Watch this before buying a budget UV printer from China (or anywhere for that matter)

eBay and Alibaba are full of UV Printers based on the Epson DX5 or 1390 print head. With an A3 or A4 form factor and a sub $4000 price tag including AcroRIP software, this promises to be a cheap UV Printer option. However is it? This particular printer is branded as "ACHI", but there are other brands of the same physical printer such as "EraSmart" etc.
Please watch and give me your own opinions below.

[@sa4555]

Few Things here, -Regardless of brand most UV printers are a headache to maintain. There are specific steps that one must take to keep the printer in a running condition, over the weekend we drain all the tubes/line including waste ink lines, flush the print heads and dampers. - Software, modified epson printers use ACROrip as default software, named brands use more higher end softwares with better support. Furthermore Acrorip can not be downloaded, it must be purchased from authorised dealers only and customers are given 6 months update ONLY. I think you have to pay extra if you want any further updates. As a business one must use legit software. - Print quality: There are several reasons for having bad quality prints, from resolution to ink saturation levels to distance between print head and printing surface, it takes some time to get perfect prints. There is a bit of learning curve involved here, even with our Mimaki flatbed, the learning curve was a bit steep but compared to these modified ones it was relatively easier because of the the training and trouble shooting provided by the manufacturer. We do replace our printheads roughly every 5 to 6 months, even after such vigorous maintenance, so brand makes no difference. - There are 3 types of machines you can choose from when buying from China, Top Tier, Mid tier and low tier. Your machine is based on R2000, so it is most likely mid tier machine. It should come with auto levelling mechanism, including collision avoidance systems and auto cleaning and circulation for white inks. Since you didnt talk about that, I am assuming may be those functions were missing. - All inks stink, even with higher end suction pumps and closed ink systems, having a well ventilated area is a must for both UV and Ecosolvent ink jets. In conclusion, I am not gonna look down on Chinese low cost printers, you are getting what you pay for. I know several businesses using those printers and getting great results, but it took time and effort. Your life wont be any different even if you decided to buy a 30k UV printer, it will still make you pull your hairs from time to time, just make sure you are aware of what you are getting yourself into.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

It is always good to read meaningful comments like this one.

[@eclipsedigi]

is there a few higher end models you could recommend, looking to buy my first one and need some guidance :) thanks in advance!

[@7BlackOx]

@@eclipsedigi well... it's not "higher" or "lower". they 're mostly the same, except of some details. seriously, there is only one thing you should keep in mind except of price (it must not be too low) - a printing head. all of the mid-end and low-end printers past several years till now (2023) has two heads - epson xp600 and tx800. and... it's totally shit, that you have to replace every 3-6 month. good news - it's a really chip shit at about 200-250usd and you need only 1 for 4 colors, 1 for white and optionally, 1 for varnish)) good and not much expensive heads (you should ask your supplier) - are, for example, ricoh gen4, and much better toshiba ce4m. for sure, you will not find these heads in a4-a3 printers... maybe from 60*90cm, if you lucky...?)) most of disadvantages in video - are fair enough for all uv. except of stink - original uv inks from roland and mimaki stinks much lower. but cost of machines and inks too high, at least 10 times from chinese ones. btw, i'd better prefer to hire some person, which would smell this for money and future cancer, instead of doing such work by myself...

[@shannonmccann9442]

do you know if we can use any other program other than ACRO rip?

[@yasminaf3699]

​@7BlackOx I am really impressed by your comment, which highlighted few points I wasn't aware of. I am new to this type of technology and due to sp😮ecific business requirements I was about to buy chineese mid level printer at 3K. Now I stopped and think - may be better not. I will print once a week or twice and the rest of time need to be slave and keep cleaning. And that ink - is really that cancerous? I had some serious thoughts on it. Thank you again for your post.

[@Ikkepop]

Those "trojants" might not be "trojans" at all, there is such a thing as heuristic based detection, that flags software as suspicious if it uses certain OS api's, and it is often wrong. "Occamy" is one of the generic names for heuristic detection. So they might not be lying to you after all. I mean I had antiviruses detect my own writting programs as "Occamy" and such, which I for sure know is not trojans/viruses because I have written it.

[@__WJK__]

Very well said, this has been my experiance as well.

[@ronnetgrazer362]

Lots of cracked/cracking software has this problem. OTOH, if one were to engage in industrial espionage, this might be an excellent cover.

[@shanewalker9564]

@@ronnetgrazer362 if you have a problem with software just buy the original acurip11 is only £320 +vat tot £408 works on every software from win 7 to 11 if you are paying £4000+ for the printer £408 is nothing

[@DaveSmith-cp5kj]

@@ronnetgrazer362 Although I'm sure it is a cracked software, I almost guarantee there is also spyware as these printers are used a lot in the electronics industry for startup companies and this is probably how they steal a lot of electrical designs.

