Toner HP Troubleshooting
1 - Recommended tips before you start troubleshooting your particular problems 2 - How do I install my toner cartridge? 3 - I got an error message that reads TONER CARTRIDGE NOT RECOGNIZED, what should I do? 4 - My laser machine does not recognize tha toner cartridge properly. Why? What should I do? 5 - How can I ensure the longest life of my toner cartridge? 6 - I got a message that reads TONER LOW, why? What should I do? 7 - If the toner is low or I get light or faded areas on my printouts, should I change the cartridge immediately or is it still useful? 8 - I got a message that reads NEW TONER CARTRIDGE = NO* after changing the toner cartridge 9 - For HP LaserJet 4000 Series Printer: I got an error message that reads INSTALL TONER CARTRIDGE and I have already installed a new cartridge. Why? What should I do? 10 - Print Quality Problems 11 - My toner is smeared on my printouts 12 - The toner is leaking, the cleaning blade is streaking at room temperature and the cartridges are noisy 13 - How can I change the toner density settings? 14 - How can I monitor toner cartridge life? 15 - I got an error that reads “54.2 Error”, what should I do?
Other information that may help you 16 - How can I install my toner cartridge? 17 - How can I ensure the longest life of the cartridge? 18 - If the toner is low or I get light or faded areas on my printouts, should I change the cartridge immediately or is it still useful?
19 - Do I need to clean the toner cartridge area? How can I do it? 20 - What happens if I shake my toner cartridge? 21 - Removal of toner cartridge sealing tape 22 - I have some printing problems, what is going on and how can I solve them? 23 - I got a message that reads Low Toner, why? What should I do? 24 - How do I print a test page? 25 - I put the wrong type of toner in my laser machine, what should I do?
1 - Recommended tips before you start troubleshooting your particular problems (Back to Top)
• Verify the cartridge is not empty and that you have removed the sealing tape from the
cartridge.
• Always check the expiration date of your new toner cartridges.
• Verify the cartridge has been installed correctly on the laser machine.
• Check the cartridge is not leaking. If so, the sealing tape may be worn.
• Make sure the print media you are using meets the specifications for HP LaserJet printers.
• Make sure the paper is not defective. It should be free of tears, cuts, loose particles, spots,
voids, dust, wrinkles, curled or bend edges, etc.
• Make sure the laser machine operating environment fulfil the required specifications.
• Print a few test pages in order to see if this solves the problem.
• Turn over the paper that is in the tray. Rotate the paper 180 degrees.
• Test the laser machine with new stock.
• Check there is no debris in the paper path.
• Verify there are no damaged components causing the print defect.
• Make sure there is no loose toner in paper path. If so, you will have to clean the path with
a lint-free cloth. Print a cleaning page.
• Check the cartridge High Voltage contact springs are not contaminated. If so, clean them.
• Perform an Engine Test. If it there are no defects on the test, you will need to contact HP
for assistance.
Determine when the problem first occurs by performing a half self test.
• Check the cartridge drum.
• If you see no problems on drum, but it appears on the half self-test page before it goes
through the fusing assembly, then you will have to change the transfer roller assembly.
1. If this does not correct the print defect, you will need to contact HP for assistance.
2. If you have replaced the transfer roller assembly and the engine controller board and the
problem has not disappeared, contact HP for assistance.
• If the problem appears on half self-test page after passing through the fusing assembly, you will need to
change the fusing assembly.
2 - How do I install my toner cartridge? (Back to Top)
1. Remove the cartridge from its packaging. You can choose to recycle the cartridge.
2. Open the laser machine cover.
3. Redistribute the toner inside the cartridge by shaking it gently from side to side.
4. Remove the sealing tape from the cartridge by bending it back and forth. Pull the tape
firmly out from the toner cartridge so as to remove the entire length of it. Try not to touch
any toner on the tape.
5. Put the toner cartridge in the laser machine as shown below, with the arrow pointing into
the machine. Slide the toner cartridge into the printer as far as it can go.
The printer cover will close easily if the toner cartridge has been installed properly.
6. After installing a new cartridge, it is necessary to reset the HP TonerGauge from the control
panel. When closing the cover after cartridge installation, the control panel will display a
message that reads NEW TONER CARTRIDGE = NO for approximately 30 seconds.
Reset the TonerGauge:
a. Press Value until you see a message reading YES.
b. In order to save the selection, press Select.
c. Press Go button so as to exit the menu.
If the message that reads NEW TONER CARTRIDGE = NO is no longer shown on the control panel when you change the cartridge, press Menu many times until CONFIGURATION MENU I displayed. Press Item many times until you get the message NEW TONER CARTRIDGE = NO, then complete the steps described above (a, b and c).
3 - I got an error message that reads TONER CARTRIDGE NOT RECOGNIZED, what should I do? (Back to Top)
• Check the cartridge and the laser machine are compatible. If they are not compatible, you
will get this error.
• Verify the main motor is rotating.
• Turn off the printer and the remove cover. Look through the cutout in the laser machine
chassis to check the gears are meshing.
