Method and apparatus for automatic setting of nozzle drive voltage in an ink jet printer

摘要

A method and apparatus are disclosed for accurately determining and setting the optimal nozzle drive voltage for an ink jet printer. The current carried by charged test drops is monitored by a sensing electrode (28) and ammeter (30) while the nozzle drive voltage is slowly varied between minimum and maximum points. A plot of drop current versus nozzle drive voltage provides an accurate determination of the good printing window for the particular nozzle (16) under the operating conditions presented. This arrangement can be used for calibrating a new nozzle in an existing printer or for calibrating a new ink or font to ensure that operation will occur within the desired print window.