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How to Install the Bypass Tray on Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 (Step‑by‑Step Guide)

Views: 222     Author: Amanda     Publish Time: 2026-01-16      Origin: Site

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Content Menu

Why Use a Bypass Tray

Preparation and Safety Checklist

Hardware Installation Steps (SG500 and SG1000)

>> Accessing the Back of the Printer

>> Attaching the Anti‑Topple Stand (SG1000 Focus)

>> Aligning and Locking the Bypass Tray

>> Verifying Installation and Powering Up

Loading Media in the Bypass Tray

Windows Driver and Software Configuration

>> Enabling the Bypass Tray in Windows

>> Selecting the Bypass Tray in Sawgrass Software

Practical Use for Large and Special Media

Typical Problems and Simple Fixes

>> Tray Will Not Lock or Feels Loose

>> Bypass Tray Does Not Appear in Software

>> Paper Jams, Misfeeds, or Cropped Prints

Comparison of Trays and Use Cases

Targeted Call to Action

FAQs

>> 1. Do I need to power off the printer before attaching the bypass tray?

>> 2. Why does the bypass tray not appear as a paper source option?

>> 3. How many sheets should I load into the bypass tray for reliable feeding?

>> 4. What media sizes can I use with the bypass tray?

>> 5. Is the anti‑topple stand mandatory when using the bypass tray?

Citations:

Installing the bypass tray on a Sawgrass SG500 or SG1000 unlocks longer print lengths, larger transfer sizes, and more flexible sublimation workflows for professional and hobby users. This enhanced guide refines structure, readability, and user experience to support both search visibility and real‑world printing success.[1][2]

How to Install the Bypass Tray on Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 (Step‑by‑Step Guide)

Why Use a Bypass Tray

The bypass tray expands the printer's capabilities by increasing the maximum media length and boosting sheet capacity for busy production environments.[2][1]

- Larger transfers for apparel, banners, flags, signage, and panel products.[3][1]

- Higher capacity with up to 100 extra sheets, reducing reloading during longer runs.[1]

- Flexible feeding for longer or special sublimation media that may not be ideal in the main tray.[4][2]

For example, the SG500 tray can handle long sheets up to 8.5 x 51 inches, while SG1000 users can print on media up to 13 x 51 inches for wide and extra‑long designs.[3][2][1]

Preparation and Safety Checklist

Before working with the rear of the printer, a brief preparation routine protects the hardware and avoids common mistakes.[2][4][1]

1- Shut down and unplug

- Press and hold the power button to turn the printer off, then unplug the power cord.[4][2]

- Disconnect USB or Ethernet cables to avoid unexpected communication or movement.[2][4]

2- Unbox and inspect the tray

- Remove the bypass tray from its packaging and peel off any shipping tape.[4][2]

- Confirm all included parts are present, such as the stand or bracket and fastening screw where supplied.[1][4]

3- Stabilize the work area

- Place the printer on a flat, stable surface with enough clearance behind it for the tray and extension to move freely.[4]

- Keep tools like a coin handy for tightening an anti‑topple stand when required.[2][4]

Keeping this checklist near the printer helps new operators maintain consistent, safe installation practices.

Hardware Installation Steps (SG500 and SG1000)

Accessing the Back of the Printer

The rear sound cover must be in the correct position so the bypass tray can lock firmly into place.[5][1]

- Press in the two gray tabs to release the back cover.[1]

- Use the top eject domes to pull the cover outward, then return it so it seats snugly again.[5][1]

- Check that the back panel is fully closed and not partially open, which can block proper tray attachment.[1][2]

This step ensures the mounting area is clear and ready for the accessory.

Attaching the Anti‑Topple Stand (SG1000 Focus)

For SG1000 users, the stabilizing stand helps hold the printer firmly when supporting longer or heavier sheets.[2][4][1]

- Position the stand at the designated mounting point on the rear of the printer or on the option tray if installed.[5][4]

- Insert the coin screw through the stand and tighten it using a coin until snug but not over‑tightened.[4][1][2]

- Confirm that the stand contacts the surface evenly so it supports the printer during operation.[4]

This simple addition improves stability whenever the bypass tray is in use.

