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Prestige R2 Pro

Prestige R2 Pro Quick Start Guide

Every step links to its own moment in the videos, so you never hunt for the right part again.

  • 74 steps
  • 512 instructions
  • 7 videos
  • 7 chapters
  • Updated 2026-02-16

User manualThe full manual, beyond first setup. · All manuals

1. Initial Overview

  1. 0:01Overview and Software Changes at DTF Station
  2. 0:39NeoStampa Dongle Warnings and Registration
  3. 1:11Locating Videos, Software, and Documents
Written steps3

Overview and Software Changes at DTF Station

Watch this part0:01
  1. Identify that Prestige R2 Pro users and above no longer require software activation codes.
  2. Confirm that NeoStampa software is now activated using a physical dongle.
  3. Locate the NeoStampa software included with the DTF Station supply bundle or purchased separately.
  4. Identify the bright yellow packaging labeled IMPORTANT that contains the dongle.
  5. Do not discard the packaging or the dongle.

NeoStampa Dongle Warnings and Registration

Watch this part0:39
  1. Treat the dongle as the software key and license.
  2. Keep the dongle secure at all times.
  3. Understand that printing is not possible without the dongle.
  4. Acknowledge that replacement of a lost or discarded dongle is the customer’s responsibility.
  5. Follow the Quick Start Guide instructions to register NeoStampa via Discord.
  6. Use the serial number printed on the physical dongle during registration.
  7. Access the DTF Station YouTube channel for step-by-step NeoStampa videos.

Locating Videos, Software, and Documents

Watch this part1:11

What you need

  • One-page Quick Start Guide PDF downloaded
  • QR codes available
  • Links to setup videos available
  • Software resources available
  • File stored in an accessible location
  1. Locate the USB drive included with the printer.
  2. If the USB drive is missing or incomplete, open the dealer email received at purchase.
  3. Use the Quick Start Guide URL provided in the email to access the most up-to-date version.
  4. Double-click the Quick Start Guide PDF file.
  5. Click Important Resources.
  6. Download the Quick Start Guide PDF.
  7. Save a copy of the PDF to the desktop or another easily accessible location.

2. Assembly

  1. 0:01Tools and Materials Preparation
  2. 0:34Removing the Printer from the Box
  3. 1:25Packaging and Waste Tank Disclaimer
  4. 1:53Feed System Installation
  5. 2:28Media Roll Loading
  6. 3:03Removing Transport Tape and Locks
  7. 3:45Power Connection and Initial Check
  8. 4:14Opening Printer Covers
  9. 4:55Motherboard and Carriage Cover Removal
  10. 5:27Ink Preparation and Safety Check
  11. 6:05Filling Ink Containers
  12. 7:10Power On and White Ink Circulation
  13. 7:38Ink Charging Procedure
  14. 8:41Waste Tank and Media Feeding
  15. 10:04Ink Alarm and Final Adjustments
  16. 10:46Reinstalling Covers and Final Positioning
Written steps17

Tools and Materials Preparation

Watch this part0:01
  1. Gather a set of Allen keys.
  2. Gather a snap blade.
  3. Gather a Phillips screwdriver.
  4. Gather a pair of scissors.
  5. Prepare a full set of ink.
  6. Prepare a roll of DTF film intended for use with the printer.

Unboxing the Printer

What you need

  • All listed accessories are present
  • No parts are missing or damaged
  1. Use the snap blade to carefully open the printer box.
  2. Remove the user manual from the top of the box.
  3. Remove and identify the following items: Power cord
  • Dampers
  • Additional tools
  • Ink filters and tubes
  • Ink diverter
  • USB dongle with printing software
  • Ribbon cables
  • Set of different size screws
  • Two feed roller components

Removing the Printer from the Box

Watch this part0:34
  1. Remove the top foam insert and set it aside.
  2. Pull out the feed system component from the box.
  3. With at least two people, lift the printer out of the box.
  4. Place the printer onto a sturdy tabletop.

Packaging and Waste Tank Disclaimer

Watch this part1:25
  1. Do not discard the printer box.
  2. Place all unused or extra components back into the box for storage.
  3. Place the waste ink tank on the floor or at a position lower than the printer.

