How to Diagnose and Fix Startup Fatal Errors on Epson R1390 DTF Printers

Question:

I’m using an Epson R1390 DTF printer and encountering a fatal error during startup. The printer powers on fine and begins its head cleaning cycle, but it throws a fatal error midway through that. After that happens, I get the same fatal error every time I power the printer. I’ve checked the encoder strip and flex cable, and the carriage moves smoothly without slamming to the left. I also recently replaced the capping station/ink pump assembly. Is there anything else I should check?

Answer:

Thank you so much for reaching out, and I apologize for the delay in responding. I understand how stressful and urgent printer issues like this can be, especially when fatal errors interrupt startup. We truly want to give every case the attention it deserves, and I appreciate your patience while we reviewed your situation in detail.

We at BCH Technologies are especially thankful for your engagement and support, particularly through our YouTube channel. Your feedback not only keeps us connected to real-world challenges but also helps refine our technical resources to better serve you.

Let’s break down the issue and show you how to troubleshoot it effectively.

Diagnosing the Fatal Error During Startup

Since you mentioned that the fatal error occurs during the head cleaning stage and recurs on every reboot, you’re likely dealing with a sensor misread or a component reporting out-of-range behavior to the printer’s firmware. Here’s how to dig deeper:

 Use the Epson Adjustment Program

You’ll need the Epson Adjustment Program (often used by service technicians) to determine the exact error code. This utility is vital for uncovering the printer’s internal diagnostics and error memory.

Here’s how to check the printer’s most recent error:

1. Open the Adjustment Program.

2. Select the correct USB port—your printer’s name is listed in the dropdown.

3. Click “Particular Adjustment Mode.”

4. Scroll down and choose “Printer Information Check.”

5. Hit the “Check” button. You’ll see a list of recent error codes, with the most recent one listed at the top.

This tool will give you insight into the specific issue—whether it’s an APG sensor error, cleaning unit timeout, or something else.

 Interpreting Error Codes

Once you retrieve the error code, the next step is interpretation. You can search for "BCH Epson Error" on Google, which should lead you to our dedicated explanation page for what we call Epson’s “Triple Secret Error Codes.” Epson does not publicly document these codes, and they are typically reserved for internal diagnostics, but our guide deciphers many of them.

Here’s the direct link to a short walkthrough video we’ve created showing this diagnostic process:
How to Check Error Code Using Epson Adjustment Program
https://youtube.com/shorts/FPZzpyYuZLE

 Additional Checks You Can Make

• Check APG Sensor: If you recently replaced the ink pump or capping station, the APG (Automatic Pump Gap) sensor might be misaligned, clogged, or faulty. This can trigger a fatal error, especially during the cleaning cycle.

• Ensure Proper Movement of the Cleaning Unit: Even new replacement assemblies can sometimes bind or misalign. Ensure the pump motor operates smoothly, and nothing obstructs the wiper blade or suction pad.

• Verify Waste Ink Tube and Pad Status: If the waste ink system is overfilled or improperly installed, it might trigger protection errors.

• Reset EEPROM (with Caution): In some cases, performing a complete reset of the EEPROM using the Adjustment Program can clear persistent fatal errors. However, do this only after noting your existing error codes.

Addressing printer issues—especially with modified or DTF-converted units—can be extremely technical and hands-on. Because of this, we're unable to provide remote troubleshooting or hands-on repair support for individual cases. However, we do offer in-person diagnostics and repairs through our local printer repair service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please note that due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and there may be a wait time of several weeks before your unit can be dropped off and evaluated. Our services cover complete printer repair as well as part-specific fixes. While we recognize that our services may not be the most budget-friendly, we highly encourage DIY users to explore self-repair through trusted online resources. Start by visiting our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to the “About” tab to locate videos that match your issue. With over nine years of content, searching by keyword will yield faster and more targeted results, and may even lead you to helpful third-party videos.

Thank you again for contacting us. We appreciate your dedication to resolving this issue and your continued support of BCH Technologies. We're rooting for your printer to be back in top shape soon!