How to Fix Error 16 on an Epson XP600 Dual Head Printer

Question:
I have an XP600 dual head printer that is giving me an "Error 16" on the right adapter card, while the left side works fine. I've already replaced the cables and the print head, but the error remains. Could this be caused by the carriage board, or might it be an issue with the main board?

Answer:

When it comes to the XP600 dual head system, an Error 16 generally indicates a communication problem between the main board and the print head adapter card. Since you've already replaced both the head and the ribbon cables, that helps eliminate two common failure points. Here's a more detailed breakdown of what could be happening:

1. Adapter Card Failure

Each print head is connected through an adapter card (sometimes called a head board or interface board). If the right-side adapter card has failed, it may throw Error 16 regardless of whether the cables and head are new. Swapping the right and left adapter cards can help confirm if the issue follows the board. If the error moves to the other side after swapping, the adapter card is defective.

2. Carriage Board Issues

The carriage board is another suspect. This board distributes signals and power from the main board to the adapter cards. If a trace, resistor, or component on the carriage board is faulty, the right head will not initialize properly, resulting in Error 16. Visual inspection for burn marks, corrosion, or loose solder joints can sometimes reveal the issue, but often it requires electronic testing or replacement.

3. Main Board Failure

If both the adapter card and carriage board test fine, the main board could be the cause. The main board controls head firing signals, voltage regulation, and communication. A failure on the right-head channel of the main board could trigger persistent Error 16. Unfortunately, diagnosing this usually involves board-level repair or replacement, as there are no easy fixes once the circuitry is compromised.

4. Troubleshooting Approach

• Swap adapter cards left to right and check if the error moves.

• Inspect the carriage board for signs of damage; reseat all ribbon cables securely.

• If possible, test with another carriage board.

• If none of the above resolves it, the main board is the likely cause.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. For that reason, we cannot provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or direct support for printer repairs. However, we do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service at our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Because of high demand, service is first-come, first-served, and it may take a few weeks before your printer can be checked in. We provide options for repairing either a complete printer or specific boards, with clear instructions on how to proceed. That said, we understand our rates are not always the lowest, so we encourage self-help first. A good starting point is our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). You can use the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar to find relevant videos. With nearly a decade of uploaded content, searching this way is the fastest method to locate specific tutorials, and YouTube may also recommend videos from other channels that could help.

Thank you again for reaching out to BCH Technologies. We truly appreciate your trust and hope this information gives you a clearer path forward in solving your Error 16 issue.