DTF Pro Printer CR Encoder Sensor Replacement and Printhead Home Position Troubleshooting

Question: 
I saw your video about the 13p CRPW cable change on a DTF Pro Model J. My printer’s printhead is not returning to its home position sometimes, and adequately, it strikes the side of the printer. I think the cable is the problem and want to order it from you. I’m also looking to replace the CR encoder sensor like you did in the video and screw it down. Are encoder sensors available with you, and what is the ordering process?
 
Answer: 
Thanks for Calling BCH Technologies! Sorry for not getting back to you sooner, but we know how annoying printer issues like this are. We want to give as much detail and thought as possible to help you settle this issue. Also, thank you so much for watching our YouTube Channel;) This is for your feedback, where we learn what to create and how to improve our craft!
Let’s discuss your trouble with the printhead not returning to the home position and how it may happen.
 
Diagnosing the Issue
The issue you’re describing, in which the printhead fails to return home, occasionally banging on the side of the printer, could be due to a few different things:
Dirty or Damaged CR (Carriage Return) Encoder Strip The CR encoder strip is a clear plastic strip with excellent lines that the printer reads to determine the printhead's location. If the strip is dirty or damaged, the printer might misread the position, leading to erratic movement or the printhead hitting the side.

• Solution: Gently wipe the encoder strip with a lint-free cloth dipped in a gentle cleaning solution (isopropyl alcohol diluted with distilled water). Be gentle with the strip, or you might mess it up even more.
• If the strip is damaged, you will probably need to replace it. Could you make sure the replacement strip is appropriate for your model?

CRPW cable: The CRPW cable (the flat cable that connects the carriage to the printer’s mainboard) is crucial but may not always be the cause of the issue. If the encoder strip works correctly but the printhead misbehaves, a faulty CRPW cable may interrupt signal transmission.

• Solution: Check the cable for external damage or loose connections. If you think the cable is bad, it’s worth replacing.

CR Encoder Sensor Failure: The CR encoder sensor scans the encoder strip and notifies the printer of its position. A dirty, loose, or damaged sensor can cause similar problems.

• Solution: If cleaning the encoder strip and checking the cable does not help, you should replace the cr encoder sensor.

Availability of Parts
This is in response to your inquiry on the CR encoder sensor and CRPW cable:

• CR Encoder Sensor and Cable: BCH Technologies does not sell individual encoder sensors. However, we offer new CR carriage assemblies with the sensor and the CRPW cable. Notice: These assemblies align for the Epson L1800 printer and are slightly shorter than the carriage for the Epson 1390.
• How to Order: To buy the CR carriage assembly, visit our website (BCH Technologies) or contact us directly for availability and pricing.

Installation Tips
If you're going to replace the CR encoder sensor or replace the cable, here are just a few suggestions:

• When you install the encoder strip, please check that the sensor is aligned correctly.
• Screw the sensor in place tightly so it doesn't spin when using it, as you can see in the video above.
• Once replaced, print a few test prints to see if the printhead moves smoothly and returns to the home position.

Please Note:
Printer problems can be complex to resolve because many of them are physical. Unfortunately, we cannot help with remote troubleshooting or recommend a fix or support repair for your printer. However, we offer local diagnostic (BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service) for on-site evaluation and repair services. Due to demand, our services run on a first-come, first-served basis, so there could be a few weeks before we can take you in. Services available include component-level repairs and complete printer overhauls with detailed repair instructions per service. We are top-notch, and our prices are not the lowest, but if you would like a first step, research possible solutions online. Search our YouTube channel for videos related to your question. Also, YouTube might recommend videos from other channels that are relevant to your printer model.
Once again, thank you for contacting us! This guide can help you address the issue and get your DTF Pro Model J back to its normal working condition vertically!