Uninet 100 DTF Printer Review: Everything You Need To Know

Hey everyone, it’s Brian here! In this article, I’ll be providing you with a review of the Uninet 100 DTF printer. We’ll discuss its features, what’s included in the package, and my thoughts on its setup process. So let’s dive in!

In the realm of dtf printing, the Uninet 100 DTF printer has emerged as a popular choice for direct-to-film printing. This cutting-edge technology offers a convenient and efficient way to transfer designs onto film, providing screen printers with a reliable solution for creating high-quality stencils. In this article, we will delve into the features, setup process, maintenance, regular printing, and print speed efficiency of the Uninet 100 DTF printer.

Uninet 100 DTF printer Specifications

Packaging: What Comes with the Uninet 100 DTF Printer

One notable aspect of the Uninet 100 DTF printer is that it comes with everything you need, including the ink. Unlike other printers in its category, such as Roland or Prestige, the Uninet 100 package doesn’t require you to purchase ink separately. It’s like buying a car without the wheels, so having the ink included is a major plus. The package includes 500 milliliters of CMYK ink and white ink, divided into five containers. While this is great news, the process of filling the ink can be a bit challenging, but I’ll elaborate on that later.

What’s not included that you will need:

1. UNINET DTF Powder Heat Station (to cure the powder to the printed sheets)
2. Windows 7 or higher Computer (PC) with an available USB port
3. Heat press for finishing (curing) the final print to your garment – (16×20 heat press)
4. 5 small funnels (for ink filling)
5. Humidifier (to keep the humidity above 40% in the print room)
6. Air purifier / Fume extractor for curing process

Features of the Uninet 100 DTF Printer

The Uninet 100 DTF printer comes equipped with several features that contribute to its efficiency and reliability:

1. Robust Construction: The printer is built with a sturdy frame, ensuring stability and durability during the printing process. This design feature helps maintain consistent print quality and reduces the risk of mechanical issues.
2. Printhead Technology: The Uninet 100 employs advanced printhead technology, resulting in precise ink deposition. This allows for sharp and accurate reproduction of designs, capturing even the finest details.
3. UNINET DTF ProRIP Advanced RIP Software: The printer is bundled with PRO RIP software, which offers a user-friendly interface for design management and control. With this software, users can easily import, modify, and organize their designs before printing.
4. Ink Compatibility: The Uninet 100 DTF printer is compatible with a wide range of ink formulations, including white and colored inks suitable for various applications. This flexibility allows screen printers to explore different design possibilities.

Setup Process

Setup and Initial Observations

Before we delve into the setup process, it’s important to note a couple of things. Firstly, the Uninet 100 comes with a master class that guides you through the setup process. Although the master class is helpful, I found that it lacked some crucial details.

For instance, when unpacking the printer, you’ll notice that a particular part of the printer is not attached and secured by tape. This part, responsible for ink circulation, is connected to the main unit by a small cable. Make sure to hold the entire unit together to avoid any potential leaks or spills.

Additionally, the printer requires two different power sources. One is for the printer itself, while the other powers the ink circulation system. It’s crucial to plug in both power cords to ensure proper ink circulation and maintenance of the white ink. Regular printing and daily manual ink circulation help prevent clogging issues.

Additional Equipment and Accessories

The Uninet 100 package provides a setup kit that includes swabs, syringes, and cleaning fluid for the printhead and capping station. You’ll also receive DTF transfer film, powder, and ink. These additions make the Uninet 100 one of the few printers that truly include everything you need to get started.

Furthermore, the package offers optional add-ons like a curing oven and a filter, which I highly recommend for a cleaner working environment and efficient curing of the DTF powder.

UNINET DTF ProRIP Advanced RIP Software and Activation Codes

The Uninet 100 DTF printer comes with Rip software, known as the UNINET DTF ProRIP Advanced RIP Software, which is necessary for printing. Although the software may seem intimidating at first, it’s actually quite user-friendly once you get familiar with it. Additionally, the package includes an envelope with activation codes for PRO RIP, the master class, and the ink circulation system (Wick).

Keep this envelope safe to ensure you have all the necessary codes when setting up and operating the printer. Unanet has recently streamlined this process, providing a single page with all the required information, which simplifies things significantly.

The Ink Filling Process: Messy But Worth It

Now, let’s address the most challenging part of setting up the Uninet 100—the ink filling process. Unfortunately, it can be quite messy. To begin, you need to pour the ink into the side of the carriage, which cannot be flipped on its side. This presents a problem since the ink holes are on the side. Using a funnel is not feasible due to the printer’s design.

To fill the ink, you’ll need gloves and patience. It’s recommended to pour one bottle of ink at a time into a smaller cup, then use a syringe with a long tip to carefully insert the ink into the side hole. Each time, only 10 milliliters of ink can be added. This process can take around 30 minutes or more, depending on the amount of ink you add.

