Printing a Self Test

Running the printer’s self test helps you determine whether the printer or the computer is causing the problem:

If the self test results are satisfactory, the printer is working properly and the problem is probably caused by your printer driver settings, application settings, computer, or interface cable. (Be sure to use a shielded interface cable.)

If the self test does not print properly, there is a problem with the printer. See Problems and Solutions for possible causes and solutions to the problem.

You can print the self test using either continuous paper or roll paper. See Printing on Continuous Paper or Roll paper holder for paper-loading instructions.

Caution:

You should use 6 inch wide continuous paper or 5 inch wide roll paper to run the self test; otherwise, the print head prints directly on the platen.

Follow these steps to perform a self test:

When using continuous paper, make sure paper is loaded, and the paper release lever is set to the correct position. Then turn off the printer.

Caution:

Whenever you turn off the printer, wait at least five seconds before turning it back on; otherwise you may damage the printer.

To run the test, turn on the printer while holding down the LF/FF button or Load/Eject button.

Self test is printed in Draft characters when the LF/FF button is held, or in LQ characters when the Load/Eject button is held.

After a few seconds, the printer loads the paper automatically and begins printing the self test. A series of characters is printed.

Note:

To temporarily stop the self test, press the Pause button. To resume the test, press the Pause button again.

To end the self test, press the Pause button to stop printing. If paper remains in the printer, press the Load/Eject button to eject the printed page. Then turn off the printer.

Caution:

Do not turn off the printer while it is printing the self test. Always press the Pause button to stop printing and the Load/Eject button to eject the printed page before you turn off the printer.