Question: I have an L1800 printer that is not printing any color ink

Question: I have an L1800 printer that is not printing any color ink, despite the ink flowing through a new head during cleaning or charging cycles. I've installed a new printhead, and the F fuse is in good condition. Could you provide any advice on what to do next?

Answer: It sounds like you've already taken significant steps to resolve the issue with your L1800 printer by installing a new printhead and checking the F fuse. Given the ink flows during cleaning or charging, but no color ink is printed, the problem may not be with the printhead or the F fuse specifically. According to Kevin from BCH, when an L1800 printer doesn't print despite seeming operational, there are typically two main areas to investigate:

  1. Mainboard Issues: One common problem is related to the mainboard, particularly the fuse to the printhead being burned. A burned fuse can disrupt the normal operation and communication with the printhead, preventing ink from being properly deposited on paper during printing. However, if you do need a replacement, you can find it here: https://bchtechnologies.com/f1-f2-fuse-for-epson-l1800-dtg-dtf-printer/
  2. Driver Chip Malfunction: Another potential issue could be with the driver chip on the printer's mainboard. This chip might either be malfunctioning entirely or not receiving a sufficient signal boost to carry out printing tasks. This problem can occur without triggering any error messages from the printer, making it particularly tricky to diagnose. If you need a replacement for the drive chip, you can find it here: https://bchtechnologies.com/sop28-e09a7218a-218a-printer-driver-chip-for-epson-integrated-circuit-ic-l1800-artisan-1430-1390/

I suggest a detailed examination of the printer's mainboard and driver chip as starting points for troubleshooting. If you're comfortable with printer repairs and have the necessary tools, you might want to inspect these components yourself. Otherwise, considering professional repair services might be the best course of action. BCH Technologies offers both parts for those looking to attempt the repair themselves and a fast-track repair service for those preferring professional assistance.

Remember, careful disassembly and testing are crucial to avoid further damage. Ensure you're comfortable with the process or seek professional help if unsure. For more detailed guidance, including how to safely remove and inspect the mainboard, you might find Kevin's tutorial videos on BCH Technologies' YouTube channel helpful.