Tuesday, May 31, 2016

HP Colour LaserJet Printer Repair & Troubleshooting

If your HP colour printer has broken down, you can rely on us for quick, local and guaranteed onsite repair at your business or home.
Our HP colour printer repair prices are fixed plus parts, so you’ll always know what you need to pay; helping you make the decision whether it’s more cost effective to repair, or replace. Or if you need year-round support, you can choose one of our all-inclusive and unlimited maintenance agreements.

HP Colour LaserJet Printer Repairs

HP Printer Repairs is part of one of the UK’s largest independent printer repair companies, with HP engineer coverage throughout the UK and parts of Scotland. Our printer call out charges are set and include all labour. If we supply spare parts that may be required the labour to fit these would be charged at a reduced rate of 50% of the initial call out fee if our quote is accepted within 7 days, irrelevant of how much time might be required to fit the parts. So you’ll always know how much you will need to pay.

Q. How much will my printer repair cost?
A. All our HP colour LaserJet printer repairs call out charges are set.Tell us your HP printer model and postcode to find out your guaranteed price.

 Q. How quickly will my printer be repaired?
A. 
Usually very quickly. Around 85% of our HP colour LaserJet printer repairs are fixed first time, without the need for any parts.

 Q. What if parts are needed?
A. If any HP printer parts are needed we will always give you a quote first for the parts and any labour that may be required, helping you to decide the best option for you.

 Q. Is my HP engineer local?
A. 
Quite possibly. We have experienced HP printer engineers within one hour’s travel of most places throughout England and Wales.

Q. Could it be more cost effective to replace my HP printer than repair it?
A. Yes it could be, which is why we provide a fixed price HP printer repair service. We want you to make an informed decision, where you can take into account the value of the toners in your existing machine and our repair compared with the purchase and installation of a new machine.

Q. Are your repairs guaranteed?
A. 
Yes, all our HP printer repairs are guaranteed for 30 days. In the unlikely event that the same fault should reoccur within this time we will provide you with a free of charge call-out.


HP Colour LaserJet Printer Maintenance Contract
Our cost effective HP colour LaserJet printer maintenance contracts provide UK HP printer support for businesses of all sizes and home users too.  If your HP colour LaserJet printer is in good working order then you can take out an HP printer maintenance contract with us. This all-inclusive service agreement provides unlimited call-outs with all non-consumable parts and labour included.

Q. Can I take out a maintenance contract if my printer isn’t working?
A. No, you would need to pay for your printer to be repaired first. However once it is repaired we’ll happily credit your account with 50% of the original repair call-out cost after you take out our HP maintenance agreement.

Q. Why is a printer inspection required sometimes?
A. To help keep our maintenance costs down for everyone, we need to ensure that any HP printers on contract are maintained to our minimum standards. We will inspect your LaserJet and explain any parts that need to be renewed before we can provide our HP printer service agreement.

Q. Do I have truly unlimited call-outs?
A. 
Yes you do. We’re confident that our HP LaserJet printer service standards mean your printer will run smoothly between visits, but if it does have a problem we’re always here to help.

Q. All non-consumable parts are included, what does this mean?
A. 
Your printer has parts that normally need replacing during its use, such as: toners, maintenance kits and fusing units - these are all consumable parts. Non-consumable parts covers virtually everything else, such as: power supplies, circuit boards and electrical parts. We will provide your printer with all non-consumable parts, completely free of charge.

Q. What happens if I replace my printer?
A. If you replace your HP LaserJet printer with a similar model from us then we’ll transfer and extend the standard warranty with your remaining HP maintenance contract balance.


