Homebrew PCBs

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Robert Hedan <robert.hedan@...>
wrote:
>
...
> I think it's possible to make a new backplate and relocate the printhead
> mechanism.  I'm planning on lifting it by about 3/16", that way I
should be
> able to easily accomodate a PCB chariot.  The chassis has at least 1/4"
> space at the rear.
> 
> I'm also planning on moving the rear upper rollers to the bottom
edge of the
> backplate, they apply way too much pressure.  The cleaning assembly can
> easily be lifted, that should not pose a problem.

Several different companies have just modded Epson (and a few other
brands) printers into flatbed printers. At least one is based on the
C84 or other C8x series. Some are done using the 2x00 series, 4x00
series, etc. I have an Epson 3000 in rather bad shape that I thought
I'd tear apart someday.

This poor guy sold it on eBay, ignored the shipping instructions
printed on the inside of the ink tank door. Shipped it unpurged and
with full tanks. Ink all over. Buyer sent it back, seller couldn't
figure out Epson's system of screws -and- snaps to get printer apart,
he kicked a hole in the case. Covered in ink, missing a few parts, I
got it for free so ripe for me to tear this thing apart.

One important caveat with pigmented inks: they will settle. If you are
using just refilled cartridges, you only have to shake them (gently)
before installing the first time, after that the head movement keeps
them mixed. But when using a bulk ink feed, or one of the Epsons with
bulk built-in (3000, 4000, 4800, 5000, etc) you should gently "swirl"
the tanks about once a month.

One of the commercial conversions using the Epson 4800 actually moves
the printer rather than the table.

Steve Greenfield