Master the ColorSun Board Setup for Flawless Printer Performance

Setting up a ColorSun board, also referred to as a printer override board, breakout board, or driver board, is an essential step in customizing and maintaining your printer. This guide explains how to connect and configure the board while avoiding common pitfalls properly. Whether you're a seasoned printer technician or a first-time user, this walkthrough will ensure a smooth setup. For a visual demonstration, watch the video embedded below.

Understanding the ColorSun Board and Its Components

The ColorSun board serves as a critical interface for various printer functions. It connects to the printer’s mainboard and powers motors, sensors, and control panels. Before starting, familiarize yourself with the key parts of the board. Notable components include:

  • Power Connections (L and N): These connect directly to your wall socket and feed the printer’s power supply.
  • Motor Connections: These include the ASF motor, CR motor, and page feed motor, each with specific cable placements.
  • Control Board and Cartridge Override: These features manage printer controls and simulate cartridge functions to bypass errors.

Being meticulous during setup will help prevent issues such as misaligned cables or power failures.

Identifying the Notch and Glue Placement

One critical detail to note is the orientation of the plugs on the board. Look for the notch at the base of each plug, ensuring correct alignment when inserting cables. Sometimes, ColorSun boards may come glued, making the notch-less visible. If you’re unable to locate the notch, remember that the glued side typically faces upward.

To verify proper alignment, consult the connection diagram specific to your board model. For example, the diagram for the 1390C655 mainboard available on the BCH Technologies website provides detailed visual references for proper cable placement.

Connecting Power to the Board

The power connection involves two main steps:

  1. Wall Power Input: The L and N terminals usually connect to your wall power (110V). Exercise extreme caution during this step. Touching these terminals while powered can result in severe injury.
  2. 24V Output: The board splits power between the printer’s mainboard and other components. Use the red wire for the 24V line and the black wire for the ground connection. Ensure these are securely connected to avoid power disruptions.

For added safety, double-check all connections before powering on the printer.

Plugging in the Motors and Sensors

The board includes several motor connections:

  • ASF Motor: Ensure the plug aligns correctly with the labeled port on the board. Avoid mixing this plug with others, as incorrect connections can damage the motor.
  • CR Motor: This connects directly to the printer’s mainboard and is color-coded for convenience. Match the white and black clock cables to their corresponding ports.
  • Page Feed Motor: Connect this motor to its designated port and ensure the cable routes properly to the mainboard.

Double-check each motor's connection to prevent functionality issues.

Understanding the Relay Board

The relay board, the subboard, acts as an intermediary for key functions. It manages connections for the CRPW and printed cable, linking the printhead to the mainboard. Properly securing these connections is essential for smooth printer operation.

Additionally, unused ports, such as the two blue connectors, should remain untouched. Interfering with these can lead to unexpected errors or malfunctions.

Utilizing the Cartridge Override

The ColorSun board includes a CSIC cable that overrides the printer’s original cartridge detection system. This feature is handy for resolving cartridge-related errors. Once the CSIC cable is connected, pressing the override button allows the printer to simulate a cartridge, bypassing error messages.

For the control board, connect the control panel to the middle port of the mainboard. This ensures seamless communication between the printer and its user interface.

Final Checks and Troubleshooting

Before powering on the printer, review each connection against the diagram. Misaligned or loose cables can cause functionality issues or even damage the board. For any issues during setup, refer to the video demonstration below or consult the diagrams available on the BCH Technologies website.

If you encounter persistent problems, consider rewiring specific components. For example, the power control system can be reconfigured to manage additional functions, such as a mixer. This level of customization requires advanced knowledge but can significantly enhance your printer's capabilities.