Feed System Installation

Watch this part1:53
  1. Place the feed system component behind the printer.
  2. Align the component with the mounting holes.
  3. Insert bolts into all eight holes using an Allen key without fully tightening.
  4. Once all bolts are partially installed, tighten all eight bolts securely.
  5. Retrieve the two feed roller components from the foam insert.
  6. Slide each feed roller component onto the rods.
  7. Adjust the orientation of each component as shown.
  8. Loosen the knobs if needed to allow the components to slide.
  9. Center the rods.
  10. Tighten the four knobs to secure the rollers in place.

Media Roll Loading

Watch this part2:28
  1. Identify the printing side of the DTF film.
  2. Ensure the printing side is facing up.
  3. Insert the media roll against the left side bracket first.
  4. Align the left edge of the roll with the left side of the rear media feed opening.
  5. Tighten the left bracket by rotating the knob clockwise.
  6. Slide the right bracket inward to secure the roll.
  7. Tighten the right bracket knob clockwise.

Removing Transport Tape and Locks

Watch this part3:03
  1. Remove all visible tape from the front of the printer.
  2. Open the front lid.
  3. Remove tape from the printer bed.
  4. Remove the plastic lining near the printer rail.
  5. Locate the carriage lock above the printer bed.
  6. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the carriage lock screws.
  7. Remove the bracket and attached tag.
  8. Store the bracket with the printer box and accessories.
  9. Reinstall the bolts back into the carriage after removing the bracket.

Power Connection and Initial Check

Watch this part3:45
  1. Insert the power cord into the printer.
  2. Plug the other end into a power outlet.
  3. Switch the rear power switch to the on position.
  4. Confirm the emergency stop button is released.
  5. Verify the screen displays status idle.
  6. Turn the printer off using the rear power switch.

Opening Printer Covers

Watch this part4:14
  1. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two bolts on the top lid.
  2. Fully open the top cover.
  3. Open the front cover.
  4. Rotate the knob counterclockwise to detach the capping station.
  5. Monitor the opening while rotating the knob.
  6. Ensure the wiper blade is lower than the carriage.
  7. Move the carriage to the left.

Motherboard and Carriage Cover Removal

Watch this part4:55
  1. Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen two screws on the right side of the motherboard cover.
  2. Loosen three screws on the left side of the motherboard cover.
  3. Lift and remove the motherboard cover.
  4. Loosen two screws on the left side of the carriage cover.
  5. Loosen two screws on the right side of the carriage cover.
  6. Lift and remove the carriage cover.

Ink Preparation and Safety Check

Watch this part5:27

What you need

  • No ink movement toward print head
  • Dampers confirmed functional
  1. Shake each ink bottle for 5 to 10 seconds.
  2. Shake the white ink bottle for 15 to 20 seconds.
  3. Allow the white ink to rest for at least 5 minutes.
  4. Keep the front lid open to visually inspect ink tubes.
  5. Ensure no ink flows toward the print head during filling.
  6. If ink flows toward the print head, clip the tube immediately.

Filling Ink Containers

Watch this part6:05
  1. Open the side lid to access ink containers.
  2. Open each container cap one at a time.
  3. Fill each container with the correct ink color as labeled.
  4. Fill CMYKW containers to approximately 40–50%.
  5. Tighten each cap fully.
  6. Loosen each cap by a quarter turn to allow airflow.

Power On and White Ink Circulation

Watch this part7:10
  1. Turn the printer on using the rear power switch.
  2. Verify the carriage moves to the capping station.
  3. Open the right side panel.
  4. Rotate the white ink circulation knob fully clockwise until clicking.
  5. Close the side panel.

Ink Charging Procedure

Watch this part7:38

What you need

  • Ink visibly flowing through waste tube
  • Wiper blade contacts print head properly
  1. Press Menu on the front control panel.
  2. Press the down arrow three times to reach Head Maintenance.
  3. Press Enter.
  4. Press the down arrow twice to reach Fill Ink.
  5. Press Enter.
  6. Leave the selection on Two Head.
  7. Press Enter to start ink charging.
  8. Allow ink charging to run for at least 2 minutes.
  9. Press Cancel to stop the ink charge.
  10. Press the Cleaning button to perform a head cleaning.
  11. Perform two additional head cleanings after status returns to idle.