Source:- goo.gl/TknWJj

HP Colour LaserJet 1500 (Q2489A) Printer Troubleshooting

HP Colour LaserJet 1500 (Q2489A) Printer Repair & Maintenance

If you’re looking for a printer repair company to help fix your HP Colour LaserJet 1500, then you’ve found the right place. Our experienced HP printer engineers are familiar with all HP 1500 error codes, problems and issues and will help troubleshoot and repair your HP Colour LaserJet 1500’s fault; getting you printing again in no time.
Our HP Colour LaserJet 1500 repairs prices are fixed plus parts, so you’ll always know what you need to pay; helping you make the decision whether it’s more cost effective to repair your 1500, or replace it. Or if you need year-round support, you can choose our all-inclusive HP Colour LaserJet 1500 annual maintenance agreement.

Common HP Colour LaserJet 1500 (Q2489A) Error Codes & Problems

HP Error Code:
11 - Paper Out
Explanation:
If your printer isn't out of paper, this probably means there's a problem with the paper tray or paper sensor.
What to do:
Make sure your printer is on a completely flat surface. Check the paper trays for any damage and clean away any toner build up. If not resolved, check the paper sensor or clean the opto-sensor.

HP Error Code:
13 - Paper Jam
Explanation:
Your printer has a paper jam. Paper jams can occur at four stages: pickup, printing, fusing and exit. Modern HP printers will indicate where the jam has occurred. If using thick paper, check the HP paper guide for your printer.
What to do:
Either follow the on screen guidance, if available, or methodically check for the paper jam in the customer accessible areas of the printer. Don't attempt to use hard implements to remove paper at the risk of damage to the printer and yourself. If the problem persists you may have a hardware failure.

HP Error Code:
16 - Toner Low
Explanation:
This normally means that your toner cartridge is either low on toner or empty. However it may mean that the remaining printer toner isn't distributed evenly.
What to do:
Try removing the toner cartridge and gently shaking it to evenly distribute the remaining toner. Once depleted, replace the cartridge.


View More Error Codes


Source:-goo.gl/jrxJ9L

HP LaserJet Printer Error Codes

HP LaserJet Printer Error Codes

If your HP LaserJet printer has stopped working then it will probably also display an error message. These error messages are there to help you troubleshoot and repair yours LaserJet’s fault. Different models have slightly different wording for the error, but the troubleshooting tips are generally the same.

Common HP Printer Error Messages

Many HP printer error messages are common amongst the range, both old and new. Many, such as 11 – Paper Out, may seem fairly self-explanatory but could actually be the result of something else. Here’s our quick guide to the most common HP printer error codes, what the error codes mean and how to fix them.

HP Error Code:
02 - Warming Up
Explanation:
This is commonly associated with printer cable or driver problems.
What to do:
Turn off the printer and remove the printer cable (USB or I/O cable), then turn it back on. If the printer reports "Ready" then first update the driver, and if not resolved then the printer cable. If there is still an error, there may be a hardware problem.

HP Error Code:
10 - Supplies Memory Error
Explanation:
Your printer has a problem with the toner cartridge chip, which it's unable to read. This is the electronic information, or e-label, on the print cartridge.
What to do:
First of all try resetting the printer by turning it on and off. If this doesn't work remove and reinstall the cartridge or replace it. If is still doesn't work then you may have a hardware fault.

HP Error Code:
11 - Paper Out
Explanation:
If your printer isn't out of paper, this probably means there's a problem with the paper tray or paper sensor.
What to do:
Make sure your printer is on a completely flat surface. Check the paper trays for any damage and clean away any toner build up. If not resolved, check the paper sensor or clean the opto-sensor.

HP Error Code:
12 - Open or No EP
Explanation:
If you printer does have toner cartridges installed correctly, this means either a cover is open or you may have defective cooling fans or PS5 sensors.
What to do:
Check the all toners are installed correctly and that all covers are closed properly. If the problem persists you may have a hardware problem.

HP Error Code:
13 - Paper Jam
Explanation:
Your printer has a paper jam. Paper jams can occur at four stages: pickup, printing, fusing and exit. Modern HP printers will indicate where the jam has occurred. If using thick paper, check the HP paper guide for your printer.
What to do:
Either follow the on screen guidance, if available, or methodically check for the paper jam in the customer accessible areas of the printer. Don't attempt to use hard implements to remove paper at the risk of damage to the printer and yourself. If the problem persists you may have a hardware failure.

