HP CLJ 4500, CLJ family Service Manual

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October 1998 Edition

HP Color LaserJet Family Quick Reference Service Guide

October 1998 Edition

Publication number 5040-9071

First edition, October 1998

Warranty

The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.

Hewlett-Packard makes no warranty of any kind with respect to this information. HEWLETT-PACKARD SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

Hewlett-Packard shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or other damage alleged in connection with the furnishing or use of this information.

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Hewlett-Packard Company 11311 Chinden Boulevard Boise, Idaho 83714 U.S.A.

1 Troubleshooting control panel messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

2 Service tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

3 Power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

4 Input/Output (I/O) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

5 Media specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

6 Toner cartridge information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

7 Printer options and consumables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

8 Printer parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

9 Image quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

10 Wiring diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

11 Services and support resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

A Acronyms and abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Index

iii

Ordering other manuals

This

HP Color LaserJet Family Quick Reference Service Guide

been created to help the HP LaserJet service engineer quickly troubleshoot common printer problems. While this reference is intended to provide information the service engineer will need f or on-site r epair of HP LaserJet color products, it is not intended to replace the service manual for any HP LaserJet color product. For detailed information about the HP LaserJet color products described in this guide, see the user guide or service manual for that product.

Service manuals for HP LaserJet products are available from Hewlett-Packard. The phone number for the Service Parts Order Desk is:

(800) 227-8164 (U.S. only)

If you are located outside of the U.S., contact your local HP Sales and Service Office. See “Services and support resources” on page 157.

has

Supported products

Name used in this guide

HP Color LaserJet 4500/4500 N/ 4500 DN

Note

This guide will be updated as the service needs change, as new products are introduced, or as information becomes available.

Model number

C4084A/C4089A/ C4094A

Maximum pages per month

35 K C4084-90958

Service manual part number

Troubleshooting

control panel messages

Overview

This chapter provides a list of control panel messages for the HP Color LaserJet printers. Alphabetical messages are listed first, followed by numerical messages. Control panel messages that are self-explanatory are not included. See the service manual for more detailed information.

Following the control panel messages are suggestions for troubleshooting paper path problems.

Overview

Pre-troubleshooting checklist

WARNING!

Always unplug the printer before servicing. Current is present in the DC power supply whenever the printer is plugged in.

Note

The customer is responsible for ensuring that the maintenance units are in good condition.

Before troubleshooting any specific printer problem, check the following:

• Has the printer been maintained on a regular basis?

• Are all of the maintenance units within their rated life?

• Is the customer using media as specified in Chapter 5, “Media

specifications” and the

Guide

• Is the media stored correctly and within environmental limits?

• Is the printer installed on a solid, level surface?

• Has the line voltage been chec ked to ma ke sure that it does not v ary

more than 20% from the nominal rated v alue specifi ed on the po w errating label?

– Large motors used near the printer can cause temporary voltage

changes.

• Is the operating environment within the parameters listed in the

printer service manual?

• Is the printer protected from substances such as office cleaning

materials and the ammonia gas that is produced by diazo copiers?

• Is the printer protected from direct sunlight?

HP LaserJet Family Paper Specification

2 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

CAUTION

Using non-HP components, such as toner, may cause permanent damage to the printer.

• Have all non-HP components (toner, typeface DIMMs, memory

boards, and MIO cards) been removed from the printer?

• Has the printer hardware or software configuration changed?

Or could the problem be associated with any specific software? – Contact the Customer Care Center for software-related problems

(see Chapter 11, “Services and support resources”).

• Could the problem be related to network configuration changes?

– Remove the printer from the network and make sure that the

failure is associated with the printer before beginning troubleshooting.

Pre-troubleshooting checklist

Control panel messages

Alphabetical messages

Access denied, menus locked

This message is displayed for approximately 5 seconds when a user has attempted to select a menu value while the printer control panel locking is enabled.

• See the system administrator for access to the printer control panel.

Bad duplexer connection

The duplex-printing accessory is not correctly installed.

1 Check the duplex-printing accessory power cord. 2 Turn the printer off, and then turn the printer on. 3 If the error continues, verify that the duplex-printing accessory is

correctly installed.

4 If the error persists, replace the duplexer.

Calibration executing

The printer is executing an internal color calibration. This process should take approximately 90 seconds.

• No action is required.

4 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Canceling job

The printer is canceling the current print job. Incoming data for the current job will be discarded.

• No action is required.

