How to Replace an Epson TM-U220 Ribbon
, by RH Now, 1 min reading time
Step-by-step guide to replacing the ERC-38-family ribbon cassette in an Epson TM-U220 impact kitchen or receipt printer.
How to Replace an Epson TM-U220 Ribbon
Quick answer: The Epson TM-U220 uses an ERC-38-family ribbon cassette. Let the print head cool, open the ribbon cover, remove the old cassette, take up slack in the new ribbon, press it into place until it clicks, then verify the ribbon sits smoothly between the print head and platen.
Before you start
Turn the printer off and allow the print head to cool. Epson specifically warns that the print head can become very hot during printing.
Step-by-step
- Open the ribbon cassette cover using the tabs on the sides.
- Lift out the old ribbon cassette. Epson's manual notes that lifting the left side first can help during removal.
- On the new cassette, turn the ribbon-feed knob in the direction shown on the cartridge two or three times to remove slack.
- Insert the new cassette and press it down until it clicks into place.
- Check that the ribbon runs between the print head and platen without wrinkles or creases.
- Turn the feed knob another two or three times in the indicated direction.
- Close the ribbon cassette cover and power the printer back on.
Which ribbon does the TM-U220 use?
Epson specifies the ERC-38 ribbon family for the TM-U220. RH Now carries black and black/red options, including compatible and Genuine Epson choices.
Black vs. black/red
Use ERC-38B for black-only printing. Use ERC-38BR when the application requires black/red output.