distance signage Viewing distance: 2-3 m (6-10 ft)	24.3 sqm/h 261 sqft/h	9.0 sqm/h 97 sqft/h
7	Outdoor Signage: longer distance viewing signage (not available for white ink jobs) Viewing distance: 3-5 m (10-16 ft)	34.0 sqm/h 366 sqft/h	n/a
8	Express: very long distance viewing (not available for white ink jobs) Viewing distance: greater than 5 m (16 ft)	42.2 sqm/h 455 sqft/h	n/a
9	Billboard: Billboards, far away (not available for white ink jobs) Viewing distance: far away	80 sqm/h 861 sqft/h	n/a

When sending a print job, you can automatically save it to the printer’s hard drive on a rotating first-in-first-out (FIFO) basis. You can “lock” a job to prevent rotation, reducing space for subsequent jobs. You can also save a job without printing it initially, or print without saving.

The printer stores up to twenty-four sheet-fed or roll-fed jobs, retained even when power is cycled. When storage capacity is reached, subsequent jobs print but aren’t stored.

If a job is too large, it’s discarded after printing. If a complete job is received from the RIP and then canceled, it still appears in Stored Jobs.

Stored Jobs can be viewed and managed from the control panel.

To print or manage Stored Jobs, press Jobs on the Home or Printing page. This page shows thumbnail images of jobs. Locked jobs (protected from automatic deletion) have a padlock icon.

From this screen, you can:

Press Max Sizes to view the total image area storable at each resolution/color set combination.

Press History to view a log of stored jobs activity.

Press Settings to specify how jobs are stored and printed (Print & Save, Save Only, Print Only). This setting is saved even after restart.

Press 2-Sided to set up two-sided printing using Stored Jobs. Select jobs for front and back. After printing side one (ejected to input side), you’ll be prompted to flip and reload for side two (ejected to output side).

To view properties or print a Stored Job, press its thumbnail image. From the properties screen:

Press Load & Print to print. Enter the number of copies. For multiple sheets, each copy prints separately; prompts appear for additional sheets. Print in any mode using the original job’s resolution.

Press Margin Settings to adjust right, left, leading, or trailing margins (applies to sheet-fed and roll-fed).

Press Print Mode to change the print mode (only to modes with the same resolution as the original RIPped job). To print at a different resolution, resend from the RIP.

Press Delete to delete the job.

Press the Lock/Unlock button appropriately. Locking prevents deletion but uses memory.

TIP: To print on a different media type or after re-linearizing, resend the job from the RIP for best color, don’t reprint the Stored Job.

The printer checks if loaded media matches the stored job’s media type. If different, a warning appears. Choose not to print, or ignore and print anyway (may cause color shift).

TIP: While a job is spooling (being received and saved), you can switch UV lamps on/off without waiting for the entire job to spool.

The Position/Eject option (Printer Options menu) controls image positioning and automatic sheet ejection for sheet-fed media. Selecting Auto Eject Off saves media by combining smaller jobs onto one sheet.

Position options — For jobs narrower than the media, control image position: flush left, flush right, centered, or nested.

Eject options — Control whether media ejects after each job to the output side, input side, or not automatically (Auto Eject Off).

Nested output — When Eject is Auto Eject Off and Position is Nested, jobs nest onto the media until all jobs print or no more room is available.

CAUTION: Synthetic media can build up static charge, especially in low humidity, posing an ESD hazard. Discharge safely using a grounded chain/tinsel over the media or wiping with 90% isopropyl alcohol (dry 5 min before printing). Relative humidity of 40%-60% greatly reduces static problems.

Rigid cut-sheet media — use only flat, unwarped, undamaged sheets with parallel opposite edges and 90° corners. Use smooth-surfaced media for optimal quality; porous media lacks fine detail.

Curing continues for 24-48 hours — UV ink cures further post-printing. Maximum durability/adhesion is achieved when fully cured.

If printing on the media drive belt, clean ink off ASAP. Longer dwell time makes removal harder. Moisten ink with isopropyl alcohol, let stand few minutes, wipe with paper towel. Carefully remove flaked ink.

To avoid printing on the belt with edge-to-edge (0 margin) jobs, affix dark masking tape where media sides will be. Replace tape periodically as ink accumulates.

Do not adjust printhead vacuum level; it’s factory-adjusted.

Lighter, smaller media rolls — use rigid media tables and rollers to feed like rigid media.

Printing on reflective media reflects UV light onto printheads, potentially curing ink and clogging jets. To minimize:

Do not keep reflective media loaded when not in use.

Perform a manual purge after printing on reflective media.

Visually inspect printheads (service door) for ink buildup/curing. If observed, clean printheads.

To load reflective media, set General Media Setting “Visible to Printer” to Visible.

Margins for jobs from Onyx RIP cannot be set from the RIP. Adjust margins once job is stored on printer, or add white space to document before sending.

To reduce artifacts on Corrugated Plastic (Coroplast) or Polystyrene (Sintra), try a custom media type with lamps set to Low, Low. Note: this may reduce print gloss.

With the optional white ink upgrade, you replace light magenta and light cyan inks with white ink, resulting in four colors (CMYK) plus white. This allows various printing techniques. Printing may require special image preparation or RIP setup; refer to application/RIP documentation.

White ink printing is an option deliverable with a new printer or as a field upgrade. If delivered new, it’s pre-installed. Field upgrades are installable by service tech or customer operator. The option has two parts (see kit instructions for details):

White ink option upgrade — a one-time process upgrading the printer to be white-ink capable.

White ink conversion — replaces existing light cyan/magenta inks with white ink.

Refer to White Ink Upgrade Kit Installation Instructions (HP part number CQ114–90006) included with the accessory kit.

White ink enables design effects otherwise impossible, especially on dark, colored, metallic, or clear media. Three basic techniques exist:

Under-fill — A solid white area is printed and cured, then a color image is printed on top. Used on non-white, transparent, or reflective surfaces, it improves color saturation or visibility of colors similar to the media.

Over-fill — A color image is printed and cured, then a solid white area is printed on top. Often used on clear media for light box signs (e.g., mall maps, airport ads, bus stop signs). When viewed from the opposite side, the image must be reversed (mirrored) in the RIP/application software before printing.

Spot color — Any white shape (including text) cured with and in the same plane as other artwork, not a separate layer. Conventionally called a “knockout,” as colors aren’t overprinted.

NOTE: Printing CMYK/CMYKcm without white under-fill on non-white media may reduce color saturation, depending on media color.

HP White Ink Homogenizer — Wide-format white inks have pigments prone to settling. The option includes a vibrating base keeping pigments suspended without operator intervention.

Printhead — Automatic servicing (purging/wiping) must be supplemented with manual printhead cleaning for optimal quality.

Shelf life — White ink has a maximum six-month shelf life from manufacture date. Replace white ink after the Warranty Ends date on the box.

The touch-screen control panel shows the printer’s current status and allows interaction to respond to errors and configure options. It’s organized into pages of related functions, switchable via the Activity Tray icons at the bottom. It provides online user assistance: help, interactive procedures, scheduled cleaning reminders, and diagnostics.

The Home page displays when the printer first powers on. To switch back from another page, press the Home icon in the Activity Tray. It shows:

Ready icon (1): Printer is ready. Warnings may be present, but printing can proceed.

Media detection status (2): Indicates if media is detected (white/light-colored only). Clear/reflective requires manual width entry.

Network status (3): Indicates connection to local area network.

Ink levels (4): Current level for each color.

