Punehod / Procolored DTF Printer Not Powering On: Why the Control Panel Stays Dark and How to Diagnose It

Question:

I'm having trouble with my Punehod printer. The control panel on the front won't turn on at all. I contacted Punehod support, but they said it isn't their machine and told me to message Procolored instead. I'm confused and just want to get the machine running again. I also already bought a new printhead they recommended, but the printer still won't power on. Can you help me understand what's going on?

Answer:

Understanding the Two Separate Systems Inside a DTF Printer

Your DTF unit-regardless of branding (Punehod, Procolored, or white-label variations)-is actually made up of two independent systems:

1. The Ink System (External System)

   • White ink mixer

   • White ink circulation pump

   • Agitator/stirrer

   • Thermo heater or vacuum platform (some models)

   • Power switch in the rear powers this system as well

2. The Printer Unit (Internal Epson Engine)

   • Mainboard

   • Power supply

   • Control panel

   • Printhead

   • Carriage motors & sensors

These two systems share the same outer housing, but they function independently. This is the key to understanding why your control panel stays dark.

Why the Ink System Still Runs, but the Printer Does Not

When users report that the control panel will not illuminate or the printer seems "dead," but the mixer, pump, or heater still turn on, this almost always points to an issue inside the printer engine itself, not the ink system.

Possible causes include:

**1. Printer Mainboard Failure

(Also known as motherboard / logic board)**

The mainboard distributes power and communication signals to:

• Control panel

• Printhead

• Motors

• Sensors

If the board is dead, the printer will not start, even though other external components still power on.
This is one of the most common failures in these DTF-converted units, especially if:

• Moisture got inside the machine

• Ink leaked onto the board

• The 24V or 42V line spiked

• The board overheated

Unfortunately, replacing the printhead alone will not resolve this.

2. Failed Printer Power Supply

The printer has its own dedicated AC-to-DC power supply separate from the ink system's power block.

If this supply fails, typical symptoms include:

• Control panel stays black

• No movement from the printhead

• No initialization sound

• No LED response at all

Even though the ink system still runs, the printer engine receives zero power.

3. Loose or Unplugged Control Panel Ribbon Cable (FFC)

During transport or servicing, the thin FFC cable between the panel and the mainboard can loosen.

If the panel is not receiving low-voltage control signals, it will:

• Appear completely dead

• Not show backlight

• Not respond to power on/off

This is worth checking before replacing internal parts.

4. Internal Short or Damage Inside the Printer Engine

Ink contamination or a short circuit in:

• The carriage board

• The CR motor

• The power rails

• Any sensor wiring

can prevent the printer from powering on.

These circuits are delicate, and even a small short can lock the printer in a "no-power" state.

Important Note About Brand Confusion

Many DTF printers are rebranded Epson conversions, and multiple companies (Punehod, Procolored, no-name sellers) may use the same chassis but take limited responsibility after sale. This is unfortunately common in the DTF market.

Buying a new printhead was probably unnecessary, because a dead control panel usually isn't printhead related.

What You Can Do Next

If you feel comfortable opening the machine, check:

• Whether the printer's power supply LED is lit

• Whether the ribbon cables (FFC) from the control panel are firmly seated

• If the mainboard shows visible burn marks, corrosion, or ink residue

• Whether 24V and 5V lines output correctly

If the printer's internal power supply is dead, replacing it will restore the control panel.
If the mainboard is dead, that must be replaced before anything else.

Replacing the mainboard is the step that most users ultimately end up needing.

A Note Regarding Repair Support

Printer malfunction-especially with DTF conversions-often requires hands-on inspection and electrical testing. Because of this, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting or direct repair guidance. We do provide an in-person diagnostic and repair service through our Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service), though wait times can be a few weeks since repairs are first-come, first-served. We can service entire printers or specific sections based on your needs. However, we know our rates may not always be the cheapest option, so many customers prefer self-help paths.

You can start by searching for DTF repair topics on YouTube or by visiting our YouTube channel homepage at BCH Technologies (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to "About" to look up videos related to power issues, control panels, or Epson engine diagnostics. With nine years of content, even we can't remember every video, so searching directly is the most efficient method. YouTube will also show you videos from other creators that may help.

Thank you again for contacting us. We appreciate your patience, your support, and your trust in BCH Technologies. If you need anything further, feel free to reach out anytime.