[@japaneserequired6314]

Yeah, it could be, but probably not, lol

[@doni082]

Hello, maybe you are new to uv printer world. I have a chinese uv flatbed printer (modified from epson printer) and japan uv flatbed printer for 5 years now. The 5 bad points you're listed are the common trouble for all uv flatbed printers. The printers are big and super heavy, especially large format uv flatbed printer. Trial andd error is a yes for all kind of printers, especially when you try a new material to print. Every printers with white ink usually have a high maintenance requirements, like uv flatbed printers, uv roll to roll printers and DTG printers. you need to clean the carriage area after a day print and soal the print head in cleaning liquid. You need to use the printers almost every day to ensure the ink don't clog the ink tube, especially the white ink. The cleaning process is quite messy for first time but I sure you will get used to the process as time flow. Don't forget to clean the uv lamp glass once every few days to maintain the lamp quality. And many inks are stinks not just uv inks. The ink odor can damage your lungs slowly for a long period of time, so better use air purifier even though it's not a big help to remove the odor. Maintain your health with proper nutrients and workout. Be careful when you clean the waste ink, don't let the ink touch your skin because it can damage your skin especially if you have sensitive skin. The cracked software mostly paired with chinese uv flatbed printers that modified from epson printers. If you have more bugdet, i recommend to use WhiteRIP, a nice program to make your printer works even better, but the matter is WhiteRIP is quite expensive than AcroRIP. Don't let the head gap more than 1.5milimeters to ensure good print results. Check your nozzle before you start the job in the morning. Use a stabilizer to prevent electricity damage. The good news for chinese modified epson uv printers is the spareparts are cheaper than japan or europe uv printers. Much more cheaper. My japan uv printer cost around 3k just for one print head (the machine use 3 or 4 print heads), a 5k uv lamp also more expensive ink cost than chinese uv ink. Even the small parts is expensive. The difference is japan or europe uv printers prints a great result and capable of a long working time. But when trouble comes, it's a pain for all uv flatbed printers. Hope you get your machine working better now. Thank you for sharing this video.

[@yazzydesigns5955]

I just got a printer from China, and it is not bad at all. I am new to a UV printer, but I know, it is common sense to clean a printer for maintenance. I just don't know how. If you have a link or a video on how to do this, that would be great. Also, I really like your comment. It is all I am experiencing right now.

[@GallantMEDIAca]

@@yazzydesigns5955 which printer did you purchase? Cost?

[@thegoddess4172]

Thanks

[@troncalnegrete479]

@@yazzydesigns5955 how is your machine running after a year of use and why brand did you get I m planning on get one but I don’t know which one.

[@OriginalMindPeace]

@Doni Are you able to provide contacts for further information and advice?

[@rt-ks2bh]

Thank god i seen this vid,,i was shopping around and still am for a uv printer,,,plz anybody out there type in reviews on the product your thinking about, orelse you will do your hard earned money,,a big thankyou to the people who took time to make this vid

[@concreteblue22]

No UV printer is for home use, inks don't last very long to start with, a year or less and all printers need cleaning after each use. Just shipping and the inks and a print head would eat up most of the price, amazing it works at all.

[@DFinkelstein]

Most UV printers (even expensive ones) have the same issues (except for the software). Most UV ink stinks but some of the higher end printers capture overspray. They all require maintenance when not used for numerous days. Still just part of the tech these days.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

I think if someone is serious about UV printer (vs "occasional use") they should / will plan around ventilation and maintenance. It's a good call-out because that might be a huge surprise for someone getting a UV printer for first time. That said, the smell is probably worse for these budget printers because the containers are partially open vs what I see to be good sealed solutions on professional UV printers.

[@Gabor_Herman]

We have a quality UV printer and that also smells a little bit. It also requires that it would be used frequently. Don't buy UV printer without checking the support and servicing, because you will need it! Just imagine you have a big order and the printer breaks. Chinese won't repair it, local UV service won't repair it, because noone want's to repair cheap printers, that's why they sell branded printers.

[@Sunillewynter]

Where can I get the driver to work this printer 🖨

[@namolokaman2393]

I use a Roland LEF-200, which is a relatively high-end UV printer ( $25,000 new ), and it has all the issues mentioned in the video ( except for the cracked software )! You do need to baby it, and run it every few days, otherwise the printheads can clog on their own if left unused for too long. The branded solvent inks ( Roland $$$ -- $500 for a full set of 220ml cartridges ) have a definite smell, though it's not too bad if the printer is not in your living area, and if you empty the waste ink bottle regularly. The maximum recommended printing distance is... 2mm, otherwise you get mist. And the printheads are actually made by... EPSON ( three DX4 printheads at $500 a piece )! So, yeah, it's all the same hassles mentioned in the rant video. The benefit of Chinese UV printers, however, is that they are a *whole lot* cheaper; but the biggest negative is that if something breaks, you are on your own - pretty much. ...Though bringing in a Roland-certified tech to fix our issues can cost one or two grands + parts, forcing us to become increasingly good at fixing them ourselves, as much as possible ( stuff like: replacing printheads, manifolds, dampers, wipers, and cap-tops ). CONCLUSION: It's not a 'budget UV printer from China' issue. All UV printers are like that, including high-end ones. Owning a UV printer is basically like looking after a baby: you can't really walk away from it! It is a constant, nagging, and expensive concern - but with a budget Chinese model, the stakes are way lower! ☺☺☺

[@bryo88]

@@Sunillewynter did you get the software for the printer? I am looking for wellprint

[@Mr_Chuckles]

All UV printers are high maintenance. Its the nature of it

[@weaktearecords]

All ink printers are too! Only a thermal printer can be left without running it regularly

[@JS-oc2im]

The points you mentioned are common for UV printers regardless it is China made or elsewhere. Some suppliers only offer cracked software. There are many high quality products made in China if you carefully choose and pay for the relevant prices.