Printer status (5): Ready status, error messages, Media name, UV Lamp status/intensity.

Jobs button (6): Accesses Stored Jobs feature.

Sleep/Wake button (7): Enters/exits Sleep mode.

Configure/Load/Eject buttons (8): Context-dependent buttons for media actions.

Activity Tray (9): Icons to switch between pages (Home, Printing, Media, Ink, System).

Attention icon (10): Displays when an Action message requires attention before printing.

View Attentions button (11): Press to view Warning or Action messages.

Ink levels (4): Shows current ink level per color.

Printer status (5): Indicates readiness and lists errors.

Media: Name of currently configured media.

UV Lamps: Lamp intensity levels during printing. Icons show status: black=off, yellow=on, blinking=warming up.

Jobs (6): Displays Stored Jobs feature.

Sleep/Wake mode (7): Sleep unloads media, powers down UV lamps, ionizer, printheads, carriage, ink pumps, drive motors, but maintains vacuum. Service station fans continue. Wake powers up components. Auto-sleep after user-defined idle time, auto-wakes on job receipt or panel operation. NOTE: Vacuum loss causes ink seepage onto service station. Use the 24V auxiliary supply connected to a UPS to prevent leakage during power outages (only vacuum system needs UPS).

Configure, Load, Eject buttons (8): Appear depending on media configuration/load status.

Activity Tray (9): Icons to switch control panel pages.

Attention icon (10): Blinks when an Action message needs addressing before printing.

View Attentions (11): Press to view Warning/Action messages.

The printer issues Attention messages for conditions needing attention. Three types exist:

Actions — An error that stopped printing or prevents starting. Correct the error before printing resumes. Icon blinks yellow/red when new; turns solid red after reading.

Warnings — A condition that, if unaddressed, could cause substandard prints or require action before continuing. Action is optional. Icon blinks yellow/red when new; turns into Ready icon after reading unless an Action is present.

Errors — Detailed error info for tech support. Doesn’t halt printing, requires no user action.

When a message occurs, press View Attentions on Home page to see a list. Select a title for a detailed cause/recovery screen. Messages dismiss by correcting the condition or pressing the applicable button on the Detail screen.

Switch to the Printing page via the Printing icon in the Activity Tray. It shows:

Status messages (1):

Stored Jobs status: Current mode (print/save, print only, save only), number stored, number locked.

UV Lamps status.

Jobs button (2): Displays Stored Jobs feature.

Options button (3): Displays Printer Options menu.

Calibrate button (4): Displays Calibrate Printer menu.

Turn On/Off Lamps button (5): Manually switches UV curing lamps.

Print Position and Eject Settings — Controls job positioning on sheet-fed media and ejection:

Position: Flush left (user side), flush right, centered, or nested (if Auto Eject Off) for images narrower than media.

Eject: Choose ejection to output/input side after job, or disable auto eject.

Space Between Prints (roll-fed) — Sets blank space between jobs (0–25 cm / 0-10 in).

Measure Media (sheet-fed) — Choose precision for finding left/right/front edges. First, select frequency:

Measure only on first load: Measure once after configuration; fastest for less precise needs or using alignment pins.

Measure on all loads: Best for precise placement (N-UP, edge-to-edge).

Don’t measure media: Fastest for imprecise needs with wide margins.

After selecting frequency, select measurement type:

Minimal: Measures width once, finds front right edge; no skew detection.

Standard: Measures width once, finds front edge in two places to estimate skew.

One Edge: (Only if Measure on all loads selected) Measures user/service edges on first sheet, user edge only subsequently, finds front right edge (no skew). Single-sheet jobs only, not N-UP. Best for wide margins.

Maximal: Measures width in two places to estimate skew.

For roll-fed media, you can choose precision for finding left (user end) and right (service end) edges:

When loading — locates left/right edges only when loading a roll.

Before each copy — locates left/right edges before each print, compensating for media “drifting” for correct image location.

Sets whether to use the ionizer bar to reduce static on synthetic media (default: on/enabled). Disable in humid environments without static, or to reduce wear on discharge electrodes. Ionizer bar powers on only during media load, printing, and when lamps are on.

Sets whether to use the automatic media thickness sensor, or prompt for manual entry.

Automatically raises the rail to set printhead clearance from media at the specified height. Lower height reduces overspray but increases head strike risk. Bidi calibration adjusts automatically for changes.

Provides the option to advance media past unprinted space in a document file without the usual carriage motion. Printer cures printed areas before skipping. Increases effective speed (throughput).

Allows turning On/Off gutter data at the top edge of the print. Gutter shows job name, ink, media, date/time printed, print mode, lamp setting, printer/software version, plus write-in blanks.

When enabled, prevents printing if more than a certain number of missing/misfiring jets aren’t replaced by working jets. Specify if printer asks via Warning message whether to stop, or stops automatically without warning.

Use when ink is no longer fully curing. Incrementally increases lamp power. If power needs increasing again, create a custom media and set UV Lamp Power to Medium/High, or replace bulbs (in pairs). Printer warns that print may not fully cure until bulbs replaced. (Access via Printing Page > Options > Increase UV Lamp Power).

Switch via Media icon in Activity Tray. Shows:

Media information (1): Name, size, print area, printable length.

Media Wizard button (2): Displays Media Wizard.

Settings button (3): Adjusts media handling/printing settings.

Configure button (4): Configures printer for a media type.

Eject Sheet buttons (5) (sheet fed): Ejects sheet to input/output side.

Media advance buttons (6): Advances media forward/backward.

Advance to cut button (7) (roll fed): Advances media far enough for cutting from supply roll.

Load/Unload button (8): Loads/unloads currently configured media, depending on status.

Sheet Ready button (9): When sheet is in load position, continues load process.

Display by pressing Settings on Media page.

General Media Settings: Media Name, Media Feed Method, Visible to Printer, Vacuum Control, Media Roller Use, Media Weight.

Print Speed Specific Settings: Printing Delay, Lamp Mode.

Switch via Ink icon in Activity Tray. Shows:

Ink levels and status (1): Remaining ink (bar graph, numerical), ink capacity, ink status.

Check Jet Health button (2): Fires all jets, prints test pattern for inspection, useful after idle periods.

Purge button (3): Purges printheads to recover missing jets (all colors or combination, Standard/Performance purge). Can print prime bars pattern after purge to check recovery.

Maintenance button (4): Displays Maintenance menu.

Check Jet Health — prints test pattern showing working/non-working jets.

Perform An Air Purge — purges printheads with air to clear clogs. Select heads, Standard/Performance purge (Performance more effective, uses more ink).

Access Printheads — moves carriage to center rail for inspection.

Print Recover Jets Pattern — prints special pattern to recover missing jets; prime bars print afterwards.

Printhead Procedures:

Load Ink in All Heads: Fills all printheads. Typically only for new printer install.

Fill Heads with Ink: Fills selected printheads.

Empty Heads (Fill With Air): Fills selected printheads with air.

Ink Filter Counts — View ink volume passed through each filter. Filters eventually clog and need replacement (service tech resets counts).

Purge Type — Sets purge type for Purge button (Home Page): Standard or Performance (more effective, uses more ink).

Low Ink Warning — Defines remaining ink level that triggers “low ink” message.

Set Auto Purge & Wipe Interval — Set number of prints after which printer auto-purges/wipes. Keeps jets working during extended unattended roll-fed printing (e.g., overnight).