HP Error Code:
14 - No EP Cartridge
Explanation:
Your printer either doesn't have a toner cartridge installed or doesn't recognise one that is.
What to do:
Removing and reinstalling the toner cartridge normally resolves the problem.

HP Error Code:
16 - Toner Low
Explanation:
This normally means that your toner cartridge is either low on toner or empty. However it may mean that the remaining printer toner isn't distributed evenly.
What to do:
Try removing the toner cartridge and gently shaking it to evenly distribute the remaining toner. Once depleted, replace the cartridge.

HP Error Code:
20 - Memory Overflow
Explanation:
Your print job exceeds the current memory capacity of the printer.
What to do:
You need to reduce the size of your print job. You can try reducing the DPI or unticking the collate option in the printer driver. You can also try making the document or image more simple. Alternatively you can install additional memory if available.

HP Error Code:
21 - Print Overrun
Explanation:
Your print job exceeds the current memory capacity of the printer.
What to do:
You need to reduce the size of your print job. You can try reducing the DPI or unticking the collate option in the printer driver. You can also try making the document or image more simple. Alternatively you can install additional memory of available.

HP Error Code:
22 - I/O Configuration
Explanation:
There's a communication problem between the printer and the computer.
What to do:
Where possible, try connecting to a different port on the computer. Try another cable and make sure the computer is turned on and the cable is fully inserted at both ends. If this doesn't help there may be a hardware issue.

HP Error Code:
24 - Job Memory Full
Explanation:
Too many print jobs have been send to the printer, or the job is too complex for the printer memory to process.
What to do:
You need to reduce the size of your print job. You can try reducing the DPI or unticking the collate option in the printer driver. You can also try making the document or image more simple. Alternatively you can install additional memory if available.

HP Error Code:
25 - XXX Memory Full
Explanation:
Too many print jobs have been send to the printer, or job is too complex for the printer memory to process.
What to do:
You need to reduce the size of your print job. You can try reducing the DPI or unticking the collate option in the printer driver. You can also try making the document or image more simple. Alternatively you can install additional memory if available.

HP Error Code:
30 - PS Error 16
Explanation:
This is commonly associated with PostScript firmware errors. It may also be triggered by PCL files being sent while the print is in PS mode or a bad PostScript file.
What to do:
Reseat the PostScript SIMM or replace it. Try printing an alternative PostScript file to rule out a bad file.

HP Error Code:
30.1.1 - Disk Failure
Explanation:
Your printer's hard disk drive has crashed.
What to do:
You can normally resolve this by pressing the SELECT button. If it persists you may have a hardware problem.

HP Error Code:
40 - Data Transfer Error
Explanation:
The connection between the computer and printer has been broken.
What to do:
Check/replace all cables as required. Ensure that any EIO boards are seated properly. If networked, check to ensure the IP settings in the printer and driver haven't changed and match. You can sometimes press SELECT to continue printing however print data may be lost; simply reprint the missing pages.

HP Error Code:
41 - Temporary Print Engine Error
Explanation:
The printer has experienced a temporary printer engine error, which can normally be easily resolved.
What to do:
Turn the printer off at the machine, then the mains and leave for 30 seconds. Turn back on and resend the print job if necessary.

HP Error Code:
49 - Printer Error or Communication Error
Explanation:
There can be a few causes of this error depending on the model, which tend to be associated with firmware errors, cable problems or hardware issues.
What to do:
First try turning the print off and on again. If the problem persists try updating the firmware and replacing the printer communication cables or reseating memory modules. If unresolved then it is most likely a hardware problem.

