Troubleshooting Blank Prints on Your Pro-Colored F8 Printer

Experiencing blank prints from your Pro-Colored F8 printer can be quite frustrating. The machine appears to function normally, but when it prints, no ink is laid on the paper. Fortunately, this issue is often solvable through systematic troubleshooting. In this article, we'll go through the process step-by-step, explaining clearly how to identify and resolve the issue.

Check the Printhead for Clogs

The first step in diagnosing blank prints is determining if your printhead is clogged. Printhead clogging is standard and easily resolved.

Press and hold the ink button until the printer initiates the cleaning cycle. Observe the ink waste tube closely. You should see ink moving through the tube. It is recommended that this cleaning cycle be performed multiple times to ensure that any dried or clogged ink is thoroughly cleared out. If significant ink visibly flows out, your printhead isn't clogged, and further unclogging won't be necessary.

Investigating the Printhead Fuse

If the printhead is clear, the issue might be with the printhead fuse (F1) on the printer’s mainboard. Checking this fuse requires accessing the mainboard, which is conveniently accessible on the Pro-Colored F8 printer.

Remove the screws from the left panel of your printer. The mainboard should now be visible without further disassembly.

How to Identify a Blown Fuse

Once you have clear access to the mainboard, locate fuse F1. This fuse protects the printhead from electrical surges and excessive current.

Use a multimeter in continuity mode to test the fuse. A functioning fuse will beep when probed, indicating continuity. If it does not beep, the fuse is blown and must be replaced.

Replacing the Fuse (F1)

If your fuse F1 is blown, you can easily obtain replacements. Visit BCH Technologies online, type "F1 fuse" in the search bar, and choose the appropriate replacement. These fuses are small, typically green, and individually packaged, so ensure you order the correct quantity.

Replacing the fuse involves soldering, a process manageable if you have basic soldering skills. First, carefully remove the old fuse with a soldering iron, clean up the board using a solder wick, and then solder in the new fuse. Heat one side of the connector, slide the fuse into place, and secure by soldering the other.

Additional Component Checks

Sometimes, a blown fuse may indicate broader electrical issues. Scrutinize the board for signs of burnt or melted components. Components close to the fuse that appear damaged need testing and potentially replacing. Transistors or other tiny parts near the fuse region often suffer damage from surges or short circuits.

If you suspect broader issues, sending the mainboard to professionals who can thoroughly test and repair it may be safer and more reliable.

Professional Repair Services

If replacing the fuse seems challenging or you find additional damage, BCH Technologies provides a comprehensive repair service. You can send your mainboard directly to BCH Technologies, where experts will perform a complete evaluation, repair any discovered problems, and thoroughly test the mainboard before sending it back.

To initiate this service, navigate to BCH Technologies’ website, find the Printer Repair section, and follow the straightforward instructions to ship your mainboard securely.

For a visual guide, check out the detailed instructional video below demonstrating these steps clearly and concisely.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue of blank prints from your Pro-Colored F8 printer, whether by simple cleaning, fuse replacement, or professional repair.