Can You Convert the Epson SureColor P900 for DTF Printing? How It Compares to the XP-15000

Question:
I’m looking for the best 17-inch option for Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing. Can the Epson SureColor P900 be converted for DTF use? I already converted my Epson XP-15000—would the process be similar?

Answer:

Can the Epson P900 Be Converted for DTF?

To answer your question directly: the Epson SureColor P900 can potentially be converted for DTF printing, but it comes with some challenges that make it different from simpler conversions like the XP-15000. Unlike the XP-15000, which is widely documented and relatively straightforward to modify for DTF, the P900 is a professional-grade printer with more complex firmware and ink systems.

As of now, we haven’t personally performed a P900 DTF conversion at BCH, but based on industry reports and experience with Epson models, here are a few critical points to consider:

1. Firmware Lock and Chipless Compatibility

One of the biggest hurdles you’ll face with the P900 is firmware restrictions. This printer has a sophisticated chip recognition system, and Epson tightly controls its ink authentication protocols. To use third-party inks, you’ll likely need to make the printer chipless or bypass the chip system entirely.

Chipless firmware solutions do exist for some models, but as of now, there is no widely known, stable chipless firmware for the P900. You would need to check frequently with firmware modding communities or chipless firmware vendors to see if new support has been released. Without a chipless solution, you’ll need either:

• Compatible auto-reset chips or refillable cartridges

• A decoder board or firmware downgrade (which can be risky and often voids warranties)

2. Ink Line Conversion and DTF-Safe Components

The P900 uses UltraChrome PRO10 pigment inks with a pressurized ink delivery system. Converting it for DTF requires:

• Replacing the OEM ink with DTF-compatible pigment ink

• Thorough flushing of the lines to prevent ink mixing

• Ensuring that the printer head can handle the viscosity of DTF inks

Unlike the XP-15000, the P900 may also have integrated ink bags and vacuum-driven supply lines, which makes flushing and replacing the ink much more technical.

3. Roll Feeder and Sheet Handling

The P900 is one of the few Epson desktop models that natively supports 17-inch wide media, which is ideal for DTF roll-fed operations. However, the roll feeder is primarily designed for photo or fine art paper—not PET film. You may need to modify the feed system to reliably grip DTF sheets or rolls without jamming or misfeeding.

4. Driver and RIP Software Compatibility

DTF requires specialized print control. Make sure that your RIP software (e.g., Acrorip, EKPrint, or Digital Factory) has profiles or support for the P900. Without a matching RIP, you may struggle to control color management, white underbase, and ink limits.

5. Maintenance and Head Clogging Risks

Because the P900 is a high-end pigment printer, its nozzles are designed for precise droplet placement. Using non-OEM ink increases the risk of clogging, especially if the printer is idle for periods. A maintenance schedule, humid environment, and white ink circulation system are highly recommended.

Summary

While the P900 offers premium print quality and a native 17-inch print width, it is not a beginner-friendly conversion. If you're up for experimenting and tinkering, it's possible—but expect to do a fair amount of trial and error. The process is notably different and more complicated than converting the XP-15000. If you’re looking for a simpler 17" option, consider the older Epson 4880 or P800, which are better documented in the DTF community.

Addressing printer issues and conversions can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel’s homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thanks again for reaching out, and we appreciate your interest in advanced DTF solutions. Keep experimenting, and feel free to share your results with the community!