How to Fix Scanning Issues on the Epson SC-T3170M: Lines Instead of Images

Question:

I replaced the mainboard on my Epson SC-T3170M due to another issue, which is now fixed. However, when I try to scan or copy, the printer only prints vertical black and white lines instead of the scanned image. What could be causing this, and how can I fix it?

Understanding the Problem:

(If your SC-T3170M is printing only vertical black and white lines when scanning and/or copying, it is more likely that the scanner signal path is failing, rather than there being a blockage or while feeding paper into the machine) The issue could be caused by:

• Loose or not properly connected scanner ribbon cable (most likely).
• The new mainboard gets an incompatible scanner driver ϴr firmware.
• Either a used up CIS (Contact Image Sensor) module or a broken ribbon cable.
• A scanner functionality because of a mainboard configuration problem.
• A failing scanner unit that might need to be replaced.

Guidelines for Troubleshooting Step by Step:

Verify and Reseat the scanner ribbon cable [Most Likely Cause]

It is highly likely that the ribbon cable to the scanner was not completely pressed or slightly off since the mainboard was replaced.

Switch off the printer and unplug it.

Take the printer’s scanner section, and gently find the, ribbon cable that connects the scanner unit to the main ribbon cable.

Disconnect the ribbon cable, check the connector pins for dust or debris, and reconnect it snugly.

Make sure to fully seat the connector.

Update Your ScannerDrivers and Firmware

If the mainboard was swapped out, the scanner may not be properly recognized if the firmware or drivers are outdated.

Download and install scanner driver from the Epson site.

Use firmware update to ensure that the new mainboard has been set with the scanner correctly.

Check the CIS Sensor and Cable for Damage

The SC-T3170M employs a Contact Image Sensor (CIS) for capture. This sensor can be damaged or receive inaccurate signals, which could result in distorted scans.

Inspect the CIS sensor’s ribbon cable for kinks, wear, or loose connections.

A physical damaged sensor might need to be replaced.

And set Mainboard scanner settings

Whether or not the scanner functions are controlled at the mainboard level, a replacement mainboard could have a different configuration.

Enter the service menu on the printer.

Check the scanner settings, resetting to factory defaults as necessary and ensure the scanner is being properly recognized.

Calibrate if there is a scanner calibration option.

Test with a Different Source

To rule out software conflicts:

Instead of using a computer, try scanning directly to a USB drive.

Try using a different scanning software on your PC and see if the problem persists.

Scanner Unit is Defective

If none of that works, the scanner hardware itself may be faulty.

If those steps do not resolve the issue, test the scanner with another SC-T3170M printer, if one is available.

If scanning fails for all tests, the scanner module may need to be replaced.

Recommended Next Steps:

✅ Reseat scan ribbon cable (most common fix)

✅ Update the firmware & drivers so the mainboard can successfully communicate

✅ Check the CIS sensor and its ribbon cable for damage or misalignment.

✅ Service menu: scanner settings misconfiguration

✅ Scan from a separate by or software to try to isolate the problem.

Need More Help?

Because printer and scanner repairs are so physical, they can be challenging to troubleshoot. We cannot provide remote troubleshooting or direct support for scanner repairs. However, we do have in-store diagnostic testing and repair service capabilities at our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) which is on a first-come (call ahead for diagnostics only unless a previous repair appointment is in place), first-served basis due to high demand and could possibly result in a wait period.

Based on this, we suggest you search more solutions on our youtube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). You can search specific troubleshooting topics with the search icon next to “About” in the menu bar. We’ve produced a lot of videos over the last nine years, and the quickest way to find the most relevant content is using the search function in YouTube.

Thanks again for contacting us! Thank you for your support, we hope this guide helps you get your scanner problem sorted. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask!