Stuck on Language and Country Selection Screen? How to Fix Epson WF-2960 Setup Freeze Issue

Question:

My Epson printer (only 3 months old) is frozen on the setup screen that asks for language and country. It won’t proceed or allow any input. What can I do to fix it?

Answer:

Root Cause: Firmware Corruption or Incomplete Installation

Suppose the printer freezes at the language/country selection screen and doesn’t respond to touch or buttons. In that case, this often means the firmware did not install correctly, possibly due to a factory reset, power interruption, or failed update. The system can't complete the boot-up process, leaving it stuck in an unusable state.

Solution 1: Enter Service Mode and Reinstall Official Firmware

1. Enter Service Mode:

   • Most Epson models have a hidden sequence of button presses that trigger "Service Mode." For WF-2960, it may involve a combination such as Stop + Home + Power or Back + Home + Power (though exact sequences vary—some experimentation may be needed).

2. Download Firmware from Epson:

   • Visit the Epson Support site (https://www.epson.com/Support/Printers/All-In-Ones/WF-Series/Epson-WorkForce-WF-2960/s/SPT_C11CK63201).

   • Download the most recent firmware available.

   • Run the firmware installer on your PC while the printer is in service mode and connected via USB.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the firmware installation.
   This will often clear the corrupted software and reboot the printer properly.

Solution 2: Use WICReset Utility to Flash Firmware

WICReset is a third-party utility commonly used for maintaining Epson printers. It allows firmware flashing, waste ink counter reset, and EEPROM tools.

1. Download WICReset from https://www.wic.support.

2. Use their firmware flashing feature:

   • You may need a compatible firmware file (.ffs) from either WICReset or Epson.

3. Connect the printer and follow the firmware update procedure inside WICReset.

4. Make sure you do not unplug the printer during the process.

Note: This method may be helpful if the official installer fails or if the printer is unresponsive in standard modes.

Solution 3: Advanced — EEPROM Binary Dump

This method is highly advanced and typically only recommended for experienced electronics technicians:

1. Access the printer’s mainboard and identify the EEPROM chip (usually 24Cxx series).

2. Use a programmer like CH341A to read and write binary files (.bin).

3. If you can obtain a healthy bin dump from the same model, you can re-flash it and restore basic firmware function.

Warning: This method requires advanced hardware soldering skills, chip-level access, and carries a high risk. It may permanently damage the board if not done correctly.

Reference Material

We have a related article that focuses on troubleshooting Epson WF-2960 cartridge and firmware issues here:
How to Troubleshoot and Resolve Issues with Epson WF-2960 Printer Cartridges
(https://bchtechnologies.com/blogs/blog/how-to-troubleshoot-and-resolve-issues-with-epson-wf2960-printer-cartridges)

Final Notes
Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel’s homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to “About” on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thanks again for reaching out. We hope you get your printer back in working order soon!