Waste Tank and Media Feeding

Watch this part8:41
  1. Press the button on the waste tank to enable the alarm system.
  2. Pull extra film from the media roll at the back.
  3. Route the film under the guide bar.
  4. Lift the media roller handle to raise the rollers.
  5. Move media guides outward to avoid interference.
  6. Insert the film through the printer.
  7. Pull the rear roll taut to align the media straight.
  8. Lower the handle to secure the media.
  9. Move the media guides inward to lightly cover the film.

Ink Alarm and Final Adjustments

Watch this part10:04
  1. Turn on the ink alarm system using the switch.
  2. Open the right side panel.
  3. Rotate the circulation knob counterclockwise halfway.
  4. Close the side panel.

Reinstalling Covers and Final Positioning

Watch this part10:46
  1. Press the up arrow to move the film away from the print head.
  2. Press the left arrow to center the carriage.
  3. Install the larger cover over the ink dampers using four screws.
  4. Install the top cover over the ribbon cables using four screws.
  5. Close the printer cover.
  6. Reinstall the two top lid screws.
  7. Press Enter to return the carriage to its home position.

3. Pilot Software Setup

  1. 0:00Overview and System Requirements
  2. 0:32Step One: Downloading DTF Station Pilot
  3. 2:09Step Two: Installing DTF Station Pilot
  4. 3:42Ethernet Connection and Network Configuration
  5. 4:56Network Error Handling
  6. 5:26Step Three – Language and Port Configuration
  7. 7:15Step Four – Setting Parameters
  8. 8:45Completion
Written steps8

Overview and System Requirements

Watch this part0:00
  1. Identify that this setup video is divided into five steps.
  2. Note that the footage uses Prestige R1 and XL2 printers, but the process is similar across models.
  3. Confirm that DTF Station Pilot runs only on a PC.
  4. Do not use a Mac or tablet PC for this software.
  5. Understand that Microsoft Surface Pro is considered a tablet PC and may not run the software properly.
  6. Verify computer specifications before purchase or use.
  7. Confirm the operating system is Windows 11 or later.
  8. Confirm the CPU is at least an i5 or i7 with a minimum speed of 2.6 GHz.
  9. Confirm at least 500 GB of free storage is available.
  10. Use an SSD instead of an HDD when possible.
  11. Confirm at least 8 GB of RAM is installed, with higher recommended.

Step One: Downloading DTF Station Pilot

Watch this part0:32
  1. Locate the Quick Start Guide PDF from the USB thumb drive or dealer email.
  2. Double-click the Quick Start Guide PDF.
  3. Click Important Resources.
  4. Download the DTF Station Pilot software.
  5. Confirm the correct Pilot version based on the printer model.
  6. Locate the serial number sticker on the printer.
  7. Determine if the printer was manufactured before December 2024.
  8. If manufactured before December 2024, confirm whether a firmware and motherboard upgrade is required.
  9. Contact DTF Station technicians to confirm compatibility if needed.
  10. Download the motherboard upgrade package and firmware configuration files if instructed.
  11. Temporarily disable antivirus or authorize the program if blocked by security software.
  12. Confirm the download is present in the Downloads folder.
  13. Verify the computer has an Ethernet connection available.
  14. If using a laptop without an Ethernet port, obtain an Ethernet adapter.

Step Two: Installing DTF Station Pilot

Watch this part2:09
  1. Double-click the downloaded.exe installation file.
  2. Follow the on-screen installation instructions.
  3. Accept the license terms.
  4. Allow Microsoft Visual C++ and related packages to install.
  5. Monitor the taskbar for any hidden pop-up installation prompts.
  6. Confirm all installations complete successfully.
  7. Rename the DTF Station Pilot desktop icon to R1.
  8. Double-click the icon to open DTF Station Pilot.
  9. Observe the left-side connection symbol for blinking red status.
  10. Observe the right-side light bulb symbol for red or yellow error status.
  11. Click the light bulb symbol to open the log tab if errors are present.