Open the top door and observe the gears separating. Then close the door and watch them mesh together. Turn on the laser machine and watch the gears. If they rotate and the message reading TONER CARTRIDGE NOT RECOGNIZED remains, replace the cartridge.
If the error message does not disappear after you have replaced the toner cartridge and the gears keep turning, you will need to replace the parts listed below:
Spring, compression (RB2-6263-000CN)
Spring, compression (RB2-6271-000CN)
Spring, compression (RU5-2107-000CN)
Spring, compression (RU5-2108-000CN)
110-127v Power Supply Assembly (RM1-0340-000CN)
If you see that the gears are not rotating, you will have to replace the main motor.
4 - My laser machine does not recognize tha toner cartridge properly. Why? What should I do? (Back to Top)
When you install the black cartridge in the laser machine, the cartridge lever assembly will move into a lower position. This will lock the cartridge into the developing position (vertical position.) this locking position will activate the cartridge switch. When the switch is activated, it will notify the machine that a black toner cartridge has been installed. If your laser machine does not recognize the cartridge, it is likely that the switch is causing this problem. Try reinstalling the cartridge.
The marked area shows the switch properly activated
5 - How can I ensure the longest life of my toner cartridge? (Back to Top)
We recommend removing your toner cartridge from its package only when you are ready to use it. Toner cartridges are packed in a moisture proof bag so as to protect them. The shelf life of a toner cartridge in its closed package is around 2.5 years (as long as you store them away from heat, moisture and light.) The shelf life of an open one is much shorter (around 6 months).
In order not to damage the toner cartridge, we recommend not exposing the cartridge to the light for long (no more than a few minutes). While exposed, cover the cartridge with a piece of paper or cloth.
The number of prints that a toner cartridge can give has nothing to do with the time of use but with the page coverage. All laser printers and fax machines have different utilities for you to adjust the image intensity in order to reduce toner consumption. Gain access to them and turn down the intensity dial. By doing this, you will also get less loose toner, reducing signs of nicks on the drum unit and specks on your printouts.
6 - I got a message that reads TONER LOW, why? What should I do? (Back to Top)
When your machine starts to run out of toner, the machine control panel displays this message.
• If you got the TONER LOW message but your laser machines is still printing, check the
Toner Low setting in the Configuration Menu (in the control panel) since it may be set to
CONTINUE.
• If the laser machine stops printing when the LOW TONER message appears, this means
that the TONER LOW is set to STOP. If you need to finish a print job, press Go.
The laser machine will show the TONER LOW message until you change the toner cartridge.
In the Configuration Menu, Select TONER LOW=CONTINUE, if you want to continue or TONER LOW=STOP, if you want to stop.
7 - If the toner is low or I get light or faded areas on my printouts, should I change the cartridge immediately or is it still useful? (Back to Top)
Even if the toner is low and your printouts look faded, you may still be able to improve the print quality of your printouts by redistributing the toner in your cartridge. This will help you to finish your current print jobs until you replace the cartridge.
1. Open the machine and remove the cartridge from the it
In order not to damage the toner cartridge, we recommend not exposing the cartridge to the light for long (no more than a few minutes.)
2. Rotate the cartridge and rock it from side to side gently so that the toner redistributes
inside the cartridge.
3. Reinstall the cartridge into the machine and close the cover. If the print quality does not
improve.
8 - I got a message that reads NEW TONER CARTRIDGE = NO* after changing the toner cartridge (Back to Top)
To clear the message:
If the message appears after a new toner cartridge has been inserted, you need to use the value key in order to change “NO” to “Yes”. Press SELECT so as to save this change.
If you change the toner cartridge before receiving the message reading TONER LOW, you will need to reset the toner gauge in the Configuration menu. You will get a message reading NEW print cartridge = NO. You will have to change this to YES. This way, you will be also resetting the toner gauge in the machine PCL Configuration page. Make sure you reset the toner gauge only after you change the toner cartridge. Otherwise, the gauge on the PCL Configuration page will not show the cartridge real life.
9 - For HP LaserJet 4000 Series Printer: I got an error message that reads INSTALL TONER CARTRIDGE and I have already installed a new cartridge. Why? What should I do? (Back to Top)
If the machine shows INSTALL TONER CARTRIDGE message on the control panel, and you have just installed the toner cartridge, it is probable that the transfer roller assembly is lifted or unseated. Check the transfer roller:
Do not touch the transfer roller with bare hands since skin oils will damage it. We recommend wearing lint-free gloves.
1. Open the cover and remove the toner cartridge.
2. Examine the transfer roller, which is underneath the toner cartridge. When depressed, the
blue gear located on the left of the roller should deflect around .25 to .375 of an inch.
When you release it, it should go back to its position.
3. If the transfer roller is sitting improperly, push down the roller until it snaps into position.
4. Reinsert the toner cartridge and check the error message is gone.
5. If the message is still there, examine the sensor plates on the toner cartridge and the
contact points within the cartridge cavity of the laser machine. You may need to remove
contamination.
