How to Fix Error Code 031006 on Epson ET-8550: Printhead and Mainboard Issues Explained

Question: 

I need a timetable for my Epson ET-8550 mainboard to be repaired. I have been seeing error code 031006 I thought I would get the multimeter out just to check them and all F1 and F2 fuses are ok. What do you think is wrong, and does it have anything to do with the printhead?

Answer:

 Thanks for contacting us! Thank you for staying in touch and your support to us, especially our YouTube channel ​(​https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). This is important as feedback helps us to fine-tune our technical capabilities thus we are here for your matter.

What the error code 031006 refers to in an Epson ET-8550 is a printhead fault, though it can also be related to more serious issues with your printer like problems with the mainboard or cables connected to the printhead. Officially, this error code is given in Epson:

MEANING="Head fuse broken error"

DESCRIPTION="- Printhead failure"

Not much from Epson's explanations but in our experience this error can be caused by multiple items within system of the printer. So what are the possibilities:

Printhead Pulse Test:

Each time the printer is started, it sends a signal to the printhead to verify that its working properly. In addition, if the printhead is too hot (short circuit) or too cold(disconnected) for this test it fails and an error smaller than 031006 error occurs, 031004, 031005. Then, 31006 is like a summary of errors. This can be due to:

• A complete printhead failure
• Faulty, broken or disconnected cables from mainboard to print head
• Mainboard Issues:

Mainboard: This board is the one that drives the printhead (among other key parts). For error code 031006, one typically looks at the fuses F1 and F2 on a mainboard because they are often easy-to-replace sacrificial victims in any electrical catastrophe. Nevertheless, here are some more areas on the mainboard which can cause issues:

Faulty B12 (above the F1 fuse) or other electrical elements could cause the printhead to send incompatible signals through the printer. I included a video here for the capacitor testing.

The error can occur if the FFC (Flat Flexible Cables) lose connection or get damaged that connects the printhead to mainboard.

If the fuses are fine and there is no obvious sign of ill-performance on the capacitors, insulators etc then today its a situation where we would need access to professional tools. If this is the case, we highly recommend that you send your printer to professionals for a thorough checkup.

Printhead Replacement:

If the problem is not located onthe mainboard or coressponding cabling, replace the printhead. The most common reason behind this error is a failing printhead and if the same Printhead does not pass over the startup diagnostics then it would be flagged with Error code 031006.

If you still have not replace a new printhead, it may be worth doing that once all options are run through. It is possible to have a printhead failure with the naked eye and yet change it in order for your printer back up.

Fixing a printer is typically difficult because the issues are so tactile. We can't speculate a date to fix a mainboard but most of our mainboard repair are done in two to three weeks. One important note: we cannot offer assistance with the troubleshooting, suggesting solutions OR support for printer repair via any “remote” offerings. But we are providing an on-site Evaluation & Repair service via ours local diagnosing facility at BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) Due to the HIGH demand, it will take couple weeks before you can drop off your printer or ship in. This offers you both whole-printer repairs and device fixes, plainly explained so you can determine what resources suit your needs.

If you would rather try to solve the problem yourself, take a look at our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Feel free to look for videos or tutorials that may address those codes as well. YouTube also may recommend more relevant, useful content from other sources.

Thank you once again for contacting us and we hope that when your printer breaks down in the future, you will get back to us!