Epson Lq590 User Guide

							Troubleshooting41
Chapter 4
Troubleshooting
This chapter explains the error indicators and describes how to clear 
paper jams and print a self test. For more troubleshooting information, 
see your Reference Guide. If you cannot resolve the problem using the 
information in the manuals, see “Where To Get Help” on page 44.
Using the Error Indicators
Use the following table to diagnose printer errors.
Light status Beep
patternProblem
Solution
O Paper OutO Pause•••No paper is loaded in the selected paper source.
Load paper in the printer or select a different paper 
source; the Paper Out light goes off. Then press the 
Pause button; the Pause light goes off and the 
printer starts printing.
•••The paper is not loaded correctly.
Remove your paper and reload it correctly. See 
Chapter 2 or the Reference Guide.
O Pause•••The paper release lever is set to the wrong position.
Set the paper release lever to the position for the 
paper source you want to use. If paper from 
another paper source is currently in the paper path, 
press the Load/Eject button to eject the paper; 
then move the paper release lever to the desired 
position.
F Paper OutO Pause•••A single sheet of paper is not fully ejected.
Press the Load/Eject button to eject the sheet.
•••Continuous paper is not fed to the standby position.
Tear off printed page at the perforation; then press 
Load/Eject to feed paper to the standby position.
 •••Paper is jammed in the printer.
To clear the paper jam, see page 42. 
						

							42Troubleshooting
O = On,  F = Flashing
••• = Three beeps, ••••• = Five beeps
Clearing Paper Jams
1. Turn off the printer and open the printer cover.
2. If continuous paper is jammed in the printer, tear off the fresh 
supply at the perforation nearest the paper entry slot.
3. Turn the knob on the left side of the printer counterclockwise to 
remove the paper in the printer and any torn pieces of paper.
cCaution:
Use the knob on the left side of the printer to clear paper jams only 
when the printer is off. Otherwise, you may damage the printer or 
change the top-of-form or tear-off position.
4. If the paper is stuck where the printer ejects it, gently pull the paper 
out of the printer.
5. Close the printer cover and turn on the printer. Make sure the 
Paper Out light is not flashing and the Pause light is off.
F Pause — The print head is overheated.
Wait a few minutes; the printer resumes printing 
automatically once the print head cools.
F Paper Out 
F Pause
F
 F Tear Off/Bin
F F F Font light
F F F Pitch light •••••An unknown or serious printer error has occurred.
Turn off the printer and leave it off for several 
minutes; then turn on the printer again.  Light status Beep
patternProblem
Solution 
						

							Troubleshooting43
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 probably 
results from 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 the Reference Guide for possible causes and solutions to the problem.
You can print the self test using either single sheets or continuous paper 
of at least the following width:
1. Make sure paper is loaded and the printer is turned off.
2. To run the test using the Draft font, turn on the printer while 
holding down the 
LF/FF button. To run the test using the printer’s 
near letter-quality fonts, hold down the 
Load/Eject button while 
you turn on the printer. Either self test can help you determine the 
source of your printing problem; however, the draft self test prints 
faster than the near letter-quality test.
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.
3. 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.
cCaution:
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.
Paper type LQ-590 LQ-2090
Continuous paper (including 
perforated border)9.5 inches
(241 mm) 14.8 inches
(376 mm) 
Single sheet A4 or letter size A3 landscape 
						