Examine the sensor plates:
a. Open the shutter (a black rectangular plastic piece) on the toner cartridge. It will rotate and
the drum unit will be exposed.
b. A small rectangular metal plate which contacts the sensor inside the toner cavity will be
exposed. The drum unit should not be exposed to light for an extended periods of time or
you will damage it.
If necessary, clean the sensor and the contact and check for damage. In case the contacts are damaged, you will need contact HP for further assistance.
10 - Print Quality Problems (Back to Top)
Common Print Quality Problems
• Redistribute the toner: open the printer and remove the cartridge from the printer. In order
not to damage the toner cartridge, we recommend not exposing the cartridge to the light
for long (no more than a few minutes.) While exposed, cover the cartridge with a piece of
paper or cloth. Rock the toner cartridge from side to side gently so that the toner
redistributes inside the cartridge.
• Clean the inside of the laser machine.
• Check the print density settings. Adjust if necessary.
• Check the type and quality of the paper you are going to use.
• Make all necessary settings adjustments according to the type of document you are going
to print.
• Make sure the EconoMode is off if you want best quality printouts.
• Change the cartridge, and check print quality one more time.
Other problems:
White streak or faded area appear on my printouts
• Check the print density settings since it may be too light. Gain access to the control panel
configuration and change the settings.
• The cartridge may be low on toner. Redistribute the toner: rock the toner cartridge from
side to side gently so that the toner redistributes inside the cartridge. If you see no
improvement, replace the cartridge.
Faded out areas appear randomly on my printouts
• The paper moisture may be irregular, or there are foreign moisture spots on the paper
surface. Try other paper.
• You may be using bad quality paper and some areas may reject the toner. Use a different
type or brand.
• The transfer roller may be dirty; you will have to change it.
There are vertical lines on my printouts
• If there are sharp black vertical streaks on the printouts, it is probable that the
photosensitive drum that is in the cartridge has been scratched. You will need to change
the cartridge.
• If there are smeared black vertical streaks on the printouts, it is probable that the fuser is
defective. Examine the rollers. Check there are no scratches or excessive wear. If you find
it necessary, change the fusing assembly. You may need to replace the transfer roller too.
The toner on my printouts is loose
• If the toner on the prints is loose or easy to remove, it is probable that the fuser is
damaged. Contact HP for further assistance.
The background gray toner shading became unacceptable
• In the control panel configuration menu, raise the density setting. By doing this, the
amount of background shading will decrease.
• Use a lighter type of paper.
• Check the laser machine is not exposed to high humidity. This may raise the amount of
background shading.
• Change the cartridge.
• Change the transfer roller.
There are vertical repetitive marks on my printouts
• The cartridge may be damaged.
Cartridge drum circumference = 3.75 inches.
If there are repetitive marks every 3.75 inches on the printouts, you will need to change the cartridge.
• The developer roller may be defective. If you see a mark every 2 inches on the printout,
Change the cartridge.
• The charger roller inside the cartridge may be defective. If there is a horizontal black line
every 1.5 inches, it is necessary for you to change the cartridge.
• There is toner on the transfer roller. If you see a defect every 2.13 inches on the back of
the page, the problem will be solved after printing a few pages.
Some characters are improperly formed
• The paper you are using may be too smooth. Use a different paper.
• If the characters produce a wavy effect, the laser machine may need service.
There are vertical lines at edge of my printed paper
These lines, which usually appear on the right margin of the paper, appear when the drum is wearing out. You will have to change the toner cartridge. Otherwise, the lines will grow wider.
Some areas of my printouts are faded, missing or fait
• The cartridge may be low on toner.
• The toner may be unevenly distributed inside the cartridge.
• The rollers inside the cartridge may be damaged.
1. Gently rock the toner cartridge in order to distribute toner.
2. Change the cartridge.
Remember that HP LaserJet IIP printer does not have page count or a TONER LOW message.
• Your laser machine may need cleaning or maintenance
1. Perform the printer machine cleaning cycle following the user's manual indications.
2. Replace (in case you have got a machine with replaceable roller or pad) the worn or dirty
fuser roller cleaning pad.
3. Check there are no foreign objects on the transfer corona wire.
HP LaserJet, LaserJet +, 500 +, Series II, IID, III, and IIID printers:
• If there is dirt, or any foreign object on or near the transfer corona wire, this will obstruct
the current which allows the attraction of toner from the drum surface to the paper.
1. You will need to clean the transfer corona wire. Follow the user's manual indications.
HP LaserJet series II, IID, III, and IIID printers:
Check that the cartridge installation label which is under the laser machine cover is not loose. If the label is loose, it may block the laser beam when the machine is closed. You will see vertical fading at the edges of the paper. In case the label is loose, remove it.
I get black pages
1. If the HVPS contacts are contaminated, clean them.
2. Test your laser machine using another cartridge.
3. If the problem is not solved, you will need to contact HP for further assistance.
I get blank pages
• Make sure you have removed the sealing taper of your new cartridge.
