Procolored L1800 DTF Printer Goes to Standby Without Printing? Here’s How to Diagnose and Fix the Issue

Question:

I own a Procolored L1800 DTF roll printer that worked flawlessly until recently. Now, after sending a print job—which completes the transmission and prompts the printer to initialize—it doesn’t start printing. Instead, it silently returns to standby mode with no flashing lights or error messages. Occasionally, it prints a few images before this behavior kicks in. When I try to roll out the film using the paper feed button, the red light flashes, but otherwise, there's no indication of a problem. I've redownloaded drivers, cleaned the machine, and even spent six hours with Procolored tech support, all with no solution. What could be causing this, and how can I fix it?

Answer:

Why Your Print Jobs Disappear Without Printing

This is a known issue among modified DTF printers like the Procolored L1800. Procolored, like many aftermarket DTF manufacturers, rewires the original Epson control panel and sometimes changes the logic system that handles error signaling. As a result, traditional blinking light error codes may not function or display properly.

What’s happening in your case is this:

• The print transmission completes, and the printer appears to get ready to print.

• However, due to a latent error (not always shown via LEDs), the printer silently aborts the print job and returns to standby.

• Once in this hidden error state, any subsequent print jobs are automatically canceled or "eaten" by the spooler, as the system still sees the printer as busy or faulted.

You’re not alone—this can be extremely confusing since the printer gives no clear indication of what went wrong.

How to Diagnose the Hidden Error with Epson Adjustment Program

To uncover what’s really going on behind the scenes, you’ll need a diagnostic utility called the Epson Adjustment Program. This is a service tool typically used by Epson technicians but sometimes distributed by DTF printer suppliers or found through online forums.

Here’s how to proceed:

1. Download and Launch the Epson Adjustment Program
   If you don’t already have it, you’ll need to search online (e.g., “Epson L1800 Adjustment Program”) to find a copy. Be cautious and download only from reputable sources.

2. Connect and Select the Printer

   • Open the Adjustment Program.

   • In the “Select” window, choose your printer model and USB port (should list the L1800).

   • Click OK.

3. Check Printer Error Information

   • Click on “Particular Adjustment Mode.”

   • Scroll down and choose “Printer Information Check.”

   • Click “Check.”

   • Look at the topmost error entry—it will be listed as Error No. 1.

This error number is your best lead in uncovering the root cause. For example, you may see something like:

• APG Sensor Error

• ASF Encoder Error

• PF Encoder Error

These error types often point to mechanical issues like sensor failures, paper feed issues, or problems with ink system pressure.

How to Interpret Epson’s Secret Error Codes

We’ve documented many of these hidden errors and how to interpret them. Simply search “BCH Epson Error” in Google, and it will lead you to our reference page explaining Epson’s Triple Secret Error Codes. These aren’t always listed in user manuals and are mostly known to technicians.

For a quick overview of this diagnostic process, check out our short walkthrough video here:
▶️ How to View Hidden Epson Error Codes [https://youtube.com/shorts/FPZzpyYuZLE]

Once you know the error, you’ll be in a much stronger position to repair or replace the malfunctioning part.

What to Do After Identifying the Error

After retrieving the error code, you can:

• Search our YouTube channel [https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies] for videos addressing your specific issue.

• Research community forums for DIY repair tips specific to that error.

• Reach out to your seller (if within warranty) and provide the error details—they may offer a replacement part or further guidance.

Need In-Person Help? Here’s What We Offer

Fixing printer issues can often be hands-on and tricky, especially with modified models. Unfortunately, we’re not equipped to offer remote troubleshooting or real-time repair suggestions. However, BCH Technologies provides an in-person repair and evaluation service through our local diagnostic facility [https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service]. Due to high demand, repairs are done on a first-come, first-served basis and may involve a short waiting period.

We handle both full printer repairs and part-specific fixes. That said, we understand our rates may not be the most affordable option for everyone, which is why we highly encourage exploring online self-help options first. Our YouTube channel homepage [https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies] is a great place to start. Use the search icon next to “About” to find tutorials tailored to your error code or printer model. After nine years of content creation, we’ve covered a lot, though not always easy to remember which video has what. YouTube’s search feature can help you uncover both our videos and other helpful creators' content.

Thank you again for your question and your trust in our resources. We hope this gets your printer back up and running soon. Don’t hesitate to reach out again if you uncover the error code—we’re always happy to help decode it with you.