Ethernet Connection and Network Configuration

Watch this part3:42
  1. Connect the Ethernet cable between the printer and the computer.
  2. Power on the printer.
  3. Open the Windows Start menu.
  4. Type Ethernet and open Ethernet settings.
  5. Confirm the Ethernet connection appears as an unidentified network.
  6. Click Change adapter options.
  7. Disconnect the Ethernet cable briefly to identify which adapter disables.
  8. Reconnect the Ethernet cable after identifying the correct adapter.
  9. Return to DTF Station Pilot.
  10. Click the Advanced tab.
  11. Click Admin Menu.
  12. Select Network.
  13. Choose the correct Ethernet connection from the drop-down menu.
  14. Enter a local IP address matching the server IP except for the last two digits.
  15. Do not use 10 as the final two digits.
  16. Use an example value such as 16.
  17. Click Set.
  18. Click OK.
  19. Wait 5 to 10 seconds.
  20. Confirm the loading parameter window appears.
  21. Verify the connection and light bulb icons turn green.

Network Error Handling

Watch this part4:56
  1. If a failed to load parameters error appears, update the motherboard and firmware.
  2. If the connection does not turn green, replace the Ethernet cable.
  3. Try a different Ethernet adapter if available.
  4. Enter a different IP address ending such as 17 or 18.
  5. Ensure all other IP digits match the server IP.
  6. Contact DTF Station support if issues persist.

Step Three – Language and Port Configuration

Watch this part5:26
  1. Navigate to the last main tab on the right side of Pilot.
  2. Click the last subtab.
  3. Select the first available connection icon.
  4. Confirm other buttons are grayed out until connection is established.
  5. Select the correct Ethernet port from the drop-down menu.
  6. Enter an IP address matching the server IP except for the last two digits.
  7. Click the left-side button to save.
  8. Click OK.
  9. Close the pop-up window.
  10. Wait for a solid green connection indicator.
  11. Click the second button from the top.
  12. Select English from the language drop-down menu.
  13. Press the right-side button.
  14. Click OK.
  15. Close DTF Station Pilot.
  16. Reopen the program to confirm the language change.

Step Four – Setting Parameters

Watch this part7:15
  1. Open DTF Station Pilot.
  2. Review all parameter settings shown in the video.
  3. Match all settings exactly as displayed.
  4. Ensure the spot color option is unchecked.
  5. Adjust the print start position based on how the film was loaded.
  6. Measure the distance from the left side of the printer to the start of the film.
  7. Set the print start position typically between 50 and 70 if centered.
  8. Click Save after confirming all settings.
  9. Press the Home button to confirm the carriage moves to the home position.
  10. Right-click the Pilot icon in the taskbar.
  11. Select Pin to taskbar.
  12. Close the Pilot program.
  13. Reopen Pilot to confirm the connection remains active.
  1. Confirm all settings are saved and the connection remains green.
  2. Proceed to the next setup video.

4. Print Head Adjustment

  1. 0:00Pre-Adjustment Requirements and Nozzle Check
  2. 1:16Sensor Bypass and Nozzle Recovery
  3. 2:09Cleaning Rules Before Adjustment
  4. 2:40Step Offset Adjustment
  5. 3:54Headspace Adjustment Overview
  6. 4:33Left Horizontal Adjustment
  7. 5:50Right Horizontal Adjustment for Prestige R2 Pro
  8. 6:47Vertical Adjustment
  9. 8:20Color Adjustment Left Side
  10. 10:30Color Adjustment White Channels
  11. 11:18Color Adjustment Right Side
  12. 12:42Bidirectional Adjustment
  13. 13:30Backing Up Configuration
  14. 14:14Final Notes and Reassembly
Written steps14

Pre-Adjustment Requirements and Nozzle Check

Watch this part0:00
  1. Confirm the printer waste tank is positioned lower than the printer.
  2. Confirm the waste tube is not in contact with waste ink.
  3. Ensure at least 90 percent of nozzles are firing before performing any adjustments.
  4. Press Menu on the front control panel.
  5. Press the Down arrow until Head Maintenance appears.
  6. Press Enter.
  7. Press the Down arrow until Head Status appears.
  8. Press Enter to print a nozzle check pattern.

Sensor Bypass and Nozzle Recovery

Watch this part1:16
  1. If the printer does not respond, check the computer or Hosonsoft software for errors.
  2. If a safety cap error appears, open the front cover.
  3. Take the L-shaped head carriage bracket previously removed.
  4. Place the bracket in front of the sensor until the sensor light activates.
  5. Tape the bracket in place.
  6. Return to the control panel and print the nozzle check.
  7. If nozzle breakages appear, press Head Clean.
  8. After cleaning completes, return to Menu, Head Maintenance, Head Status.
  9. Press Enter to print another nozzle check.
  10. Repeat cleaning until at least 90 percent of nozzles are firing.

