Introduction
This instruction manual provides comprehensive guidance for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Centurion ribbon cartridge. This cartridge is designed for compatibility with various Okidata dot matrix printers, including models 172, 180, 182, 182 Plus, 182 Turbo, 183 Turbo, 186, 190, 192, 192 Plus, 193, 193 Plus, 194, 195, 280, 320, 321, 390, and 391, as well as Ithaca 150-153 Series printers. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your product.
Product Overview
The Centurion ribbon cartridge is a replacement ink ribbon designed for impact dot matrix printers. It provides consistent print quality for text and graphics. The cartridge is a self-contained unit, simplifying replacement.
Figure 1: Centurion Ribbon Cartridge. This image displays the typical appearance of a Centurion ribbon cartridge, showing its compact, enclosed design for easy handling and installation into compatible dot matrix printers.
Setup and Installation
- Power Off Printer: Ensure the printer is turned off and unplugged from the power source before beginning installation.
- Open Printer Cover: Open the printer's top cover to access the ribbon cartridge compartment. Refer to your printer's specific manual for exact instructions on opening the cover.
- Remove Old Cartridge (if applicable): If replacing an existing ribbon, carefully unclip or release the old cartridge and remove it. Dispose of used cartridges responsibly.
- Unpack New Cartridge: Remove the new Centurion ribbon cartridge from its packaging. Avoid touching the ribbon itself to prevent contamination.
- Install New Cartridge: Align the new cartridge with the designated slot in the printer. Gently push down or clip it into place until it is securely seated. Ensure the ribbon is properly threaded through any guides or print head mechanisms as indicated by your printer's design.
- Close Printer Cover: Close the printer's top cover.
- Power On Printer: Plug in and power on the printer. The printer may perform a self-test or ribbon alignment.
Operating Instructions
Once the ribbon cartridge is installed, the printer is ready for operation. The ribbon automatically advances during printing. No specific user interaction with the ribbon cartridge is required during normal printing operations.
- Ensure paper is loaded correctly in the printer.
- Send print jobs from your computer as usual.
- Monitor print quality. Fading print indicates the ribbon may need replacement.
Maintenance
The Centurion ribbon cartridge is a consumable item and requires no user maintenance other than replacement when the ink is depleted. To maximize the life of your ribbon and printer:
- Store new cartridges in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid touching the ribbon fabric.
- Regularly clean your printer's interior according to its manufacturer's guidelines to prevent dust and debris from affecting ribbon performance.
- Replace the ribbon cartridge promptly when print quality degrades to prevent potential damage to the print head from a dry or worn ribbon.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- Faint or Missing Print:
- Check if the ribbon cartridge is correctly installed and seated.
- The ribbon may be depleted. Replace with a new Centurion ribbon cartridge.
- Ensure the print head gap is correctly adjusted for the paper thickness (refer to your printer manual).
- Ribbon Jamming or Tearing:
- Ensure the ribbon is properly threaded through all guides.
- Check for any obstructions in the ribbon path.
- The cartridge might be defective or damaged. Replace with a new one.
- Printer Not Recognizing Ribbon:
- Verify the cartridge is fully inserted and latched.
- Ensure you are using the correct Centurion ribbon cartridge model for your specific Okidata printer.
- Restart the printer.
If problems persist after following these steps, consult your printer's official user manual or contact the printer manufacturer's support.
Specifications
- Product Type: Impact Dot Matrix Printer Ribbon Cartridge
- Brand: Centurion
- Model Compatibility: Okidata 172, 180, 182, 182 Plus, 182 Turbo, 183 Turbo, 186, 190, 192, 192 Plus, 193, 193 Plus, 194, 195, 280, 320, 321, 390, 391; Ithaca 150-153 Series
- Item Model Number: OKI 192
- Item Weight: 1.6 ounces (approximately)
- Product Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 9 inches (packaging/shipping dimensions, approximate)
Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage or technical support for your Centurion ribbon cartridge, please refer to the packaging or contact the retailer from whom the product was purchased. Specific warranty terms may vary.
For printer-specific issues, please consult the official documentation provided by the printer manufacturer (e.g., Okidata, Ithaca) or visit their respective support websites.
