The Epson SureColor F170 is an affordable, compact direct-to-garment (DTG) printer designed for small businesses and startups. With its PrecisionCore TFP printhead and Epson UltraChrome DG ink, it delivers professional-quality prints on cotton and cotton-blend garments.
Key Features of Epson SureColor F170:
- PrecisionCore TFP Printhead: Micro-piezo technology for precise ink droplet placement
- UltraChrome DG Ink: Water-based pigment ink formulated for fabric
- White Ink Printing: Dedicated white ink channel for dark garments
- Compact Design: Fits in small spaces (24.8" x 21.7" x 18.7")
- Easy Operation: Simple touchscreen interface
- Affordable Entry: Lower cost solution for DTG printing
Understanding Your Epson F170 Printer Components
Before setup, familiarize yourself with these key components of your Epson SureColor F170:
Epson SureColor F170 Printer Diagram
Control panel, platen, ink cartridge slots, print head, maintenance station
- Print Head: PrecisionCore technology with 6 channels (CMYK + White)
- Ink System: 140ml ink cartridges with individual slots
- Platen: Garment holding system with manual positioning
- Control Panel: Color LCD touchscreen for printer operation
- Maintenance Station: For print head cleaning and capping
- Ink Circulation System: Prevents white ink settling
Unboxing and Initial Printer Setup
Proper initial setup is crucial for optimal print quality and printer longevity. Follow these detailed steps for your Epson F170:
Step 1: Unpack Your Epson F170 Printer
- Remove all tape and packaging materials (check for hidden tapes)
- Take out the power cord, ink cartridges, and documentation
- Remove all transit locks and protective materials
- Keep the box and packaging for possible future service needs
- Place printer on a stable, level surface with adequate clearance (minimum 4" on all sides)
Step 2: Install UltraChrome DG Ink Cartridges
- Power on the printer and wait for it to initialize
- Open the ink compartment door
- Install ink cartridges in their correct positions (C, M, Y, K, W)
- Prime the ink system following on-screen instructions
- Allow the printer to charge the ink system (may take 15-20 minutes)
- Perform initial ink circulation for white ink
Important: Never turn off the printer during initial setup as this may cause ink system issues. Always use genuine Epson UltraChrome DG ink to prevent print head clogging and to maintain warranty. White ink requires regular agitation - the printer will automatically circulate it.
Step 3: Perform Initial Printer Calibration
- Load a test garment onto the platen
- From the touchscreen, navigate to Maintenance > Calibration
- Follow on-screen instructions to print and scan calibration patterns
- Perform print head alignment
- Run nozzle check pattern to verify all channels are working
- Perform initial cleaning cycle if any nozzles are missing
Connecting Your Epson F170 Printer
The Epson SureColor F170 offers multiple connection options for different work environments:
| Connection Type |
Best For |
Setup Complexity |
Speed |
| USB |
Single computer, most reliable |
Easy |
Fast |
| Ethernet |
Small offices, multiple users |
Moderate |
Fast |
| Wi-Fi |
Flexible placement |
Moderate |
Good |
Detailed Network Setup for Epson F170
Method 1: USB Connection
- Connect USB cable from printer to your computer
- On your computer, download and install Epson drivers
- Follow installation wizard instructions
- Select USB connection when prompted
- Complete the installation
- Print a test page to verify connection
DTG Tip: For most small shops, USB connection provides the simplest and most reliable connection. If you need network sharing, consider Ethernet for better stability than Wi-Fi.
Driver and RIP Software Installation
For DTG printing, you'll need both the printer driver and RIP (Raster Image Processor) software:
Windows Installation (Detailed Steps)
- Install your preferred RIP software (Epson Edge Print, AccuRIP, etc.)