Aligning and Locking the Bypass Tray

Correct alignment is essential for a secure connection and smooth paper feeding.[1][2][4]

- Grip the bypass tray with both hands and locate the gray buttons or tabs on each side.[2][1]

- Press and hold the gray tabs to unlock the attachment clips while positioning the tray at the upper half of the printer's back opening.[1][2][4]

- Slide the tray straight in along the guides, then release the tabs so they return to their outward position with an audible click.[2][4][1]

If the tray does not click, gently push it further in while lifting slightly on one side until the locking action occurs.[2]

Verifying Installation and Powering Up

Once the tray is physically attached, a quick check helps prevent future feeding issues.[4][1][2]

- Confirm the tray feels solid and stable, without excessive play at the connection.[4][2]

- Make sure the gray side tabs are fully extended and the back cover remains firmly closed.[1][2]

- Reconnect the power cord and data cables, then turn the printer back on using the power button.[2][4]

The hardware is now ready to be enabled in the print driver and Sawgrass software.

Loading Media in the Bypass Tray

Correct loading improves feed reliability and helps the printer detect the paper size consistently.[4][2]

- Adjust the side paper guides to match the width of your sublimation sheets.[4]

- Place a small stack of paper, typically 3–5 sheets, rather than a single sheet so the sensors can detect it.[2]

- Ensure media is seated flat and aligned at the rear of the tray, with the printable side facing the direction recommended by the paper manufacturer.[4]

The extension of the tray can be pulled out when using longer sheets to prevent sagging or skewed feeding.[4]

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Windows Driver and Software Configuration

After the tray is installed and loaded, the driver must recognize it before it appears as a selectable paper source.[2]

Enabling the Bypass Tray in Windows

- Close Sawgrass Print Utility or Print Manager so driver changes apply correctly.[2]

- Go to Start → Settings → Devices → Printers & Scanners, then select the printer.[2]

- Click Manage → Printer Properties, open the Accessories tab, and check the Bypass Tray option under available accessories.[2]

- Choose Apply, then OK to save the configuration.[2]

This step is required for the operating system to be aware that the tray is attached and available.

Selecting the Bypass Tray in Sawgrass Software

- Open Sawgrass Print Utility or Print Manager and prepare a print job.[2]

- In the print settings panel, choose the Bypass Tray as the paper source and select a matching paper size.[4][2]

- Confirm the selected media type and quality mode are appropriate for your sublimation paper and substrate.[2]

Once configured, these settings can be saved as presets for repeated use in production workflows.

Practical Use for Large and Special Media

With the tray installed, many shops rely on it specifically for longer and specialty sublimation jobs.[3][1][2]

- The SG500 tray can feed long strips up to approximately 8.5 x 51 inches, ideal for longer graphics such as sashes, narrow banners, or panel strips.[3][1]

- The SG1000 tray supports media up to 13 x 51 inches, which is useful for large signs, table runners, or near full‑coverage prints on larger garments.[3][1][2]

- Both printers can also use the tray as an auxiliary feed when projects require rapid changes between different paper sizes or types.[1][2]

Designers typically match canvas size in design software directly to the intended sheet size and then mirror or align artwork as the sublimation process requires.

Typical Problems and Simple Fixes

Tray Will Not Lock or Feels Loose

- Confirm the printer sits on a flat, stable surface with enough room behind it for the tray and stand.[4]

- Remove the tray, then reinstall while firmly pressing the gray side tabs and sliding along the guides until a positive click is heard.[1][2]

- Check that the anti‑topple stand or any optional lower paper units are properly attached and leveled.[5][4]

A firm, even connection generally resolves minor wobbling issues.

Bypass Tray Does Not Appear in Software

- Verify the tray is enabled in Printer Properties → Accessories, with the bypass tray option checked.[2]

- Close and reopen Sawgrass Print Utility so it can refresh the device configuration.[2]

- Make sure the correct printer instance is selected if multiple drivers have been installed on the same computer.[2]

Once recognized, the tray should display as a dedicated paper source in the print settings interface.

Paper Jams, Misfeeds, or Cropped Prints

- Confirm that the stack height is within recommended limits and that media is not curled or damaged.[4]

- Check that the configured paper size matches the physical sheet size and that the bypass tray is selected as the source.[4][2]

- For very long sheets, fully extend the tray extension so the paper is supported throughout feeding.[4]

These checks usually correct common feeding or registration issues for longer prints.