[@stevenrs11]

I've been running a larger WER printer for a few years now and love it

[@m3ntorpl]

I just saved $2,500. Thanks to everyone who commented. :D

[@shanewalker9564]

i bought acrorip 11 from inkfuse for £408 inc vat we haven't had a problem win 7 to 11 we have an extractor for the smell so £4000 for the dx5 version is 1/3 of the price of the branded printers you still have to have to clean it and the ink still smells as a starter thay are good value i still recommend buying original software as it has some extra pieces in the software i.e. having the ability to assign colors to each canal so if one of your channels block you can switch it to another canal IT IS A GOOD STARTER IF YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND AND JUST LEARNING

[@EssentialBiz]

From Where did you buy?

[@Bigheadedwon]

Cracks are almost always flagged by AV software. Since it was a China based company and they could care less. I love how the CS person flat out said it was a cracked version lol. If I'm buying something as expensive as this printer, getting cracked software seems, well not ideal. If there's an update, do you get it for free? And you'll have to wait however long it takes to crack before you get it. That doesn't seem good at all for a machine that's for a business. Nobody buys these for home use to make a shirt here and there. And I'm sure any issues you have, they'd be more than happy to access your computer from China and do lord knows what lol. China's a wild place for sure.

[@buttonwizard6644]

Thanks!! I've been toying with the idea of getting one of these and this helped me decide to look another direction

[@buttonwizard6644]

@Yon van Raders OR no printer at all. I only need one of these now and then and it's too much of a hassle to clean the ink and heads out every time I want to print one little thing. So I crossed the UV off my list of options. lmao

[@mrs.conscious]

@@buttonwizard6644 same as u buddy I need a print here or there, so what did u come up with instead?

[@buttonwizard6644]

@@mrs.conscious Not much. For one project I played a little with inkjet tattoo stickers applied to the item rather than trying to print directly on it.

[@mrs.conscious]

@@buttonwizard6644 wow that's soo funny lmao I actual purchased tattoo paper last week and that's what I started testing with last week. But even that is a drag lol. I think I might spend the money on something like this... Good luck!

[@too_oden2199]

This was a great video, just outlining the basics- thanks

[@oscargalvez7]

Thanks so much for the valuable info! This is what I'm looking for to make an informed decision.

[@cnccarving]

there are no trojan viruses the microsoft software not looking for """trojan viruses""", but special processes, program lines what commonly used in viruses for safe communications between printer and computer program need access directly to the memory viruses also has same function so you wont expose your computer to vitruses

[@aaronc5485]

I honestly can't believe you didn't research first and were so naive about the ink. All uv and dtg printers will have these same issues regardless of where you purchase them from and what brand they are.

[@BpKoksan]

Absolutely! And there are only 2 factories in the world, that produce UV ink, everything else is extra components and branding. I personally tried 3 brands of ink, from "chinese" to Roland's. The quality difference is way less than the price diff

[@jolupe]

I don't think she is naive... Actually if it wasn't for people like her that took the risk in buy this printers and dtg, we wouldn't know all the trouble this printers can come with. So lucky us she did it, and she lost money but earn lots of experience.

[@melodypedals4827]

I have been asking sellers on Aliexpress and alibaba for info for months they won’t send it ! They give you the run around . That’s why I haven’t bought one . I think the $6 per unit to have my product printed is looking to be worth it . If I grow then I’ll look into a $5-10k printer but the maintenance and cleaning makes it a big deterrent

[@scotpark186]

We never really got to see the results of the print jobs. If you read this could you show us some?

[@marllomon]

did you expect full licence software on a 3k machine?

[@CalaTec]

Unless it specify otherwise, yes. Though comparatively cheap, 3k is a good amount of money. If they had custom drivers and software it could be achieved. But they are not that smart.

[@iliakezevadze4341]

Problem is not in paying money. I wish they have had normal software and I will happily pay but all they had is some shit. DON'T ever bought one of these

[@AmericanWithTheTruth]

Yes absolutely! 3k is very expensive.

[@rogerriveroll6324]

So here is my personal experience: In the place i used to work they got a Nocali printer ( 60 x 90 cm) it costed around 25k USD, the quality wasn´t that great but that was just the tip of the iceberg, we later found out that the suction system wasn´t working properly, the flatbed surface wasn´t even, it will oftenly lose pressure on the print head forcing us to perform cleaning process (that would result in wasted ink), the print head life spawn was only 4 months (sometimes less) and we had to pay around 500 USD for the new print heads plus almost 150 USD for each ink color (with a life spawn of 6 months) we also had to pay for service fees every time tech support had to come and check the printer for cleaning and maintenance ( around 200 USD per visit) So if you are considering to buy a Flat Bed printer invest a little more in a well-known brand and not a cheap chinese rip off, in the long run it will save you a lot of money

[@nocaiuvprinterkevin4336]

Dear Roger, may I know from where did you buy the printer? Thanks.

[@PaperPackingMachines]

Dear friend, it is too bad. Who is the printer supplier? Can you share the supplier's full name?

[@Swanlenid]

I am interested to know too please

[@hanangabai1372]

I really don't know what you have against Nocai. maybe it's something you're not mentioning... but i'm really happy with that company. i bought 2 printers and i will gladly buy a 3rd and 4rth. this is the best company out there to buy a printer from. period.!

[@iGuide_net]

We cant afford to spend 25K on a pos machine. $2500 was doable, but now i think we will forget the whole idea.

[@mattportnoyTLV]

After researching, I’d say the complaints raised in the video are not unique to this printer. They’re common to all UV and DTG printers, aside from the software thing. So the question is, how well does it print?

