Using CADlink With an Epson EcoTank ET-8550 (Not Converted): What to Expect + About Error 031006

Question

I recently spoke with someone about my printing issue and error 031006, and we're still working on that. We also purchased the CADlink app, but we haven't activated or used it yet. We just bought another printer-an Epson EcoTank ET-8550-and we want to know if we can use the CADlink app with this new printer without converting it. If I understand correctly, we just need to shake the ink before each use, and we don't have to do anything special to the new printer-just download CADlink and follow the instructions. Is that correct?

Answer

1) About the error code 031006

Since you specifically mentioned error 031006, I want to address it directly: that code indicates your workflow already has a known issue that still needs resolution, and it's important not to mix troubleshooting steps between two different printers/projects.

In practical terms, an error like 031006 is typically a sign of one of these categories of problems:

• A device/communication issue between software, driver, OS, and printer (or between a RIP and the printer driver).

• A job processing / spooler / driver mismatch (wrong driver selected, wrong port, corrupted job queue).

• A software-side configuration issue inside the printing application/RIP (selected printer model doesn't match the actual printer/driver, or settings conflict).

Because the exact meaning can vary depending on where the code is being generated (printer screen vs. Windows popup vs. the RIP software), the key point is: keep the 031006 troubleshooting isolated to the printer/workflow where it occurred, and treat the new ET-8550 setup as a clean, separate installation. That avoids chasing symptoms caused by old drivers, ports, or RIP configurations.

2) Can you use CADlink with a new Epson ET-8550 that is not converted?

In general, CADlink is software (often functioning as a RIP/workflow tool depending on the product/version). Whether it will work with your printer as-is depends on two things:

1. Does your CADlink license/product support the ET-8550 specifically?
   Some RIP/workflow apps support only certain printer models, certain driver types, or certain output modules.

2. What are you trying to print (and with what ink)?

   • If you are printing standard images/documents with standard inks, the printer can often run normally using Epson's driver and your normal applications.

   • If you're using specialty workflows (common examples: white ink workflows, specialized color profiles, or production-style output), compatibility becomes much more dependent on CADlink's supported devices and setup.

So the safest, most accurate answer is: CADlink compatibility is determined by CADlink's supported printer list and setup requirements-not just the printer itself.

3) Do you "just shake it before each use"?

That part depends entirely on what you mean by "it":

• If you mean Epson's standard EcoTank inks (OEM dye/pigment as designed for the ET-8550), shaking is generally not a required "every time" step the way it is with some specialty inks. Normal handling and periodic printing is usually enough.

• If you mean specialty inks (for example, pigment-heavy or particle-based inks used in some specialty printing workflows), then yes-many of those do require regular agitation to prevent settling. However, putting specialty inks into a non-converted ET-8550 can create risks (clogs, sediment buildup, head stress) if the ink is not designed for that printer/ink channel.

Because your message mentions "not converted," I want to be very clear:
A stock, non-converted ET-8550 should be used with inks intended for that printer. "Just shake it" is not a universal rule-it's ink-dependent.

4) Do you have to do anything special to the new printer?

For a typical setup, you'll generally need to:

• Install the correct Epson ET-8550 driver

• Confirm the printer is connected properly (USB or network)

• Run a nozzle check and confirm the printer prints normally before introducing any new software workflow

• Then install CADlink and set it up to point to the correct printer/driver (if CADlink supports that model)

However, whether CADlink is "download and go" with no other steps depends on CADlink's specific product/version and whether it requires:

• specific output modules,

• a particular driver type,

• activation steps,

• device selection inside the software,

• and sometimes color profiles/workflow configuration.

5) The most important instruction for CADlink

For the CADlink portion: please contact CADlink support directly. They are the correct source to confirm:

• whether your CADlink product supports the Epson ET-8550 specifically,

• whether it can be used with a non-converted printer,

• and what exact setup steps are required for your license/version.

That approach also prevents you from accidentally activating the software the wrong way or configuring it for the wrong printer model-which can lead to confusing errors (including code-style errors like 031006, depending on where that code is coming from).

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems, and that limits what we can reliably diagnose from a distance. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility: printer repair service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it may take a few weeks before we're able to take your printer in for drop-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. That's why we strongly recommend self-help through online research first. You can start by checking YouTube or visiting our channel homepage: BCH Technologies on YouTube (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). To find the most relevant videos quickly, use the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of questions every day asking if we have a video for a specific topic, and after nine years of creating videos, it's difficult to remember every single one-using YouTube's search function is the fastest method. Plus, YouTube may also suggest useful videos from other channels that could help.

Thank you again for reaching out and for your continued support. We truly appreciate it.