• Make sure the transfer roller is properly seated.
• If the HVPS contacts are contaminated, clean them.
• Check the charge corona wire, which is inside the cartridge, is not damaged. To check this,
change the toner cartridge. If you see positive results, then, the charge corona wire was
the cause of the problem.
These are some of the causes of your blank pages:
1. The drum may be not exposed by the laser
2. The EHT power supply may not be transferring toner onto the drum
3. The EHT power supply may not be transferring toner from the drum to the paper.
My images are distorted
1. In order to see if the problem corrects, you will need to print a 50-page printer path test.
2. Use a new ream of paper.
3. Make sure the laser machine operating environment fulfil the required specifications
4. If the problem is still not solved, you will need to contact HP for further assistance.
I get light, dark, or faded prints
1. Make sure the toner saving mode (EconoMode setting) is set to off.
2. Test your laser machine by using another cartridge.
3. if the HVPS contacts are contaminated, you will need to clean them,
4. If the problem is still not solved, you will need to contact HP for further assistance.
I get bubble print
If your printouts present this type of problem, you will need to contact HP for further assistance.
I am getting dark prints or gray background pages
1. In order to see if the problem corrects, you will need to print a 50-page printer path test.
2. Use a new ream of paper.
3. Test your laser machine by using another cartridge.
4. Make sure the laser machine operating environment fulfil the required specifications
5. In order to see if the problem has been solved, perform a blocked laser beam paper path
test.
6. If the test page is dark or gray, you will have to change the transfer roller assembly. If,
after replacing the transfer roller assembly, the problem has not been solved, you will need
to contact HP for further assistance.
7. If the test page is blank, you will need to contact HP for further assistance.
There are horizontal black or white lines on my printouts
Horizontal black lines
Horizontal white lines
1. Test your laser machine by using another cartridge
2. If the problem has not been solved, you will need to contact HP for further assistance.
There are vertical white or black lines on my printouts
Vertical black lines
Vertical white lines
1. Test your laser machine by using another cartridge
2. Try cleaning the fuser entrance guide.
3. If the problem has not been solved, you will need to contact HP for further assistance.
11 - My toner is smeared on my printouts (Back to Top)
This is not necessary related to a toner cartridge issue
Print multiple consecutive test pages to see how frequent and when the smearing occurs on the printouts.
• If all colors smear except black, you may be in front of a transfer wrap jam issue.
• If the whole page smears, including black, you may be in front of a fusing or OPC issue.
Make sure the green fuser lever is in the down position for printing.
If you see specific area of the page smeared, it is possible that there is a loose piece of paper, a bent Mylar strip or a cartridge shutter dragging. In the case there is a bent Mylar strip, all colors except black will smear. If you see black color smeared this means that is not the problem.
Is only Magenta smearing? If so, paper may not meet the specified requirements-it may be too heavy or slick. On the control panel in the driver, set tray 1 to heavy mode and try printing. In the Color Adjust menu on the control panel, you can reduce the density setting for Magenta to solve this problem.
When you change any color density-for example, for testing purposes-, all printouts will be affected.
Print quality defect caused by bent Mylar strip
Paper wrapped around or stuck in the transfer drum may also cause the toner to smear.
Remove the transfer drum, belt and OPC. Check the transfer drum for wrapped or stuck paper. Inspect the bars that form the frame of the drum and the drum surface since sometimes paper gets stuck in these bars. You can use a piece of clean paper to clean the bars. Also check for stuck paper inside the machine where the OPC goes. There are no sensors in these parts to notify that there is stuck paper. This is why you must check for any problem at these locations and make necessary changes manually.
Check the belt for stuck paper. Take the transfer belt off and spin the gear that is on the right of the belt. When you reinstall the transfer belt, make sure it is seated correctly inside the machine.
Example of a print quality defect with a poorly seated transfer belt
We recommend storing media whether in boxes or in wraps so that it does not acquire moisture and it does not get stuck or wrapped inside the laser machine.
The whole page is smeared
Check to see what colors are smearing
If black is smearing it is possible that a cleaning blade failed inside the OPC. This type of problem is not actually smearing but it is often described as and looks like black smearing. The problem is actually streaking.
If black and all colors are smearing, check to see if there is anything that looks like large color plane offset. This would indicate a Drum Drive stall. This may even appear as though the leading and or trailing edge of the paper are smearing. The picture below is an example of leading edge streaking due to stuck media in the transfer drum.
I get completely blank pages or color shifting/drop offs
If you get completely blank pages, with no background or a subset of color planes, including the print test, any of the following could be the causes:
• The alienation bar(s) is incorrectly seated
• Damaged toner cartridges
• Toner cartridges are not seating firmly into the slots
• The tape has not been removed from the toner cartridges
• Mylar on toner shutter is stuck
If you are getting color shifting and/or color drop offs it is possible that the alienation bar is not seated correctly.
Shifting and drop off
Solution:
Turn on the printer and wait until it comes to a ready state. Open both the top and the front covers and not the ETB.