[@namolokaman2393]

Confirmed. I use a Roland LEF-200, which is a relatively high-end UV printer ( $25,000 new ), and it has all the issues mentioned in the video ( except for the cracked software )! You do need to baby it, and run it every few days, otherwise the printheads can clog on their own if left unused for too long. The branded solvent inks ( Roland $$$ -- $500 for a full set of 220ml cartridges ) have a definite smell, though it's not too bad if the printer is not in your living area, and if you empty the waste ink bottle regularly. The maximum recommended printing distance is... 2mm, otherwise you get mist. And the printheads are actually made by... EPSON ( three DX4 printheads at $500 a piece )! So, yeah, it's all the same hassles mentioned in the rant video. The benefit of Chinese UV printers, however, is that they are a *whole lot* cheaper; but the biggest negative is that if something breaks, you are on your own - pretty much. ...Though bringing in a Roland-certified tech to fix our issues can cost one or two grands + parts, forcing us to become increasingly good at fixing them ourselves, as much as possible ( stuff like: replacing printheads, manifolds, dampers, wipers, and cap-tops ). CONCLUSION: It's not a 'budget UV printer from China' issue. All UV printers are like that, including high-end ones. Owning a UV printer is basically like looking after a baby: you can't really walk away from it! It is a constant, nagging, and expensive concern - but with a budget Chinese model, the stakes are way lower! ☺☺☺

[@mattportnoyTLV]

@@namolokaman2393 I've had one of these printers for almost a year now. It prints well, and should be used at least once per day. I run a small, single print on it just to make sure it gets used.

[@namolokaman2393]

@@mattportnoyTLV I haven't noticed any test print degradation when running it every 4-5 days - _since I replaced the cap-tops and their springs_ ( which keep a nice seal around the printheads, now )! This is helped by the fact that the printer does self-cleaning / ink circulation every few hours, automatically [ as set in the 'service mode' menu ], so long as the main power switch ( behind ) is not turned off ( which also means that the printer uses ink on its own, even when not officially 'in use' - sniff sniff )! We do live in a humid climate, though, with average humidity of 63%. Note: For self-maintenance, like cap-top or damper replacement, I recommend downloading the "CONFIDENTIAL" ( says so on the cover page ☺ ) 'LEF-12 Service Manual'.

[@mattportnoyTLV]

@@namolokaman2393 Very interesting tip! Right now I'm dealing with a 'no white ink printing' issue that I can't figure out, lol.

[@namolokaman2393]

@@mattportnoyTLV ...Ouch. Possibility: Look for cured ink around the white cartridge ink spout, maybe applying a bit of cleaning fluid there. Note: There is a troubleshooting section, titled "6-2 Particular color is not printed at all", in the service manual mentioned. Tip #1: UV inks cure slowest when exposed to lower frequency light ( opposite ultra-violet on the light spectrum ), which is why the acrylic lid of the printer has a yellow tint. To do maintenance work, I wait for nighttime, and use a head-mounted 300 lumens ( not too bright ) *red* LED light. Tip #2: For ordering parts, I look up the Roland part numbers in the exploded view diagrams and associated tables, in the service manual, and order generic, Roland-compatible, parts online ( such as: dampers, o-rings, and cap-tops ).

[@lemonpocket1]

Have been through such.I can listen to software commentary for hours 😄😄😄 Thanks for the review!

[@tylerseabook9423]

Why your complaining about having to clean the machine if not used. Maintenance is mandatory with all machines.

[@jujjuj7676]

You need to get in another line of work... You ignore the more expensive option that will hand hold you through issues to buy a cheaper option that doesnt hand hold you then complain they dont hand hold you..did i get that right.?

[@JMePhotoLLC]

I concur with you (and conclusion in the video) that someone taking this seriously should take the more expensive option. This is not my line of work, and printer is now packed up to resell :)

[@Sailing360]

I print with a UV printer on a daily basic - lets ignore you are buying a product with cracked software. you CAN buy the software from the actual creator at full pop, funny that you went on to buy YET another cracked soft (budget) dongle.. think that should be a clue for you about what software actually should cost.. or pring straight to the epson driver. epson printers have been used as cores in tons of UV printers.. this is not a bad thing, just cheaper than more dedicated cores. and parts are cheaper.. I say that being used to paying $2000 everytime print head need replacing. But frankly your issues with the printer is standard, there can't be multiple mm's variance in the height. and you DO need to spend a lot of time dialing your inks in.. once thats fairly close its a daily ride.

[@wlchin021160]

Just the same, i bought a expensive Roland UV printer, sold it a year later. The maintenance is costly, you have to waste costly uv inks to protect the head from clogging.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Yup. UV Printing is not for hobbyists.

[@BpKoksan]

Buy a chinese UV printer, use Roland inks in it. Thank me later

[@vkjnrokis]

@@BpKoksan could you explain more?

[@TheCutizens]

Hi.. whiskey Charlie.... Are roland printers not worth the price ? Which uv a3 size printer is good.... should we go for chinese printer?

[@wlchin021160]

@@TheCutizens quality wise Roland is best, but the cost of print is high. I will risk investing in China printer, its fraction of the cost etc...

[@mounopatsas]

JMe : "How do i prevent printer from clogging?" Chinese : "first you need to de-activate your antivirus"

[@BrianWerner]

Good info. I've been wanting a UV Printer, but after watching this I realize I need to be better prepared with actual products and designs otherwise I'll end up with a clogged mess. I already worry about my converted ET-8550 sublimation printer.

