Epson Stylus Photo 1390 DTF Printer Feeds Film Without Printing – Causes and Fixes

Question:
I'm using an Epson Stylus Photo 1390 that has been converted for DTF printing, but it won’t print any image. It just feeds the roll of film straight through without doing anything. All my settings and cables appear to be correct. What can I do to resolve this issue?

Answer:

At BCH Technologies [https://bchtechnologies.com], we deeply appreciate your continued support—especially your engagement with our YouTube channel [https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies]. Your feedback helps us improve our knowledge base and produce better content for all users dealing with similar technical problems.

Now, regarding your Epson Stylus Photo 1390 DTF printer running the film straight through without printing: this is typically an issue with how the printer's firmware or controller is interpreting the media feed command—especially in a DTF setup. Even when all cables and settings seem correct, the default firmware on the Epson 1390 may not be compatible with roll-fed media used in DTF printing unless configured explicitly.

Here’s what you can try:

1. Set Paper Feed to Roll Mode in Your RIP Software:
   Most RIP (Raster Image Processor) software—such as AcroRip or EKPrint—includes an option to select "Roll Feed" or "Banner Printing" mode. This setting is essential when you're using continuous film instead of cut sheets.

   • Go into your RIP’s media settings.

   • Look for paper type or feed options.

   • Select Roll Feed, No Cut, or a similar term, depending on your software.

2. No Roll Feed Option in RIP Software?
   If your RIP software doesn’t allow you to choose a roll feed mode, the printer will think it has finished printing and eject the media. In this case, you may need a third-party controller board (also known as a mainboard mod or board override) designed for converted DTF printers. These boards can bypass the factory limitations and allow full control of paper feeding behaviors.

3. Check Encoder Strip and Feed Sensors (Optional but Recommended):
   While less common, if the printer is skipping print jobs altogether, it may also be due to a dirty or misaligned encoder strip or malfunctioning feed sensor. These sensors tell the printer where the media is and when to start/stop printing.

We also recommend you take a look at our detailed article on this topic:
Comprehensive Guide to Troubleshooting Epson Stylus Photo 1390 DTF Printer Mainboard Issues
[https://bchtechnologies.com/blogs/news/comprehensive-guide-to-troubleshooting-epson-stylus-photo-1390-dtf-printer-mainboard-issues-a-q-a-breakdown]

Addressing printer issues 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 your question and for being a part of the BCH Technologies community. We're always here to help as much as we can.