HP Error Code:
50.x - Fuser Error
Explanation:
The printer fuser is faulty or the supporting circuits or power are at fault. The additional 50.x number indicates:
50.1 Low temperature. Fuser is failing to warm up.
50.2 Warm up failure. The warm-up period timed out. This could be a power supply or firmware issue.
50.3 High temperature. The main thermistor is too hot. Likely to be a control circuit issue.
50.4 Faulty fuser (or Bad AC line voltage). Moderately likely to be bad mains supply (UPS, generator, extensions)
50.5 Inconsistent fuser or Wrong type fuser installed. The printer has detected the wrong fuser.
50.6 Open fuser. Fuser heater cut-off. The fuser possibly overheated.
50.7 Fuser pressure release mechanism failure. Fuser drive motor or the pressure release doesn't work
50.8 Lower fuser temperature (sub-thermistor). Secondary thermistor detects a fault
50.9 High fuser temperature (sub-thermistor).
What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
51 - Beam Detect Error
Explanation:
On older model this normally indicates the tab on the bottom of the cartridge that opens the laser shutter is missing/snapped off. On new models it can be a problem with the whole laser scanner unit.
What to do:
If it's an older printer then check to see if the tab is missing and if so replace the toner cartridge. New models may need the laser scanner assembly replacing.

HP Error Code:
52 - Incorrect Scanner Speed Error
Explanation:
The printer uses a polygon mirror to reflect the laser beam across the imaging unit. This error code and HP error codes 52.1 and 52.2 indicate a problem with this process.
What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
54 - Printer Error Cycle Power
Explanation:
There are many causes for this error code. On some models it means the sealing tape hasn't been removed from the toner cartridge, which is easily resolved.
What to do:
Check whether tape has been left on the printer cartridges and remove it, if not then this error code typically requires assistant from a HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
55 - Internal Communication Problem / Controller Error
Explanation:
Most likely a poor connection between the DC controller and the formatter. Either or both may have a fault, although this can sometimes be attributed to a faulty fusers, laser assemblies, firmware DIMMS or driver problems.
What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
56 - Printer Device Error
Explanation:
This error message can relate to a number of different issues depending upon the model.
What to do:
Try one or more of the following, depending upon your HP printer:
1. Make sure all paper trays are correctly installed
2. Reinstall the stacker or staple/stacker
3. You may be trying to incorrectly print transparencies through the duplex unit
4. You may be trying to print envelopes whilst in duplex mode
5. Check the printer's configuration to ensure it is correct
6. Turn the print off for 30 seconds and turn on again

HP Error Code:
57.xx - Fan Failure / Gears Seized / Memory Card Error
Explanation:
On modern HP printers this code indicates a failure of one or more fans, on older machines gears seized or memory problems.
What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
58.xx Error
Explanation:
There are many causes for this error code, depending upon the model it can mean: environmental sensor error, memory controller problem, fan problem, power problem or DC controller fault.
What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
59 - Motor Error
Explanation:
The printer has a motor error, possibly relating to the main motor, fuser motor, image drum motor or ETC motor. On older models HP error code 59 relates to memory problems.
What to do:
If you have an older model then reseating or changing the memory may resolve the issue. All new models typically require assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
60.xx -
Explanation:
On new printers this relates to a motorised tray lift error. On older models HP error code 60 relates to memory problems.
What to do:
If you have an older model then reseating or changing the memory may resolve the issue. All new models with tray lift problems can often be resolved by checking for obstructions such as paperclips or other objects.

