Frequently Asked Questions

  • DTF

  • UV DTF

  • UV

  • Dye Sublimation

  • Software & ArcusLink

Why is white ink peeking out from the color layer?

An incorrect Step Adjustment setting typically causes this due to changes in film tension. Recalibrate the Step Adjustment to improve registration between the white and color layers.

Why does my white ink look muted, transparent, or show dye migration?

White ink particles naturally settle over time. Mix and recirculate the white ink to restore proper opacity. Also, verify that your white ink levels are configured correctly in your RIP software.

Why is my white ink banding or streaking?

Banding is usually caused by clogged or partially blocked nozzles. Perform a cleaning cycle, run a nozzle check, and clean the wiper, capping station, and underside of the print carriage.

Why are my prints blurry?

Blurry prints are commonly caused by bidirectional alignment issues. Perform a bidirectional adjustment and printer alignment to restore sharp print quality.

Why do light colors look grainy?

Light colors often appear grainy when the printer is out of alignment. Perform a complete printer alignment and verify that all nozzles are firing correctly.

Why are some ink channels not printing correctly?

This may be caused by clogged nozzles, incorrect software settings, or ArcusLink Spot settings being enabled. Run a nozzle test and verify your print mode settings.

Why is my shaker heater on, but the oven is not heating?

The oven safety switch may not be engaged.

Verify:

  • The oven door is fully closed
  • All safety latches are secured
  • The safety switch is being properly activated

If the safety switch is not engaged, the heating elements will not operate even though the shaker appears to be powered on.

Why is my film bubbling up on the platen?

Film bubbling can be caused by excessive platen vacuum, uneven pinch roller pressure, or static buildup. Adjust vacuum settings and verify the film is feeding evenly.

Why is the film bouncing on the dancer bar?

The dancer bar may not have enough counterweight or the film tension may be incorrect. Adjust the counterweight and verify proper film tension.

Why isn't my film staying flat or advancing smoothly?

Incorrect platen vacuum settings can prevent proper media movement and film tracking.

Try the following:

  • Adjust the platen vacuum level
  • Verify the film is feeding evenly across the platen
  • Check for excessive tension or drag in the film path

Proper vacuum settings help keep the film flat while allowing it to advance smoothly during printing.

Why is the film being pulled too quickly by the take-up system?

This is often caused by an improperly adjusted or dirty shaker sensor.

Check the following:

  • Shaker sensor alignment
  • Sensor tunnel cleanliness
  • Film tracking through the shaker

Cleaning and properly adjusting the sensor will usually restore normal film movement.

Why do my prints feel oily?

Oily or shiny prints are often under-cured. Increase oven temperature and verify the powder is fully melted and cured before pressing.

Why is my white ink dropping out?

A clogged or restricted white ink filter may be preventing proper ink flow. Inspect and replace the white ink filter if necessary.

How do I perform a head soak?

A head soak involves placing cleaning solution in the capping station and allowing the print head to sit for a period of time to dissolve dried ink. Follow your printer's maintenance procedure or contact Arcus Support for model-specific instructions.

How do I upgrade motherboard firmware on my DTF printer?

Firmware updates should only be performed using approved Arcus firmware files. Contact Arcus Support for the correct firmware package and installation procedure.

Why does my printer enter Moisturizing Mode?

Moisturizing Mode typically occurs when communication between the printer and computer is interrupted. Check USB or network connections, ensure ArcusLink is running, and disable computer sleep settings.

Why is magenta dropping ink or not cleaning properly?

Several maintenance items can cause this issue:

  • Wiper speed set too fast
  • Incorrect wiper position
  • Incorrect cap position

These settings may require adjustment through the Advanced Menu.

Why has the color of my prints changed?

Color shifts are typically caused by printer alignment issues, dirty or missing nozzles, or incorrect Digital Factory print mode selection. Start by performing a printer alignment and nozzle check.

Why doesn't my white choke setting change when adjusted?

This can occur when the ArcusLink Spot setting is enabled. Disable the Spot setting and test again.

Why isn't my shaker functioning properly?