Cleaning Rules Before Adjustment

Watch this part2:09
  1. If approximately 50 percent of nozzles are not firing, perform a full length clean for 20 seconds.
  2. Perform two head cleanings.
  3. Repeat nozzle checks until 90 percent of channels are firing.
  4. Proceed only after meeting the nozzle requirement.

Step Offset Adjustment

Watch this part2:40
  1. Open Hosonsoft.
  2. Click Adjust on the top menu.
  3. Set Step Offset to Eight Pass.
  4. Under Base Step, click Print Adjust.
  5. Inspect the printed pattern with values from minus 10 to plus 10.
  6. Identify the value where two lines converge into one.
  7. Use a digital microscope or a smartphone photo with zoom if needed.
  8. Determine the best value.
  9. Enter the selected value next to Print Adjust.
  10. Click Calculate.
  11. Click Print Adjust again to confirm the single line aligns at zero.

Headspace Adjustment Overview

Watch this part3:54
  1. Click Headspace on the left navigation bar.
  2. Confirm the printer has two print heads.
  3. Always adjust H2 only.
  4. Do not adjust H1.
  5. Identify H1 as CMYK and H2 as White.
  6. Perform adjustments in this order: Left horizontal adjustment
  • Right horizontal adjustment
  • Vertical adjustment

Left Horizontal Adjustment

Watch this part4:33
  1. Under Left Adjust, click Print Adjust.
  2. Inspect the pattern with values from minus 12 to plus 2.
  3. Identify the value where black and white bars align best.
  4. Return to the software.
  5. Add the selected value to the existing value.
  6. Click the Save icon.
  7. Click Print Adjust again to verify alignment at zero.

Right Horizontal Adjustment for Prestige R2 Pro

Watch this part5:50
  1. Perform the same process used for the left adjustment.
  2. Identify the best alignment value.
  3. Multiply the value by negative one.
  4. Add the adjusted value to the existing value.
  5. Click Save.
  6. Reprint to confirm alignment.

Vertical Adjustment

Watch this part6:47
  1. Click Print Adjust under Vertical.
  2. Inspect the pattern with horizontal black and white lines.
  3. Identify the value where lines align best.
  4. Return to the software.
  5. Add the selected value to the existing value.
  6. Click Save.
  7. Reprint to verify alignment.
  8. Leave values unchanged if alignment is correct.

Color Adjustment Left Side

Watch this part8:20
  1. Click Color Adjust on the left navigation bar.
  2. Click Left Adjust.
  3. Allow the printer to begin printing the color pattern.
  4. After channels one and two print, press Pause on the control panel.
  5. Inspect the pattern.
  6. Identify the best alignment value for each channel.
  7. Add new values to the existing values in row H01.
  8. Resume printing by pressing Pause.
  9. Pause again to inspect channels three and four.
  10. Add required values for channels three and four.
  11. Resume printing.

Color Adjustment White Channels

Watch this part10:30
  1. Inspect the white channel patterns.
  2. Pause printing as needed.
  3. Enter new values into row H02 for each white channel.
  4. Save the settings.
  5. Do not perform a second print for left color adjustment.

Color Adjustment Right Side

Watch this part11:18
  1. Click Right Adjust.
  2. Print the pattern.
  3. Pause printing as needed.
  4. Identify the best alignment values.
  5. Multiply each selected value by negative one.
  6. Add the adjusted values to the existing values.
  7. Resume printing to check white channels.
  8. Save all settings once complete.

Bidirectional Adjustment

Watch this part12:42
  1. Click Bidirect Adjust on the left navigation bar.
  2. Click Print Adjust.
  3. Inspect the bidirectional pattern.
  4. Identify the best alignment values.
  5. Add the values to the existing values.
  6. Advance the film and recheck.
  7. Repeat adjustments until alignment is precise.

Backing Up Configuration

Watch this part13:30
  1. Click Advance.
  2. Enter 61s in the password field.
  3. Click Confirm.
  4. Choose a folder for saving backups.
  5. Click Firmware.
  6. Click Export Firmware Configuration.
  7. Name the file and click Save.
  8. Click OK.
  9. Export Firmware Configuration Parameter.
  10. Save the second file.
  11. Close the window.

