How to Fix a No Power Issue on the ACHI R1390 DTF Printer

Question:
I have an ACHI R1390 DTF printer, and I'm looking for some advice. The printer has power at the main input on the back of the unit, but there's no power reaching the control panel or the temperature display. What could be causing this problem, and how can I repair it myself?

Answer:


Step 1: Understanding the Problem

From your description, power is reaching the main input at the rear of the printer but not the control panel or temperature display. This indicates that the main AC power is intact, but there's likely an interruption or fault within the printer's power distribution system. Commonly, this involves one or more of the following components:

  • Main power board (power supply unit)

  • Fuses or relays

  • Mainboard or control board circuitry

  • Loose or damaged connectors

Because the R1390 base model was converted into a DTF unit, there's additional wiring for heating plates, film rollers, and control modules. A small fault or blown component can easily cause the entire control system to lose power.


Step 2: Check for Blown Fuses and Loose Connections

The first thing to check is whether the internal fuse (often located near the power inlet or on the power board) is intact. Even if it looks fine visually, it's best to test continuity using a multimeter.
If you find the fuse is blown, replace it only with one of the same rating. A blown fuse often means something else downstream caused an overload, so don't replace it repeatedly without identifying the root cause.

Next, check the power supply output voltages:

  • The mainboard typically requires 24V and 5V outputs.

  • If the power supply isn't providing these voltages, it may have failed internally.

For DTF conversions, a 24V DC power supply often drives the heating system. If that's not working, the temperature display will remain blank even if the mainboard is fine.


Step 3: Inspect the Power Distribution and Grounding

If your power supply is producing the correct voltages, trace the lines leading to the control panel.

  • Look for loose terminals, corroded connectors, or melted insulation.

  • Make sure all ground connections are secure, especially those shared between the heating unit and the printer's main chassis.

Sometimes, the temperature control unit (PID controller) can short internally and prevent the rest of the system from receiving power. To test this, temporarily disconnect the heater control board and see if the mainboard powers up independently.


Step 4: Mainboard or Power Relay Faults

If voltages reach the board but nothing lights up, the mainboard relay or voltage regulator may be faulty.
In such cases:

  • Look for visible burn marks or swollen capacitors.

  • Test whether the 5V logic circuit is active on the mainboard.

If the board is dead but the power supply is confirmed good, you may need to replace the mainboard or send it for bench repair.


Step 5: Error Code Reference

Even though your printer currently shows no power, it's worth knowing that the R1390-based models often show general error codes when power partially initializes. Examples include:

  • E-01 or blinking power light - Mainboard communication failure

  • E-02 - CR motor or carriage jam

  • E-03 - Encoder sensor issue

If any of these appear after partial recovery, note them-they can help pinpoint which component caused the initial fault.


Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. However, we do offer in-person evaluation and repair services through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please note that we operate on a first-come, first-served basis due to high demand, and it might take a few weeks before we can receive your printer. Our repair structure allows for full printer servicing or part-specific repairs, with clear instructions on how to proceed. We acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical, so we highly recommend exploring self-help resources via online research. You can start by visiting our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and using the search icon next to "About" to find tutorials that match your printer model. With nearly a decade of video archives, this method ensures you locate the most relevant content quickly.

Thank you again for reaching out to us and for supporting BCH Technologies. We truly value your trust and engagement with our community.