If heating lamps, flappers, or other shaker functions stop working, inspect the shaker power supply.

Verify:

  • The power supply indicator light is illuminated
  • No visible damage exists on the power board

If the power supply appears damaged, contact Arcus Support.

Why is my film bubbling when advancing forward?

Possible causes include a vacuum set too high, excessive static on the platen, or incorrect film type. Lower the vacuum level and verify that you are using approved DTF film.

How do I properly thread film on a UV DTF printer?

Begin by loading the B Film first and then align the A Film and release liner according to the printer's film path. Proper threading ensures accurate registration and transfer performance.

Why does white ink not appear opaque?

White ink may have settled due to inactivity. Thoroughly mix the white ink and ensure proper circulation before printing.

Why doesn't the white choke setting change?

If ArcusLink Spot mode is enabled, it can override choke adjustments. Disable Spot mode and test the choke setting again.

Why are some colors not printing correctly?

Incorrect print modes, nozzle issues, or Spot settings may cause color problems. Verify nozzle performance and ensure the correct print mode is selected.

Why won't my printer respond when I send a print job?

Check ArcusLink communication, printer connection status, and X Margin settings. Incorrect margin settings can prevent jobs from processing.

Why does white ink appear weak or transparent?

White ink may need mixing or circulation. Verify white ink levels, perform maintenance cycles, and ensure the white ink system is operating properly.

How do I properly load film?

Follow the media loading procedure outlined in your printer manual, ensuring proper alignment and tension throughout the media path.

Why aren't my colors printing correctly?

Color issues may result from dirty nozzles, printer alignment problems, incorrect ICC profiles, or incorrect print mode settings. Perform maintenance and verify software settings.

What maintenance should I perform on my UV printer?

Regular maintenance includes:

  • Cleaning print heads and wiper assemblies
  • Cleaning capping stations
  • Mixing white ink
  • Checking ink filters
  • Inspecting media paths
  • Performing nozzle checks

How do I align and calibrate my UV printer?

Run the printer's alignment procedures, including bidirectional alignment and media calibration. Regular calibration helps maintain print accuracy and color consistency.

Why am I receiving an Ergosoft Print Client error?

The most common cause is an incorrect X Margin setting within ArcusLink. Verify the margin setting and ensure it matches your printer configuration.

Why is ink dripping from one color channel?

A failed damper or an air leak within the ink system may be causing excessive ink flow. Contact Arcus Support for diagnosis and replacement procedures.

Why won't the media feed forward or backward?

Corrupted firmware can prevent media movement. This can occur if the printer was powered off improperly. Contact Arcus Support for firmware recovery assistance.

Why are my colors printing incorrectly?

Color issues may be caused by incorrect color profiles, clogged nozzles, or alignment problems. Verify profiles and perform routine maintenance checks.

Why is my print quality inconsistent?

Inconsistent quality is often related to maintenance issues, clogged nozzles, media handling problems, or environmental conditions. Perform a nozzle test and inspect the printer thoroughly.

What is ArcusLink?

ArcusLink is the printer management software used to control printer functions, maintenance operations, and communication between the printer and RIP software.

How do I connect ArcusLink to my printer?

Ensure the printer is powered on, connected properly via USB or network connection, and recognized by ArcusLink. Verify all communication settings are configured correctly.

How do I change my print margin?

Open the Settings tab in ArcusLink and adjust the X Margin setting. Save the changes and resend the print job.

Why won't my printer send a print job?

Incorrect X Margin settings, communication issues, or ArcusLink not running can prevent print jobs from processing.

Why is my printer showing no response?

Verify that ArcusLink is active, the printer is connected properly, and communication between the printer and software has not been interrupted.

How do I reset the crash sensor?

Remove any physical obstruction, clear the warning message, and reset the sensor through ArcusLink if necessary. In some cases, the error window may be hidden behind the software interface.

Why is ArcusLink not communicating with my printer?

Check all cables, restart ArcusLink, verify the printer is powered on, and confirm that no sleep or power-saving settings have interrupted communication.