Cannot duplex check rear bin

alternates with

Cannot duplex check paper

The printer cannot duplex because the rear output bin is open or the media is not supported by the duplex-printing accessory.

Close the rear output bin.

Verify that the media is supported by the duplex-printing accessory.

Checking printer

The printer is performing an internal test. This process should take approximately 30 seconds. The message is displayed during the initiation of the engine test. When finished, the printer goes online.

• No action is required

Clearing paper from printer

The printer has jammed or was turned on and media was detected in the paper path. The printer is attempting to clear these pages.

• No action is required.

Control panel messages

Close middle front drawer

The drawer that holds the intermediate transfer belt (ITB) is open. Switch SW1 indicates the drawer is open. When the drawer is closed, a plastic protrusion on the lower left corner of the drawer pivots an arm allowing SW1 to toggle to the open position.

1 Close the middle front drawer. 2 If the message persists, remove the printer’s left-side cover and

inspect the mechanical linkage that closes SW1.

3 Refer to the wiring diagram to verify the wiring; the two-wire

connector should be firmly seated to SW1 and the wiring harness should be firmly seated to connector J1003 of the DC controller PCB.

4 If the message persists, use an ohmmeter to verify the functionality

of SW1.

6 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Close upper rear door

Switch SW5 monitors the closing of the printer’s upper rear door (this door allows you to access the fusing assembly). When the fusing door is closed, a tab on the rear door pushes a door switch actuator that runs along the left side of the printer and closes SW5.

WARNING!

High voltages occur during operation. Closing the rear door and the upper and middle front draw ers closes SW4 and SW5, enabling +24B Vdc. When either drawer or the rear door is open +24B Vdc is disabled. This safety f eature protects the operator from high v oltages.

Close the upper rear door.

If the message persists, remove the printer’s left-side cover and

inspect the mechanical linkage of SW5 and the lever. Refer to the wiring diagram and verify that all connections (J103 of

the DC controller PCB and SW5) are firmly seated. Verify that both the front upper and middle drawers are firmly closed;

closing these drawers also closes SW4.

Close top cover

SW2 indicates if the printer’s toner cartr i dge access door is closed. When the toner cartridge door is closed a lever is pushed down. This in turn rotates a pivot forward, opening the top cover switch (SW2).

Close the top cover.

If the message persists, remove the printer’s top cover and verify all

mechanical linkages associated with SW2. Verify that the connector on J1003 of the DC controller PCB is firmly

seated.

Control panel messages

Close upper front drawer

The drawer that holds the imagi ng drum is open. Swi tch SW3 i ndicates that the drawer is open. When the drawer is closed a plastic protrusion on the lower left corner of the drawer pivots an arm that allows SW3 to toggle to the open position.

Note

Closing the drawer also closes SW4 (the front dr a wer s witch). Whe n SW4 is open +24B Vdc is disabled. This safety feature protects the operator from any high voltages when the upper or middle front drawers are open.

1 Open the drawer and firmly push the drawer closed using one hand

in the middle of the drawer.

2 If the message persists, remove the printer’s left-side cover and

inspect the mechanical linkage that closes SW3.

3 Refer to the wiring diagram (chapter 10) and verify the wiring; the

two-wire connector should be firmly seated to SW3 and the wiring harness should be firmly seated to connector J1003 of the DC controller PCB.

4 If message persists, use an ohmmeter to verify the functionality of

SW3.

Cold reset

The cold reset power-up sequence has been entered.

• Most printer variables will reset to their factory default values.

8 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Continuous page, press cancel job

The printer configuration page is being printed continuously.

• Press

ANCEL JOB

printing and return the printer to the

to terminate continuous configuration page

state.

READY

Density sensor out of range

alternates with

Clean density sensor

A density sensor out of range error was detected during a color calibration.

• The density sensor may be dirty. Inspect and clean the sensor. See

“Cleaning the toner density sensor” in the service manual.

Data received

The printer has received and processed data and is waiting for a form feed.

• Load the appropriate media to continue the print job.

Diagnostics mode

The extended diagnostics power-up key sequence has been entered. Refer to the diagnostics procedures provided in the service manual.

• No action is required.

Drum error replace drum kit

An error has been detected with a component of the print drum kit.

• Replace the print drum kit.

Control panel messages

Drum life low replace drum kit

Approximately 80% of the drum’s life has been consumed.

• Drum replacement will be required in the near future.

Drum life out replace drum kit

The imaging drum has reached the end of its expected life.

• Replace the print drum kit.

Duplexer error check duplexer

An error has occurred in the duplex-printing accessory.

