How to Set the Media Guides

Overview
Media guides keep the film aligned as it feeds through the printer. Proper guide positioning ensures the film moves straight through the printer and helps prevent crooked prints, media skew, film feeding errors, and print alignment problems.

Important Notes
- Adjust the media guides before starting a print job
- Guides should lightly touch the edges of the film
- Do not pinch or compress the film
- Ensure the film can move freely during feeding
- Confirm the film is centered in the printer

Step 1: Load the DTF Film
- Place the roll or sheets of DTF film into the printer
- Ensure the film feeds straight from the roll holder or tray
- Pull the film forward into the printer loading area
- Confirm the film sits flat and centered

Step 2: Locate the Media Guides
- Media guides are located on the left and right sides of the film path
- They control the side-to-side movement of the film during printing
- Depending on the printer model, guides may be sliding guides, adjustable rails, or locking side brackets

Step 3: Adjust the Media Guides
- Slide the left and right guides inward toward the film edges
- Position the guides so they lightly touch the film
- Ensure the film can still move freely without resistance
- Proper guide positioning prevents the film from shifting during printing

Step 4: Verify Alignment
- Confirm the film is centered in the printer
- Ensure both guides are evenly positioned
- Pull the film forward slightly to confirm smooth movement
- The film should move straight without resistance

Step 5: Perform a Test Feed
- Use the printer control panel to advance or feed the film
- Observe the film movement as it travels through the printer
- If the film shifts or skews, adjust the guides slightly and test again

Final Check
- Confirm the film feeds straight through the printer
- Ensure the media guides are lightly touching the film edges
- Verify the film moves smoothly without resistance