How to Fix Epson R1390 "Fatal Error 0x02" and "Ink Out" Problems on DTF Printers

Question:

My Epson R1390 DTF printer recently started showing a "Fatal Error 0x02" message, followed by an "Ink Out" error. The printer was previously working fine after unclogging the waste station, but now it moves normally, parks, and shows the red ink light without performing ink suction. I already replaced the printhead, cables, carriage motor, and waste station, and even tried cleaning the capping station, but the error persists. Occasionally, the power even shuts off after rebooting. What could be the cause, and how can I fix it?

Answer:

Understanding "Fatal Error 0x02" on Epson R1390

The Fatal Error 0x02 in Epson printers such as the R1390 and L1800 typically points to a Carriage Return (CR) system fault. This means the printer detected resistance or obstruction in the printhead's movement path. Common causes include:

1. Unlubricated or dirty CR rail:
   A dry or sticky rail can cause friction, making the printhead motor draw excessive current and trigger the 0x02 error. Try gently cleaning and lubricating the rail with light machine oil (avoid over-lubrication).

2. Heavy or tangled ink tubing:
   DTF conversions often use thicker or longer ink tubes that may restrict carriage movement. Make sure your tubing has enough slack and moves freely without tension when the carriage travels side to side.

3. Capping station obstruction:
   If the capping station fails to drop completely when the printhead leaves the park position, the carriage can hit resistance. To check, place your hand underneath the capping assembly and move it manually to ensure it moves freely and isn't stuck in the up position.

4. Carriage motor or sensor malfunction:
   You've already done a thorough job replacing the motor and belt - that's good. But also check that the encoder strip (the transparent plastic strip behind the carriage) is clean and not smudged with ink. Any misreading can cause the carriage to stop unexpectedly.

Diagnosing the "Ink Out" Error

Once the CR issue was resolved, the "Ink Out" error started showing. This usually means the printer's Cartridge Status Integrated Circuit (CSIC) board or its connection to the mainboard is failing.

1. Check the CSIC overwrite board:
   On modified DTF or DTG printers, the CSIC board acts as a bypass for ink level detection. If it fails, the printer will falsely detect empty cartridges. A replacement Epson R1390 CSIC Overwrite Board is available here (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/epson-r1390-cartridge-chip-csic-overwrite-board-for-dtf-uv-and-dtg-printers-auto-reset-ink-level?_pos=6&_sid=921b0a6f9&_ss=r).

2. Verify CN15 connection:
   The CSIC board connects to the printer's mainboard via the CN15 port. Ensure this ribbon cable is fully seated and not bent or damaged. A loose or oxidized connection can interrupt the cartridge recognition circuit.

3. Inspect the ink reset wiring:
   If your printer uses a manual ink reset button, confirm that it's properly wired and that the button still functions. Incorrect wiring or a broken switch can trigger the same "Ink Out" signal.

4. Power shutdown issue:
   Since the power occasionally cuts off after a reboot, it's possible the new fuse you installed has a slightly different rating or the CSIC board is shorting intermittently. Try testing with the original fuse specification, and disconnect the CSIC board temporarily to see if the shutdown persists.

Additional Tips:

• Always power off the printer and unplug it before reseating any internal cables.

• Avoid mixing parts from different printer models unless you're certain they share the same electrical specifications.

• If the power continues to trip, it may indicate a shorted transistor or capacitor on the mainboard that needs component-level diagnosis.

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. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service at our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Because of high demand, services are handled on a first-come, first-served basis, and it might take a few weeks before your printer can be received. Our repair options cover both full-unit and component-level fixes with clear instructions on how to proceed.

We know our rates may not be the lowest, so we encourage self-help through research and tutorials. You can visit our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and use the search icon next to "About" to find videos related to your printer model. We've created hundreds of videos over the years, and using YouTube's search function is the fastest way to find what you need.

Thank you again for your patience, detailed description, and support of BCH Technologies. We truly value your trust in our expertise and are always happy to help the printing community troubleshoot and learn.