Issue description

The printed image has visible banding, or one or more color channels have missing lines in the Nozzle Check pattern.

Possible causes

• The ink pad or ink scraper is damaged: A damaged ink pad may cause air leakage during ink suction. A damaged or worn ink scraper may not clean the printhead properly.
• Dirt or cured ink buildup: If the ink pad and ink scraper are not cleaned regularly, UV ink may accumulate and partially cure. This can affect sealing and wiping performance.
• Physical nozzle clogging: Dried ink or debris may clog the nozzles, causing the same nozzles to remain missing in every Nozzle Check pattern.
• An air leak in the ink damper or air in the ink path: Poor sealing or air inside the ink damper may cause intermittent ink supply and unstable ink pressure. The missing-nozzle positions may change randomly.
• Ink pad misalignment: The ink pad may be incorrectly installed or mechanically misaligned. It cannot form a tight seal against the bottom of the printhead.

Troubleshooting procedure

Please follow these steps in order.

Step 1: Check the condition of the ink pad and ink scraper

1. In the software, move the printhead to the center. Visually inspect the ink pad and ink scraper in the maintenance station on the right side.
   
2. If the ink pad or ink scraper is damaged, deformed, or has missing sections, its sealing or wiping function has failed. Contact after-sales support to replace the ink pad or ink scraper.
   
3. If both parts are intact, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Clean the ink pad and ink scraper, then retest

1. If the ink pad and ink scraper have not been cleaned for a long time, UV ink residue may build up and partially cure. This may cause air leakage during ink suction or poor wiping performance.
2. Clean the ink pad and ink scraper by strictly following the official instructions: Clean the Ink Pad & Ink Scraper and Replace the Absorber Foam
3. After cleaning, perform one printhead cleaning in the software. Then print a new Nozzle Check pattern.
4. 1. If the missing-nozzle issue is resolved, you can continue using the device.
   2. If lines are still missing, proceed to step 3.

Step 3: Perform multiple cleanings and compare the Nozzle Check patterns

After each cleaning, print a Nozzle Check pattern and compare the results.

1. The missing-nozzle positions remain exactly the same after multiple cleanings: The affected nozzles are physically clogged and cannot be cleared by normal cleaning. Follow the instructions for clogged-nozzle maintenance: Printhead Maintenance for O1 Omni Printer
2. The missing-nozzle positions change randomly after multiple cleanings: The nozzles are not fully clogged. The issue is more likely caused by air in the ink path, an air leak in the ink damper, or abnormal ink suction. Proceed to the next step.

Step 4: Check ink suction and air bubbles in the ink pad

1. Return the printhead to its home position. Make sure the ink pad forms a tight seal against the bottom of the printhead.
   
2. Record a video of this procedure for later reference. In AI Assistant, enter the following command: DEBUG_INK_PAD_BUBBLE_CHECK
   
   
3. After the ink is extracted, wait 10 seconds. Then move the printhead away and check whether there are air bubbles inside the ink pad.

Case A: Air bubbles are present in the ink pad

1. 1. Extract ink again by following the standard ink-extraction procedure. Follow every step in the video: Extract Ink for O1 Omni Printer
   2. Perform one printhead cleaning and print a Nozzle Check pattern.

Case B: No air bubbles are present in the ink pad

1. 1. Replace the ink pad with a new one. Then perform one printhead cleaning and print a Nozzle Check pattern.
   2. 1. • If the pattern returns to normal, you can continue using the device.
         • If the issue persists, proceed to the next step.
   2. Replace the ink scraper with a new one. Then clean the printhead and test it again.
   3. 1. • If the pattern returns to normal, you can continue using the device.
         • If the issue persists after replacing the ink scraper, proceed to the next step.
   3. Perform one printhead cleaning, then move the printhead away.
   4. Check whether the wet imprint on the bottom of the printhead is evenly distributed around the printhead. If the imprint is not clear, follow these steps:
   5. 1. Move the printhead to the center. Use a cleaning swab to apply a small amount of the appropriate moisturizing liquid around the top edge of the ink pad. Do not mix DT and UV consumables.
      2. If the imprint is clearly misaligned, the sealing position of the ink pad needs to be adjusted and calibrated. Contact after-sales support and submit the troubleshooting photos and video: https://support.xtool.com/submit-ticket
         
      3. If the imprint is not misaligned, send all troubleshooting photos, videos, and recorded results to after-sales support: https://support.xtool.com/submit-ticket
         

Still experiencing issues?

Should the issue persist after completing the preceding steps, submit a ticket via the "Submit a Ticket" button in the "Help Ticket" section below. The standard response time for xTool Customer Service is one business day.

For a prompt resolution, please include the following details:

• Issue description: A detailed explanation of the observed problem.
• Video evidence: Attach a video demonstrating the issue, where applicable.
• Troubleshooting performed: Any troubleshooting steps you have already attempted, along with their results.

This information is crucial for xTool technical support engineers to provide timely assistance.

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