• Verify that the duplex-printing accessory is correctly installed and

plugged in.

EIO x initializing yyy

alternates with

Do not power off

The EIO device in slot “x” is initializing. The yyy value will increment every 10 seconds during this process.

• No action is required.

EIO x not functional

The EIO slot specified does not have a card installed or is not functional.

• No action is required.

10 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Event log empty

SHOW EVENT LOG

event log has no entries.

• No action is required.

was selected from the Information menu, but the

Fuser life low replace kit

Approximately 95% of the fuser’s life has been consumed.

• Fuser replacement will be required in the near future. Continue

printing, or replace the fuser kit.

Fuser life out replace kit

The fuser has reached the end of its expected life.

• Replace the fuser kit.

Install drum kit

The drum kit is not installed or is incorrectly installed.

• Verify that the drum kit is correctly installed.

Install Tray 2

The printer cannot print until media is loaded into Tray 2. The paper path for Tray 3 passes through Tray 2.

• Insert T ray 2 into the printer so that printing from Tray 3 can begin or

continue.

Control panel messages

Memory full stored data lost

The printer has no available memory. The current job may not print correctly. Some downloaded fonts may have been deleted.

• Try printing simplified pages. If this does not resolve the problem,

add printer memory.

Memory settings changed

The I/O buffering settings w ere ch anged by the printer because there is not enough memory available to use the previous settings.

• No action is required. However, adding printer memory can prevent

this from occurring.

Memory shortage job cleared

The available memory was not enough to continue printing. The remainder of the job was canceled.

• Adding printer memory can prevent this from occurring.

Memory shortage page simplified

The printer’s adaptive data compression had to resort to lossy compression to fit raster graphics in the available memory. This has caused a data loss in the raster output.

• Reduce the complexity of the page to improve the print quality.

Note

Adding memory will not correct this problem.

12 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

No job to cancel

ANCEL JOB

cancel. The printer automatically returns to the

• No action is required.

was pressed but there is no active job or buffered data to

READY

state.

Page cannot print now

alternates with

Retry when printing stops

An internal page has been requested while the printer is printing an incoming job. Interrupting the job to print the internal page would corrupt the job’s environment and potentially cause the job to finish printing incorrectly after the internal page is completed. Consequently, internal pages are not permitted to interrupt jobs and can only be printed when the printer is idle.

• Retry print job after printer has completed current job.

Page simplified

The printer’s adaptive data compression had to resort to lossy compression to fit raster graphics in the available memory. This has caused a data loss in the raster output.

• Reduce the complexity of the page to improve the print quality.

Note

Adding memory will not correct this problem.

Control panel messages

Page too complex to print

alternates with

Press Go to continue

The page could not be printed.

Note

Reducing the complexity of the page could allow it to print successfully. Adding memory will not correct this problem.

• Press GO to continue printing the current page (with noticeably poor

results on this page).

• Press C

ANCEL JOB

to terminate the entire job.

Press Go to print

alternates with

Press Select to change toner

The top cover was opened and closed when the printer was not in the toner cartridge replacement mode.

• Press G

replacement menu.

to resume printing or press S

to enter the toner

ELECT

Printer language not available

The printer received a request for a new language (personality) that does not exist in the printer.

• No action is required.

14 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Reinstall transfer belt

This message occurs if you do not have the intermediate transfer belt installed in the printer or if the home positions (marks on the ITB) are not detected by sensor PS5.

Note

The intermediate transfer belt must be rotating before PS5 is able to detect the “home position” marks on the ITB. Both the ITB and the imaging drum are driven by the drum motor (M4).

Check SW1 for correct operation and make sure the cables are

connected. Verify that the ITB is installed in the printer.

If the ITB is installed and seated properly, verify that PS5 is not

damaged. PS5 is located on the ITB assembly. If the sensor appears damaged, replace the entire ITB assembly.

Clean PS5.

Verify all wiring within the ITB drawer. Note the connection on the

ITB assembly (located on the front, lower, left-hand corner of the assembly). When the drawer is closed the connector “mates” with a receptacle connector on the drawer. V erify that the connector and al l wiring are in good condition.

Verify that the drum motor (M4) is rotating both the imaging drum

and the ITB. If necessary use a light felt marker and identify a spot (outside the imaging area) on the edge of the imagin g drum. Turn on the printer, then open the drawer to see if the mark has moved.

If the imaging drum is not rotating, verify that the imaging drum

connector is firmly seated into the J204 connector of the developing PCB.

