Introduction
The Sihao A3 DTG L805 is a versatile 2-in-1 flatbed printer designed for both Direct-to-Garment (DTG) and Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing. This printer supports A3 size designs, offering high-definition full-color commercial printing for a wide range of textile applications. Its advanced features, such as intelligent white ink stirring and a self-developed motherboard, ensure efficient and reliable operation.
Figure 1: Sihao A3 DTG L805 Printer and sample prints.
Video 1: Product demonstration of the Sihao A3 DTG L805 Printer.
Setup Instructions
Unpacking and Inspection
- Carefully unpack all components from the packaging.
- Verify that all items listed in the "Package Contents" section are present and undamaged.
- Place the printer on a stable, level surface in an environment with a temperature between 15-28℃.
Ink System Setup
- The printer uses a Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS). Fill the empty ink bottles with appropriate DTG or DTF inks.
- Important Note on Inks: For DTG printing on 100% cotton, only DuPont Ink P5000 model is recommended. For DTF printing, most fabrics can be used with DTF inks.
- CRITICAL WARNING: Do NOT purchase or use ink models from DuPont other than the specified P5000 for DTG. Refer to the warning images for clarification.
Figure 2: Warning regarding incompatible DuPont ink models.
Figure 3: Additional warning about specific DuPont ink models.
- Ensure the white ink mixing unit is properly installed and functioning to prevent ink precipitation and nozzle clogging.
Figure 4: Intelligent White Ink Stirring mechanism for optimal ink flow.
Software Installation
- Install the printer driver (EPSON L1800) and the printing software (AcroRIP White ver10.3, included) on a computer running Windows 7-11 with an INTEL or AMD processor.
- Connect the printer to your computer using the provided USB 2.0 cable.
- Ensure the software lock (dongle) is inserted into your computer's USB port for the AcroRIP software to function.
Operating Instructions
General Printing Process (DTG/DTF)
- Prepare the Garment/Film:
- For DTG printing on 100% cotton T-shirts, place the garment flat on the garment tray.
- For DTF printing, prepare your DTF film.
- Load the Tray: Carefully slide the garment tray or film into the printer.
- Software Settings: Open the AcroRIP White ver10.3 software.
- Select the appropriate print mode (DTG or DTF) and color configuration (CMYK LC LM or CMYK+2W).
- Adjust print resolution to 1440x1440 dpi for optimal quality.
- Ensure the design fits within the maximum effective printing area (297mm x 420mm).
- Start Printing: Initiate the print job from the software. The printer will automatically feed the tray and begin printing.
Figure 5: Illustration of direct printing on clothing.
- Post-Printing (DTF Specific):
- After printing on DTF film, apply DTF powder evenly over the wet ink.
- Cure the film in an oven or heat press according to DTF powder instructions.
- Once cured, the design can be transferred to the garment using a heat press.
- Heat Press Application (DTG/DTF):
- Place the printed garment (DTG) or the cured DTF film on the garment (DTF) onto a heat press.
- Apply heat and pressure as per ink/film manufacturer's recommendations.
- Carefully peel off the film (for DTF) after pressing.
Intelligent Features
- White Ink Stirring: The printer features intelligent white ink stirring to prevent pigment settling, which is crucial for consistent white ink performance and preventing clogs. This system operates automatically.
- Efficient Printing: The L805 printer is designed for efficiency, eliminating the need for cumbersome reset operations often found in older models like L1800/1390.
Figure 6: Simplified ink management and no reset required for efficient printing.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Sihao A3 DTG L805 printer.
Daily Maintenance
- Nozzle Check: Perform a nozzle check daily to ensure all nozzles are firing correctly. If any nozzles are missing or clogged, perform a head cleaning cycle.
- Wipe Print Head: Gently wipe the bottom of the print head with a lint-free cloth moistened with cleaning solution to remove any excess ink.
- White Ink Stirring: Confirm the automatic white ink stirring mechanism is active and functioning.
