Introduction
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a wireless all-in-one Supertank printer designed for versatile use, offering print, scan, copy, and fax functionalities. This model features a cartridge-free ink system with easy-to-fill supersized ink tanks, providing a cost-effective printing solution. It supports printing up to 13 x 19 inches through its rear-feed tray and scanning up to 8.5 x 14 inches via the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF). The printer is equipped with a 2.7-inch color touchscreen for intuitive navigation and supports hands-free voice-activated printing.
Figure 1: Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless All-in-One Printer.
Setup
Unboxing and Initial Preparation
Upon unboxing, ensure all protective packaging materials, including blue tapes, are removed from the printer. Refer to the 'Start Here' guide included in the box for detailed instructions on tape removal. Carefully lift the scanner unit to access and remove any internal protective materials.
Figure 2: Contents of the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 box, including the printer, ink bottles, power cord, and setup CD-ROM.
Ink Filling
The EcoTank ET-15000 uses an innovative cartridge-free ink system. The printer comes with one 127 mL bottle of Black ink and one 70 mL bottle each of Cyan, Magenta, and Yellow ink (Epson 502 series). To fill the ink tanks:
- Open the ink tank cover located on the side of the printer.
- Uncap the ink bottle and insert it into the corresponding color-coded tank. The bottles are designed to stop filling automatically when the tank is full.
- Close the ink tank cover.
It is recommended to use genuine Epson inks for optimal print quality and to maintain warranty coverage.
Figure 3: Epson's commitment to genuine ink for quality printing and warranty support.
Software Installation and Connectivity
Install the printer software and drivers using the included CD-ROM or by downloading them from the official Epson website. The ET-15000 supports multiple connectivity options:
- Wi-Fi: Connect wirelessly to your network for convenient printing from various devices.
- Ethernet: For a stable wired network connection.
- USB: Direct connection to a computer.
Operating
Control Panel
The printer features a 2.7-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation through menus and settings. The control panel is adjustable to optimize viewing angles.
Paper Loading
The ET-15000 offers versatile paper handling:
- Front Tray: Holds up to 250 sheets of standard paper (e.g., 8.5 x 11 inches).
- Rear Specialty-Paper Feed: Accommodates larger media sizes, including prints up to 13 x 19 inches. This is ideal for specialized paper types or larger format projects.
Printing
The printer delivers high-resolution color prints up to 4800 x 1200 dpi and black and white prints up to 600 dpi. It supports various print media, including plain paper, semi-glossy, and matte paper. For optimal color accuracy with Epson brand papers, the printer utilizes specialized ICC printer profiles.
Scanning, Copying, and Faxing
The all-in-one functionality includes a scanner with an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) for multi-page scanning and copying. The scanner supports resolutions up to 1200 dpi. The flatbed scanner glass is easy to clean. Fax capabilities are also integrated.
Figure 4: Key features of the Epson EcoTank ET-15000, including large format printing, ADF, touchscreen, and connectivity options.
Voice-Activated Printing
The ET-15000 supports hands-free voice-activated printing. An Epson Connect account and voice-activated account registration are required. Refer to the Epson website for device compatibility and setup instructions.
Maintenance
Ink Refilling
The EcoTank system is designed for easy and mess-free ink refilling. Simply purchase replacement Epson 502 ink bottles and follow the ink filling instructions in the Setup section. The included ink bottles are estimated to last up to 2 years based on average monthly document print volumes of about 200 pages, or equivalent to about 80 individual cartridges.
Print Head Maintenance
To ensure optimal print quality, perform routine print head cleaning as needed. The printer's menu provides options for nozzle checks and head cleaning. When transporting the printer, ensure the print head is locked in the down position to prevent damage.
Troubleshooting
For common issues such as paper jams, print quality problems (e.g., streaking, faded colors), or connectivity issues, consult the online User's Guide available on the Epson support website. The printer's touchscreen also provides on-screen prompts and guides for basic troubleshooting and maintenance tasks.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 29.6"D x 19.6"W x 14.3"H
- Item Weight: 26.5 pounds
- Connectivity Technology: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Printing Technology: Inkjet
- Printer Output: Color
- Maximum Print Speed (Color): 9 ppm
- Max Printspeed Monochrome: 17 ppm
- Maximum Color Print Resolution: 4800 x 1200 dpi
- Maximum Black and White Print Resolution: 600 dpi
- Maximum Media Size: 13 x 19 inches (via rear feed)
- Max Input Sheet Capacity: 250 sheets (front tray)
- Scanner Type: Sheetfed (ADF)
- Max Copy Speed (Black & White): 17 ppm
- Control Method: Touch (2.7" color touchscreen)
- Special Features: Auto Document Feeder, Auto-Duplex, Energy Star, Refillable Ink Tank, Voice-Activated Printing
Warranty and Support
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 comes with a 12-month standard limited warranty or 50,000 plain paper sheets (whichever happens first). An additional 12-month extended service plan (total of 24 months or 50,000 plain paper sheets, whichever happens first) is available upon product registration and use of genuine Epson ink bottles. For detailed warranty information and support, please visit the official Epson website.