Idle Spit While Printing (white ink only) — Choose if white ink spits into service station during non-white area printing. Default “off” (most white jobs are flood fills needing no idle spitting).

Upgrade Printer For White Ink Use — Displayed before white ink upgrade installed. Enables upgrade install (follow kit instructions).

Change Color Set — Displayed after white ink upgrade installed. Converts printer between six-color and four-color plus white.

Switch via System icon in Activity Tray. Shows:

About screen (1):

Printer model

Embedded software (firmware) version

IP address: Enter in RIP to send jobs, or web browser for Embedded Web Server.

Tools button (2): Displays Tools menu.

Settings button (3): Enables options, adjusts warning timers.

Language Selection button (4): Switches control panel language.

System Information button (5): Displays status pages for diagnostics/support.

License button (6): Displays software license agreement.

Maintenance Reminders — displays list of scheduled tasks, print hour intervals, elapsed print time since last performed.

Interactive troubleshooting program diagnoses problems before calling support. Walks through tests/checks, asks for observations, suggests corrective actions. Sections include:

Carriage Motion

Rail Motion

Calibration

Verify H2H Y Alignment

Print Quality

Service Station

Vacuum Pressure

Hard Drive

LVDS

Printhead Jet Statistics

Warnings and Actions List — table of all actions/warnings with cause/recovery.

Error History — list of errors since last power up.

Log Error History — writes all error messages since service start to log file (downloadable via Embedded Web Server).

Log System Info — writes general system events (head motion failures, purges) to log file (downloadable via Embedded Web Server). Alternatively, print/mail/fax log (System page > Tools > Service Printer > Print Info Pages).

Primarily for factory, service, technical support use. You can save troubleshooting data for tech support (System page > Tools > Service Printer > Save Troubleshooting Data to File). Access file via HP Embedded Web Server (Get Printer Events Files > InfoSettingsFile.txt), open in browser, save for reference/transmission.

Localization — sets English/Metric units, Time/Date formats, Vacuum Pressure Units, Language.

Sleep Wait Time — sets idle period before entering Sleep mode.

UV Lamps Idle Time — sets time lamps stay on after printing before auto-off (1-15 min). Increase for multiple jobs (avoid warmup), decrease for single jobs.

Attention Sorting — sort attention messages by Severity or Chronologically.

Auto Maintenance Time — defines time of day for automatic maintenance. NOTE: Verify correct local date/time set, or maintenance may occur unexpectedly.

Expert/Novice Messages — Novice mode displays all prompts/instructions. Expert mode shows streamlined subset for faster throughput. Default Novice.

Printer Name — displays keypad to change printer name shown on control panel.

Network — Choose DHCP or manually configure static IP. (System page > Settings > Network). Static IP is easier for bookmarking Embedded Web Server (address won’t change on restart/DHCP lease end). Current IP shown on System page.

Restore All Defaults — restores all Printer Configuration settings to factory defaults. Printhead calibration values NOT reset.

When to run	Calibration	Function
When loading a new media (but not when loading a new roll or sheet of the same media)	Linearization (see RIP documentation for instructions).	Linearization of colors for accurate color matching.
Horizontal Banding	Media Feed	Calibrates the media advance.
Poor output quality (apparent misregistration of colors, banding)	Auto Calibrations	Calibrates droplet position relative to each other, corrects non-operating jets. Manual Calibrations also possible if needed.
When printheads have been moved or replaced (by an authorized service provider)	Auto Bidirectional or Manual Bidirectional, and Head-to-Head	Head calibrations. Run Manual for transparent/undetectable media.
If Auto Calibrations do not improve print quality, or if printing on transparent or other media that cannot be detected by the printer	Manual Calibrations	Aligns printheads, allows mapping specific jets. Not normally needed except for “invisible” media.

AutoJet detects misfiring or non-firing individual inkjets. During subsequent printing, it compensates by using other jets, ensuring maximum print quality without reducing speed. You can also manually identify/map missing jets via Manual Calibrations (useful for weak/misdirected jets AutoJet might miss). Jet replacement is unavailable in Express mode.

Select AutoJet Calibration from the Auto Calibrations menu, OR

TIP: AutoJet doesn’t work with transparent/many translucent media. Run Manual Jet Mapping instead, or map jets on opaque media before loading transparent/translucent media.

1. Press Calibrate from the Printing page, then press Auto Calibrations > AutoJet Calibration.

2. The printer prints the AutoJet test pattern.

3. The printer reads the pattern and maps missing jets to available working jets.

To perform Auto Calibrations:

1. Press Calibrate from the Printing page, then press Auto Calibrations in the menu.

2. Select one of the Auto Calibrations options.

The types of Auto Calibrations are:

• AutoBiDi (bidirectional) Calibration: Ensures that every working jet fires at precisely the same location (regardless of the carriage direction of travel).

• Auto Head X (head-to-head) Calibration: Ensures that the printheads are in alignment relative to each other.

• AutoJet Calibration: Locates and substitutes missing jets for working jets (see AutoJet on page 45).

• Full AutoSet: Runs all three calibrations (AutoBiDi, Auto Head X, AutoJet) in sequence. The printer prints a test pattern then reads it and makes the necessary adjustments or jet substitutions.

• AutoSet Summary: When enabled, a table of the results of the Full AutoSet calibration is printed after the AutoSet test patterns. You can show or hide the detailed calibration data.

After completing the Full AutoSet calibrations, a report is printed that shows:

• Calibration results: A summary such as SUCCESSFUL CALIBRATION or an error message.

• Header: Shows the date and time, software version, and printer type.

• Calibration detail: The calibration data for each head. The AutoJet detail reports how many jets were mapped out by AutoJet, how many are permanently mapped out by the operator, and whether the head is usable (from a jetout standpoint) in the various print modes. Higher quality modes use jet replacement and can print successfully with more jets out than Billboard mode.

To perform Manual Calibrations:

1. Press Calibrate from the Printing page, then press Manual Calibrations in the menu.

2. Select one of the Manual Calibration options.

When you run calibrations from this menu, you evaluate the calibration test patterns visually and enter the calibration values via the control panel.

The Manual Calibration menu consists of these options:

• Media Feed Calibration: Calibrates the media advance accuracy for band-free printing. Visual and (for rigid media only) camera-assisted calibrations are available.

• Manual BiDi Registration: The manual version of AutoBiDi Calibration.

• Printhead X Calibration: The manual version of Auto Head X Calibration.

• Manual Jet Mapping: The manual version of AutoJet.

• Default Registration Data: Sets all registration data to zero.

NOTE: The manual BiDi and X head calibrations are time-consuming and can be error-prone, but are necessary when calibrating transparent media or other media that the printer’s digital image sensor cannot calibrate.

This calibration allows you to calibrate the accuracy of the media advance. Inaccurate media advance can result in blank spaces between print swaths (too much advance) or overlapping swaths (too little advance).

1. On the Manual Calibrations menu, press Media Feed.

2. Press the Yes button to proceed. The control panel displays the following options:

• 990 mm (39 in) calibration — sheet fed only, uses the printer’s onboard image sensor for precise adjustments. If the media feed needs larger adjustments, use the ruler-measured calibrations first. Use for maximum accuracy.

• 510 mm (20 in) calibration — sheet fed only, uses the printer’s onboard image sensor for precise adjustments. If the media feed needs larger adjustments, use the ruler-measured calibrations first. Use to conserve media.

• 900 mm (34 in) calibration — prints a 900 mm (34 in) test pattern so you can verify its length with an accurate metal ruler. Cut the pattern from the media web, then measure and adjust the media advance as needed until the pattern is exactly 900 mm (34 in) long.