HP Error Code:
61 - Formatter , Memory Error
Explanation:
Your printer either has improperly fitted or bad memory SIMMs or a defective formatter board.
What to do:
Try simply reseating the memory chips. If this doesn't work and replacing the chips still doesn't resolve the problem then you may have to replace the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
62 - Memory Error, Defective Formatter Board
Explanation:
Your printer either has improperly fitted or bad memory SIMMs or a defective formatter board.
What to do:
Try simply reseating the memory chips. If this doesn't work and replacing the chips still doesn't resolve the problem then you may have to replace the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
63 - Defective Formatter Board
Explanation:
Your printer either has improperly fitted or bad memory Simms or a defective formatter board.
What to do:
Try simply reseating the memory chips. If this doesn't work and replacing the chips still doesn't resolve the problem then you may have to replace the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
64 - Scan Buffer Error
Explanation:
Depending up your model this can be a number of different things including: defective D.C. controller, improperly fitted or bad firmware DIMMs or defective formatter board.
What to do:
Turn the printer off at the machine, then the mains and leave for 30 seconds. If the error code still shows, try reseating the DIMMs and formatter board. If this doesn't solve the problem then replace the DIMMs and then the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
65 - Scan Buffer Error
Explanation:
Depending up your model this can be a number of different things including: defective D.C. controller, improperly fitted or bad firmware dimms or defective formatter board.
What to do:
Turn the printer off at the machine, then the mains and leave for 30 seconds. If the error code still shows, try reseating the dimms and formatter board. If this doesn't solve the problem then replace the dimms and then the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
66 - External Paper Handling Device Error
Explanation:
This fault means there's a problem with one or more additional paper or envelope trays or finishing units, such as a staple finisher.
What to do:
Turn the printer off, checking the connections between all the accessories and that they move freely, where applicable. If this doesn't resolve the problem you may have sensor or board problems that require that attention of an engineer.

HP Error Code:
67 - Service Printer Error or Memory Error
Explanation:
Depending up your model this can be a number of different things including: a temporary error, defective paper guide, a break in communication, controller board error or defective SIMMs.
What to do:
Turn off your printer and check that the paper trays are inserted correctly and aren't damage. Check whether the I/O printer cable is installed correctly and not damaged, perhaps try using a different cable to test. Reseat any SIMMs or replace if necessary. If a controller board needs replacing you may need an engineer.

HP Error Code:
68 - Error in NVRAM. Service Error NVRAM full
Explanation:
The NVRAM is full, meaning some actions can't be processed.
What to do:
Try resetting the NVRAM. First of all print out a configuration page, you'll need this to re-enter any details. Now reset by holding down "Reset" or "Cancel Job" for 20 seconds while powered on. Print off a second configuration page and re-enter any details that are missing. If this doesn't resolve the problem you may need a new formatter board.

HP Error Code:
69 - Duplexer Error has Occurred
Explanation:
The printer has a problem with duplex unit, this is the unit that enables the printer to print double-sided.
What to do:
Check the duplex unit and reseat and clear any obstructions that may be causing the error. If the error persists you may need a new duplex unit.

HP Error Code:
70 - Faulty MIO Card or SIMMs or Wrong Cartridge
Explanation:
Either the SIMM or cartridge installed is incompatible with the printer or the MIO card is faulty (older models).
What to do:
Check the SIMMs or cartridge to ensure they are intended for your machine. Faulty MIO problems are very rare.

HP Error Code:
71 - Faulty MIO Card or SIMMs or Wrong Cartridge
Explanation:
Either the SIMM or cartridge installed is incompatible with the printer or the MIO card is faulty (older models).
What to do:
Check the SIMMs or cartridge to ensure they are intended for your machine. Faulty MIO problems are very rare.

HP Error Code:
72 - Defective Font Cartridge or Formatter Board
Explanation:
Either the font cartridge is defective, or was removed during access, or the formatter board is defective.
What to do:
Turn the printer off and on and see if this resolves the problem. Check the font cartridge is installed correctly. Replace the font cartridge, if unresolved the formatter board may need replacing.

HP Error Code:
79 - Critical Hardware Error has Occurred
Explanation:
Your printer has a defective accessories of some kind, possibly related to memory, I/O cards or a firmware issue.
What to do:
Update to the latest firmware to rule out this issue. If unresolved, remove all cards/accessories and replace one by one to identify what is at fault.

HP Error Code:
80 - Defective Network Card or Formatter Board
Explanation:
Your printer has a defective accessory of some kind, possibly related to memory, I/O cards or a firmware issue.
What to do:
Updated to the latest firmware to rule out this issue. If unresolved, remove all cards/accessories and replace one my one to identify what is at fault. If unresolved the formatter board may need replacing.