Control panel messages

Remove paper top output bin

The top output bin holds 200 sheets of paper . Sensor PS9 along with its sensor flag detects the height of the output paper stack.

1 Verify that PS9 moves freely and its movement is not blocked. 2 Verify that PS9 is free of dust and debris (the printer’s top cover

must be removed to access the sensor).

3 Verify that all connectors are firmly seated. Refer to the wiring

diagram in chapter 10.

Note

For more information, see the service manual for the printer.

Resetting memory

The printer is executing a memory reset. The printer returns to the

READY

state upon completion of this process.

• No action is required.

Resetting values finished

The color calibration density values have been reset to their default values.

• No action is required.

Select language

The language selection power-up k e y sequence h as been entere d. The printer will prompt the user to select a new control panel display language once it has completed its initialization process.

• Select a new language when prompted.

16 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Service mode

The service mode powerup key sequence has been entered. The printer will remain in service mode until

• Press

to exit the service mode.

is pressed.

Toner CMYK low

The toner cartridge specified is low on toner.

• Printing will continue until a

change the toner cartridge now, press

TONER OUT

message appears. To

ELECT

Toner CMYK low

alternates with

Press Select to change toner

The toner cartridge specified is low on toner and must be replaced.

• Press

Toner CMYK out

to enter the toner replacement menu.

ELECT

alternates with

Press Select to change toner

The toner cartridge specified is out of toner.

• If the

TONER OUT

OVERRIDE

• Press

ELECT

resume printing without changing the cartridge.

setting in the Configuration menu is set to

, press

to resume printing.

to enter the toner replacement menu. Press

Control panel messages

Toner position [color] = [state]

Indicates the current state of a particular toner cartridge. This message is displayed when S is displayed.

• If necessary, replace the specified toner cartridge.

is pressed while a

ELECT

TONER LOW/OUT

message

Transfer kit low replace kit

The transfer kit is near the end of its expected life.

• Although printing can continue, the transfer kit should be replaced

for optimum printer operation.

Transfer kit out replace kit

The transfer kit has reached the end of its expected life.

• Replace the transfer kit.

Tray x empty [type] [size]

The specified tray is empty b ut the cu rrent job doe s not requ ire this tr ay to complete the job.

• No action is required. However, to avoid this message in the future,

load the proper media type and size into the tray.

Tray x load [type] [size]

The specified media type and size need to be loa ded into the requested tray.

• Load the specified media type and size into the requested tray.

Press G on different media.

18 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

to override this request and cause the page to be printed

Tray x size [size]

Media has been loaded into Tray 1. The most recently configured size will be displayed with an asterisk next to it.

• Use

• Press

and

ALUE

for the currently displayed size. Press

ELECT

to view all possible sizes.

ALUE

to clear the

message.

Tray x type [type]

Media has been loaded into Tray 1. The most recently configured type will be displayed with an asterisk next to it.

• Use

• Press

and

ALUE

for the currently displayed type. Press

ELECT

to view all possible sizes.

ALUE

to clear the

message.

Waste toner full replace drum kit

Waste toner full sensor PS13 detects a waste toner full condition. Light receiver and light pipe arrangement along with a window in the drum assembly look for a waste fill condition. Verify that the sensors and light pipes are not blocked.

Replace the drum kit.

Check the sensor, and if it is defective, replace it.

Control panel messages

Numerical messages

13.xx Paper jam

xx = Description:

0 = Jam in input feed area 1 = Jam in fusing area 2 = Jam in fusing area 3 = Jam in duplex reversing unit 4 = Jam in duplex feed unit 5 = Jam in duplex paper feed area 6 = Jam in duplex paper feed area 7 = Jam in paper feed area 8 = Door open jam

9 = Irregular paper jam in paper path 10 = Paper in the paper path is too short 11 = Paper in the paper path is too long

13.xx Paper jam

alternates with

Check all rear door

Media is jammed in the rear paper path or rear duplexing area. 1 Open the rear duplex cover (if installed) and remove any jammed

media.

2 Open the upper rear door and remove any jammed media.

13.xx Paper jam

alternates with

Check middle front doors

Media is jammed in the transfer belt area or media is not picking.

• Open the middle front drawer and remove any jammed media.

• Watch the pick roller to ensure it is turning.

20 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

13.xx Paper jam

alternates with

Check front duplex drawer

Media is jammed in the front duplexing area.

• Open the front duplex drawer and remove any jammed media.

13.1 Paper jam

alternates with

Check in rear of drawer

A jam has occurred inside the middle front drawer area.