• 250 mm (10 in) calibration — prints a 250 mm (10 in) test pattern so you can verify its length with an accurate metal ruler. This is not as precise as the 900 mm (34 in) calibration, but it uses less media. Measure and adjust the media advance as needed until the pattern is exactly 250 mm (10 in) long.

• The image-sensor based calibration (sheet-fed media only) prints a reference pattern, ejects the media, and prompts you to rotate and reload the media so the pattern can be measured. To account for slight variability, repeat these calibrations three to five times. The software allows positioning patterns anywhere on the sheet for multiple iterations.

• Input MFN — enter the Media Feed Number from a previous calibration to return to that setting without performing the calibration again.

TIP: For best results with ruler-measurement calibrations: Use a good-quality ruler with accurate marks in the same units as the pattern. Use a ruler at least as long as the pattern. Avoid adding up shorter measurements. To avoid ruler issues, use the image-sensor based calibration.

Bidirectional registration aligns printheads for accurate dot placement along the X axis (printhead travel direction). The pattern consists of vertical lines; half printed in one direction, half in the other. Aligned pixels make the pattern clear; misaligned dots make it fuzzy.

NOTE: AutoBiDi Calibration is the automatic version. Try AutoBiDi first.

1. Press Calibrate on the Printing page, then press Manual Calibrations in the menu.

2. Press Manual Bidi Registration to proceed.

3. The control panel asks: “Print a manual bidi registration page?”. Press Yes.

4. Use the control panel controls to position the pattern (approx. 20 cm/8 in from the edge for rigid media), then press Proceed. The printer prints the pattern and prompts you to advance the media.

5. Advance the media by pressing Move Belt Forward, then press Proceed.

6. Examine the BiDi Registration pattern for the current head (e.g., Head 1). Determine which pattern is closest to perfectly aligned. Use a printer’s loupe (10X or higher).

7. Press the ▲ or ▼ keys until the number next to the best-aligned pattern is displayed. For example, if pattern +2.0 is best, select +2. Press Proceed to change the display (e.g., Bidi registration Head 1: +2).

If extremely out of alignment, you might need to add or subtract 10 to shift the bars significantly, or repeat the BiDi Registration process multiple times for smaller increments.

8. Press the ▲ button to move to the next head.

9. Repeat steps 4 through 8 for each head.

When values are entered for all heads, the control panel displays “Registration Successful”.

This calibration registers all printheads to each other in the X direction (along the platen length) for precise ink drop positioning.

NOTE: This is the manual version of AutoH2H Calibration. Try the auto version first.

1. Press Calibrate from the Printing page, then press Manual Calibrations in the menu.

2. Press Printhead X Calibration in the menu.

3. The control panel asks if you want to print a manual head-to-head calibration page.

• If you need a new pattern, press Proceed. The printer prints the page. When done, it prompts: “Take readings from left side of pattern.”

• If you have a recent pattern, press Cancel and go to the next step. (Best results with a new pattern).

4. Press Proceed. The control panel displays the current head registration (e.g., X Direction Registration Head 2: +0).

5. Examine the X direction pattern (left-hand group) for the current head. Determine which pattern of colored and black lines is closest to perfectly aligned. Use a printer’s loupe or magnifying glass.

6. Press the ▲ or ▼ keys until the number next to the best-aligned pattern is displayed. For example, if pattern -1 is best, press ▼ to change the display to “X Direction Registration Head 2: -1”.

If extremely out of alignment, you might need to add or subtract 5 to shift the bars significantly, or repeat the X calibration multiple times for smaller increments.

7. Press Proceed. The control panel increments the head number.

8. Repeat steps 5 through 7 for each head.

When values are entered for all patterns, the control panel displays “Registration successful.”

Manual Jet Mapping allows you to map out missing, misfiring, weak, or misdirected jets that the AutoJet calibration might not substitute.

TIP: AutoJet is the automatic version. Try AutoJet first. For best results, print prime bars and purge printheads first.

1. Press Calibrate from the Printing page, then press Manual Calibrations in the menu.

2. Press Manual Jet Mapping in the menu.

3. The control panel asks: “Print Jet Map?”.

• If you need a new pattern, press Proceed. The printer prints a jet map test pattern.

• If you have a recent pattern, press Cancel and go to the next step.

4. Examine the jet map. If a line segment is missing or broken, the jet number next to it is out. Code letters provide more info:

• R – no replacement

• S – user disqualified “soft” jetout

• H – user disqualified “hard” jetout

• D – disqualified (and replaced) by AutoJet

5. When the pattern has printed (or if you pressed Cancel), the control panel displays options:

• Report individual soft bad jets: Report a “soft” bad jet (temporarily out). Can be automatically reenabled by AutoJet if it recovers.

• Report individual hard bad jets: Report a “hard” bad jet (permanently out). Will not be checked or reenabled by AutoJet.

• Clear individual bad jets: Mark a previously reported bad jet as good.

• View current bad jets: List the bad jets on a given printhead.

• Clear all bad jets for a head: Mark all currently marked bad jets on a selected head as good.

• Clear all bad jets: Mark all currently marked bad jets on all heads as good.

6. Select an option and follow the corresponding procedure.

1. Select either “Report individual soft bad jets” or “Report individual hard bad jets” from the Manual Jet Mapping menu.

2. The control panel prompts for the head number (e.g., “Head 1: Press Proceed to report a bad jet.”). Press ▲ and ▼ to select the head number, then press Proceed (►).

3. A numeric keyboard appears. Enter the number of the bad jet, then press Enter.

4. Repeat step 3 to enter more bad jets for the same head.

5. When finished entering jet numbers for that head, press Cancel.

6. The head selection message appears again. Press ▲ and ▼ to select the next head number containing bad jets you want to report, then press Proceed (►).

7. Repeat steps 3 through 6 for each head containing bad jets you want to report.

8. When finished reporting all bad jets, press Cancel from the head selection message.

9. The control panel displays the previous menu.

1. Select “Clear Individual Bad Jets” from the Manual Jet Mapping menu.

2. The control panel prompts for the head number (e.g., “Head 1: Press Proceed ►) to clear a bad jet.”). Press ▲ and ▼ to select the head number, then press Proceed (►).

3. A numeric keyboard appears. Enter the number of the bad jet you want to clear (mark as good), then press Enter.

4. Repeat step 3 to clear more bad jets for the same head.

5. When finished entering jet numbers for that head, press Cancel.

6. The head selection message appears again. Press ▲ and ▼ to select the next head number containing bad jets you want to clear, then press Proceed (►).

7. Repeat steps 3 through 6 for each head containing bad jets you want to clear.

8. When finished clearing all desired bad jets, press Cancel from the head selection message.

9. The control panel displays the previous menu.

1. Select “View Current Bad Jets” from the Manual Jet Mapping menu.

2. The control panel prompts for the head number (e.g., “Head 1: Press Proceed to view bad jets.”). Press ▲ and ▼ to select the head number, then press Proceed (►).

3. The control panel displays a message listing the bad jets by number for the selected head.

4. Press Proceed (►) to return to the head selection screen.

5. Repeat steps 2 through 4 for each head you want to check.

6. When finished viewing bad jets, press Cancel from the head selection message.

7. The control panel displays the previous menu.

1. Select “Clear All Bad Jets for a Head” from the Manual Jet Mapping menu.

2. The control panel prompts for the head number (e.g., “Head 1: Press Proceed to clear all bad jets.”). Press ▲ and ▼ to select the head number, then press ► (Proceed).