HP Error Code:
81 - Defective Network Card or Formatter Board
Explanation:
Your printer has a defective accessory of some kind, possibly related to memory, I/O cards or a firmware issue.
What to do:
Updated to the latest firmware to rule out this issue. If unresolved, remove all cards/accessories and replace one my one to identify what is at fault. If unresolved the formatter board may need replacing.

HP Error Code:
89 - PostScript ROM Failure
Explanation:
Your PS ROM may be improperly located or have damaged pins, or may be defective.
What to do:
Firstly turn the printer off and on to see if this resolves the problem. If not then check the PS ROM for any damage and reseat. If the problem remains then you may need to replace the PS ROM.

HP Error Code:
99 - Firmware Upgrade
Explanation:
There has been a flash firmware failure.
What to do:
You need to either update to the latest flash firmware or replace the flash firmware DIMM.

10 Biggest Printer Problems -- And How To Fix Them


Printers: Can't live with them, can't nuke them. You could always toss a misbehaving inkjet or laser out the window, but where would that leave you? Truth be told, we need our printers, despite their maddening quirks. Here's a saner idea: Take a deep breath, channel your inner tech support rep, and repair that which has failed you. (Cue sitar.)
We've listed the 10 biggest printer annoyances -- of course, your Top 10 list may vary -- and ways to fix them.
Problem: Printing is too slow.


Solution: Rev up printer performance--and save ink in the process--by reducing print quality for everyday output. While printer settings vary by model, here's how to switch to draft-printing mode in most Windows apps. Select Print and Properties, and then look for a setting that reduces print quality. With the HP Photosmart 8450, for instance, change the default print quality setting from Normal to Fast Draft (click screen-shot at right). Other speedup suggestions: Print pages from websites without graphics, and add RAM to your printer, if possible. Read "Speed Up Everything" for more tips.

Problem: Ink and/or toner costs too much.

Solution: PC World has written a lot about the printing industry's sneaky practices over the years. To wit: They snare you with dirt-cheap printers sold at or below cost, and then stick it to you later with ultra-pricey consumables. Based on our tests, we can't recommend third party vendors' remanufactured or refilled ink cartridges, which may not give you your money's worth. One cost-saving solution is to buy higher-capacity cartridges. If you print a lot, try an ink cartridge with a 250-plus page yield, or a toner cartridge with a 2,000-plus page yield.

Problem: Windows is sending print jobs to the wrong printer.

Solution: For some mysterious reason, Windows may select a new default printer--the one it automatically sends print jobs to. (This happened to me when I upgraded from Vista to Windows 7.) To fix this glitch in Windows 7, click Start (the Windows icon in the lower-left corner of the screen) and select Devices and Printers. Under Printers and Faxes, right-click the printer you want to make the default, and select Set as default printer. If you're using earlier versions of Windows, these steps vary a bit. Here are instructions for Windows XP and Vista users.



Problem: My prints are too light, too spotty, or have horizontal lines.
Solution: You may have a clogged print head, a problem that can occur if you use an inkjet printer infrequently. Your printer's utility program can clean out the dried ink, and print a test page for inspection. The step-by-step instructions on how to do this vary by printer. From the Windows 7 Start menu, click Devices and Printers or Control Panel, and look for your printer's utility app. For additional details, read "Solve Inkjet Printer Problems." For more tips on unclogging ink nozzles, go here. (Again, these steps may vary slightly for Vista and XP users.) Problem: My printer says my ink cartridge is empty. I think it's lying.
Solution: You may be right. Printer out-of-ink messages are notoriously unreliable. The good news: You can try various hacks to get around those ink cartridge controls. We're not suggesting that all, or even some, of these reader tips will work with your printer, but they're worth a try. One tip reveals how to reset ink cartridges for various HP printers. And a video on this page shows how to revive an "out of ink" Epson cartridge. If you're feeling adventurous, check them out.
Problem: My wireless printer is too slow.
Solution: To get the best performance from a network printer, it's hard to beat a wired, Ethernet-cable-to-router connection. Wireless printing may be more convenient in many homes and offices, but it has its limitations. Since Wi-Fi speeds slow down with distance, you'll want to place your wireless printer as close as possible to the router. Also, make sure your Wi-Fi printer or any wireless print server it connects to supports the 802.11n spec, which can rival the performance of 100-mbps Ethernet.
Problem: I use remanufactured or refilled ink cartridges, and my prints look awful.
Solution: We recommend sticking with the manufacturer's ink. Third-party products may save you money up front, but the consequences can get ugly--literally--if the cheaper inks produce lower-quality prints. Here's another reason: wasted ink. The PC World Test Center has found that some cartridges leave more than 40 percent of their ink unused. The worst offenders, unfortunately, are third-party brands. Printer manufacturers may overcharge shamelessly for ink, but at least you know what you're getting.
 
