Epson DX5 Third Locked Printhead

The "third locked" Epson F186000 printhead refers to a version of the DX5 printhead that is locked by default, with encryption preventing its use across different compatible printers unless unlocked or reprogrammed. This locking is a security measure Epson implements to prevent third-party use and unauthorized reuse.​

Key Points about the Epson DX5 Third Locked Printhead

•  Type and Compatibility: It is specifically a DX5 eco-solvent printhead, suitable for use with certain Chinese-built DX5 printers before 2013, and is compatible with many printers, including some Mutoh, Mimaki, and Chinese DX5 models.​
• Locking Mechanism: Epson locks these heads via an encrypted code in the memory board to prevent unauthorized use or reuse with other printers.​
• Identification: Typically, locked printheads have contacts at each edge of their connector layout, and heads manufactured after April 2014 are generally locked.

Unlocking or Replacing the Locked Printhead

• The locking mechanism involves gears and a small wheel controlling a lever that locks or unlocks the printhead.
• While the head is physically locked, turning the associated gear or wheel clockwise can sometimes release the lock, but this method varies depending on the specific printer model and the state of the encryption.
• Some third-party services and parts suppliers offer "unlocked" versions of the F186000 head that have had the encryption removed, making them reusable across different printers.
• Genuine locked heads like the F186000 third locked are typically not operable out-of-the-box in incompatible printers without unlocking or reprogramming.​

Practical Advice

•     If your goal is to use an Epson F186000 third locked head in a printer that does not support it natively, you would need to either unlock it through specialized software or hardware decryptors or purchase an already unlocked head from a third-party supplier.    ​
•     Be cautious with unlocking methods, as they might void warranties or breach licensing or usage agreements.

Summary

The Epson DX5 Third Locked Printhead is a locked DX5 printhead manufactured after April 2014, with encryption to prevent unauthorized use, requiring either unlocking or use of compatible, unlocked versions to operate in non-Epson or unsupported printers.