Is It Worth It?
During the ink filling process, you may start questioning whether the Uninet 100 is worth the effort. As someone who has set up multiple DTF printers, I can attest that it’s a laborious task. However, once you start printing, you’ll realize that the quality and functionality of the printer make it worthwhile. It’s essential to weigh your priorities—lower price with more involved setup or a higher price with easier cartridge-based systems.

Print Quality and Intuitive Software

Despite the setup challenges, the Uninet 100 DTF printer offers excellent print quality. The PRO RIP Link software simplifies the printing process by automatically adjusting ink distribution based on the design. It applies a thicker layer of white ink where needed, such as in areas with multiple colors, while using less white ink where it’s unnecessary, such as in black areas. This intuitive feature saves you time and ensures optimal print results.

Following the instructions in the master class will set you up for success, ensuring accurate test prints and hassle-free operation.

Setting up the Uninet 100 DTF printer requires careful attention to detail to ensure optimal performance. Here are the key steps involved in the setup process:

1. Installation: Begin by assembling the printer according to the provided instructions. This typically involves attaching the printhead, loading ink cartridges, and connecting the necessary cables.
2. Software Installation: Install the PRO RIP software on your computer and follow the setup instructions. This software enables seamless communication between your computer and the printer, facilitating design transfer and print control.
3. Calibration: Proper calibration is crucial for achieving accurate color reproduction and alignment. The master class accompanying the printer provides detailed instructions on how to calibrate the device using the PRO RIP software.
4. Ink Circulation System: Familiarize yourself with the ink circulation system, also known as Wick, which helps maintain ink flow and prevents clogging. Set up and maintain this system as outlined in the provided instructions to ensure consistent ink performance.
5. Test Prints: Perform test prints to verify that the printer is correctly set up and producing the desired results. Make any necessary adjustments based on the test prints to fine-tune the printing process.

Maintenance and Regular Printing

Maintaining the Uninet 100 DTF printer is essential to ensure consistent and high-quality printing results. Here are a few key maintenance tips:

1. Printhead Cleaning: Regularly clean the printhead and capping station using the provided swabs and cleaning fluids. This prevents clogs and ensures smooth ink flow during printing.
2. Ink Circulation System: The ink circulation system, also known as Wick, plays a vital role in keeping the ink in optimal condition. Follow the instructions provided in the master class to properly set up and maintain this system.
3. Calibration: Periodically calibrate the printer to ensure accurate color reproduction and alignment. The PRO RIP software offers calibration options, and the master class provides guidance on this process.
4. Dust and Debris: Keep the printer and its surroundings clean from dust and debris. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any particles that could interfere with the printing process.
5. Regular Printing: It’s recommended to use the Uninet 100 DTF printer regularly, preferably at least once a week. Regular printing helps keep the ink flowing smoothly and prevents clogging.

Print Speed and Efficiency

The Uninet 100 DTF printer offers a reasonable print speed, allowing you to efficiently produce your desired prints. However, it’s important to note that the print speed can vary based on factors such as image complexity and size. Larger and more intricate designs may take longer to print compared to smaller, simpler ones.

To optimize print speed and efficiency, consider the following:

1. Print Queue Management: Utilize the UNINET DTF ProRIP Advanced RIP Software’s print queue management feature to organize and prioritize your printing jobs. This allows you to efficiently manage multiple designs and print them in the desired order.
2. Batch Printing: If you have multiple copies of the same design, consider using the batch printing feature. This allows you to print multiple copies consecutively, saving time and reducing the need for manual intervention.
3. Design Optimization: Optimize your designs for efficient printing. Simplify complex designs or use color separation techniques to reduce the processing time and improve print speed.

Conclusion

In this blog post, I’ve highlighted a few aspects that I believe were not emphasized enough in the master class. The ink filling process, in particular, can be quite messy and time-consuming. Additionally, the printer’s ink area is not connected during packaging, and you’ll need two power sources. It’s crucial to follow the entire master class process and complete the initial initialization to ensure optimal performance.

The Uninet 100 DTF printer is a great entry-level option for those planning to print DTF transfers regularly. Its competitive pricing and comprehensive package make it an attractive choice. However, if you’re only planning to print sporadically, a white toner printer or purchasing DTF transfers directly might be more suitable due to maintenance requirements.

Remember, Unanet provides support, and you can reach out to your reseller for assistance. If you’re interested in comparing the Uninet 100 DTF printer with other options, feel free to explore my other articles on DTF printers.

I hope you found this introduction to the Uninet 100 DTF printer informative. Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section. Have a fantastic day, and check out my other blog posts for further insights into the world of dtf printing!