Final Notes and Reassembly

Watch this part14:14
  1. Redo all adjustments if using new media with different thickness.
  2. Redo all adjustments if installing a new print head.
  3. Press the Down arrow to advance media clear of the printer bed.
  4. Cut excess media.
  5. Reinstall the printer carriage cover and tighten screws.
  6. Reinstall the motherboard cover and tighten screws.
  7. Close the printer lid.
  8. Secure the lid using the two screws.

5. NeoStampa Setup

  1. 0:00Overview and Preparation
  2. 1:20Step Two Activating the Dongle
  3. 3:43Adding Printer Driver and Verifying License
  4. 4:40Step Three Printer Scheme and ICC Profile Setup
  5. 6:19Importing Schemes into NeoStampa
  6. 9:39Step Four Media Setup and Cost Calculation
  7. 10:55Control Center and Data Source Setup
  8. 12:13Consumables and Cost Configuration
  9. 12:55Sending a Print Job and Ink Cost Setup
  10. 14:36Verifying Job Costs and History
  11. 15:46Completion
Written steps12

Overview and Preparation

Watch this part0:00
  1. Confirm this setup is divided into four steps.
  2. Ensure the Quick Start Guide PDF is available.
  3. If the Quick Start Guide PDF is missing, request it from your dealer.

Step One Downloading and Installing NeoStampa

  1. Double click the Quick Start Guide PDF.
  2. Allow the PDF to open in the internet browser.
  3. Scroll down in the document.
  4. Click Importing Resources.
  5. Open the NeoStampa folder.
  6. Locate the NeoStampa RIP for the Prestige R2 Pro.
  7. Click Download.
  8. Wait for the download to complete.
  9. Double click the downloaded NeoStampa installer.
  10. Select the desired language.
  11. Click OK.
  12. Accept the license agreement.
  13. Click Next.
  14. Click Next again.
  15. Click Install.
  16. Wait for the installation to complete.
  17. Click Finish.

Step Two Activating the Dongle

Watch this part1:20
  1. Insert the NeoStampa dongle into the computer.
  2. Confirm the dongle light turns green.
  3. Open NeoStampa Delta.
  4. Click Yes on any system prompts.
  5. Wait for the software to load if this is the first launch.
  6. When the registration window appears, enter your account details.
  7. Click Continue.
  8. Check your email for the verification code.
  9. Confirm the email is from neostampa or inedit.com.
  10. Enter the verification code.
  11. Click Continue.
  12. Enter your printer details.
  13. Select Prestige R2 Pro.
  14. Add any additional printers if applicable.
  15. Click Request Trial.
  16. Confirm the activation success message.
  17. Click Continue Trial.
  18. Click OK.

Adding Printer Driver and Verifying License

Watch this part3:43
  1. In the driver dialog box, click Add.
  2. Select DTF Station.
  3. Choose the correct printer driver.
  4. Click Install.
  5. Click OK.
  6. Select TCP IP as the connection type.
  7. Click Close.
  8. Click Help at the top menu.
  9. Click Activation Keys.
  10. Confirm the license status is valid.
  11. Click Info.
  12. Select the dongle.
  13. Verify the dongle is active and view the expiration date.

Step Three Printer Scheme and ICC Profile Setup

Watch this part4:40
  1. Locate the Quick Start Guide.
  2. Scan or click the Important Resources QR code.
  3. Open the NeoStampa resources.
  4. Select your printer model.
  5. Download the desired print modes.
  6. Click Open in Folder after download completes.
  7. Right click the file and select Extract All.
  8. Move the extracted folder to the desktop.
  9. Repeat the process for additional print modes.
  10. Close all open windows.

Importing Schemes into NeoStampa

Watch this part6:19
  1. Open NeoStampa.
  2. Click New Job.
  3. Select DTGDTF as the document type.
  4. Select the printer.
  5. Click OK.
  6. Click the three dot icon to open Scheme Manager.
  7. Click Add.
  8. Navigate to the extracted print mode folder.
  9. Double click the CPS file.
  10. Select the imported scheme.
  11. If printing mode not supported appears, adjust settings as shown.
  12. Select Five Color mode.
  13. Select the correct quality.
  14. Ignore the passes setting.
  15. Open mode colors.
  16. Change the orange color to white.
  17. Click OK.
  18. Click Save.
  19. Repeat the import steps for additional schemes.