Defeat the front cover interlock switch (see picture below) and insert a folded piece of paper so as to keep the interlock switch pushed in.
Front cover interlock switch
Wait until the printer comes to ready again and open the ETB. Then, remove all the toner cartridges. After the ETB has been opened, enter “diagnostics” mode. Then, enter the “component test” menu and run the test for the “alienation motor”. Check the color cartridge alienation bars inside the machine chassis move up and down (see picture below).
Color cartridge alienation bars. Color cartridge alienation bars
If one of the bars is not moving, push in on the top of the black bars for the black cartridge, and then check if the bars are moving again. If you the bar do not begin to move during the component test, turn off the machine.
With the machine off, move the bar(s) around and check to see both alienation bars are flush against the machine chassis. Turn on the laser machine and perform “calibrate now” after the printer comes to “ready”.
During shipping, one or both cartridge alienation bars may become unseated and freeze up in the disengaged position. Because of this, the toner is not delivered to the print drum, and causes blank pages.
12 - The toner is leaking, the cleaning blade is streaking at room temperature and the cartridges are noisy (Back to Top)
This can occurs when printing from any tray. Any of these 3 issues can occur independently of each other.
Causes of these issues: you have been frequently printing out of tray 1 with the following control panel setting in the PAPER HANDLING MENU: TRAY 1 SIZE = ANY SIZE and TRAY 1 TYPE = ANY. If tray 1 is set this way, the printer will go through an extra toner purge and cleaning cycle after each print job. If you print from tray 1 with these control panel settings the waste toner hopper in the print cartridges will be prematurely filled up. If the waste toner hopper is too full, the toner cartridge can fail in several different ways:
• Waste toner may start leaking out of the cartridge.
• The cleaning blade may fail and start to put streaks on both the fronts and backs of
pages.
• The waste toner hopper may get too full and prevent the waste toner stirring blade
from moving. This will cause drive gear to produce a loud noise.
Solutions:
Prevent damage:
Identify the toner cartridge that is leaking, causing cleaning blade streaks, or making noises. Verify if frequent printing is preformed through tray 1 and the control panel settings. Change the setting to the correct media size being used to prevent further damage to the toner cartridge.
Fix existing damage:
Change the DC Controller, and print a taste page. Make sure the Printer Number under the Printer Information Section is now listed as 6D or higher for the 4600 and 70 or higher for the 5500.
Color LaserJet 4600 DC Controller part number: RG5-6391-100CN
Color LaserJet 5500 DC Controller part number: RG5-6850-060CN
Clean any excess toner on the ETB and the interior of the laser machine. For this use a cleaning cloth (part number: 5090-3379).
Replace the toner cartridges. After doing this, you can print from TRAY 1 SIZE, ANY SIZE, TRAY 1 TYPE, ANY mode.
13 - How can I change the toner density settings? (Back to Top)
Gain access to the Print Quality submenu. The settings range from 1 to 5 (light and dark respectively) and the default setting is medium (3). If you increase to 4 or 5 the print will darken (remember that, by doing this, the laser machine will consume more toner than the default setting of 3). If you can gain access to a menu or item, the laser machine may not have this option, or the associated higher-level option has not been enabled. Check the network administrator to see if a function has been locked. "Access denied menus locked" message will appear on the printer control panel display.
14 - How can I monitor toner cartridge life? (Back to Top)
The laser machine monitors toner cartridge life in several ways:
• The number of developer rotations measures the usefulness (charge) of the toner.
• A toner sensor monitors the remaining toner in cartridges, and informs their low or
out conditions.
• And, the number of photosensitive drum rotations measures the life of the
photosensitive drum.
The combination of these three components will determine the toner cartridge life represented on the Supplies Status page and in gauges.
Three different messages may prompt out during the life of the toner cartridge:
• OK = The toner cartridge has around 15 and 100 percent life remaining.
• ORDER CARTRIDGE = The cartridge has 15 percent life remaining (around 2 weeks of
use).
• REPLACE CARTRIDGE = One of the three components mentioned above has reached the
end of life. When this message appears the laser machine stops, and printing will not
continue until the toner cartridge is replaced.
15 - I got an error that reads “54.2 Error”, what should I do? (Back to Top)
If any cartridge is incorrectly installed, this will result in a 54.2 carousel rotation error. This error is most times accompanied by a loud noise. The carousel is the rotating part that is under the top cover and to which all toner cartridges attach.
-To solve the problem, remove and reseat jammed toner cartridges
• Open the top cover. Push the release button, which is on the top-left side of the laser
machine (see picture below).
(1) Carousel brake release
(2) Gray flap on the toner cartridge
(3) Cartridge cover
• Locate the carousel brake (the small metal tab in the slot) and hold it down with the end of
a pen. In order to locate the carousel brake, it is necessary to face the front of the laser
machine, and open the toner cartridge lid. You will find the brake on the lower-right side
corner of the top cover.