							44Troubleshooting
Where To Get Help
If your Epson printer is not operating properly and you cannot solve the 
problem using the troubleshooting information, see the contact 
information below. Epson provides technical assistance 24 hours a day 
through the electronic support services and automated telephone 
services listed below.
To speak to a technical support representative, dial:
❏U.S.: (562) 276-4322, 6
AM to 6PM, Pacific Time, Monday through 
Friday. 
❏Canada: (905) 709-2170, 6
AM to 6PM, Pacific Time, Monday through 
Friday.
Toll or long distance charges may apply. Before you call, please have the 
following information ready:
❏Product name (Epson LQ-590 or LQ-2090)
❏Product serial number (located on the back of the printer)
❏Proof of purchase (such as a store receipt) and date of purchase
❏Computer configuration
❏Description of the problem
You can purchase ribbon cartridges, paper, manuals, and accessories 
from the Epson Store at (800) 873-7766, or visit www.epsonstore.com 
(U.S. sales only). In Canada, please call (800) 463-7766 for dealer referral.
Service Access
World Wide Web From the Internet, you can reach Epson Support at 
http://support.epson.com. At this site, you can download 
drivers and other files, look at product documentation, 
access troubleshooting information, and receive technical 
advice through e-mail.
Automated 
Telephone ServicesA variety of automated help services are available 24 hours 
a day, seven days a week. To use these services, you must 
have a touch tone telephone and call (800) 922-8911. Use 
one of the following Epson SoundAdvice
SM Express Codes 
to quickly select your printer in SoundAdvice: 70525 (for the 
LQ-590) or 70530 (for the LQ-2090). 
						

							Product Information45
Chapter 5
Product Information
Safety Instructions
Hot Parts Caution Symbol
Important Safety Instructions
Read all of these safety instructions before using the printer. In addition, follow 
all warnings and instructions marked on the printer itself.
❏Do not place the printer on an unstable surface or near a radiator or heat 
source.
❏Place the printer on a flat surface. It will not operate properly if it is tilted or 
placed at an angle.
❏Do not block or cover the slots and openings in the printer’s cabinet, and do 
not insert objects through the slots.
❏Use only the type of power source indicated on the printer’s label.
❏Connect all equipment to properly grounded electrical outlets. Avoid using 
outlets on the same circuit as photocopiers or air control systems that 
regularly switch on and off.
❏Do not use a damaged or frayed power cord.
❏If you use an extension cord with the printer, make sure the total ampere 
rating of all devices plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the 
cord’s ampere rating. Also, make sure the total ampere of all devices 
plugged into the electrical outlet does not exceed the electrical outlet’s 
ampere rating.
❏Unplug the printer before cleaning it, and always clean it with a damp cloth 
only.
❏Do not spill liquid onto the printer.
❏Except as specifically explained in the user documentation, do not attempt 
to service the printer yourself.
❏Unplug the printer and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under 
the following conditions: if the power cord or plug is damaged, if liquid has 
entered the printer, if the printer has been dropped or damaged, if it does 
not operate normally or exhibits a distinct change in performance. 
❏Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions.
K
This symbol is placed on the print head and other parts to indicate that 
they may be hot. Never touch those parts just after the printer has been 
used. Let them cool for a few minutes before touching them. 
						

							46Product Information
ENERGY STAR Compliance
FCC Compliance Statement for United States Users
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B 
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to 
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential 
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency 
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may 
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception. However, there is no 
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this 
equipment does cause interference to radio and television reception, which can 
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try 
to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures.
❏Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
❏Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
❏Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to 
which the receiver is connected.
❏Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
WARNING
The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment 
will invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference 
levels which exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment. It is the 
responsibility of the user to obtain and use a shielded equipment interface cable 
with this device. If this equipment has more than one interface connector, do not 
leave cables connected to unused interfaces.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could 
void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
For Canadian users
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interface 
Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le 
matériel brouileur du Canada.As an ENERGY STAR
® Partner, Epson has determined that 
this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy 
efficiency. The International ENERGY STAR Office 
Equipment program is a voluntary partnership with the 
computer and office equipment industry to promote the 
introduction of energy-efficient personal computers, 
monitors, printers, fax machines, copiers, and scanners in an 
effort to reduce air pollution caused by power generation. 
						