3. The control panel asks you to confirm your selection. Press ►.

4. The control panel asks whether to clear hard bad jets as well as soft bad jets.

• Press ► to clear both hard and soft jets.

• Press X to clear the soft jets only.

5. The control panel reports the number of jets cleared on the selected printhead.

6. Press ►.

7. The head selection screen appears.

8. Repeat steps 2 through 7 for any other printhead, or press ‘n’ (Cancel/Back button likely) to return to the menu.

1. Select “Clear All Bad Jets” from the Manual Jet Mapping menu.

2. The control panel prompts: “Are you sure you want to clear ALL reported bad jets?”.

• Press Cancel to cancel.

• Press Proceed.

3. The control panel asks: “Do you want to clear the hard bad jets?”.

• Press No to clear soft bad jets only.

• Press Yes to clear both hard and soft jets.

4. The control panel displays: “All reported bad jets have been cleared.”

5. Press Proceed (►).

6. A summary appears showing the number of jets cleared (e.g., “x soft jets currently reported bad. x hard jets currently reported bad… x previous soft bad jets cleared. x previous hard bad jets cleared.”).

This option allows you to reset bidi registration, head-to-head registration, jet mapping data, or any combination thereof. After running this option, the deleted calibration values must be reestablished by running the corresponding calibrations again.

The Unfixed Jets Report displays a table showing, for each print mode, which colors are printing with non-working inkjets that are not being automatically replaced by AutoJet mapping (“unfixed” inkjets). “No” means there are no unfixed jets for that color/print mode combination, while “Yes” means there are unfixed jets.

Linearization (or color calibration) is the process of ensuring the printer accurately reproduces image density variations (highlights to shadows, lighter to darker tints) in a predictable, linear fashion. It involves printing and reading color test patches and calibrating the printer so expected and printed densities match. This helps ensure optimal color matching. Color calibration is typically a feature of the RIP connected to the printer; refer to the RIP documentation for details.

The following accessories can be ordered:

Name	Product number
HP Scitex FB500 White Ink Upgrade Kit	CQ118A
HP FB251 2L White Scitex Ink Cartridge	CQ123A
HP Scitex FB500/950 Printer Cleaning Kit	CQ121A
HP Scitex FB500 Extension Tables	CQ117A
HP Scitex FB500 Roll-to-Roll Upgrade Kit	CQ116A
HP UV Replacement Bulb	CH231A

For more information about the cleaning kit, see User cleaning information.

Follow the cleaning schedule or clean as needed based on usage and environment. The printer displays maintenance reminders. You can view service intervals and elapsed time via System Page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance > Maintenance Reminders.

The required parts and supplies may be purchased as a kit (HP product number CQ121A).

Schedule of cleaning tasks

Task and Frequency	Required supplies
Replace UV lamp bulb (500-1000 hours)	2 of HP UV Replacement Bulb Kit.
Clean the rail encoder strip (bi-weekly)	One lint-free cleaning cloth Cleaning fluid
Clean ionizer needles (quarterly)	Ionizer cleaning brush
Clean and lubricate rail strips (bi-weekly)	Oiled cloth kit 1-2 lint-free cleaning cloths Cleaning fluid
Clean the print head orifice plates (bi-weekly)	Three lint-free cleaning cloths One pair of gloves Cleaning fluid
Clean and lubricate the service station rails (monthly)	One grease pack One pair of gloves One cotton swab Cleaning fluid
Clean service station wiper (monthly)	One lint-free cleaning cloth One pair of gloves Cleaning fluid
Clean carriage wheels (monthly)	Two long-stick swabs Cleaning fluid
Vacuum bottom of carriage (monthly)	N/A
Clean the carriage home sensor (monthly)	Long stick swab Cleaning fluid
Replace the UV lamp filters (quarterly)	Lamp filter kit
Clean the electronics box filters (quarterly)	Vacuum cleaner
Replace the service station wiper (quarterly)	Wiper blade
Drain waste from service station (quarterly)	Waste ink container
Clean the media thickness sensor roller (quarterly)	One lint-free cleaning cloth Cleaning fluid

Yes. In areas like California with restrictions on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), alternative cleaning procedures are required. These supersede previous instructions.

Printers in these locations should NOT be cleaned using SolaChrome-UV Printhead Flush, HP UV Printhead Flush (HP product number CH122A), or isopropyl alcohol (IPA) unless other VOC compliance measures are in place. Dispose of any remaining non-compliant flush according to regulations.

The compliant alternative cleaning liquid is: Methyl Acetate (CAS# 79-20-9), at least 98% pure, undiluted.

Follow these safety guidelines:

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as prescribed in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the cleaning liquid (safety goggles, chemical protective gloves, etc.). Refer to OSHA and NIOSH for more information.

• Only clean components originally designated for cleaning with Printhead Flush or IPA using the alternative liquid.

• Methyl Acetate is flammable; follow MSDS instructions for safe handling and storage. Comply with state/local agency or fire department requirements.

• Follow all health, safety, and environmental regulations. In California, Cal-OSHA administers relevant regulations.

• Minimize cleaning liquid use to avoid spills and contamination. Moisten cloths/swabs carefully, prevent dripping. Remove excess/residual liquid with a dry cloth to prevent printer damage or image quality issues.

• Dispose of waste according to applicable regulations.

NOTE: Throughout the cleaning procedures in the manual, users of printers in California must disregard references to Printhead Flush or IPA and use the specified alternative cleaning liquid (Methyl Acetate) instead.

UV lamp bulbs gradually dim. Replace them between 500-1000 hours of use. They are warranted for 500 hours, but starting at low power and increasing only when needed can extend life to 1000 hours. Replace both bulbs simultaneously for equal intensity. Order quantity 2 of HP product number CH231A (HP UV Replacement Bulb Kit).

The procedure involves:

1. Removing the lamp housings from the carriage

2. Removing the old lamp bulbs

3. Installing the new lamp bulbs

4. Re-installing the lamp housings

Remove the lamp housings:

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Replace UV Lamp Bulb or Bulbs.

2. Press Yes to proceed.

3. The printer positions the carriage. Select Both Lamps (recommended) or the specific lamp to change.

4. Press Proceed. This resets the lamp service hours counter. The panel prompts you to power down.

5. Turn off the printer’s power switch. Do NOT disconnect the main power cable (this maintains vacuum to prevent ink leaks).

6. Wait five minutes for capacitors to discharge.

7. Open the top cover.

8. Disconnect the auxiliary cable from the top of the user-end lamp.

Remove the user-end lamp housing:

1. Remove the lamp power cable from the side of the housing by turning the coupling counterclockwise.

2. Remove the four silver screws (two top, two bottom) securing the housing to the lower lamp assembly.

3. Lift the housing off the printer.

Remove the service-end lamp housing:

1. Disconnect the auxiliary cable from the top of the service-end lamp (similar location to user-end).

2. Remove the lamp power cable from the side (similar to user-end).

3. Remove the four silver screws securing the housing. One screw might require access through a hole in the ionizer bracket.

4. Lift the housing off the printer.

Remove the old UV lamp bulb:

NOTE: Wear cotton gloves to protect reflectors and bulbs from fingerprints.

1. Pull the spring-loaded clamp away from the side of the lamp reflector.

2. Loosen the two captive screws holding the reflectors together until the outer reflector can be removed. Do not fully remove screws; prevent them from falling into the housing. NOTE: Do not bend reflector tabs.

