Can You Upgrade the EnjoyColor A3 Base with an Epson P400 Printer for DTF Printing?

Customer Question:
I’ve taken apart my printer setup and currently have an EnjoyColor A3 printer that initially used the Epson 1390. I’m considering replacing the 1390 with an Epson P400. Is the base of the EnjoyColor A3 printer compatible with this upgrade?

Answer:

Can You Upgrade the Printer on an EnjoyColor A3 Base?

The short answer is yes, you can replace the Epson 1390 with another printer model, such as the Epson P400, if you are knowledgeable about Direct-to-Film (DTF) conversion procedures and cartridge chip management.

The EnjoyColor A3 printer platform primarily functions as a mechanical and structural base, incorporating a Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS) and a white ink circulation system, which are standard features in DTF-converted printers. These systems are generally not tied to the internal electronics or firmware of the printer model itself, which means the platform doesn't strictly require the Epson 1390 engine—it can accommodate others, such as the P400.

However, this compatibility assumes you can:

• Convert the Epson P400 to DTF ink by replacing the standard pigment ink with DTF-compatible ink.

• Bypass or disable the cartridge chip detection, which is essential because the P400, like most Epson printers, uses microchips on cartridges to manage ink usage and lockouts.

• Ensure the mechanical dimensions (paper path, feed alignment, clearance) of the P400 work with the A3 platform’s movement and feed system.

It’s worth noting that the Epson P400 offers some advantages over the 1390, such as improved ink droplet control, finer nozzles, and better firmware stability. These features can contribute to a more consistent and professional DTF output—but only if the integration is done correctly.

We previously covered some issues related to EnjoyColor A3 printers paired with Epson 1390 engines, particularly around sudden shutdowns and error states. If you haven't seen it yet, here’s our article for further reading:
EnjoyColor A3 R Epson 1390 Printer Shutdown Troubleshooting (https://bchtechnologies.com/blogs/news/troubleshooting-enjoycolor-a3-r-epson-1390-printer-shutdown-issues)

While these issues were mostly tied to 1390 firmware and mainboard limitations, using a more modern engine like the P400 may help avoid them, provided the rest of the DTF setup (ink system, carriage movement, dampers, etc.) is adjusted accordingly.

Essential Considerations Before You Swap:

1. Firmware Compatibility: Make sure the P400 isn’t locked with recent firmware that blocks third-party cartridges.

2. DTF Software and RIP: Ensure your RIP software supports the P400 model.

3. Ink Flow Calibration: You may need to recalibrate the white ink circulation system and perform head alignment specific to the new printhead.

4. Mechanical Fitment: Double-check whether the P400 carriage rails align properly with the base’s roller track and tray system.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're unable 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. Therefore, it may take a few weeks before we can arrange for your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair either the 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 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 the most efficient approach. Additionally, YouTube may suggest relevant videos from other channels that can assist you.

Thanks again for reaching out with such a thoughtful question. We appreciate your continued support and hope your DTF conversion project is a success!