Which Epson L1800 (or 1390) Motherboard Do I Need for a Procolored L1800 F13 Printer?

Question: I have a Procolored L1800 F13 printer. What motherboard (mainboard) do I need?

Answer: 

Now, regarding the correct motherboard: the most important thing is to confirm whether your system is actually identifying as an Epson L1800 or if it's running on a 1390-type platform (which is common in some converted/DTF "L1800-style" builds). The correct mainboard depends on that identification.

Step 1: Confirm what Windows recognizes the printer as

On your Windows computer, go to:

• Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners
  Then click your printer and look at the printer name/model Windows shows.

If Windows shows Epson L1800

If you are sure it is truly an L1800 (and Windows lists it as L1800), then you need an Epson L1800 mainboard. In most cases, there is effectively "one" standard L1800 mainboard family used for that model platform, so sourcing an L1800 mainboard is the right move.

Important note: Many third-party sellers label boards loosely, so match the board to the printer's detected model and connector layout. If your printer is truly enumerating as an L1800, don't buy a 1390 board "because it looks similar"-it often creates communication and function mismatches.

If Windows shows Epson 1390

If Windows identifies it as 1390, your printer is likely using a 1390-based logic system (even if the outside branding calls it "L1800 F13"). In that case, you'll need a 1390 mainboard, but you must confirm which power input version your machine uses.

Step 2: If it shows 1390, check the power input on the mainboard (3-pin vs 9-pin)

If Windows shows 1390, open the printer (unplug power first) and locate the mainboard. Look specifically at the power input connector on the mainboard:

• 3-pin power input mainboard (common on certain revisions)

• 9-pin power input mainboard (common on other revisions)

This detail matters because the wrong version may not match your power supply harness or internal wiring. Even if the board "fits," the connector mismatch can stop the printer from powering correctly or can lead to improper voltage distribution.

Practical tips while checking:

• Take a clear photo of the mainboard power connector before ordering anything.

• Count pins carefully and check the connector shape/keying (some connectors look similar at first glance).

• If you're buying online, ensure the listing photo clearly shows the power input connector and matches yours.

Why this matters (and what can go wrong if the board is wrong)

Even if a board physically mounts in place, the wrong model/revision can cause issues like:

• Printer not detected by the computer (USB/communication mismatch)

• Wrong firmware behavior (model identity mismatch)

• Carriage/encoder or paper feed behaving incorrectly

• Random protection shutdowns if power pinouts don't match

You didn't mention specific error codes in your message (such as blinking light patterns or Epson-style service codes), so I can't point to a particular code like a fatal board/communication error-but if you are seeing blinking light combinations or a service message, feel free to include exactly what it shows (or the light blink pattern). Those symptoms can help confirm whether the board is actually the root cause versus something like a power supply, shorted component, or blown fuse on the board.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair because these problems are hands-on and often require physical testing and inspection. Because of that, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, step-by-step repair instructions, or remote support for printer repairs. We do offer in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility: BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we're able to accept your printer for drop-off.

Our services are structured to repair either the whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. That said, we acknowledge our rates aren't the most economical-so we strongly recommend self-help through online research first. A great place to start is YouTube, including our channel homepage: BCH Technologies on YouTube (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). To find the most relevant videos quickly, use the search icon near the "About" section on the right side of the menu bar. I receive many messages every day asking for the right video, and after creating videos for years, it's difficult to remember every single one-so YouTube search is the fastest method. Plus, YouTube may recommend other helpful videos from other creators that match your exact issue.

Thanks again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies. We genuinely appreciate it, and I hope the steps above help you confidently choose the correct mainboard.