Numbers and Words Not Printing Correctly After an Epson Printer Update

Epson printers are renowned for their reliable performance, but issues can occasionally arise, especially after software or firmware updates. A common problem reported by users is that numbers and words do not print correctly, appearing distorted, misaligned, or incomplete. This guide delves into the causes of this issue and provides step-by-step solutions to help restore proper printing functionality.

What Causes Printing Issues After an Epson Update?

Several factors can lead to printing problems following an update. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective troubleshooting.

1. Driver Incompatibility

• Updates might install new drivers that are incompatible with your printer or the connected devices.

2. Corrupted Firmware

• If the firmware update was interrupted or failed partially, it could cause the printer to malfunction.

3. Print Head Misalignment

• Updates can sometimes reset or alter print head alignment, leading to distorted printing.

4. Outdated or Corrupt Software

• The printer software on your computer might not be updated to match the firmware, causing communication issues.

5. Settings Reset

• Firmware updates often reset the printer's settings, including font rendering and paper alignment configurations.

6. Ink or Cartridge Issues

• Updates can affect how the printer recognizes cartridges, especially third-party or refilled ones.

7. Connection Problems

• Communication errors between the printer and computer due to updates can result in distorted output.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Resolve Printing Issues

If your numbers and words are not printing correctly after an Epson update, follow these solutions in order.

1. Restart the Printer and Connected Devices

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor glitches caused by updates.

1. Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, and wait for 5 minutes.
2. Restart your computer and any other connected devices.
3. Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
4. Print a test page to check if the issue persists.

2. Check for Updated Printer Drivers

Driver incompatibility is a common issue after updates. Ensure you have the latest drivers installed.

1. Visit the Epson Support Website and download the appropriate driver for your printer model.
2. Uninstall the current driver:
   • Windows: Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features, locate the Epson driver, and uninstall it.
   • Mac: Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, select the printer, and click the minus (-) button to remove it.
3. Install the updated driver and restart your computer.
4. Print a test page to verify if the issue is resolved.

3. Realign the Print Head

Misaligned print heads can cause text and numbers to print incorrectly.

1. Access the Maintenance Menu from the printer’s control panel or software on your computer.
2. Select Print Head Alignment or Align Print Head.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the alignment process.
4. Run a test print to check the results.

4. Clean the Print Head

Clogged nozzles can lead to distorted or incomplete text.

1. Go to the printer’s Maintenance Menu.
2. Choose Print Head Cleaning or Nozzle Check.
3. Let the printer clean the nozzles and print a test page.
4. Repeat the cleaning process if necessary, but avoid excessive cleaning to preserve ink.

5. Check Ink Levels and Cartridges

Low ink or incompatible cartridges can affect print quality.

1. Open the printer’s cartridge compartment and check for:
   • Low ink levels.
   • Improperly installed cartridges.
   • Non-Epson or refilled cartridges that might not be recognized after the update.
2. Replace or reseat cartridges as needed.
3. Run a test print to see if the issue is fixed.

6. Reset the Printer to Default Settings

Firmware updates can reset or alter certain settings, causing print issues. Restoring default settings can help.

1. Access the printer’s Settings or Setup Menu.
2. Select Restore Default Settings or Reset All Settings.
3. Confirm the reset and restart the printer.
4. Configure the printer again and test print.

7. Adjust Paper and Font Settings

Sometimes, updates reset the paper and font settings, leading to improper rendering of text.

1. Ensure the Paper Size and Type settings match the paper loaded in the printer.
2. Check the font settings in the document you’re trying to print.
3. Adjust any scaling or margin settings that might have changed.

8. Reinstall Epson Software

Corrupted software on your computer can cause communication errors with the printer.

1. Uninstall the current Epson software suite.
2. Download the latest version from the Epson Support Website.
3. Install the software, restart your computer, and reconnect the printer.
4. Print a document to confirm the issue is resolved.

9. Verify Network or USB Connection

Connection issues can cause incomplete or distorted prints.

• For Network Printers:
  1. Ensure the printer and computer are connected to the same WiFi network.
  2. Check for any network interruptions or weak signals.
• For USB Printers:
  1. Verify the USB cable is securely connected.
  2. Try a different USB port or replace the cable if needed.

10. Roll Back the Firmware Update (Optional)

If all else fails, rolling back the firmware to a previous version might resolve the issue.

1. Contact Epson Support to inquire if a rollback is possible.
2. Download and install the older firmware version if available.
3. Restart the printer and test its functionality.

Preventing Printing Issues After Updates

Here are some tips to avoid printing problems after future updates:

1. Backup Printer Settings
   Before installing updates, note or backup your printer’s configuration to restore it easily.

2. Use Genuine Epson Cartridges
   Updates often include compatibility checks that may reject third-party cartridges.

3. Test Updates in Stages
   If possible, test updates on one device before applying them to all connected devices.

4. Keep Software and Firmware Synced
   Ensure your printer’s firmware and the computer’s software are compatible.

5. Regular Maintenance
   Clean the print head and realign it periodically to avoid issues over time.

When to Contact Epson Support

If the problem persists after trying all the solutions above, it may indicate a deeper hardware or software issue. Contact Epson Support and provide the following information:

1. Printer model and firmware version.
2. Description of the problem and steps you’ve already tried.
3. Details of any error messages or codes displayed.

Epson’s technicians can guide you through advanced troubleshooting or recommend repair/replacement if necessary.

Conclusion

Printing issues such as distorted numbers and words after an Epson update can be frustrating, but they are usually solvable with the right approach. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can identify and fix the problem effectively. Regular maintenance and cautious handling of updates will help ensure your Epson printer continues to deliver high-quality prints without disruptions.