Step Four Media Setup and Cost Calculation

Watch this part9:39
  1. Click New Job.
  2. Select the printer and scheme.
  3. Click OK.
  4. Under predefined sizes, verify media width.
  5. Right click media width to change units if needed.
  6. Set media width to match the film size.
  7. Leave media length unchecked.
  8. Leave margins unchecked unless required.
  9. Click New to add a media profile.
  10. Enter a media name.
  11. Change media color RGB values to 105, 105, 105.
  12. Click Save.
  13. Repeat to add additional media sizes if needed.

Control Center and Data Source Setup

Watch this part10:55
  1. Open the Control Center.
  2. Open Preferences.
  3. Set the currency.
  4. Set measurement units.
  5. Set decimal precision.
  6. Under Services, click Check Status for all services.
  7. Click Data Sources.
  8. Enter 127.0.0.1:27001 if not present.
  9. Click Add.
  10. Confirm data source is active.

Consumables and Cost Configuration

Watch this part12:13
  1. Click Consumables.
  2. Select the Prestige R2 Pro printer.
  3. Open the Materials tab.
  4. Select the correct film.
  5. Set width to match media size.
  6. Uncheck Roll if adjusting length manually.
  7. Set length to the correct value.
  8. Enter the material cost.
  9. Click Save.
  10. Close the window.

Sending a Print Job and Ink Cost Setup

Watch this part12:55
  1. Import an image by clicking Add File or dragging the file.
  2. Duplicate images if needed.
  3. Confirm connection is set to TCP.
  4. Click Nesting.
  5. Set margins to 0.25.
  6. Center images using the alignment icons.
  7. Click Print.
  8. Open Control Center.
  9. Click Consumables.
  10. Open the Inks tab.
  11. Select all inks.
  12. Click Add Price.
  13. Enter ink cost.
  14. Apply to all.
  15. Click Save.

Verifying Job Costs and History

Watch this part14:36
  1. Open Control Center.
  2. Select a completed job record.
  3. Review job cost details.
  4. Adjust display columns if needed.
  5. Export print history as Excel or text if required.
  6. Reprint after correcting media selection if costs show zero.
  1. Confirm total job costs are calculated correctly.
  2. Verify media and ink costs are displayed.
  3. Proceed with normal printing operations. Only perform this next step if you do NOT have on-site setup & training with a technician. If you DO have on-site setup & training, please proceed to "3. Operation" 2a. Calibration

6. Step Calibration (skip if a technician did your on-site setup)

Step Calibration Requirements and Procedure

  1. 0:02Introduction
  2. 0:18Calibration Tools Recommendation
  3. 0:32Bypass the Cover Sensor (Calibration Only)
  4. 1:02Prepare the Printer
  5. 1:38Verify Nozzle Check Quality
  6. 1:55Step Calibration Overview
  7. 2:07Perform Step Calibration
  8. 2:20Identify Correct Calibration Value
  9. 2:40Apply and Confirm Calibration
  10. 3:05If Calibration Is Inconsistent
  11. 3:23Completion
Written steps11

This video explains the requirements and setup needed before calibrating your printer, with a focus on step calibration. Proper calibration is critical for print quality and should be performed after full setup or if you notice blurry prints, banding, or poor image quality.

Calibration Tools Recommendation

Watch this part0:18
  • For best results:
  • Use a magnifying glass or handheld microscope.
  • Acceptable alternative:
  • A phone camera for step, head, and bi-directional calibration.
  • Strongly recommended:
  • Microscope or magnifier for channel calibration.
  • Follow along with the video, as the process can be detailed.

Bypass the Cover Sensor (Calibration Only)

Watch this part0:32
  1. Locate the cover sensor on the printer.
  2. Use a magnet or small metal object.
  3. Place it on the sensor as shown in the video.
  4. This allows printing with the cover open for calibration only.
  5. Always close the cover during normal operation for safety.
  6. A head carriage lock can also be used, but a magnet is demonstrated here.