[@anthonymann6991]

uv printer works perfectly in certain jobs, and it requires regular maintenance. I have been using mine from a chinese supplier for 2 years, and it's been working way better than a modified printer. I guess we can't put all chinese brands in the same basket, cuz there are a few good ones. You can take a look at rainbow inkjet, they have quality machines and professional solutions.

[@DimensionMachine]

I agree with every singel one of your observations. I have 2 and both are amazing when they work, not so much the other 90pct of the time. Even with US made ink the clogging is a nightmare. Mine does not have white ink circulation like other more expensive printers and that is the key downfall. As you said they are only useful if being unsed constantly and they do not like to sit ...not even for the 3 days that you seller claimed. Sadly mine have sat for months and the work required to get them going, if even possible will be huge.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Shame to hear that you've left this for months :( I wonder if there is some solvents you can use to help rescue print heads.

[@ourcoralreefcollab]

These usually use Epson print heads that are usually about $100 If there is no white inc circulation maybe using a agitator like they use in labs might be a good alternative

[@GreysonDavis-wp3dn]

might need to change all the way from ink tubes to printhead, a nightmare

[@DimensionMachine]

@@GreysonDavis-wp3dn Sadly I tossed it, not worth the trouble in the end. Even If I had fixed it then I would have needed to use it daily and that was not in the cards.

[@GuyInaQ]

Very good video. Made me laugh multiple times, very good approach - Thank you. I am currently looking at this one and a Funsun - after research it is the same exact software situation as you reported. So the plan would be to use a clean laptop NOT connected to the internet just like you said. However, I am curious about your experience now it has been 3 years later. If you have a moment. Thanks

[@JMePhotoLLC]

I've now sold the printer - I would have to use it regularly to be worth the maintenance. That's really the question you should ask.. 1/ will I use this often enough (if not, outsource it) 2/ do I have a space that can handle smell (too strong for garage, ok in dedicated space) 3/ if I plan to use it heavy enough, would a more professional printer make sense? (I could get good prints, but with a lot of waste, no confidence of "right first time")

[@TRCCtv]

at least 5 of your 7 "negatives" are just the nature of UV printing, nothing to do with this specific machine, doesn't matter what machine you buy it's going to be a problem, the other 2, well, that's why it's cheap, good software is never cheap.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

I think it's fair that Heavy / High maintenance / Ink stinks is nature of UV printing. The "Trial and Error" of this printer I think is worse due to nature of the print head and setup. This printer I think is more messy vs UV printers that have cartridges, and probably smells more also because of the open ink containers. But I agree that there is a lot here that screams that you either need to be committed to UV printing (get a decent printer, deal with it, make a business out of it) or you outlet to someone else who's willing to deal with it. Most people who get a cheap UV printer are thinking it can just sit on a shelf and use as you want/need, which is the main call out.

[@PaperPackingMachines]

Wow......, this is really wonderful UV printer! By the way, please feel free to get back to us, if you will need Smart High Power High Voltage UV Lamp Ballasts, reference at www.uvballastsupplying.com. Thanks

[@Andertheil]

@@PaperPackingMachines .. good to know about you!

[@PaperPackingMachines]

@@Andertheil Thanks. Good to know about you too!

[@Mr_Chuckles]

@@JMePhotoLLC yes but the "pro" ones cost 10x the price

[@pilotintraining2391]

This is a blessing compared to the multi million dollar 12 Colour presses I got to work on

[@ImzCynic]

The software was probably safe. If it wasn't, you could have easily ran it in something like Sandboxie.

[@shanewalker9564]

i bought an original acurip 11 £330+vat well worth it

[@wrthrash]

There are no shortcuts in life, just sacrifice & disappointment. No UV printer is made for only occasional use, and no uv printer matches the quality of pro-silkscreen. Sublimation transfers are the way to go on the cheap. Thanks for the Chinesium heads-up though.

[@m.m.2597]

Such a useful review - thanks for doing it!

[@cnccarving]

i think for you due to lack any education of computer and programs, the simplest id buying from usa usa sellers are nice, and very patient with customers like you they are willing to hang on the phone and explain why you have to plug machine into the wall outlet, while it sounds a simple thing for you probably causing issues to understanding so again the best idea for you buy an american made printer

[@WELCOMETOTHEPITINFO]

The reason this are selling is the next name brand printer for sale is a roland uv printer for 16k dollars compared to 3k. Also the roland ink sinks as well.

[@BpKoksan]

As a Roland owner I agree

[@pinochoyoya9712]

@@BpKoksan Hello. I'm thinking in get a Roland LEF20 UV Printer. Will you recommend it? Thanks.

[@BpKoksan]

@@pinochoyoya9712 Yes. I had LEF 12, a little smaller, but great. Nothing compares to Roland's quality. But the price is high, so I am using Epson based with Roland inks. Almost the same quality, but way cheaper to maintain

[@pinochoyoya9712]

@@BpKoksan Thanks for the answer. Where do you buy the inks? Have you got a link? I'm afraid of the maintenance.

[@jpimprint]

you got what you paid. I love Roland UV.

[@logansmith7188]

Thanks for the info. Great job & keep up the good work.

[@CarlosCruz-eu7qo]

Thank you so much! Learned a lot

[@haruruben]

5:40 just never go on vacation!

[@JMePhotoLLC]

That too!

[@lostkongz8074]

Very cool experience to follow along with. Nice storytelling!

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Thank you, it was fun to put together and rewarding to see how many views.

[@preventfromscam2112]

I went through the same thing as her! My supplier said the same thing to me too!