- Visit Epson's support website and download drivers
- Search for "SureColor F170" and select your exact model
- Download the complete software package
- Run the installer as Administrator
- Choose your connection type (USB/Network)
- Complete the installation wizard
- Configure RIP software to recognize your F170
- Print a test file to verify setup
Basic RIP Configuration
Essential DTG Printing Settings
- Launch your RIP software
- Create new printer profile for F170
- Set correct media size (up to 11.8" x 15.7")
- Configure color management settings
- Set up white ink underbase parameters
- Save custom presets for different garment types
- Calibrate for your specific pretreatment method
Important: The Epson F170 requires RIP software for proper DTG operation. While it may work with standard drivers, for professional results a RIP is essential for white ink management and color accuracy.
Advanced DTG Configuration
Maximize your Epson F170's capabilities with these professional DTG settings:
Ink System Management
- Access the Ink System menu from the touchscreen
- Set automatic white ink circulation schedule
- Configure ink usage tracking
- Enable ink low warnings
- Check ink expiration dates
- Monitor ink system health status
Custom Print Modes
Configure these settings in your RIP software for different applications:
- White Ink Underbase: Adjust density and dot gain
- Color Modes: Vivid, Natural, Custom ICC profiles
- Print Quality: Standard, High quality modes
- Garment Types: Presets for different fabric blends
- Curing Requirements: Settings for different curing methods
DTG Pro Tip: For best results on dark garments, create separate profiles for 100% cotton vs. poly-blends. The white ink underbase requirements differ significantly between fabric types.
Epson F170 Troubleshooting
Resolve common Epson F170 DTG printing issues with these solutions:
Print Quality Problems
White Ink Issues (Clogging, Banding)
- Run white ink circulation cycle
- Perform manual white ink agitation
- Run nozzle check pattern
- Perform cleaning cycle (Level 1 first, then Level 2 if needed)
- Check white ink temperature (ideal: 68-77°F)
- For persistent issues, perform manual head cleaning
Garment Feeding Issues
Garment Not Staying Flat on Platen
- Ensure platen is clean and free of debris
- Position garment carefully before printing
- Use platen adhesive if needed
- Check for proper pretreatment application
- Adjust garment positioning clamps
Warning: Excessive cleaning cycles waste expensive ink. If print quality issues persist after 2-3 cleanings, contact Epson Professional Imaging Support. Never use third-party inks as they will void your warranty and may damage the printhead.
Error Codes
Common Epson F170 error codes and solutions:
- 00010005: Ink system error - check ink cartridges
- 0001001C: Carriage error - check for obstructions
- 00020001: Maintenance tank near full - prepare replacement
- 00030004: White ink circulation required
Epson F170 Maintenance
Proper maintenance is critical for consistent DTG print quality and printer longevity:
Daily Maintenance Routine
- Run nozzle check pattern
- Clean printhead wiper and capping station
- Check ink levels and white ink agitation
- Clean platen and surrounding area
- Print test swatch to verify color accuracy
Weekly Deep Maintenance
- Perform thorough printhead cleaning
- Check and clean encoder strip
- Inspect ink system for proper operation
- Clean inside of printer (dust with soft brush)
- Verify all firmware and software is up to date
DTG Pro Tip: Keep a maintenance log to track cleaning cycles, ink changes, and any issues. This helps identify patterns and prevents problems before they affect production.
Conclusion and Professional Recommendations
By following this comprehensive guide, you've learned professional techniques for setting up, configuring, and maintaining your Epson SureColor F170 DTG printer. Remember these key points for optimal performance:
- Always use genuine Epson UltraChrome DG ink for best results and warranty compliance
- Register your product for extended support and warranty benefits
- Maintain a consistent environment (temperature and humidity control)
- Follow strict maintenance schedule for white ink system
- Use proper pretreatment methods for your specific garments
- Invest in quality RIP software for professional results
- Consider extended warranty options for business use
With proper setup and care, your Epson SureColor F170 should deliver reliable service and excellent print quality. For professional support, always consult Epson's Professional Imaging division or authorized service providers.