Procolored DTF Printer Won’t Turn On: Troubleshooting the Power Button and Mainboard Issues

Customer Question:

My Procolored DTF printer has power (the power adapter appears to be functioning), but it doesn’t turn on when I press the blue button on the control panel. The green light flashes briefly, and then nothing happens. What could be causing this?

Answer:

What’s Going On With the Power Button?

Your printer’s symptoms—receiving power but not fully turning on—are commonly seen in converted Epson L1800 models used in DTF (Direct-to-Film) setups, such as those sold by Procolored or Punehod. These printers are no longer standard Epson models. They are modified units with custom hardware wiring, and the blue control panel button is often rerouted or reprogrammed in ways that depart from the original Epson behavior.

Here’s a breakdown of what could be happening and how you might resolve it:

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

1. Understand the Custom Power Button Setup

In converted DTF models, the blue power button on the front panel may not function in the original Epson manner. If it flashes green once and stops, it means the printer is receiving power, but the startup sequence is not completing. The control logic might be:

• Miswired during modification

• Sending an incomplete signal

• Or encountering a mainboard conflict that prevents full initialization

Keep in mind that this doesn’t automatically mean the button is faulty—it may just not be triggering the proper startup protocol due to the way the control panel was rewired during the DTF conversion.

2. Test with an Original Epson Control Panel

One of the most effective ways to rule out button issues is to bypass the modified control panel temporarily:

• Locate the CN4 Connector on the printer’s mainboard (usually labeled).

• Plug in a genuine Epson L1800 control panel to this CN4 port.

• Try powering on the printer using this original panel.

If the printer successfully powers on, this confirms the issue lies within the aftermarket panel or the modifications made to it, not the printer’s power system.

3. Diagnose the Mainboard

If the printer still does not power on with the Epson panel:

• You’re likely dealing with a mainboard failure.

• Common culprits include:

  • Voltage regulator malfunction

  • Blown capacitors

  • Firmware boot issues

  • Damaged ICs or circuitry due to power surges or poor-quality components

Visual inspection can sometimes reveal burnt spots, bulging capacitors, or corroded traces. If you're experienced with electronics, you can attempt basic diagnostics with a multimeter. Otherwise, we strongly advise seeking a technician who has experience with DTF-converted Epson printers.

4. Verify Power Supply Output

Don’t overlook the possibility that the issue lies outside the printer:

• Confirm that your power supply (the external brick or adapter) is delivering the correct voltage.

• Use a multimeter to measure the output and check for drops under load.

• Some third-party bricks are unreliable and may fail under startup demand, even if they appear to “work.”

Using a stable and OEM-grade power supply (or a verified compatible one) is essential for avoiding false errors or non-booting conditions.

In Summary

A conflict between the modified control panel and the mainboard often causes this type of boot-up failure. Testing with an original Epson panel is a quick way to isolate the issue. If that fails, you’ll need to evaluate the mainboard and power supply in greater detail.

Need More Help?

Printer repairs, especially for converted DTF models, often require in-person diagnostics. Due to the hands-on nature of these issues, we cannot offer remote support or individualized repair guidance. However, we do provide in-person evaluation and repair services through our local diagnostic center (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service).

Please note:

• Repairs are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Wait times may vary depending on our current backlog.

• We offer repairs for both full printers and specific internal parts, with detailed process instructions.

• Since our services may not be the most affordable, we highly recommend conducting your own research and repairs if you're confident and experienced.

For more self-guided help, we invite you to search our extensive library of instructional videos on our YouTube homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon (next to the “About” tab) to find relevant tutorials. Given that we’ve produced hundreds of videos over the years, searching directly on YouTube is often the quickest route to solutions—even if they come from other helpful channels.

Thank you again for your patience and your continued support of BCH Technologies. We hope this provides you with a clear direction for resolving your power issue.