							Product Information47
Declaration of Conformity
According to 47CFR, Part 2 and 15 for Class B Personal Computers and 
Peripherals; and/or CPU Boards and Power Supplies used with Class B Personal 
Computers:
Declare under sole responsibility that the product identified herein, complies 
with 47CFR Part 2 and 15 of the FCC rules as a Class B digital device. Each 
product marketed is identical to the representative unit tested and found to be 
compliant with the standards. Records maintained continue to reflect the 
equipment being produced can be expected to be within the variation accepted, 
due to quantity production and testing on a statistical basis as required by 
47CFR §2.909. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device 
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any 
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
EPSON AMERICA, INC., LIMITED WARRANTY
What Is Covered: Epson America, Inc. (“Epson”) warrants to the first end user customer of 
the Epson product enclosed with this limited warranty statement that the product, if 
purchased and used in the United States or Canada, conforms to the manufacturer’s 
specifications and will be free from defects in workmanship and materials for a period of 
three years from the date of original purchase. Epson also warrants that the consumable 
ribbon enclosed with the product will perform to the manufacturer’s specified usage, which 
usage may expire before the expiration of the limited warranty for the Epson product.
What Epson Will Do To Correct Problems: Should your Epson product prove defective 
during the warranty period, please call the EPSON Connection
SM at (562) 276-4322 or 
(905) 709-2170 (Canada) for warranty repair instructions and return authorization, if 
required. Epson will, at its option, repair or replace on an exchange basis the defective unit, 
without charge for parts or labor. When warranty service involves the exchange of the 
product or of a part, the item replaced becomes Epson property. The exchanged product or 
part may be new or previously repaired to the Epson standard of quality. Exchange or 
replacement products or parts assume the remaining warranty period of the product covered 
by this limited warranty. For warranty service, you must provide proof of the date of original 
purchase.
We:
Located at:EPSON AMERICA, INC.
MS 3-13
3840 Kilroy Airport Way
Long Beach, CA 90806
Telephone: (562) 290-5254
Trade Name: EPSON
Type of Product: Dot Matrix Printer
Model: P363A/P363U (LQ-590 120 V/LQ-590 UPS)
P364A/P364U (LQ-2090 120 V/LQ-2090 UPS) 
						

							48Product Information
What This Warranty Does Not Cover: This warranty covers only normal consumer use in 
the United States and Canada. This warranty is not transferable and will not apply to products 
purchased from an end user. This warranty does not cover damage to the Epson printer 
caused by parts and supplies not manufactured, distributed or certified by Epson. This 
warranty does not cover ribbon or third party parts, components or peripheral devices added 
to the Epson product after its shipment from Epson, e.g., dealer-added boards or chips. Epson 
is not responsible for warranty service should the Epson label or logo or the rating label or 
serial number be removed or should the product fail to be properly maintained or fail to 
function properly as a result of misuse, abuse, improper installation, neglect, improper 
shipping, damage caused by disasters such as fire, flood, and lightning, improper electrical 
current, software problems, interaction with non-Epson products, or service other than by 
an Epson Authorized Servicer. Packaging, postage, insurance and shipping costs incurred in 
presenting your Epson product for warranty service are your responsibility. If a claimed 
defect cannot be identified or reproduced in service, you will be held responsible for costs 
incurred.
THE WARRANTY AND REMEDY PROVIDED ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU 
OF ALL OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED 
TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF NONINFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR 
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SOME LAWS DO NOT ALLOW THE 
EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES. IF THESE LAWS APPLY, THEN ALL EXPRESS 
AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED TO THE WARRANTY PERIOD IDENTIFIED 
ABOVE. UNLESS STATED HEREIN, ANY STATEMENTS OR REPRESENTATIONS MADE 
BY ANY OTHER PERSON OR FIRM ARE VOID. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN THIS 
WRITTEN WARRANTY, NEITHER EPSON AMERICA, INC., NOR ITS AFFILIATES 
SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS, INCONVENIENCE, OR DAMAGE, INCLUDING 
DIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, RESULTING FROM 
THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE EPSON PRODUCT, WHETHER RESULTING FROM 
BREACH OF WARRANTY OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY. IF THE REMEDY ABOVE 
FAILS, EPSON’S ENTIRE LIABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO A REFUND OF THE PRICE 
PAID FOR THE EPSON PRODUCT COVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY.
In Canada, warranties include both warranties and conditions.
Some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and some 
jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, 
so the above limitations and exclusions may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary 
from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
To locate an Authorized Epson Servicer near you, call the Epson Connection at (800) 922-8911 
in the United States. In Canada, call (800) 463-7766. Or write to:
Epson America, Inc., P. O. Box 93012
Long Beach, CA 90809-3012