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Subject: Re: Epson R1800 - large format printer - useful for PCB Photoplotting - UV block

From: "Steve" <alienrelics@...>
Date: 2006-04-20

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "paul_carlos_murdock"
<paul_carlos_murdock@...> wrote:
>
> In reading through the group I have read in a few cases where it is
> best to get a Photo Printer to make use of the UV inks (and to print
> in yellow/cyan as opposed to black to get a truly opaque image).
>
> I have been researching the Epson R1800 printer and wonder if any of
> you have had success with this printer for printing on transparencies
> to be used to expose PCB artwork and sensitized PCB's.
>
> I currently have a Color LaserJet 5550dn and it has HORRIBLE black
> coverage and is not opaque at ALL!

You might check the forums at Screenprinters.net, as they do prints
for photo exposure of screens for Tshirt printing. Most seem to be
using inkjets.

A lot are just using stock Epson dye ink, many in older Epsons such as
the 1520 and 3000. PCB makers don't generally need 13 and 17 inch
wide, I mention those printers because the Epson 800 uses the same
printheads, and the 850 and 600 very similar heads.

In fact I think it is the Epson 9000 that uses an improved version of
the heads in the 1520 and 3000, and are backwards compatible. If I
ever have to replace the heads in a 3000, that's what I'm using.

I got the tip about using yellow/cyan as a better UV opaque than black
ink from Screenprinters.net.
http://www.screenprinters.net

Steve Greenfield