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5-12 Set the Printhead and Camera Height
Set the Printhead and
Camera Height
The correct head height above the media is critical to output
quality.
◆ Lower head heights reduce overspray, increasing image
quality, but also increase the chance of the printheads strik-
ing the media. Printhead strikes are most likely with adhe-
sive-backed vinyls and rigid cut-sheet media that is not
perfectly flat.
◆ Higher head heights increase overspray, slightly decreasing
image quality, but also decrease the chance of printhead
strikes.
The correct camera (digital imaging sensor) height above the
media is critical so that its lens can focus accurately for optimal
linearization, printer calibrations, and print quality.
The printer includes three gauges: a “minimum” head height
gauge (0.085 inches above the media), a “maximum” head
height gauge (0.115 inches above the media), and a camera
height gauge.
If you change the head height above the media, use the camera
height gauge to reset the height of the camera. The camera is
attached to the carriage in a separate enclosure that can be raised
and lowered independently of the printheads.
For example, if you set the head height above a certain media
with the minimum gauge, then switch to a thicker media and
again set the head height with the minimum gauge, the camera
will remain at the correct height above the media without
adjustment. If you instead reset the head height with the maxi-
mum gauge, changing the head height above the media, then
you should reset the camera height.
To ensure good automatic printhead wiping, check the service
station height and recalibrate if necessary after changing the
printhead height (for instructions, see “Calibrate the Service Sta-
tion” on page 5-17).
Tip
If you notice an unacceptable change in color
quality after changing the head height, perform a
ColorMark color calibration (“linearization” on a
third-party RIP) or create a new profile.