Problem: I don't know how to fit more text on one page. How do I do it? Solution: Shrinking text to fit two pages on one sheet saves money (you'll buy less paper) and speeds up printing (fewer pages to print). This two-for-one approach is best for spreadsheets, receipts, and other documents that are still legible once shrunken.
In any Windows program, select Print and Properties, and then look for a printer setting that lets you increase the number of pages per sheet.
Problem: Grandma called and wants me to fix her "broken" printer. I'm no tech guru. What should I do?
Solution: You could always pretend you're not home, but that might lead to bigger problems down the line. We recommend you help Grandma out, because printer problems encountered by the, um, technically challenged are often easy to fix.
First, have her see if the printer is plugged into a wall outlet. (Don't laugh. It's fairly common.) Second, she should make sure there's paper in the tray. And third, have her check the cable (probably USB or Ethernet) that connects the printer to the PC or router. This troubleshooting basics article has more advice. Problem: My paper tray is flimsy.
Solution: To cut costs on some printers, vendors often include low-capacity or flimsy trays. In her article "Is Your Printer Stealing From You?", PC World's Melissa Riofrio lists seven printers with notoriously cheap paper trays--each from major vendors such as Brother, Dell, Epson, HP, Ricoh, and Xerox. Shame on you guys. So what can you do? Before buying a printer, examine the paper tray carefully. If it looks like it'll break after the first sideswipe, it's probably wise to get another model. If the tray is too small for your printing needs, see if there's a higher-capacity option. Or you could try this guy's approach to fixing a busted printer.


Source:- http://www.pcworld.com/article/185111/10_biggest_printer_problems_and_how_to_fix_them.html?page=1

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

How to Troubleshoot a Samsung Printer

Printers today serve a number of functions besides simply printing. Many models, including the Samsung line, serve multiple purposes by also sending and receiving faxes, making copies and scanning documents. Computer users have become increasingly dependent on these machines and need to get them up and running when problems occur. The following steps will detail how to troubleshoot common problems with your Samsung printer.

  • Overall poor print quality: Clean the print heads with a little rubbing alcohol.
  • Colored or black background on your paper: Use a lighter-weight paper or replace the toner cartridge.
  • Spots on the printed paper: Check to see if rollers within the printer are dirty, have small pieces of paper stuck to them or need to be replaced.
  • Horizontal striping: Check to see if the toner cartridge is installed properly.
  • Vertical white lines: Check for a dirty lens, toner cartridge window or drum.
  • Horizontal black bands: Replace the contacts on the toner cartridge terminals or the
    cartridge rollers.

Source- http://www.ehow.com/how_5139581_troubleshoot-samsung-printer.html

How to Troubleshoot an Epson Inkjet Printer

Epson inkjet printers are relatively easy to repair and troubleshoot. Follow these steps to identify the problem and troubleshoot your Epson inkjet printer.

Check the status. For LCD screens, this is pretty clear. A connected printer reads "Ready," "Connected" or "Online." Other printers will usually have a solid green light when functioning properly. Refer to the manual if you receive an error message.

Perform a test print. Most Epson printers have a self-test function. Refer to your manual for instructions on how to do this. Usually, it is just a matter of depressing one button while pushing power.