Prepare the Printer

Watch this part1:02
  1. Open the DTF Station Pilot program.
  2. Set the correct print start position.
  3. Run a nozzle check.
  4. If the printer has been idle for more than 20 minutes: Perform two head cleanings before the nozzle check.

Verify Nozzle Check Quality

Watch this part1:38
  1. Confirm nozzle check patterns look similar to or better than those shown.
  2. If coverage is below 90%: Perform additional ink fills and head cleanings.
  • Contact DTF Station Tech Support if issues persist.

Step Calibration Overview

Watch this part1:55
  • Step calibration ensures proper film advancement.
  • It aligns pinch roller movement and media tension.
  • Poor step calibration can cause:
  • Banding
  • Image misalignment

Perform Step Calibration

Watch this part2:07
  1. In the Pilot program, go to the “Calibration” tab.
  2. Select the “Step Calibration” subtab.
  3. Click “Test Print.”
  4. The printer will output: Horizontal black lines from the left and right sides.
  • Numbers underneath ranging from -4 to +5.

Identify Correct Calibration Value

Watch this part2:20
  1. Examine where the left and right lines overlap.
  2. The correct value is where they form one solid black line.
  3. Typical values are around: -1, 0, or +1
  4. Ideally, the best overlap occurs at 0.

Apply and Confirm Calibration

Watch this part2:40
  1. Enter the value with the best overlap into the software.
  2. Click “Apply.”
  3. Click “Test Print” again.
  4. Confirm the best overlap now occurs at 0.
  5. If confirmed, click “Save.”
  • Example shown: -2.

If Calibration Is Inconsistent

Watch this part3:05

If values keep changing, possible causes include: Contact DTF Station Tech Support for further troubleshooting.

  • Incorrect vacuum intensity
  • Film issues
  • Pinch roller problems
  • Media tension inconsistencies

Step calibration is complete. Proceed to the next video covering head calibration.

7. Bi-Directional Calibration (skip if a technician did your on-site setup)

Bi-Directional Calibration Procedure

  1. 0:02Introduction
  2. 0:22When to Perform Bi-Directional Calibration
  3. 0:30Access Bi-Directional Calibration
  4. 0:41Understand the Calibration Pattern
  5. 1:00Identify the Best Overlap
  6. 1:10Calculate the New Value
  7. 1:22Apply the New Calibration Value
  8. 1:36Confirm Calibration
  9. 1:55Completion
Written steps9

This video explains the bi-directional calibration process. This is the final calibration step and ensures maximum image sharpness. Improper bi-directional calibration can cause blurry prints or a doubling/ghosting effect. This calibration combines left and right unidirectional passes to improve print speed while maintaining accuracy.

When to Perform Bi-Directional Calibration

Watch this part0:22

Bi-directional calibration should be performed:

  • Periodically as part of maintenance
  • When film thickness changes
  • When environmental conditions change
  • After replacing or servicing the print head

Access Bi-Directional Calibration

Watch this part0:30
  1. Open the DTF Station Pilot software.
  2. Navigate to the “Calibration” menu.
  3. Select the “Bi-Directional Calibration” tab.
  4. Click “Test Print.”

Understand the Calibration Pattern

Watch this part0:41
  1. The print will show: A dark black bar at the top
  2. Your goal is to find the bar where the dark and light patterns overlap perfectly.
  3. Use a microscope for best accuracy.
  • A dark black bar at the bottom
  • A lighter black bar in the center
  • A phone camera may also be used if needed.

Identify the Best Overlap

Watch this part1:00
  1. Examine the printed pattern carefully.
  2. Identify the number where overlap is most accurate.
  • Example shown: -2.

Calculate the New Value

Watch this part1:10
  1. Locate the current bi-directional value shown in the Pilot software.
  2. Perform the calculation: 17.5 + 2 = 15.5.
  • Example shown: 17.5.

Apply the New Calibration Value

Watch this part1:22
  1. Enter the new calculated value (example: 15.5) into the bi-directional calibration field.
  2. Click “Save.”
  3. Hold the down arrow icon briefly.
  4. Click “Test Print” again.

Confirm Calibration

Watch this part1:36
  1. Review the new calibration print.
  2. Confirm that the best overlap now appears at 0.
  3. If zero is not optimal: Repeat the calculation and test process until zero shows the best overlap.

Bi-directional calibration is now complete. Proceed to the next video in the calibration series.

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