Comparison of Trays and Use Cases

A short comparison table helps readers choose the appropriate tray for each job and improves scanning for key specifications.[1][4][2]

Feature                

SG500 Main Tray                

SG500 Bypass Tray                

SG1000 Main Tray                

SG1000 Bypass Tray                

Primary usage

Everyday prints

Long / special media

Everyday prints

Oversize and extra-long media

Approx. max media length

Standard office sizes

Up to about 51 in length

Standard office sizes

Up to about 51 in length

Max width (approx.)

8.5 in class

8.5 in class

11–13 in class

Up to around 13 in width

Extra capacity

Built-in only

Up to ~100 additional sheets

Built-in only

Up to ~100 additional sheets

Recommended stability accessory

Not required

Not required

Not required

Anti-topple stand recommended

Values reflect typical specifications highlighted in Sawgrass and reseller documentation; always confirm current limits in the latest official materials.[3][1][4][2]

Targeted Call to Action

If this guide aligns with your printing setup and goals, now is the ideal moment to upgrade or refine your workflow. Explore compatible bypass trays, media, and heat press solutions, or reach out to a specialist support team for personalized recommendations on hardware selection, installation, and print settings that match your exact product line and production volume. By acting today, you can stabilize your setup, unlock new print formats, and streamline future sublimation projects with a more efficient, professional‑grade system.[3][1][2]

Contact us to get more information!

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FAQs

1. Do I need to power off the printer before attaching the bypass tray?

Yes, the printer should be turned off using the power button and unplugged from the wall before any accessory is installed or removed, and communication cables should also be disconnected to avoid electrical or communication issues.[4][2]

2. Why does the bypass tray not appear as a paper source option?

The most common reason is that the tray has not been enabled in the printer driver; the bypass tray option must be checked in the Accessories tab within Printer Properties and the software reopened so the change can take effect.[2]

3. How many sheets should I load into the bypass tray for reliable feeding?

Loading a small stack of approximately 3–5 sheets helps the sensors detect the paper, and media should be flat, aligned with the guides, and within recommended thickness limits for consistent feeding.[4][2]

4. What media sizes can I use with the bypass tray?

Typical configurations allow the SG500 tray to handle long sheets up to roughly 8.5 x 51 inches, while the SG1000 tray expands usable formats up to around 13 x 51 inches for wide and extra‑long projects, subject to current official specifications.[3][1][2]

5. Is the anti‑topple stand mandatory when using the bypass tray?

The SG1000 normally includes an L‑shaped stabilizing stand, and official guidance recommends attaching it for additional stability, especially when using longer or heavier sheets through the bypass tray or stacking additional paper feed units.[1][4][2]

Citations:

[1](https://www.heatpressnation.com/blogs/blog/how-to-install-bypass-tray-on-sawgrass-sg500-and-sg1000-myexpert-blog)

[2](https://care.sawgrassink.com/hc/en-us/articles/10821647446811-Bypass-Tray-Information-SG500-1000)

[3](https://www.heatpressnation.com/blogs/blog/how-to-expand-your-sawgrass-sg500-sg1000-paper-tray)

[4](https://maker-hub.georgefox.edu/w/images/3/3e/Sawgrass-User-Guide-English.pdf)

[5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KBUlbzmS5c)

[6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Id2P0PdRCZ4)

[7](https://care.sawgrassink.com/hc/en-us/articles/10622386966299-Setting-up-Your-Printer)

[8](https://www.silhouetteschoolblog.com/2022/12/how-to-setup-sawgrass-bypass-tray-with.html)

[9](https://www.facebook.com/SilhouetteSchool/videos/sawgrass-sg1000-sublimation-printer-bypass-tray-setup/1274545186716271/)

[10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2F5AboQVDiE)

[11](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY9aNS49KtIwgDTN45fQ0GpgHENA-L5LQ)

[12](https://www.facebook.com/groups/729606393800380/posts/25507499178917758/)

[13](https://uscutter.com/Sawgrass-Bypass-Tray-For-Sg800-Sg1000-Dye-Sublimation-Printer/)

[14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-9YW9VqEE8)

[15](https://www.tiktok.com/@craftykari/video/7569706675905596702)

[16](https://www.tiktok.com/@angieholdenmakes/video/7295780737712753962)

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