How to Access Print Density and Maintenance Settings on a Mac for Epson Printers

Question:
I'm trying to follow your video about removing or reducing the Epson Star Pizza Wheel Roller and printhead strike marks. However, when using a Mac, I can't find the same print settings for print density or maintenance that you showed in your video. Are those settings unavailable on macOS?
(Watch the video here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mHXXV2tP1o&lc=Ugx-qB-OFaxioOc_k4t4AaABAg)

Answer:

If you're using a Mac and you can't locate the print density or maintenance options, it's most likely because your computer is running a generic Apple printer driver instead of the official Epson driver. Apple's generic driver allows for basic printing but omits many of Epson's advanced configuration features - including printhead cleaning, nozzle checks, density control, and paper feed calibration.

Here's how you can fix that:

1. Uninstall the Generic Driver:
   Go to System Preferences → Printers & Scanners, select your Epson printer, and click the minus (-) sign to remove it.

2. Download the Correct Epson Driver:
   Visit Epson's official support website (https://epson.com/Support), search for your exact printer model (for example, "Epson ET-8550" or "Epson L1800"), and download the macOS driver and utilities combo package.

3. Install the Epson Software:
   Follow the installation instructions provided by Epson. Once completed, add your printer back via Printers & Scanners. This time, ensure it says Epson Driver next to the printer name, not Generic PostScript or AirPrint.

4. Access Full Printer Settings:
   When you go to print, select Show Details, then open Printer Settings or Utility tabs. You'll now see advanced Epson-specific options, including print density, paper feed adjustments, and maintenance tools like nozzle check and head cleaning.

If you're performing maintenance related to printhead strikes or the star wheel roller marks, using these official Epson utilities is essential to fine-tune print density and minimize contact between the head and paper. Incorrect settings (like excessive ink saturation or low head clearance) can cause smearing or roller marks, so having full control through the proper driver makes all the difference.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting or direct support for printer repairs. We do, however, offer in-person evaluation and repair services at our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Because of high demand, we work on a first-come, first-served basis, and it might take a few weeks before your printer can be assessed. Our services cover both complete printer repairs and specific part replacements, with clear instructions on how to proceed.

That said, we always encourage self-help whenever possible. Check out related tutorials on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). You can find specific videos by using the search icon next to "About" on our channel's menu bar - this method is often the quickest way to locate the exact topic you need.

Thank you again for your patience and for reaching out! We truly appreciate your commitment to maintaining your printer and being part of our growing BCH Technologies community.