Convert an Epson 1390 into a DTF Powerhouse: How the CSIC Overwrite Works & Why Your Dampers Have No Chip

Question 
How did you bypass the CSIC board on the Epson 1390 during the DTF conversion? I noticed the dampers in the video have no chips - how does that work and what do I need to make my 1390 recognize cartridges for DTF/DTG/UV inks?

Answer

Epson printers like the 1390 use a CSIC (chip) system to monitor cartridges and allow/deny ink usage. A CSIC overwrite board (aka chip emulator or CSIC override) intercepts the chip signals or emulates the chip responses so the printer believes compatible cartridges are installed and that ink levels are acceptable. That lets you run third-party DTF/DTG/UV inks and modified dampers/cartridges that don't have the original OEM chips.

What the product does
The CSIC overwrite board we recommend handles the cartridge authentication for you - it resets or emulates the chip signals so the printer accepts non-OEM cartridges or dampers without chips. The exact product I use is the Epson R1390 CSIC Overwrite Board for DTF/UV/DTG printers (product page: Epson R1390 CSIC Overwrite Board)[https://bchtechnologies.com/products/epson-r1390-cartridge-chip-csic-overwrite-board-for-dtf-uv-and-dtg-printers-auto-reset-ink-level?_pos=6&_sid=b1bbfe7f0&_ss=r]. Install it inline per the instructions and it will auto-reset ink levels and emulate the chip responses.

Why your dampers have no chips (and why that's OK)

• Dampers are fluid path components. OEM cartridges often include the chips, not the dampers themselves. In many DTF conversions we remove OEM cartridges, fit continuous ink lines or refillable cartridges, and use dampers that are simpler and chipless.

• The overwrite board emulates the chip responses that the printer expects, so the printer doesn't require individual chips on each damper or cartridge. That's exactly why you can see dampers without chips in the video - the CSIC board is doing the "talking" to the printer.

• In short: chips on dampers are only needed if you rely on the cartridge's chip to report ink status. If you have a CSIC overwrite board or chip emulator, the physical dampers don't need chips.

Practical installation checklist (step-by-step)

1. Power off and unplug the printer before starting. Work on a clean, static-free surface.

2. Remove OEM cartridges and any stock wiring carefully. Keep screws and small parts.

3. Mount the CSIC overwrite board where it can connect to the cartridge ribbon/connector per the board's instructions. Typical install is inline with the cartridge connector or in the cartridge bay ribbon area.

4. Connect your refillable cartridges/dampers and route the ink lines (priming recommended). Make sure the dampers are installed correctly and no air pockets remain.

5. Power up and allow the board to initialize. Many overwrite boards auto-reset ink counters; watch LED/status indicators.

6. Print a nozzle check and head alignment. Prime/clean as needed until nozzles fire correctly.

7. Disable automatic firmware updates on your workstation/printer network to avoid an Epson firmware update that might change CSIC behavior.

Common problems and fixes

• Printer still reports "no cartridge" or won't recognize cartridges:
  • Verify the CSIC board connector wiring and orientation. A misaligned ribbon or wrong connector pinout is the most common cause.
  • Inspect solder joints or contacts on the board for cold joints.
  • Try re-seating the board and connectors; power-cycle the printer.

• No ink flow or intermittent nozzles after conversion:
  • Prime the dampers/carpets thoroughly - trapped air kills nozzle flow. Use a manual syringe prime or the printer's cleaning cycles with fresh ink.
  • Check that dampers are seated correctly and not clogged with dried ink. Replace dampers if contaminated.

• Firmware update issues / bricked behavior:
  • Some Epson firmware updates patch CSIC behavior. If a firmware update runs and you see unexpected errors, you may need a firmware rollback (which is risky) or a different CSIC board version. Avoid auto update.

• Unexpected error messages:
  • You did not include any specific error codes in your question. If you later see codes/messages (for example messages about "cartridge not recognized," "ink absorber," or any numeric code), give us the exact text; we'll address those precisely. Don't guess - exact phrasing or error codes help diagnose quickly.

Compatibility and cautions

• Warranty and firmware: modifying the printer voids warranty. Epson firmware updates can change chip/auth behavior - keep firmware off and use the exact CSIC board recommended for R1390.

• Legal/regulatory: using third-party inks and hardware is common for DTF/DTG, but follow local laws/regulations for chemical handling, disposal, and safety.

• Electrical and ESD safety: take ESD precautions when handling boards and the printhead. Avoid touching metal contacts.

Maintenance after conversion (recommended)

• Regular head cleaning cycles and monthly nozzle checks.

• Keep a spare set of dampers and cleaning cartridges.

• Use quality DTF inks and follow ink manufacturer's priming/settling instructions.

• Periodic mechanical checks: belt, carriage, and dampers for wear.

If something still fails
Provide: a photo of the CSIC board wiring and the printer's cartridge connector, plus any exact error messages. Exact wording matters - without an error code we can only offer general troubleshooting steps.

Service note (required paragraph - slight variation)
Addressing printer issues often requires hands-on work due to the mechanical and electrical nature of the faults. Because of that, we are not able to provide remote hands-on repair support. We do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility (BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service)[https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service]. Due to high demand we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it can take a few weeks to get a drop-off appointment. Our service options include full printer repairs or specific part repairs and come with clear instructions for how to proceed. We know our rates aren't always the cheapest, so we strongly encourage self-help first: search YouTube (our YouTube channel)[https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies] for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand menu - that will often surface the exact tutorial you need. YouTube may also suggest other helpful channels and videos.

Thanks again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies. We appreciate your questions and encourage you to send any follow-up information (photos, exact error messages) and we'll keep helping you troubleshoot.