Carousel brake release Hold down the carousel brake release with a the end of a pen
• When holding down the release brake, rotate the carousel forward or back in order to line
up the black toner cartridge guides on the carousel to the right position to remove the
toner cartridges.
Black toner cartridge guides
- If you do not know which cartridge is causing the issue, remove all installed print cartridges.
- Open the top and middle front drawers and try rotating the carousel once again if it is still
jammed and does not rotate.
• Check the cartridge that is causing the problem to see if it is damaged. The cartridge
shutter should be closed before installation.
• Turn on the laser machine. If the error message disappears, proceed to the next step. If
the 54.2 error message comes back, remove all the other toner cartridges and turn the
laser machine off and then turn it on back again. If the error persists after you have
removed all four toner cartridges, proceed to the following steps.
• When the printer prompts you for installation of the toner cartridges, reinstall them.
• Follow the directions that appear on the control panel, and press “go” after all the toner
cartridges have been installed.
• Make sure the laser machine displays “ready” on the control panel.
• Print a test page to make sure that the printer is functioning correctly.
Check carousel rotation
If the carousel does not rotate, it may still be blocked after the brake has been released.
• Open the ITB drawers and the drum. Then, remove the drum cartridge, and put it in a
light-proof container. After doing this, remove the ITB.
• Then, rotate the carousel until one of the flaps can be lifted to the upright position.
• Pressed down the carousel brake until it rotates. The vertical gray flap will move toward the
back of the printer. When the flap touches the toner cartridge cover, the carousel is in
position for cartridge removal.
• Repeat this to remove all toner cartridges.
Reinstall toner cartridges
• Check you cartridges are not damaged while removing them. Replace cartridges if
necessary.
• Close all the drawers and the machine top cover, and then turn on the laser machine.
• Wait until the machine warms up. When it is ready, you will get a message asking you to
install the toner cartridges.
• Install each toner cartridge.
• After you have installed all the cartridge, press “go” on the control panel.
All cartridges have been installed and Error 54.2 appears
It is possible that one of the toner cartridges is defective.
• Locate the defective cartridge(s):
- Remove one cartridge.
- Close all the printer drawers and covers, and turn on the machine. Wait until the
machine warms up and calibrates.
- If you get a message that reads “TONER-POSITION X = MISSING”, the cartridge you
have removed is defective. Replace cartridge.
- If the error message 54.2 does not disappear, the cartridge removed is actually
working.
- If the above occurs, remove one of the other toner cartridges.
- Turn the printer on to see what message is displayed.
- Repeat the first tow steps until you see the message “TONER POSITION x = MISSING”
and replace the defective cartridge.
16 - How can I install my toner cartridge? (Back to Top)
It will be necessary for you to change a toner cartridge when your laser machine indicates that you are out of toner. If it indicates that the toner is low, you may still be able to print a few hundred more pages.
- In order to change your toner cartridge you need to know what model of laser machine you got. There are two names somewhere on the machine. One is the name of the laser machine (e.g. ucrit01), and the other is the name of the model (e.g. HP LaserJet 5m). The latter is the name you need. By knowing this name, you will be able to buy the right cartridge for your machine.
- Turn the machine off and open the top cover.
- Then, open the front cover and pull the drum unit assembly.
- Press down the lock lever and remove the old cartridge from the drum unit. In order to remove the cartridge, pull it upwards and away from the laser machine. The cartridge should come out without making much effort.
- Remove the new cartridge from its packaging, and rock it gently for a few seconds so as to distribute the toner evenly.
We recommend not exposing the cartridge to the light for long (no more than a few minutes). While exposed, cover the cartridge with a piece of paper or cloth.
- Take off the seal from the toner cartridge (a small tab that is attached to a plastic film strip). Make sure you remove this or your laser machine will only print blank pages.
- Install the new cartridge into the laser machine by following the arrows or other cues in the machine that will help you align the cartridge properly. It should slide in using a small amount of force. If it doesn’t, check the cartridge is properly aligned and make sure you are using the correct cartridge. You can find out which toner cartridge is compatible with your laser machine in our website.
- When the cartridge is seated, close the top cover.
- Turn on your laser machine.
Print test pages: if they look good, package the empty cartridge and recycle it-optional. If there are repeated defects, streaks, faded out pages, etc. on your test pages that were not there before you changed toner cartridge, there must be a problem with the cartridge. Install a new one, and print some test pages. If they are clean, it means the first toner cartridge was faulty. If both cartridges have problems, there something wrong with the machine.
17 - How can I ensure the longest life of the cartridge? (Back to Top)
We recommend removing your toner cartridge from its package only when you are ready to use it. Toner cartridges are packed in a moisture proof bag so as to protect them. The shelf life of a toner cartridge in its closed package is around 2.5 years (as long as you store them away from heat, moisture and light.) The shelf life of an open one is much shorter (around 6 months).
In order not to damage the toner cartridge, we recommend not exposing the cartridge to the light for long (no more than a few minutes). While exposed, cover the cartridge with a piece of paper or cloth.