[@JoseWolff]

wondering how adequate UV printing would be for printing original fine art works. For example, if I would print using a Ultrachrome / Pigment method on a quality acid-free paper, and then I learn that UV printing can print on other interesting surfaces, but questions come up like: is the ink durable? are colors accurate? etc. Obviously the surfaces would weight on these factors, I was considering surfaces like aluminum, some woods, or ceramic.

[@emimix]

The details in this video are really great. I already bought the same printer, and I'll start using it soon, your videos really help, thank you!

[@JMePhotoLLC]

@@kollikattai $2000-$4000 for a printer like this (depends if you include shipping or not)

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Did you start using it yet? How is it going?

[@hyang1980ify]

How is the printer now? I am thinking about buying an A3 uv printer from China. I need to know how you're doing too before I buy one.

[@ZERONEINNOVATIONS]

@@hyang1980ify I'm planning to buy it too. And use it for business

[@Sunillewynter]

What the name of the driver I need to use to work this printer

[@dwburger]

Sure wish I would have seen this video before I purchased my Chinese UV printer. Your comments on maintenance are exactly right. I didn't keep up with the need to run the printer every few days and now I've got a head and tubes that are clogged. My prints are very poor! I think I'm going to give it a thorough cleaning and see if I can get it printing again. Then, I think I'm going to find a local print shop that wants it. It's way too large/heavy to ship anywhere. BTW...I installed the cracked software and it's turned out to be fine. The "Trojan" reports from Windows were false.

[@michaelmorgan7851]

Where are you located I may ne interested in your printer

[@__WJK__]

@David Burger - What is the name of the printer you purchased(?)

[@everythingepoxy8039]

@davidberger did you sell the machine? Are you in the USA?

[@758Redwhulf]

I have a really nice large Chinese uv printer myself I would probably sell... I didn't realize the ink smelled so bad until I got the machine unloaded in my shop. I live in southwest georgia. I bought it last year second handed and haven't ever printed with it. I am quite sure the print heads will be clogged but I don't know.

[@758Redwhulf]

Mine is a uv-9060v for anyone interested. I would sell for 2500

[@khughes9275]

Where is this facebook link you keep referencing? I went through a ton of comments trying to find it. What is the link please?

[@JMePhotoLLC]

facebook.com/groups/224148498043700

[@jacquelines.2027]

I guess I'll use the UV Printer at the library then.

[@havefun8962]

u have this opinion coz u dont have experience much about printer,,, its only UV... but if u try DTF then u gonna get more headache.. after all if u use to it its just easy.... software is just basic u can buy it anywere in alibaba or ali express.. buy acro10.3 it can give more fast ripping and faster print also. uv ink is more easyier to maintenance than DTF..

[@A2ZGeek]

its not a trojen, its pirated software and your pc sees it as trojens.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Correct. The same rootkit is used in both. However, pirate software has been known to contain trojans.

[@scyc8]

How are you getting your files on to your Trojan compromised laptop? A read only usb stick?

[@samasan7027]

Epson good for printing but high maintenance due to print head . Acrorip has limited function (not really user friendly ) especially on create the template . I spend at least 2K USD and it seat comfortable around somewhere . Not sure i want to start it again ;(

[@BpKoksan]

Strange... I don't have any troubles with Acrorip and Epson based UV printers... Which version of Acrorip are you using?

[@tuananhvu9703]

thank you so much !! I consider between good one about 7500euro and this machine, price so good but after seen this video I decide to buy a good one :)

[@98armando98]

the good one will give you same problem... you to maintanace every 3 days...

[@BlueSwallowAircraft]

Thanks for your review. You note all the things I have seen with really Nice UV printers in some friend's shop. I would like to buy a less expensive unit but I know I will never get my money back and like you, I do not want cracked software!

[@akumal5819]

Full licence software is around $1000~$3000

[@wtfheliament]

You modified printer heads, and only after that you started tackling software connections? Sounds like a good plan

[@darkstatehk]

Great video, I liked it. You managed to retain your humour, whilst having to deal with the issue. As the old saying goes: Pay peanuts, expect monkeys. As you said at the end, invest your money somewhere else if you want good quality. And a note to anyone thinking of doing their own UV modification on an inkjet - UV ink will dissolve the tubes feeding the head and also some of the plastic inside the pump and headstock.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Thank you. We knew we were taking a risk, so we are not upset. The fact that our experience is helping others make an informed decision is worth it.

[@DynamicGenesis]

Excellent video! I would say Sublimation, all the way! Sawgrass! :)

[@erezisrael5151]

dont think ther ar no problems with the expensive machines , i bought an italian machin and there ar lots of trouble uncluding some of the stuff you talkt abaot.

[@erezisrael5151]

Look at my cannel and see some movies

[@JMePhotoLLC]

@@erezisrael5151 It would be cool if you go over the features of the BeLed UV Printer. What problems are you facing? How often do you use it?