• Open the middle front drawer and carefully inspect for and remove

any jammed media.

13.1 Paper jam open middle front drawer

with

Check in rear of drawer

A jam has occurred inside the middle front drawer area. The jam may be located in the fuser area or between the transfer area and the fuser.

Open the middle front drawer and carefully inspect for any media.

Be sure to inspect the fusing area. You may need to access the

fusing area through the rear door. Remove any jammed media.

20 Insufficient memory

alternates with

alternates

Press Go to continue

More data has been received from the computer than fits in the printer’s internal memory.

To continue printing, press

the printer’s internal memory is printed. To cancel the job, press

Add more memory to resolve the problem.

. Only the amount of data that fits in

ANCEL JOB

Control panel messages

22 EIO x buffer overflow

alternates with

Press Go to continue

The EIO buffer for the EIO card in slot “x” has overflowed du ring a b usy state.

• The current data in the print buffer will be lost.

• Press GO to resume printing and then resend the job.

22 Parallel IO buffer overflow

alternates with

Press Go to continue

This message indicates that the parallel buffer has overflowed.

• The current data in the print buffer will be lost.

• Press G

40 EIO x data error

to resume printing and then resend the job.

alternates with

Press Go to continue

A connection with the card in the specified slot has been broken. 1 Check that all cables are connected to the EIO ports and that the

EIO board is seated properly.

2 If possible, print to another network printer to verify that the network

is working properly.

Note

All data in the print buffer will be lost.

41.3 Unexpected paper size

alternates with

Check paper in Tray x

A tray is configured for a specific paper size, but the sheet loaded is a different size. This error often occurs when the printer is multifeeding.

• Load the tray with the requested size media.

22 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

41.5 Unexpected paper type

alternates with

Check paper in Tray x

A tray is configured for a specific media type, but the printer detects that a different media type is loaded. The most common cause for this error is a paper jam at the registration plate (under the ITB) where the customer does not remove the paper. The engine tries to check the OHT sensor and receives an error.

Verify that the correct media is loaded in the input tray and that the

printer control panel is configured correctly. Clean the detection windows of OHT sensors 1 and 2.

49 Error xxxx cycle power

This message indicates that a critical firmware error has occurred. An invalid command or data was sent to the formatter causing the processor to stop. This is the last action taken by the processor. The most likely cause of this error is invalid data or a bad command sent to the printer. A poor quality parallel cable, connection, or homegrown application has been known to cause this error.

Verify that all cables are connected.

Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

Cancel all print jobs then resend. Try to isolate any offending print

job. If the formatter pan assembly or DC controller was removed, make

sure the ribbon cable between the DC controller and the interconnect PCB is connected.

Control panel messages

50.x Fuser error

The fusing assembly contains two heating bulbs, two thermo-switches, and two thermistors. AC power is provided to the fusing assembly via the DC power supply, which is controlled by the DC controller PCB. The thermistors monitor the temperature of the fusing assembly and provide feedback to the DC controller PCB to regulate the fusing temperature. The two thermo-switches are wired in series with the fusing b ulbs . The y “open” if the temperature exceeds 240° C (464° F).

x = Description:

1 = Low temperature error 2 = Fuser warm-up service 3 = High fuser temperature 4 = Faulty fuser 5 = Fuser voltage mismatch (verify that you have NOT installed a

110V fuser in a 220V printer or vice-versa) 6 = Fuser heater cutoff 7 = Fuser motor malfunction (see recommended action for 50.7

Fuser error).

Note

A visual check to determine if the fusing assembly is functional can be made by defeating the rear door interlock switch. To do so, press in on the white plastic button abo ve the left-rear corner of the fan while turning the printer on. If the fusing bulbs and thermoswitches are good, you should observe light from the lower fusing bulb as the printer warms up.

1 Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer. If the error persists,

try re-installing the fusing assembly. If the error continues to persist, proceed to step 2.

24 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Turn the power off and remove the fusing assembly. Measure the

resistance between pin 3 and pin 4. The resistance should be between 6+/-2 ohms. If there is no contin uity between pin s, it ma y be assumed that either a heating bulb and/or a th ermo-switch is “open.” Replace the fusing assembly. If resistance limits were acceptable, proceed to step 3.

Measure the resistance for both the upper and lower thermistors.

The resistance should be between 430K ohms and 310K ohms at room temperature (25° C or 77° F). If the resistance exceeds limits, replace the fusing assembly. If resistance is within limits proceed to step 4.

