How to Fix "Ink Out" Error After Replacing a Printer Motherboard

Question:
After replacing my printer's motherboard, I tried booting the printer and got a solid white light. I don't remember the exact error code, but I eventually gave up. Now I want to get it running again. I already cleared the lines, drained ink, replaced the capping station kit, and installed a new printhead-basically, everything is new. However, I keep getting an "ink out" error that I can't bypass. How can I get this $10,000 printer working again?

Answer:

1. Identifying the Error Code

When replacing a motherboard, the printer often needs to be re-synchronized with its sensors and cartridges. The solid white light you experienced usually indicates a general error condition, but without the exact code it's difficult to pinpoint the cause.

The best way to check is with Epson's Adjustment Program (sometimes called the Service Program). Here's how:

• Open the Adjustment Program and select your printer from the USB dropdown list.

• Go to Particular Adjustment Mode → Printer Information Check.

• Click Check to display the latest logged error codes. The first error listed (Error No. 1) will be the most recent.

This will help determine if the issue is related to sensors such as the APG (Auto Paper Gap) sensor, cartridge chip detection, or ink system initialization.

2. Understanding the "Ink Out" Error

The "Ink Out" error usually means that the printer isn't detecting cartridges correctly. Common causes include:

• Chip Issues: If the motherboard replacement reset your firmware, the printer may not recognize aftermarket or refillable cartridges. You may need to use chipless software solutions or updated chips that are compatible with your board.

• Cartridge Recognition Failure: Even new cartridges can fail to seat properly. Double-check that each cartridge chip makes proper contact with the board's sensor pins.

• Firmware Lock: Some printers will block operation after a board replacement until you perform an initialization sequence using the Adjustment Program.

3. How to Fix It

• Use the Adjustment Program to confirm which error codes are active. If it's only "ink out," focus on cartridge detection.

• If using refillable cartridges, make sure the chips are up to date. In some cases, ARC chips (auto reset chips) may not work with newer firmware, requiring either OEM chips or chipless software.

• Run a Firmware Initialization or EEPROM Reset via the Adjustment Program. This can clear memory conflicts that cause "ink out" messages even when ink is present.

• As a last step, confirm the new printhead installation didn't leave any disconnected ribbon cables. Even a slight misalignment can trigger false cartridge errors.

For a quick demonstration, see our video walkthrough on error-checking with Epson's Adjustment Program here: YouTube video guide (https://youtube.com/shorts/FPZzpyYuZLE).

4. Why Tech Support Often Struggles

Unfortunately, many resellers don't provide full technical support for hardware-level failures. That's why technicians often rely on Epson's hidden "Triple Secret Error Codes" for troubleshooting. You can search "BCH Epson Error" on Google to find our explanation of these codes and what they mean.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Because of this, we aren't able to provide remote troubleshooting or repair services. We do, however, offer in-person evaluation and repair at our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Our services are first-come, first-served, and depending on demand, it might take a few weeks before we can work on your printer. While our repair costs may not always be the lowest, we encourage self-help as a practical alternative. A great starting point is using the search tool on our BCH Technologies YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), where you'll find a wide range of troubleshooting and instructional videos.

Thank you again for reaching out. We truly value your support and engagement and hope this guidance helps you take the next step toward getting your printer running again.