[@erezisrael5151]

the machine can print up to 60 by 45 cm . Up and down 30 cm. Dx5 (lockt) print up to 1400 on 1400 8 pass. their is a nother brand that uses the same machine frame the compress. the software is whiterip . And you can print pdf, jpg, ai. I bought the machine from a-well known company in israel they had a technician go to Italy for instruction. in the six months i had troubles. the prints come out with lines, printing over white didnt go well , the machine pomps worked all the time trying to achieve pressure . the prints ware not precise. X and Y ware not the same. the spin pump for the white ink capt braking down pouring ink all over. this is for a machine that cost 28.00 euro. it ends in 3.500 mor euro for new parts . and some local adjustments made by the technician

[@erezisrael5151]

sore i forgot about the “how often “ the machine can stand without working for a week or she can work for aweek Avery day all day long . Look at the suitcase tag movie i printed 5000 pc

[@rknihay]

As soon as you said Epson I said FAWK : (. I'm dealing with an Epson XP 970 right now and it is a pain in the butt. Print heads are always getting clogged even when I use it every day, on top of Epson printers always pick-pocketing you. The maintenance box goes out so fast when there isn't a lot of waste ink in it. I want to buy a UV or LED printer as well but man I don't know which way to go and I have a headache while typing this for real. I am trying to get a business off the ground and have not been able to make money yet but it just seems like I'm dishing out so much money trying to find the best way to accomplish everything, ugh : (.

[@shanewalker9564]

all of the dtf and dtg printers are using epson printheads R-jet 5 Tshirt printer uses epson 4480 a2 guts

[@chazmiller1444]

Good info.. more expensive than..? What did this printer cost ?

[@verntay]

😮 Wow. Awful what you had to go through. Thanks for the heads up and sharing your experiences and the forewarning.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

To be fair, I went into this eyes open, curious how the experience would be. I'm glad this video is useful for you and others.

[@verntay]

@@JMePhotoLLC 👌 ok

[@jameswhite5911]

This is not a High End Epson Printer. It is actually one of the cheapest Failed Garbage printer on the market that Epson makes. This printer was made from a Cheap Epson P400 that has ton loads of the Issues just like its previous model called the Epson R2000. The print heads in the Epson P400 cannot manage the pressure from the rip softwares, so your print head will eventually overheat and Fry (Short Circuit) both the print head and the mainboard.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Hi James. The control board appears to be from Epson R2000 (that's the driver that needs to be installed). I'm assuming (quick searching around) P400 like R2000 uses the DX5 head? Or is there a different model head that both of these printers use that these printers are using and claiming to be DX5? Either way, I appreciate you adding your warning that there is a risk of overheating.

[@jameswhite5911]

@@JMePhotoLLC Your welcome. The Epson P400 and The Epson R2000 uses the same control panel. The Epson R2000 was discontinued years ago and Replaced with the Epson P400. All Epson really did was change the name. They both use DX-5 Print Heads, which is extremely hard to locate replacement ones. And if you contact epson, they will tell you, your better off purchasing a completely new printer. The R2000 option in acrorip prints better results than the p400 option even though your printer is actually a p400, this is why they tell you to choose that option. Also note, there is no legitimate copy of AcroRip anymore, the original software designer stop selling it because it was pirated all over the world. The virus scans will throw false positives because they do not recognize acrorip. I have yet to come across a copy of acrorip that has an actually real virus on it.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

@@jameswhite5911 Thanks James. The claim "because the virus scanners do not recognize acrorip" is (mostly) false (I got this line fed to me). Virus scanners look for signatures for viruses and trojans. Cracked software often flags as a trojan because tools used to crack software happen to have the same signatures as the trojans (same hack, different application). They're not going to whitelist cracked software because it could also be a dormant trojan. I have it on a quarantined computer monitoring for network activity, and software has no trojan back door activity - so far. I did stumble on a legit copy of the software, and was able to run install and virus scan to confirm original software is not flagged. However unable to purchase a dongle for it.

[@jameswhite5911]

@@JMePhotoLLC Google Virus Scan False Positives........

[@adindavanschaik5415]

Hi James! You seem like you know what you're talking about ;) I've got a question. Let's say i bought an Epson printer and filled the cartridges with UV ink, and put a UV light over the part where the cartridges print, would it be possible to print with a regular epson printer? Or is the ink too thick/the light too far away? Thanks for reading :)

[@Durovan]

What would happen if i dont use the printer for a week or two? How I can avoid the problem that many people say if I don't use the printer at least everyday It will get bugged......

[@yazzydesigns5955]

I use an old laptop and don't put any internet on it...

[@gruposcalybursadecv997]

you get what you pay for, but $4k for a uv printer is kinda cheap.normal industrial UV printers are over $4k to start off your business and test the watters, to see if it will work or not, i think its a good deal..better than spending over 35k for an industrial UV printer and the business doesnt work out..thats a gonna suck! and with the maintance, that with any type of comercial printer..Ecosolvent, DTG,DTF, Sublimation....you need to use it everyday if not it will clog up...

[@teckyone]

how cheap was it though? Even legit machines say flush heads every day.

[@kirstymca]

Thank you - this was really helpful

[@showjaypee7317]

Many of them will give u test samples if u request . Also it’s your fault for not asking these questions prior , it’s China and cheaper what do u expect .

[@praveen8]

Will it print on my cricket bat?

[@egoistically]

How about the UV LIGHT EXPOSURES? Are they harmful?

[@kishawilliams6790]

I tryn to find a machine that prints 360 degrees on spheres can you help

[@BillMan2002]

Gloss Ink? Wait, what?

[@shanewalker9564]

its a clear liquid

[@othoapproto9603]

Wonderful video. Does your meaning of stink mean skunk or a fart. Or a toxic chemically or shouldn't breathe smell?

[@JMePhotoLLC]

I thought it would be a fart, but turned out to be a skunk ;) Probably shouldn't spend too much time around the fumes breathing, but I never wore a mask.

