HP Designjet Z6100 Printer series - Manual (Page 70)

The printheads are extremely durable and do not need to be replaced every time an ink cartridge is
replaced. They provide excellent results even when the ink cartridges contain a low level of ink.
To maintain optimum print quality, the printheads are automatically tested at regular intervals, and
automatically serviced when necessary. This takes a little time and can occasionally delay printing.
When a printhead eventually needs to be replaced, the front panel will display a message.
CAUTION: Avoid touching pins, leads, and circuitry when handling ink cartridges because
these elements are sensitive to electrostatic discharge. Such devices are called ESD-sensitive
devices. See Glossary on page 216 . Electrostatic discharges are one of the main hazards to
electronics products. This type of damage can reduce the life expectancy of the device.
Maintenance cartridge
Use the maintenance cartridge to clean and maintain the printheads, ensure the best possible print quality,
and seal the printheads when they are not in use to prevent them from drying out.
NOTE: The maintenance cartridge contains liquid. Therefore, store any maintenance cartridges
upright and on a flat surface.
Ink system tips
For best results, always follow these guidelines:
● Install the ink cartridges, printheads, and maintenance cartridge before the install-by date, which is
printed on the packaging. The expiration for the ink cartridges is the manufacturing date marked on
the cartridge plus 30 months.
● Follow the instructions on the front panel during installation.
● Allow the printer and the maintenance cartridge to clean the printheads automatically.
● Avoid unnecessary removal of the ink cartridges and printheads.
● The ink cartridges should never be removed while the printer is printing. They should be removed
only when the printer is ready for you to replace them. The front panel guides you through the removal
and installation procedures (or see Remove an ink cartridge on page 59 and Insert an ink
cartridge on page 61 .
● Make sure that you comply with all applicable laws and regulations when disposing of ink system
consumables.
58 Chapter 5 Handle the ink system
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