Check the ink. Most newer models will tell you if the ink is low, but try running a color test to double check. You can usually pinpoint the faulty cartridge with this test and then either replace or clean it.

Clean the printer. Use the printer's self-cleaning feature usually found under the driver's "Utilities" or the printer's "Properties" section. Click "Clean Print Heads." Or get a dry, lint free cloth and gently wipe down any accessible parts.

Check the paper tray. Is it empty or is a sheet jammed? Look at the paper tray and be sure it is lined up correctly for loading.

Clear paper jams. Be careful during this operation. Refer to the manual for special instructions and always power down your printer and unplug it first. Use tweezers and be gentle-don't use force. Clear out even the tiniest bits of paper you find.

Check to see if the print queue is backed up. On your computer, go to "Control Panel" and then "Printers" and right click your printer's icon. Select "Purge Print Documents." Try printing again.

Make sure drivers are installed correctly. Try reinstalling the drivers from the disk or updating the drivers from the manufacturer's website.


Source- http://www.ehow.com/how_2006013_troubleshoot-epson-inkjet.html

How to Troubleshoot a Brother Printer

Troubleshooting anything is a process. Windows has a troubleshooting printer wizard, but it rarely seems to work. Troubleshooting printers is fairly easy work. Take one step at a time in troubleshooting, and then after each step, see if the problem is fixed. Brother printers are fairly easy to use, and you should be able to take the following steps to fix almost any problem.

  • Check the printer for any jams or blockages, and remove any that exist.
  • Delete any print jobs in the queue. Go to the printer's control box and double click on the printer you want, then select any print jobs and select "Delete."
  • Turn the printer completely off and unplug it. Wait about 30 seconds and turn the printer back on.
  • Restart the computer. Close all your programs, shut down the computer and wait a few seconds. You may want to turn the printer off again. Restart the printer and the computer.
  • Go back to the printer panel and select the printer, and then select "Delete." Select the "Add Printer Wizard" and add the printer again.
  • Download the latest drivers by going to Brother's website and finding the latest driver revisions. Right click on the printer, and click "Properties." Look in all the different tabs to find a button that says something similar to "New Driver" or "Update driver." After selecting, point the wizard to find the new drivers that were downloaded.

    Source- http://www.ehow.com/how_4965925_troubleshoot-brother-printer.html

How to Troubleshoot Canon Printers

If you are having trouble getting your Canon printer to print properly or even turn on at all you don't have to immediately resort to returning it or taking it to an electronics repair facility. There are several different troubleshooting steps you can follow on your own and in conjunction with Canon's printing software to get your printer back in operating condition quickly.

  • See if your Canon printer has its indicator lights flashing in a specific pattern and then consult your manual to see if there is a corresponding error code. Follow the instructions in the manual for how to fix the associated problem, or continue on with more troubleshooting if it isn't displaying a specific error code.
  • Make sure the power cord is plugged into your wall outlet and the USB cable is firmly connected to your computer. Open the top of the printer and do a quick visual inspection to see if there is a piece of paper stuck in the paper feed.
  • Restart your computer and attempt to print off something new in case the computer has stopped recognizing your printer or the print queue has stopped responding due to a software error.
  • Navigate to your computer's "Control Panel" and click on the "Printers and Faxes" option. Click on the "Add A Printer" button if your Canon printer isn't showing up in the list. Follow the on-screen instructions so that your computer will run a test to try to detect the printer.
  • Try uninstalling and re-installing the Canon software that came with your printer and then navigate your Web browser to their official Web page and download the most recent version of the software driver.
  • Open the Canon printer software and choose the "Properties" or "Options" tab. Click on the option to "Test Alignment" or "Clean Print Heads," depending on which version of the software you are using. Wait for the printer to finish its alignment and then print off a test page. Check to see if the test page printed properly and then contact Canon for repair or replacement options if it still isn't working properly.

    Source:- http://www.ehow.com/how_4761907_troubleshoot-canon-printers.html