Weekly Maintenance
- Cleaning Station: Clean the capping station, wiper blade, and surrounding areas with a cleaning solution and cotton swabs. Remove any dried ink or debris.
- Ink Levels: Check ink levels and refill as necessary to prevent air from entering the ink lines.
Long-Term Storage
- If the printer will not be used for an extended period, perform a thorough cleaning cycle and ensure the print head is capped to prevent drying.
- Store the printer in a clean, dry environment within the recommended temperature range.
Figure 7: L805 Nozzle, designed for low maintenance and long service life.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Poor print quality / Missing lines | Clogged nozzles, low ink levels, incorrect software settings. | Perform a nozzle check and head cleaning. Check ink levels and refill if necessary. Verify print settings in AcroRIP. |
| Printer not responding | Loose USB connection, power issue, software not running. | Check USB cable connection. Ensure printer is powered on. Restart printing software and computer. Verify software lock (dongle) is inserted. |
| White ink settling/clogging | White ink not stirred sufficiently. | Ensure the intelligent white ink stirring mechanism is active. If manual stirring is possible, perform it. Perform head cleaning. |
| Colors are inaccurate | Incorrect color profile, wrong ink type, print head issues. | Verify color profiles in AcroRIP. Ensure correct ink types are used (DTG for cotton, DTF for other fabrics). Perform nozzle check and head cleaning. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Printer Type | A3-L805 Automatic Flatbed Printer (DTG/DTF 2-in-1) |
| Print Platform Size | 310 mm (width) x 430 mm (length) |
| Max Effective Garment Bracket Size | 297 mm (width) x 420 mm (length) |
| Printer Nozzle Type | EPSON L805 |
| Printer Driver | EPSON L1800 |
| Software Setting Accuracy | 1440 x 1440 dpi |
| Print Speed (Photo Mode) | Approx. 178 seconds |
| Ink Drop Volume | 1.5 microliters |
| Printing Software | AcroRIP White ver10.3 (free) |
| Printing Interface | USB2.0 |
| Color Configuration | CMYK LC LM or CMYK+2W |
| Ink Supply Method | CISS (Continuous Ink Supply System) |
| Operating Environment Temperature | 15-28℃ |
| Power | 250 W |
| Voltage | 110-220 V (± 10%) |
| White Ink Mixer | Yes |
| Printer Dimensions (L x W x H) | 760 mm x 630 mm x 510 mm |
| Printer Net Weight | 43.1 kg |
| Gross Weight (with packaging) | 62 kg |
| Computer Operating System | Windows 7-11 |
| Computer Processor | INTEL AMD |
Figure 8: Printer dimensions (Length 76cm, Width 63cm, Height 51cm).
Package Contents
- 1x A3 L805 DTG Printer
- 1x Garment Tray
- 5x Empty Ink Bottles
- 1x Waste Ink Bottle
- 1x White Ink Mixing Unit
- 1x Ink Bottle Holder
- 1x U-shaped Stick
- 1x Software Lock (Dongle)
- 1x Syringe
- 2x Ink Bags
- 1x Micro Switch
- 2x Magnetic Strips
- 1x Power Cord
- 1x USB Cable
- 1x Sensor
- 2x EVA Cotton
Figure 9: Overview of included package contents.
User Tips
- RIP Software: The printer comes with AcroRIP software, which is essential for preparing your designs for printing, especially for managing white ink layers.
- Ink Compatibility: Always double-check ink compatibility. Using incorrect ink types can damage the print head and void your warranty.
- White Ink Management: Due to the nature of white ink, consistent stirring and regular print head maintenance are crucial to prevent clogging.
Warranty and Support
SIHAO is committed to providing reliable equipment and tools. For any technical assistance, warranty claims, or support inquiries, please contact SIHAO customer service. Ensure you retain your proof of purchase for warranty validation.
- Quality Assurance: Premium durable quality is a core principle of SIHAO products.
- Customer Service: 24/7 attentive service is available for customer support.
