How to Fix an Epson L1800 Power Issue: Mainboard Testing and Diagnostic Tips

Question:
I have a Procolored Epson L1800 printer. The power light on the front panel-next to the paper and ink drop lights-won't turn on. However, the main power switch at the back of the printer does turn on. What can I do to fix this?

Answer:

In the case of the Epson L1800 (and its Procolored variants used for DTF printing), there are two primary components involved:

1. The printer unit - which handles the mechanical and electrical functions such as printing, paper feeding, and head movement.

2. The ink system - which may include an external white ink circulation pump, stirrer, or even a heater or vacuum platform for DTF setups.

When the main switch at the back turns on but the front power button does not respond, it usually means that power is reaching the external ink system but not the printer's mainboard. This could be due to:

• A faulty front power button or cable connection between the button and the mainboard.

• A blown fuse or damaged power circuit on the mainboard.

• A shorted component such as the voltage regulator or transistor near the power input section.

In most cases, the ink system may still operate normally because it often draws power directly from the back switch, bypassing the printer's internal control board. The printer, on the other hand, depends on the front power circuitry connected through the mainboard.

To identify what's really happening, you can use the Epson Adjustment Program-a specialized tool originally developed for Epson technicians. Here's how to use it:

1. Launch the Adjustment Program on your computer.

2. From the main screen, select the USB port that corresponds to your printer.

3. Click on "Particular Adjustment Mode."

4. Scroll down and select "Printer Information Check."

5. Click "Check." You'll see a list of recent error codes. The most recent error will appear at the top as Error #1.

Each error code corresponds to a specific component or fault. For example, an APG sensor error indicates a carriage-related problem, while a PF encoder error points to paper feed issues. You can look up your specific error code by searching "BCH Epson Error" on Google, which will direct you to our reference page explaining Epson's "Triple Secret Error Codes."

If you need help finding or using the Adjustment Program, note that this software is generally distributed to Epson service centers but is sometimes shared by third-party DTF printer sellers. You may need to search online for a copy compatible with your printer model.

For a quick visual demonstration of the mainboard testing and error-checking process, please watch our short tutorial video (https://youtube.com/shorts/FPZzpyYuZLE).

Addressing printer issues can be complicated due to the hands-on nature of the work. Because of this, we're unable to offer remote diagnostics or step-by-step repair support. However, BCH Technologies provides in-person evaluation and repair services at our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please note that we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and depending on demand, it might take a few weeks to schedule a drop-off. We can repair full printers or individual parts and provide clear instructions for next steps. While our rates may not be the lowest, we encourage you to explore self-help options first-many of which can be found on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies).

To find a specific topic, go to our channel homepage and use the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. Since we've been publishing repair and conversion videos for over nine years, searching by keyword (e.g., "L1800 mainboard" or "Epson no power") is the most effective way to locate the right video. YouTube may also recommend related videos from other creators that could provide additional insight.

Once again, thank you for contacting us and for supporting BCH Technologies. Your interest in learning and troubleshooting helps us continue to share knowledge with the entire printer repair community.