The number of prints that a toner cartridge can give has nothing to do with the time of use but with the page coverage. All laser printers and fax machines have different utilities for you to adjust the image intensity in order to reduce toner consumption. Gain access to them and turn down the intensity dial. By doing this, you will also get less loose toner, reducing signs of nicks on the drum unit and specks on your printouts.
18 - If the toner is low or I get light or faded areas on my printouts, should I change the cartridge immediately or is it still useful?
(Back to Top)
Even if the toner is low and your printouts look faded, you may still be able to improve the print quality of your printouts by redistributing the toner in your cartridge. This will help you to finish your current print jobs until you replace the cartridge.
So as to redistribute the toner, open the printer and remove the cartridge from the laser machine. In order not to damage the toner cartridge, we recommend not exposing the cartridge to the light for long (no more than a few minutes.) While exposed, cover the cartridge with a piece of paper or cloth. Rock the toner cartridge from side to side gently so that the toner redistributes inside the cartridge.
Reinstall the cartridge into the printer and close the machine cover. If the print quality does not improve, you will have to change the toner cartridge.
These images do not represent all laser machines and toner cartridge models. They are given just as examples.
19 - Do I need to clean the toner cartridge area? How can I do it? (Back to Top)
The cleaning of the toner cartridge area is not regularly necessary unless there is an excess of toner in the compartment. Before you clean the laser machine, unplug the power cord and then wait for it to cool. Open the machine and remove the cartridge.
In order not to damage the toner cartridge, we recommend not exposing the cartridge to the light for long (no more than a few minutes). While exposed, cover the cartridge with a piece of paper or cloth. Try not to touch the black sponge, transfer roller inside the laser machine or you will damage it. Use a dry lint-free cloth to clean any residue in the paper path area and the cartridge cavity. Replace the cartridge and close the machine cover and plug the power cord into the machine again.
20 - What happens if I shake my toner cartridge? (Back to Top)
Do not shake toner cartridges. If you got a low toner message and you want to redistribute the toner, you do not need to shake it. Simply rock the cartridge lightly at a forty degree angle, pat it on top gently, and reinstall in the laser machine. Shaking the cartridge is likely to cause the toner to spill.
21 - Removal of toner cartridge sealing tape (Back to Top)
For the toner to be released, it is necessary to remove the cartridge sealing tape. This is a clear plastic strip which is pulled out from inside the toner cartridge. In order to remove the sealing tape, you will need to break the tab that is connected to the toner cartridge and pull. It should FULLY come out of the toner cartridge. When you remove the seal, a small amount of toner will come out with it. We recommend pulling the seal over a trash can. If the seal was not fully removed from the cartridge when you pulled it because it got broken, use scissors to cut the seal. If, after you have cut the seal, the margin of the printouts look faded, the cartridge will have to be replaced.
22 - I have some printing problems, what is going on and how can I solve them? (Back to Top)
I got an Image defect
This type of problem may be caused, not only by the cartridge, but by the fuser. Laser printers include a maintenance kit, which comprises the fuser, paper pickups and transfer roller. These pieces are replaced on a regular page count schedule, when the machine shows a message that reads User Maintenance. Those machines that do not have scheduled maintenance kits regularly have only the fuser replaced when an image defect appears.
I get double imaging in my printouts
You will need to check the fuser assembly since this is the main cause of unwanted duplicated images. Another reason could be an inappropriate combination of drum and toner in a cartridge.
There are unwanted lines on the page
If lines appear on the faxes you receive, the first thing you will have to do is to determine if the problem is in your machine or in the sender’s. Run a copy in your machine. If there are no defects on the copy, the problem has nothing to do with your machine but with the sender’s. Let the sender know about this problem.
If lines appear when you make a copy with a copier or fax, there are several different reasons for this.
- There must be a foreign substance, such as ink, on the scanner glass or on the copier mirrors. To clean it, use a soft cloth dampened with a mild cleaner.
- Make sure the white set bar, which is on the top side of the scanner glass, is not dirty. Clean it with a soft cloth dampened with a mild cleaner.
- If you have done this and the problem is still unsolved, there could be something with the imagine unit. If your machine uses a toner cartridge, then change it.
- Check the waste toner hopper is not full; if it is, replace or empty it and clean it.
- It is possible that there is a bad connection between the machine and the imaging unit. Use a dry towel or cloth to clean these connections.
- You may be using a defective cartridge or there is a bad drum connection. Replace the cartridge. If the problem is not solved, you should contact the cartridge supplier (Brother, Epson, etc.)
- If you got a multi-component system and you have lines on your pages, it is probable that the problem has nothing to do with the toner. You may need to change the drum. Fusers can also cause this problem. A technician will solve this problem.
There are spots on the pages
- If there are spots on the page, like drops, there might be a problem with the developer unit. If so, you will need to replace it.
- If the spots appear all over the page, there may be something wrong with the drum-scratches from a foreign object, for example, or it presents a manufacturer’s defect. You will have to change the toner cartridge.
