Technical tip: Print primary color charts at regular intervals

To ensure optimal output, printing primary color charts is just as important as checking the condition of the nozzles.

Just as you regularly check the nozzles of your SG400 or SG800 to avoid ink waste, consider generating primary color charts to prevent printing or color problems.

A good primary color chart should display blocks of solid colors without lines or gradients. Even if the nozzle check shows a perfect result, you should check your primary color chart for any irregularities that could cause printing or color problems.

We particularly recommend performing a nozzle check and producing a primary color chart if you have moved your printer or have not used it for some time.

If the nozzle control is correct but the primary color chart shows defects, we recommend performing two printhead cleanings before restarting printing.

To print a primary color chart from Virtuoso Print Manager, proceed as follows:

1. Position the mouse cursor over the Virtuoso Print Manager icon in the status bar menu and select "Printer Utilities" from the menu options.
   

2. In the utilities window that opens, select "Nozzle Check," "Head Cleaning," or "Primary Chart" in the left-hand section. NOTE: You must print the primary charts on standard sublimation paper.
   

3. If your printer is working correctly, the primary color chart will appear as illustrated below. No intervention is required.
   

4. If, however, the output shows lines, as in the photo below, you will need to perform calibration and cleaning. If lines are present, you will need to clean the print heads. Then proceed to step 5.
   

5. Select "Head Cleaning" in the Utilities window, and then click "Clean." We recommend performing two head cleanings before reprinting the primary color swatch. Repeat the head cleaning process until the swatch displays solid color blocks.