3. Push the lamp bulb slightly to one side (against the spring) and lift it out.

4. Dispose of mercury lamps according to local regulations or EIA guidelines (http://www.eiae.org).

Install the new UV lamp bulbs:

1. Insert the new bulb, pressing it to the left and then down into place.

2. Tighten the two reflector screws.

3. Install the spring-loaded clamp’s dowels back into the reflector.

4. Repeat for the other lamp.

Re-install the lamp housings:

Re-install the user-end lamp housing:

1. Secure the housing using the original two lower silver screws. If difficult to fit, loosen the four screws on the lamp base. If still difficult, gently squeeze the side of the lamp base to bend it inward slightly (about 0.8 mm / 0.031 in).

2. If you loosened the four base screws in step 1, tighten them now.

3. Install the two upper screws securing the housing to the carriage cover.

4. Connect the auxiliary cable to the top of the lamp.

5. Connect the lamp power cable to the side of the housing.

Re-install the service-end lamp housing:

1. Secure the housing using the original two lower silver screws.

2. Install the two upper (output-side) screws.

3. Connect the auxiliary cable to the top of the lamp.

4. Connect the lamp power cable to the side of the lamp.

5. Power up the printer.

Ink dust and debris can block accurate reading by the carriage encoder reader.

NOTE: California users must use Methyl Acetate instead of IPA/Printhead Flush.

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Clean Rail Encoder Strip.

2. Press Proceed. The printer raises the rail and lowers the output roller.

3. Using a lint-free cloth moistened with the appropriate cleaning fluid (IPA or Methyl Acetate), wipe the top of the encoder strip along its entire length. Move the carriage as needed to access the full strip.

4. After cleaning the entire strip, press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter and complete the procedure.

Ink dust and debris on ionizer needles reduce static elimination performance.

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Clean Ionizer Needles.

2. Press Proceed. The printer moves the rail for access.

3. If installed, move the output table(s) away.

4. Open the output door.

5. Using the supplied brush, clean the ionizer needles located beneath the ionizer bar (between the input roller and alignment bar on the input side).

6. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter. The printer returns the rail/carriage home.

Accumulated dust/debris causes friction for carriage wheels, potentially causing output anomalies.

NOTE: California users must use Methyl Acetate instead of IPA/Printhead Flush for cleaning steps.

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Clean and Lube Rail Strips.

2. Press Proceed. The printer raises the rail and output roller.

3. Using a lint-free cloth and appropriate cleaning fluid, clean the top carriage-wheel strip end-to-end (move carriage as needed).

4. Using the included oiled rag, lubricate the top carriage-wheel strip end-to-end. Reuse rags until no clear surface remains (replace quarterly). Clean weekly or more often in dusty environments.

CAUTION: Do not add extra oil. Cloths have a thin film. Too much oil causes friction.

5. Lubricate behind the top area of the rail where wheels contact.

6. Using a lint-free cloth and appropriate cleaning fluid, clean the lower carriage-wheel strip end-to-end.

7. Lubricate the lower carriage-wheel strip end-to-end.

NOTE: Discard oiled cloths quarterly even if they appear clean to prevent sticky oil.

8. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

NOTE: California users must use Methyl Acetate instead of IPA/Printhead Flush.

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Clean Print Head Orifice Plates.

2. Press Proceed.

3. Open the service door (above service station).

CAUTION: Wear protective gloves (e.g., latex) to avoid ink stains.

CAUTION: Wear safety glasses to protect eyes from ink/flush splash.

4. Fully saturate a lint-free cloth with the appropriate cleaning fluid.

5. For each printhead pair, press a clean portion of the saturated cloth with two fingers (one per head) and draw the cloth across the printheads toward you.

NOTE: Use a clean area of the fully saturated cloth for each wipe to avoid pushing debris into orifices.

6. Using a lint-free cloth saturated with head flush, clean the bottom of the pen plate (metal plate around printheads).

7. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

8. From the control panel, select Ink page > Purge.

9. When purge completes, select Ink page > Check Jet Health.

10. Examine prime bars. If missing jets, repeat steps 5 through 10.

Keeps wiper motion smooth for best cleaning performance.

NOTE: California users must use Methyl Acetate instead of IPA/Printhead Flush for cleaning steps.

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Clean/Lube Service Station Rails.

2. Press Proceed.

3. Open the service door on the output side.

4. Using a cloth moistened with appropriate cleaning fluid, wipe ink/debris from the top of the service station.

5. Using a lint-free cloth, clean both wiper rails (both sides of wiper carriage). Clean exposed rails on all sides, moving the wiper carriage to access the full length.

6. As prompted, close the access door, press Proceed. Wait for wiper carriage to move.

7. Open the access door.

8. Apply a dab of supplied grease onto a cotton swab.

9. Apply grease to both rails, ensuring coverage on top, bottom, and sides.

10. As prompted, close the access door, press Proceed. The printer resets the counter and moves the wiper back and forth to spread lubricant.

Ink clumps can clog printhead jets if not cleaned off the wiper blades.

NOTE: California users must use Methyl Acetate instead of IPA/Printhead Flush.

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Clean service station wiper.

2. Press Proceed.

3. Wear gloves (e.g., latex).

4. Using a lint-free cloth saturated with appropriate cleaning fluid (NOT IPA for California users), wipe both sides of the rubber wiper.

5. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

Dust/debris accumulation causes friction and potential output anomalies. There are five wheels to clean.

NOTE: California users must use Methyl Acetate instead of IPA/Printhead Flush.

1. From the control panel: System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance > Clean Carriage Wheels.

2. Press Proceed. The rail and output roller raise. Move the carriage to a convenient position.

3. Clean the top service-end wheel: Place an appropriately moistened cotton swab against the side of the wheel and move the carriage back and forth about 10 cm (4 in).

4. Clean the top user-end wheel similarly.

5. Clean the top slanted wheels: Insert a moistened cotton swab into the opening above the wheels and move the carriage back and forth.

6. Clean the lower carriage wheel: Move the carriage over the service station. Access the lower wheel through the service door. Place a moistened cotton swab next to the wheel and move the carriage back and forth.

7. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

This routine uses the printer’s internal vacuum to remove ink/debris from around printheads where the wiper doesn’t reach, reducing the chance of debris clogging jets.

1. From the printer’s menu, select System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Vacuum Bottom of Carriage.

2. Press Proceed to continue.

3. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter and begin the procedure.

4. When the procedure completes, clean the service station wipers as described in the “Clean service station wiper (monthly)” procedure.

5. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter for the vacuum task and complete the procedure.

Ink dust/debris in the optical sensor slits can cause errors. The sensor is on the user-end of the carriage.

NOTE: California users must use Methyl Acetate instead of IPA/Printhead Flush.

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Clean Carriage Home Sensor.

2. Press Proceed. The printer raises the rail and lowers the output roller.

3. Open the output-side door (disables carriage servo for manual movement).

4. Pull the carriage out from the end of the rail for better access.

5. Locate the home sensor.

6. Locate the upper and lower slits of the optical sensor.

7. Using a long cotton swab saturated in appropriate cleaning fluid, clean the top and bottom slits by inserting the swab from the input-side of the sensor (NOT the user-end).

CAUTION: Insert swab from input side moving toward output side to avoid pushing debris into slits. Do not wipe across slits.

8. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

Clogged filters can cause lamps to overheat, reducing bulb life and potentially stopping prints.