V erify, that the connectors at J1011 of the DC controller PCB and J1

of the low-voltage power supply assembly are firmly seated. Replace the power supply assembly.

Control panel messages

50.7 Fuser error

The fusing motor (M1) provides drive for the fusing assembly, the “web” paper transfer belt, transfer belt/drum contact clutch, secondary transfer roller, roller clutch, face-down output delivery, and the stacker rollers. A

50.7 fuser error is displayed when no motion is detected. Photosensor PS6 (the fusing unit pressure switch) provides feedback regarding fusing unit motion.

1 Power cycle the printer to try to clear the message. 2 Remov e the left-side co v er of the printer . Verify that the fusing motor

(M1) connector is seated firmly into J102 of the feed PCB.

3 Ensure connector at J110 of the feed PCB is firmly seated (this

connector contains the wiring for PS6 which provides fuser motion feedback).

Note

Closely inspect the gears along the gear drive path. Mak e sure there is no binding. Binding of the gears may prevent M1 from rotating.

4 If the error persists, observe the drive shaft of M1. If this shaft DOES

NOT rotate, the failure is related to the motor drive circuitry. Referring to the printer’s wiring diagram, verify that connectors J102 and J106 of the feed PCB are firmly seated. If there still is an error, replace the fusing motor and then feed PCB in sequence.

5 If the shaft rotates (both forward and reverse), and the 50.7 fuser

error is displayed, the cause of the error is related to the motion feedback circuitry. Remove the fusing assembly and verify that the sensor flag is in good condition and functional. Verify that the connector at sensor PS6 is firmly seated; clean the sensor of dust and debris. If the error persists, replace sensor PS6.

26 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

51 Laser error

This message indicates that a laser malfunction has occurred due to a beam detect error or laser failure.

Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

Reconnect laser driver PCB connector J1102 and the DC controller

PCB connector J1008 correctly. Replace the laser scanner unit.

Reconnect BD PCB connector J551 and the DC controller PCB

connector J1006 correctly.

52 Scanner error

This message indicates that a scanner error has occurred.

Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

Reconnect the BD PCB connector J551, the scanner motor

connector J1103, and the DC controller PCB connector J1006 correctly.

Replace the laser scanner unit.

Control panel messages

53.xy.zz Printer error

This message indicates a memory error. If a DIMM caused the error, the DIMM will not be recognized (configured).

x = Memory Type

0 = ROM 1 = RAM

y = Device Location

0 = Onboard 1 = DIMM slot 1 2 = DIMM slot 2 3 = DIMM slot 3

zz = Error Number 0 = Unsupported memory 1 = Unrecognized memory 3 = Failed RAM test

1 Verify that the DIMM board is installed correctly and the DIMMs are

configured correctly. DIMMs must be installed in synchronous pairs in adjacent slots, with the same size and speed in both slots.

2 Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer. 3 Remove and replace the DIMM that caused the error.

54.1 Printer error control panel messages

This message indicates that an internal power failure has occurred.

1 Turn the printer off, and then turn the printer on. 2 Replace the high-voltage power supply

28 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

54.2 Printer error control panel messages

Drive motor (M3) drives the toner cartridge carousel. If motion is not detected, a 54.2 error is displayed. M3 is a 6-phase stepping motor and receives its drive signal from J203 o f the De v elopi ng PCB . Photosensor PS10 monitors “movement” (and the position) of the toner cartridge carousel. Different width tabs (four tabs, one for each cartridge) on the left end of the carousel-housing pass through PS10 to provide positioning information. The black toner cartridge tab is the “home” position.

Turn the printer off and then on to reset the printer.

Note

The printer CANNOT operate with the top co v er re mov e d unless the carousel brake has been released or removed!

Open the color toner door and look for an obstruction. If necessary,

remove the toner cartridges individually by manually releasing the carousel brake and rotating the carousel to each cartridge position to remove the cartridges. Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

Verify that the carousel drive motor wiring harness is firmly seated

into connector J203 of the developing PCB. Verify that PS10 is not e xcessively dirty (clean if necessary) and that

the wiring harness is firmly seated into both the sensor assembly, and into connector J206 of the developing PCB.

Verify that all connectors to the developing PCB and the DC

controller PCB are firmly seated.

Control panel messages

54.3 Printer error

The printer is NOT receiving data back from the density sensor (PS14). PS14 is located in the bottom of the imaging drum drawer. During calibration routines, a series of images are written on the imaging drum and the densitometer measures the density of the image (i.e. the amount of toner that is placed into the drum). These measurements provide the feedback to ensure image quality is consistent throughout the life of the consumable.