There are light or blank areas on the pages
- There must be a lack of toner on the drum. Make sure there is toner and that it is getting to the drum.
- It is probable that the drum can no longer hold the toner. You will have to replace the drum.
- It is possible that the paper is causing the problem. If the paper absorbs moisture, the toner will not print on the paper since it does not print on moisture. Use fresh and dry paper. That will solve the problem. Make sure you store your paper in a dry place.
I get only blank pages
- You may not have removed the sealing tape from your cartridge. Remove it and reinstall the toner cartridge.
- The cartridge must be empty. Replace the cartridge.
My prints are too dark
- Your cartridge may not be installed correctly. Reinstall the cartridge. If after reinstalling the cartridge you still get dark pages, you will need to replace your cartridge.
- Check the density is not set too dark.
- You may need to replace the drum.
There are horizontal white lines on my pages
- If they appear in the center of the page, there must be a loose screw in the toner cartridge shutter.
- If you see no loose screw, the cartridge may not be installed correctly defective.
- Reinstall the cartridge. If the problem is not solved, replace the cartridge.
There are horizontal lines or repeated defects
- It is possible that there is a defect in the laser assembly, the DC power controller unit or the gear train. If so, get your laser machine serviced.
There are thin black lines on my pages
Static electricity may produce thick black lines that look like ink stains on the page. The cartridge may be defective or empty. Replace the toner cartridge if necessary.
There are vertical, thin white stripes on my pages
- The laser machine may be dirty. Clean the charge corona wire in the toner cartridge with the cleaning tool that comes with your machine.
- The cartridge may almost empty. Replace it.
- The machine mechanisms or the laser beam path or mirror (on some models) is dirty. If so, have your laser machine serviced or cleaned.
Some colors are missing on my pages
If certain colors are not being printed, the cartridge may be the cause. If you get an error message that reads “Y/M/C/ K Toner Crtg Out", this means that you have not installed a toner cartridge in your laser machine. Install the color that is indicated (Y/M/C/ K.)
There are random white areas
- This occurs because you are using damp paper. Replace your paper stock.
Colors are out of alignment
The laser machine is dirty inside.
- This will occur if you install a new black toner cartridge and a ROS cleaning has not been performed.
My prints are too light
- We recommend changing your paper; the one you are using may not be suitable.
- The cartridge may be low on toner or empty. You may change the cartridge is necessary.
- Turn off the economy mode if it is on.
- Check the print density, quality and retention settings of your laser machine.
- Check if this problem has to do with the printer or the cartridge. To do so, switch the cartridge with another laser machine (make sure they use the same toner cartridge) or install a back-up.
- Clean your beam-to-drum mirror, corona wire or scanner lens. This will clear many light print problems. Refer to your laser machine manual.
- In the printer driver, select Advanced and, then, set the Draft Mode check box to off
- You may need to replace the drum cartridge.
My prints are faded or light
- You may be using paper with the wrong weight. Check the specifications of the paper weight for your laser machine.
- The cartridge may be low on toner or empty. Replace it.
- Turn off the economy mode if it is on.
There is some dirt on the back of my pages
- The printer may be dirty inside. Clean your laser machine.
- The cartridge may be linking toner. Replace the cartridge carefully.
23 - I got a message that reads Low Toner, why? What should I do? (Back to Top)
- Make sure you have removed the sealing tape.
- Check you have installed a toner cartridge in the machine.
- The bag and/or box may have not been correctly sealed before you opened the package.
- If the cartridge is low you can redistribute the cartridge (see Tip “If the toner is low or I get light or faded areas on my printouts, should I change the cartridge immediately or it is still useful?”)
- If the machine does not print after redistributing the cartridge, you have to replace the cartridge.
- If you have replaced the cartridge and you still get a low message, the laser machine might be the problem.
- The high voltage power supply may be the cause of the problem. If you need to finish a print job, gain access to the configuration menu. Then, to the control panel on the printer. Once there, set the laser machine to Low Toner Continue.
You have just changed your toner cartridge and you get a message that reads LOW TONER
If you've installed a new cartridge in the laser machine and the toner light turns on, you may have accidentally installed an empty toner cartridge. Mark your empty cartridge boxes so as to differentiate them as empty and avoid confusions.
Another possibility is that you have forgotten to remove the sealing tape on the cartridge. Make sure this seal is removed otherwise the toner will not be detected in the laser machine.
24 - How do I print a test page? (Back to Top)
Through these instructions you will be able to print a test page with most laser machines:
- Click on Start. Then select Settings and then Printer.
- Right-click on the machine name, and then left-click on Properties
- Click on “Print Test Page”
25 - I put the wrong type of toner in my laser machine, what should I do? (Back to Top)
If you made the mistake of adding the wrong type of toner in your laser machine and the machine uses non-magnetic toner, the toner mixed with iron powder and you will need to call the developer. Both will have to be removed and the residue must be vacuumed out.
In the case your laser machine uses magnetic toner, there will be less toner in the machine. Try to remove as much toner as you can without scratching the roller.
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