1. From the printer’s menu, select System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Replace UV Lamp Filters.

2. Press Proceed. The printer centers the carriage.

3. Remove the original air filters from both carriage lamps.

4. Install the new air filters by inserting the corner tabs under the corner slots on top of the lamps.

5. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

Clogged filters can cause electronics to overheat, leading to performance errors. There are two intake fans: one near the power switch (input side/user-end), another under the chassis near the power cord attachment (user-end).

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Clean Electronics Box Filters.

2. Press Proceed.

3. Vacuum dust/debris from the front of the fan on the input-side (behind user-end enclosure). Rotate the chassis wheel out of the way if necessary.

4. Vacuum the filter located under the chassis near the power cord attachment point, removing dust from the surrounding area.

5. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

Deteriorated wiper blades reduce cleaning performance. Replace periodically according to the schedule.

NOTE: Replacement schedule is designed to avoid needing wiper-height calibration between replacements. If wipers aren’t contacting printheads adequately, contact service for calibration.

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Replace Service Station Wiper.

2. Press Proceed.

3. Open the service door.

4. Move the printhead carriage away from the service station.

5. Remove the screw securing the wiper clamp to the wiper assembly.

6. Separate the two wiper clamp halves and remove the old wiper blade.

7. Install the replacement wiper blade in the correct orientation.

8. Secure the wiper blade clamp to the assembly using the original screw.

9. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

Dispose of collected ink according to local regulations.

1. Place the waste ink container (included) beneath the waste ink spigot (under media drive belt, service end).

2. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Drain Waste from Service Station.

3. Press Proceed.

4. Turn the spigot to the open position.

5. After ink has drained, turn the spigot back to the closed position.

CAUTION: Spigot must remain closed during printing and service station use. An open spigot degrades vacuum level and service station performance.

6. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

Debris on the roller (located on carriage rail, user end) can cause inaccurate measurements.

NOTE: California users must use Methyl Acetate instead of IPA/Printhead Flush.

1. From the control panel (System page > Tools > User Cleaning and Maintenance), select Clean Media Thickness Sensor Roller.

2. Press Proceed.

3. Using a lint-free cloth saturated with appropriate cleaning fluid, clean the roller by manually turning it with your finger while applying the cloth.

4. Press Proceed to reset the maintenance counter.

HP Scitex UV pigment ink supplies

Printheads	2 heads per color: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, Light Cyan, Light Magenta. White ink option replaces Light Cyan and Light Magenta with White.
Ink cartridges	Cartridges containing 3 liters of ink: Cyan (CH216A), Magenta (CH217A), Yellow (CH218A), Black (CH219A), Light Cyan (CH220A), Light Magenta (CH221A). Cartridges containing 2 liters of ink: White (CQ123A)

Media sizes

	Minimum	Maximum (FB500)	Maximum (FB700)
Media thickness	0.127 mm (0.005 in)	64 mm (2.5 in)	64 mm (2.5 in)
Sheet size with standard input/output tables	Width: 15 cm (6 in)	Length: 1.2 m (48 in) Width: 1.6 m (64 in)	Length: 1.2 m (48 in) Width: 2.5 m (98 in)
Sheet size with standard tables & optional extension tables	Length: 10 cm (4 in) Width: 15 cm (6 in)	Length: 3 m (120 in) Width: 1.6 m (64 in)	Length: 3 m (120 in) Width: 2.5 m (98 in)
Maximum sheet-fed media weight	N/A	68 kg (150 lb)	68 kg (150 lb)
Sheet flatness	Perfectly flat	+/- 0.5 mm (0.02 in)	+/- 0.5 mm (0.02 in)
Roll width	15 cm (6 in)	164 cm (64.5 in)	250 cm (98.4 cm)
Roll diameter	N/A	23 cm on 7.6 cm core (9 in diameter on 3 in core)	23 cm on 7.6 cm core (9 in diameter on 3 in core)
Roll weight	N/A	82 kg (180 lb)	82 kg (180 lb)

Functional specifications

Print resolutions	RIP supports print modes including 1200×600, 600×600 and 600×300 dpi
Minimum Margins	Set by the RIP, can be set to 0 (edge-to-edge) on rigid and roll-fed media
Technology	UV curable inkjet
UV energy source	Dual shuttered UV lamps
Ink drop	Variable size
Printheads	12
Cleaning solution	HP UV Printhead Flush, 1-liter bottle Within California: Methyl Acetate (CAS# 79-20-9).

Dimensions and weights

	FB500	FB700
Printer dimensions (assembled)	Height: 153 cm (60 in) Width: 325 cm (128 in) Depth: 141 cm (56 in) Depth with opt. roll-to-roll: 161 cm (63.4 in)	Height: 153 cm (60 in) Width: 412 cm (162 in) Depth: 141 cm (56 in) Depth with opt. roll-to-roll: 161 cm (63.4 in)
Input table dimensions	Height: 102 cm (40 in) Width: 175 cm (69 in) Depth: 52 cm (21 in) Height (folded): 113 cm (44 in) Depth (folded): 39 cm (17 in)	Height: 102 cm (40 in) Width: 262 cm (103 in) Depth: 52 cm (21 in) Height (folded): 117 cm (46 in) Depth (folded): 39 cm (17 in)
Output table dimensions	Height: 102 cm (40 in) Width: 175 cm (69 in) Depth: 89 cm (35 in) Height (folded): 132 cm (52 in) Depth (folded): 39 cm (17 in)	Height: 102 cm (40 in) Width: 262 cm (103 in) Depth: 81 cm (32 in) Height (folded): 135 cm (53 in) Depth (folded): 39 cm (17 in)
Extension tables dimensions (each)	Height: 102 cm (40 in) Width: 175 cm (69 in) Depth: 165 cm (65 in) Height (folded): 180 cm (71 in) Depth (folded): 57 cm (23 in)	Height: 102 cm (40 in) Width: 262 cm (103 in) Depth: 89 cm (35 in) Height (folded): 135 cm (53 in) Depth: (folded): 57 cm (23 in)
Weights (assembled)	Printer: 720 kg (1586 lb) Input table: 32 kg (70 lb) Output table: 38 kg (83 lb) Extension tables (each): 59 kg (130 lb)	Printer: 814 kg (1905 lb)

Printer power specifications

Input voltage	200-240 VAC, single phase
Input frequency	50/60 Hz
Maximum load current	12 A
Required electrical circuit (North America/ Japan)	200–240 VAC, 20 Amps, 60 Hz, single phase, with NEMA L6-20R locking wall receptacle
Required electrical circuit (Europe)	230 VAC, 16 Amps, 50 Hz, single phase, with CEE 7/4 or CEE 7/7 wall receptacle
Required power cord	Use one of the following 4.5 m (14.8 ft) cords: • USA: HP part number 8120-6903 • Europe: HP part number 8120-6899 • Cord without connector (for customer-supplied connector): HP part number 8120-6895
Optional auxiliary power for ink system vacuum	Connect the supplied power cord (137 cm / 4.5 ft) from the auxiliary power connection to: • Wall outlet: 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz (provides temporary power when printer power is removed for service). • UPS: Customer-supplied, output 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, min 15 watts (provides battery backup during power failure). UPS connects to wall outlet.

Printer environmental specifications

Operating conditions	Temperature: 20-30° C (68-85°F) Relative Humidity: 20–80%, non-condensing (40-60% recommended to avoid static below 40% and media buckling over 60%.) Maximum operating altitude: 3000 m (10,000 ft)
Storage conditions	Temperature: -34-49° C (-30-120° F) Relative Humidity: 10–80%, non-condensing

Follow this troubleshooting checklist:

1. Does the printer’s power come ON?

• YES: Go to question 2.

