Operating Principles STYLUS 800 Service Manual
2.2.1 Printer Mechanism
The printer mechanism of this printer uses a drop-on-demand ink jet system similar to the system
used on all other Epson ink jet printers.
However, the printhead in this system is completely
redesigned to make it compact and highly reliable. The figure below shows the structure of the
printhead and ink supply system.
■ MLP
MLP is the abbreviation for Multi-Layer Piezoelectric element. When a drive pulse
(voltage) is applied, this element pushes the vibration plate, compressing the cavity
for ink injection from the nozzle.
■ Cavity
Ink supplied from the ink cartridge is stored in this space and is injected from the
nozzles when the vibration plate compresses this area.
■ Nozzles
These inject ink against the paper’s surface in response to the application of the
print signal. There are 48 individual nozzles making up this printhead.
Cartridge needle
\
Printhead driver board
I
Filter
Cavity set
(Multi-Layer
(Nozzle)
A7’Nozz’e
Nozzle plat
nk
Viblation
p
supply
Piezo)
f-”
,,,
.
.
.
f
‘
tank
Figure 2-2.
\
MLP
(Multi-byer
Piezo)
Structure of Printhead
-.
.
.
2-2
Rev. A