1 Verify that the densitometer is clean; perform the toner density

sensor cleaning procedure provided in the online user guide that came with the printer.

2 Inspect the density sensor wiring harness for damage. The harness

runs from the density sensor through the left-side upper control arm of the imaging drum drawer to J1010 of the DC controller PCB. Verify that the cable is firmly seated into the J1010 of the DC controller PCB.

3 If the error persists, replace the density sensor assembly.

54.4 Printer error

Optional equipment is not recognized.

• Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

30 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

54.5 Printer error

This message indicates a waste toner sensor malfunction.

Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

Remove the drum cartridge and clean the waste toner detection

window with a dry cloth. Clean the waste toner sensor unit at the printer side with a dry cloth.

Re-set the light guide, or replace it if scarred or damaged.

Reconnect the waste toner sensor unit connector and the DC

controller PCB connector (J1009) correctly. Replace the waste toner sensor (PS13).

54.6 Printer error

The print OHT sensor has malfunctioned.

Remove stray paper from sensor.

Check the connection.

Replace the sensor.

55 DC controller error

The print engine is not communicating with the formatter.

• Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

Control panel messages

57.1 Fan failure

The printer detected that the fan (an exhaust fan located in the upper, left-rear corner of the printer) was not rotating. This fan operates off +24 Vdc and is enabled by the DC controller PCB’s microprocessor.

1 Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer. Visually check to see

if the fan is rotating. (If you cann ot see any ro tation, place y ou r hand over the outlet vents to see if exhaust air is moving).

2 Remove the printer’s left-side cover. Check to see if anything is

preventing the fan from rotating freely.

3 Verify that the fan’s connector is firmly seated into connector J208 of

the developing PCB.

4 If the error persists, replace the fan.

57.2 Fan failure

The printer detected that the fan (an exhaust fan located in the upper, right rear corner of the printer) was not rotating. This fan operates off +24 Vdc and is enabled by the DC controller PCB’s microprocessor.

1 Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer. Visually check to see

if the fan is rotating (if you cannot see any rotation, place your hand over the outlet vents to see if exhaust air is moving).

2 Remove the printer’s left-side cover. Check to see if anything is

preventing the fan from rotating freely.

3 Verify that the fan’s connector is firmly seated into connector J209 of

the developing PCB.

4 If the error persists, replace the fan.

32 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

57.3 Fan error

alternates with

Close upper front drawer

The intake fan is located in the front center of the upper-front drawer. Fan rotation stops when the drawer is opened. A fan error is displayed when fan motion is if the drawer is closed and the printer is not in PowerSave mode.

Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer. Due to the difficulty of

observation, listen to hear if the fan is rotating. Verify that the fan connector is firmly seated into connector J1022 of

the DC controller PCB. If the error persists, replace the fan.

detected by the DC controllers microprocessor

NOT

62 No system

This message indicates that there is a printer firmware problem.

Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

Reseat the firmware DIMM.

62.x Printer error

This message indicates that a problem exists with the internal memory.

x = Description

0 = Internal memory 1-3 = DIMM slots 1-3.

Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

Reseat and then replace the DIMM.

Replace the formatter board.

Do a NVRAM initialization. See “NVRAM initialization instructions”

on page 57.

Control panel messages

62.m Bad MPTR

The firmware ran out of memory trying to build the static entity directory. 1 Check the printer settings to determine which values have been

changed.

2 Clear the message by pressing G

68 NVRAM error check settings

One or more settings saved in the non-volatile storage device are invalid. Some settings may have been reset to factory defaults.

1 Check the printer settings to determine which values have been

changed.

2 Clear the message by pressing G

68 NVRAM full check settings

This message indicates that a non-volatile storage device is full. Some settings may have been reset to factory defaults.

1 Check the printer settings to determine which values have been

changed.

2 Clear the message by pressing G

34 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

79 Service (xxxx) printer error

A hardware error has occurred.

x = Description

01xx = IO ASIC register error 02xx = video ASIC register error 03xx = IDE ASIC register error

Reseat the formatter.

Reseat the firmware DIMM.

Run formatter diagnostics.

Replace the firmware DIMM.

Replace the formatter.

Do a NVRAM initialization. See “NVRAM initialization instructions”

on page 57.

80 Service (xxxx) EIO error

A critical EIO failure has occurred. X indicates the slot number of the device and xxxx indicates the error type.

Turn the printer off and on to reset the printer.

Reseat the EIO card.

Replace the EIO card.