• NO: Check the following:

• The power cable may not be plugged into an electrical outlet.

• If plugged into a surge protector, the protector may not be powered or switched on.

• The building circuit breaker may be switched off.

2. Did the start-up sequence end by displaying the Home Page screen?

• YES: Go to question 3.

• NO: There may be a hardware problem. Follow the diagnostic routine on the control panel. Note any error codes and call technical services as directed.

3. Can you send a file from the RIP to the printer?

• YES: Go to question 4.

• NO: Check network cables connection to the RIP computer, printer, and network switch/outlet. Check connections and try again.

4. Can you send (print or download) a document from a client computer to the server (RIP)?

• YES: Go to question 5.

• NO: Check the following:

• The client-to-network connection may be misconfigured. Contact your system administrator.

• The Ethernet cable between your computer/network and the RIP computer may not be securely connected at both ends.

5. Is the print quality good?

• YES: The problem is not covered here. Contact Technical Services.

• NO: Check the “What if print quality is not good?” question for potential issues.

Check the following potential issues:

• Banding or general poor image quality: Printheads may need calibration (BiDi, Head-to-Head, etc.). Inkjets might be clogged or not firing (perform purge/wipe, check jet health). Media advance may need recalibration (Media Feed Calibration).

• Inaccurate color or under-/over-saturated output: The wrong color profile might be selected in the RIP. Refer to RIP documentation.

• Inaccurate color or lack of detail: One or more inkjets may be clogged or not firing (check Ink page, perform purge/wipe).

Note: Keep the printer powered on if possible for automatic head maintenance. If off for extended periods, manual purging might be needed.

• Noisy carriage motion or repeating print artifacts: Clean and lubricate rail strips or clean carriage wheels. If wheels have flat spots from non-use, use the Carriage Motion Troubleshooter (Tools > User Diagnostics > Carriage Motion).

• Media buckling or media feed problems: Wrong media might be selected in Media Wizard. Media may not be loaded squarely. Reload media correctly.

• Head strike (printhead hitting media): Check media tracking from supply spindle (should be parallel to printer sides, no wrinkles/buckling). Reload if necessary. Check if the correct media is selected in Media Wizard.

CallMe@hp is a suite of tools for communication between you and your HP support organization. It uses a web interface for live chat, file exchange, and remote computer control to help support agents understand printer issues. It may be used at the request of your HP support representative or employed when direct communication between third-party support and HP is needed (only at HP’s request). Refer to the documentation CD-ROM for the CallMe@hp Network Security Guide and Getting Started with CallMe@hp.

First, contact your local HP Authorized Representative. If needed, contact HP directly:

NOTE: For up-to-date contact information, visit http://www.hp.com/go/graphicarts.

North America

Tel: 800 925 0563

Fax: 952 943 3695

E-mail: cs.custsup@hp.com

Europe, Middle East, and Africa

Tel: +32 2 7283444

Fax: +31 207157536

E-mail: LF.MV.Support@hp.com

Asia and Pacific

Tel: +852 8103 2666

Tel: 00 801 85 5945 (Taiwan only, toll-free)

Fax: +852 2187 2218

E-mail: hsap.carecenter@hp.com

Latin America

Please dial Option 2/Option 6 from the selection menu.

Argentina: 5411 470 816 00

Brasil: 52 55 5258-9922

Chile: 562 436-2610 / 800 360 999

Colombia: 571 602 9191 / 01 8000 51 4746 8368

Costa Rica: 0 800 011 0524

Dominican Republic: 1 800 711 2884

Guatemala: 1 800 999 5105

Honduras: 800 0 123 / 1 800 711 2884

Mexico: 52 55 5258-9922

Nicaragua: 1 800 0164 / 800 711 2884

Panama: 001 800 711 2884

Peru: 511 411 2443 / 0 800 10111

El Salvador: 800 6160

Venezuela: 58 212 278 8666 / 0 800 474 68368

CC LAR Nextel: (5255) 1088 0884; ID 52*20115*51

CC LAR e-Mail: carecenter.ipglf.lar@hp.com

CC LAR Fax: +52 55 5258 6377

Ensure the printer is in good working order:

• Properly installed by an HP-authorized technician in a suitable environment.

• Latest firmware installed.

• Hardware is working and properly maintained.

• Printheads are calibrated (bidirectional, head-to-head, X calibration).

• Media feed is calibrated for the specific media.

• Sufficient ink installed, within warranty date.

• UV lamp service hours are within 20% of each other (exchange or replace if significantly different).

• External RIP is installed, communicating, and operator is familiar with it.

• Avoid touching the media during printing.

Follow these guidelines:

• Use only clean, flat, and undamaged media.

• Maintain the specified environmental conditions (Relative Humidity 40-60% recommended).

• In low humidity (<40%), use static abatement measures for synthetic media (grounded tinsel, isopropyl wipes, antistatic spray).

• Select the correct Media Wizard settings matching your media (or a similar one). Prefer default validated settings if possible (not marked with *).

• Configure and load media correctly as described in the manual.

• Wipe down synthetic media with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) before printing to reduce static and remove fingerprints/dust.

Verify all inkjets are firing or substituted:

1. Load media, then press Check Jet Health on the control panel’s Ink page.

2. Run a Purge & Wipe: From the Ink page, press Purge.

3. Print the Check Jet Health pattern again.

4. Compare this print with the previous day’s (or most recent good) Prime Bars print:

• If comparable: Verify jet replacement status by pressing Check Jet Health (Ink page). If all jets work or are replaced, proceed to printer settings.

• If noticeably more broken/missing lines: Run AutoJet calibration (Printing page > Calibrate > Auto Calibrations > AutoJet Calibration). Then run Check Jet Health pattern once or twice until lines print or are replaced.

• If pattern doesn’t improve after 2-3 AutoJet attempts, or many adjacent jets are out: Manual Jet Mapping might be needed, printheads could be damaged, service station might need calibration, or service may be required. Contact your service representative.

Resolution is determined by the print mode selected in the RIP. There is no separate resolution setting on the printer itself.

• For most images: Use a 600×600 dpi print mode.

• For faster speeds where graininess is acceptable (e.g., drafts, long viewing distance): Use a 600×300 dpi print mode.

• For more saturated colors or printing on clear/backlit media: Use the Max DPI-Saturated mode.

Refer to the print modes table in the manual for specific mode details and speeds.

• In your RIP software, select the color profile that exactly matches the media name you are using, or one that most closely matches the material characteristics.

• For accurate color matching, perform a color calibration (linearization) in the RIP at least once for each media type you use.

Accurate color reproduction depends on several interacting factors:

• Installation and initial calibrations (Head height, Printheads Y, BiDi, Printhead X): Performed by an authorized technician.

• Ongoing maintenance: Regular cleaning prevents clogged or misfiring jets.

• Ink: Settling of pigments, expired ink (check Warranty Ends date), or a bad batch can affect color.

• Color sets and print modes: Using different color sets (six color, four color + white) and different print modes impacts color output.

• RIP issues: Linearization, color profiling methods, and settings like Grey Color Removal (GCR) in the RIP influence color.

• Profile matching: The color profile used by the RIP to create the print file must match the print mode selected on the printer for the job.

Correcting color reproduction errors may require adjustments in multiple areas.