Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Epson Stylus Photo R2880 Wide-Format Color Inkjet Printer. The R2880 is designed for producing high-quality prints, featuring Epson UltraChrome K3 with Vivid Magenta ink for an expanded color gamut, and advanced technologies for smooth color transitions and precise black-and-white printing. It supports versatile media handling, including roll paper, fine art paper, and thick art board.
Setup
1. Unpacking the Printer
Carefully remove the printer from its packaging. Ensure all protective tapes and packing materials are removed from the exterior and interior of the printer. Refer to the 'Start Here' guide included with your printer for visual instructions.

Image: The 'Start Here' guide, illustrating the initial unpacking process and removal of protective materials from the Epson Stylus Photo R2880 printer.
2. Installing Ink Cartridges
The Epson Stylus Photo R2880 uses 9 individual ink cartridges. Open the printer's top cover to access the ink cartridge bay. Install each cartridge into its corresponding slot, ensuring it clicks into place. The printer will initiate an ink charging cycle after installation.

Image: A detailed view of the ink cartridge bay within the Epson R2880, showing the nine individual ink cartridges properly seated.

Image: The Epson R2880 printer with its top cover open, revealing the print head mechanism and the control panel with power and maintenance buttons.
3. Connecting the Printer
Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable. The R2880 features a USB hardware interface for direct connection.
4. Software Installation
Insert the included software CD into your computer's optical drive and follow the on-screen instructions to install the printer drivers and utility software. This software is essential for full functionality and print quality control.
Operating the Printer
1. Loading Paper
The Epson R2880 supports various media types and sizes, including up to 13 x 19 inch sheets, roll paper, fine art paper, and 1.3 mm thick art board. The printer has two trays for media input.
- Sheet Paper: Load paper into the rear sheet feeder. Adjust the paper guides to fit the width of your paper.
- Roll Paper: Attach the roll paper holder to the rear of the printer and feed the roll paper as directed by the printer's display or software.
- Fine Art Paper/Art Board: Use the dedicated front-loading path for thicker media.

Image: The Epson R2880 printer with its input and output paper trays fully extended, ready for paper loading and printing.

Image: The roll paper holder and paper support accessories for the Epson R2880, used for printing on continuous roll media.
2. Printing Documents and Photos
Once paper is loaded and ink cartridges are installed, you can send print jobs from your computer. Select the appropriate paper type and print quality settings in your printer driver for optimal results. The R2880 offers a maximum color print resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi.
3. Advanced Printing Features
- Epson UltraChrome K3 with Vivid Magenta: This ink set provides an expanded color gamut, resulting in vibrant blues, purples, and reds.
- Advanced Black-and-White Photo Mode: Utilize this mode for precise control over neutral or toned black-and-white prints, leveraging the printer's three-level black technology for superior gray balance and tonal range.
- Radiance Technology: Ensures smooth color transitions and improved highlight and shadow detail in your prints.
4. CD/DVD Printing
The printer supports direct printing onto compatible inkjet-printable CDs and DVDs. Use the included CD/DVD tray for this function.

Image: The specialized tray for printing directly onto CDs and DVDs, featuring visual instructions for proper media placement.
Maintenance
1. Replacing Ink Cartridges
When an ink cartridge is low or empty, the printer's status monitor will alert you. Replace empty cartridges promptly to ensure continuous high-quality printing. Use genuine Epson UltraChrome K3 with Vivid Magenta ink cartridges for optimal performance.
2. Nozzle Check and Head Cleaning
If print quality declines (e.g., missing lines, incorrect colors), perform a nozzle check using the printer utility software to identify clogged nozzles. If clogs are detected, run a head cleaning cycle. The printer features Automatic Nozzle Check technology to help maintain print quality.
3. General Cleaning
Periodically wipe the exterior of the printer with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents. Keep the paper path clear of dust and debris.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions
- Poor Print Quality: Perform a nozzle check and head cleaning. Ensure you are using appropriate paper and print settings for your media.
- Paper Jams: Turn off the printer and carefully remove any jammed paper from the input tray, output tray, or internal areas. Refer to the printer's documentation for specific jam clearance procedures.
- Printer Not Responding: Check all cable connections (power and USB). Ensure the printer is powered on and there are no error messages on the control panel. Restart both the printer and your computer.
- Ink Consumption: The R2880 uses a sophisticated ink system. Ink is consumed during printing, cleaning cycles, and initial setup. If you experience unusually high ink consumption, ensure you are using the printer regularly to prevent clogs that necessitate cleaning cycles.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Photo R2880 |
| Printing Technology | Inkjet |
| Printer Output | Color |
| Maximum Color Print Resolution | 5760 x 1440 dpi |
| Maximum Black and White Print Resolution | 5760 x 1440 dpi |
| Ink Type | Epson UltraChrome K3 with Vivid Magenta (9 individual cartridges) |
| Maximum Media Size | 13 x 19 inches |
| Supported Media Types | Plain paper, Photo paper, Fine art paper, Roll paper, Art board |
| Max Input Sheet Capacity | 120 sheets |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 12.7 x 24.3 x 8.4 inches |
| Item Weight | 26.9 pounds |
| Included Components | 9 individual ink cartridges |
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
The Epson Stylus Photo R2880 printer comes with a limited warranty. For specific details regarding warranty coverage, duration, and terms, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or visit the official Epson support website.
Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to order replacement parts and consumables, please visit the official Epson support website or contact Epson customer service directly. Keep your printer's model number (C11CA16201) and serial number ready when contacting support.





