If your plotter printer’s printouts are beginning to fade and look splotchy or the monitor is sending out a signal, that’s probably a sign of low ink levels. Replacing the ink might seem like a messy, troublesome, and potentially hazardous job, but take heart. With some preparation, you can get the ink levels back up in no time and with little hassle. Here are five tips for changing the ink tank in your plotter printer.
Read the Manual
The surest way to do a good job changing the ink tank in your plotter printer is to familiarize yourself with the device via its manual. Don’t worry! Experts write manuals to be simple and easy to understand. Your manual probably contains outlines and bare-bones explanations about how to troubleshoot printer problems, including ink replacement. Usually, it can save you the time and money needed to hire an expert to look it over and make the switch. And if you lose the manual, it’s probably online, along with an explanatory video to walk you through the process.
Don’t Wear Fancy Clothes
More seriously, don’t wear anything too fancy while changing the ink. While you can fill most ink tanks without making too much of a mess, it’s still possible to get stray ink on your clothing and skin. Avoid the ink holes and any place where the tank joins with the printer. Handle ink tanks and replacement modules in an upright position. Try not to bump or otherwise disturb the printer as you replace the tank. This can cause a mess and affect print quality.
Ensure a Smooth Transition
When you remove the ink tanks, replace them as soon as possible. Leaving ink tanks uninstalled can lead to any ink left in the device drying out and clogging up the printer. This can make printouts look bad and may lead to damage in the printer’s inner workings. When you put aside the used tanks, seal them upright in plastic bags so that any remaining ink doesn’t spill out.
Agitate the New Tanks
Before you install the new tanks, don’t open the bags they came in right away. Shake the tanks in their bags left and right to agitate the inside and allow the toner to dislodge and even out. Failing to do so may lead to pale and spotty prints. To avoid spots and stains, you should never do this with the bags opened. Also, don’t agitate a used ink tank.
Be Careful Where You Put Your Hands
Generally, you should keep your hands and fingers away from the metal contacts or ink holes at the top of the tank. If you somehow get toner or ink on your hands, washi it off with a gentle soap or cleanser. It’ll stain, but it won’t last long. Avoid ingesting any amount of ink or toner too. That can cause severe nausea or worse.
Those are just five tips for changing the ink tank in your plotter printer. If you have other questions or are interested in purchasing one of our products, contact us today. We offer everything from xerographic bond paper to fine arts and photography printers.