[@makers_lab]

@@JMePhotoLLC should definitely wear a mask, have fume extraction with a substantial activated carbon filter, VOC monitor, eye protection.

[@Theundisputedtruth]

Is it healthy to have one in home and printing ? I know the conspiracy theorists going to say but really want to know

[@ppmppm]

do not buy UV flatbed using Epson print head, a lot of trouble. buy flatbed using Ricoh print head specially designed for UV ink and it's can last for years.

[@BpKoksan]

My Epson based UV printer lasts for years. And the printhead is 70-80€

[@carlsonfrancistablando365]

How much and can i print thumblers and pens?

[@ARMA2ARMENIA]

Thanks for video ! How mutch does it cost ?

[@rayclarke2739]

How can you have non cracked software if it's a counterfeit printer????

[@dadabranding3537]

I guess you havent heard of sandboxed environments.

[@Sunillewynter]

I have one question I just got this printer where can I down load the driver for this printer pleas send me a link 😫😫

[@D78975]

Thank you so much to show us the risks to from china in sites like Alibaba or Aliexpress it is in fact a gumble and a big risk for our money own security, you help me to be just careful, all the best for you.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

To be clear, this was a calculated risk - and purchase was through ebay as part of risk mitigation. Product is effectively as described.

[@rebelkl]

Oh well. I guess i will stick with dropshipping and let my supplier handle the printing

[@jabbaweezy]

Quite informational. Thanks

[@gxatzhsxatzhs5306]

I should see this video before buy it😢 Does any body knows a forum or something talking about fixing errors or something (Achi uv flatbed Epson 1390 print head)

[@cheluradio]

Thank you for being very informative with your experience on this printer. Appreciate the honesty and taking the time to share it. Sorry you and your significant other had to go through this. Subbed! 👍

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Thank you. We had a "lets try it, at worst we will make a video out of it" attitude, and video was fun to make.

[@topx6234]

Every new printer whether inkjet, laser or uv has to go through some sort of trial and error to calibrate Colors, and they all require some sort of maintenance especially big format printer, as for software, windows detected the crack file in the software as a Trojan , just buy original copy

[@shanewalker9564]

the original acurip 11 is only £320+vat from inkfuse UK the wide version is £400+vat

[@vsvaster5436]

Are you using this printer now? Or does he not work for you? I want to buy it too, but I have doubts ...

[@jolupe]

The big lesson on all this, is the same as dtg: if you don't own a big printing business that runs every day... You shouldn't buy this printers.

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Right - and of you do run a big printing business - get a decent printer :)

[@longle7603]

Would you says if you run a job every few days just to keep the ink "fresh" you wont have to purge it weekly?

[@JM-sn2xl]

This is quality and helpful content. Thanks a lot.

[@williamwatitwa3534]

Just buy from America ,Canada, Austria, japan ,korea or EU.

[@coin_addiction7167]

Ive been looking for a high quality uv printer. Or any type of printer/cutter that will do t shirts, and multiple types of surfaces. If anyone has any suggestions please let me know. Thanks

[@thegoddess4172]

Have you found something?

[@coin_addiction7167]

@@thegoddess4172 no i havent yet. I dont want to buy any cheap printer

[@Barlowh2o]

@@coin_addiction7167 I'm looking for the same

[@dreamakersphotography2176]

If i had seen this video before!

[@superwarbuckz9618]

Just so you know if you plan on doing shirts I wouldn’t recommend any UV printer

[@diygf9796]

can i print yugioh cards with this ?

happend the exact same way, we experienced the same, but with Audley printers! Cracked Photoprint 12 with the same usb dongle that you also have, bought a 1,8mts printer and a 60x90cm uv flatbed printer, never got them to work, almost 20k out the door.... china is so close, yet so far away from Japan in terms of ease of use, and having the costumers happy, they just want to sell, no technical assistence for real, ok...allways some answer us, by wechat but only after we keep sending messages, they already have our money why should they be bored from us?? they need a mentality change! now we only buy rolls, and raw materials, never we will buy machines! thanks for the video. sorry for the money you and all of us wasted.....

[@JMePhotoLLC]

Sorry you had this experience. To be fare, we did go into this knowing it was a huge gamble.

@@JMePhotoLLC so do i, but my Boss, only looked @ how cheap it was.....

[@michellaigrand5767]

As allways, some Chinese brands are good and some are very bad. The problem is to find the good one. Best ways to check printing quality are : 1 - making extensive test by sendind your own tests materials with DHL, Fedex, UPS and ask videos during printing and also print time. Double check their RIP solutions (absolutely avoid AcroRip or pirated software for example) 2 - Better : go to Chinese Exhibition (for example Apppexpo www.apppexpo.com/index/2/en) and make you own tests on different machines. 3 - The best ; good to the factories and take a look at the size of production and build procedures ; make extensive tests and speak with technician to be sure to have a minimum technical assistance. But NEVER NEVER NEVER buy a chinese UV printer without doing one of this 3 things.

[@MacNifty]

if i create a program for you and you hired me to engineer software specific for your printer your company builds. Microsoft and antivirus software will always flag it. because i didn't pay for them to register it in their database. It's bribery.

[@chrisfernandez6624]

Wish id seen this sooner im having issues just getting the damn thing to get a test print ! i get a RED LED light on the paper trash can button

[@skrie]

Lately big Corp and Microsoft have come to an agreement that all pirated software are viruses. Windows is more troyan than you can ever install by accident. What did this printer cost? Because if it does the job I could probably work around the downsides. It can never be messier than silkscreening.