Control panel messages

Troubleshooting paper path problems

Paper jams

Paper jams are posted if paper fails to arrive at or clear the paper path sensors in the allowed time. Dedicated paper sensors (PS2, PS7, PS3101, PS3103, and PS3104) detect whether paper is present in the sensor and if the paper is fed normally (see the figure be low). When th e control board detects a paper jam, it immediately stops the printing process and displays the appropriate paper jam message for the sensor that detects the paper jam.

Paper jam sensors (shown with the optional 500-sheet paper feeder

and duplex-printing accessory installed)

Registration paper sensor (PS2)

Duplex paper-pick sensor (PS3104)

Reversed unit pape r se nsor (PS3103)5Delivery paper sensor (PS7)

36 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Reversed paper sensor

(PS3101)

Paper jam locations

Use the figure below to troubleshoot paper jams in the printer. For instructions on clearing paper jams, see the sections later in this chapter.

7 6

Paper jam locations

and duplex-printing accessory installed)

Input tray 1 area

Transfer belt area

Input tray 2 area

Front duplex drawer area

(shown with the optional 500-sheet paper feeder

5 6 7 8

Troubleshooting paper path problems

2 3

4 5

Tray 3 (500-sheet paper feeder) area Rear duplex cover area Fuser area Rear paper path area

General paper path checklist

• Verify that media is correctly loaded in the input trays and that all

length and width guides are set correctly.

• Clean the printer. Toner and paper dust in the paper path inhibits

free movement of media through the printer and blocks the sensors.

• Vary the input and output selecti ons of the printer to determine if the

problem is associated with a particular area of the printer.

• Worn separation pads on the multi-purpose tray cause multifeeds.

Check the condition of the pickup rollers and customer replaceable feed roller. Bent separation tabs cause misfeeds and multifeeds. Replace the tray if necessary.

• Defective paper tray switches can cause paper jams by indicating

the wrong size paper to the formatter.

• Scraps of paper left in the paper path can cause intermittent paper

jams. Always check that the paper path is clear when cleaning the printer and when clearing paper jams. Also, remove the fuser and carefully check it for jammed paper.

• Scraps of paper may be difficult to find in the following areas.

• The ITB drawer connector on the engine side.

• The OHT sensor under the registration plate.

• The fuser. Remove the fuser and check it carefully.

• The web transport. Paper scrapes are sometimes found in the

center of the web transport before the fuser.

38 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Print media checklist

Many print problems are caused by printing on media that does not meet specifications. See “Supported media weights and sizes” on page 72 and th e for detailed information about media specifications. In addition, the following list helps to quickly check common media-related printing problems.

• Rough paper causes poor transfer and smeared print problems.

Check that the paper meets specifications for smoothness.

• The printer handles only 60 to 159g/m

media, and 0.13 mm (5-mil) thick transparencies.

• Paper that has absorbed moisture causes paper feed problems. If

the printer is used in a humid area, suspect damp paper as a cause of recurring paper feed and print quality problems.

• Damaged paper, paper with ragged edges, or paper whose edges

stick together cause paper jams.

• Using paper that has already been through a laser printer or a

copier causes paper jams.

CAUTION

Using media that does not conform to the specifications listed here or in the problems that require service. This service is not covered by the Hewlett-Packard warranty or service agreements.

HP LaserJet Printer Family P aper Specifications Guide

(16 to 42-pound) bond

HP LaserJet Family Paper Specification Guide

can cause

Troubleshooting paper path problems

40 Chapter 1 Troubleshooting control panel messages

Service tools

Overview

This chapter provides information on service tools that service personnel can use to verify and manipulate i nternal printer settings and diagnostics.

Note

Only authorized service personnel should use the service mode.

Overview

Cold Reset

Cold reset clears all data from the print buffer and returns the printing menu and the configuration menu to the factory default settings.

To perform a cold reset

RESTORE FACTORY DEFAULTS

Select

from the Reset menu.

Service mode

Service mode allows for the modification of page counts and certain registration values for the printer. When the configuration page is printed while in service mode, all event log messages are printed as well. If both the formatter and DC controller are replaced at the same time, service mode will need to be utilized to execute the color plane registration sequence to ensure optimum print quality.

To access service mode

1 Hold down the C

printer on until the display is blank and the 3 LEDs are on.

2 Press the right side of the M

Service mode will be displayed on the front panel briefly followed b y two rows of asterisks. The printer will go through its normal start up cycle then display

3 Press the M

42 Chapter 2 Service tools

ANCEL JOB

SERVICE MODE

key to access the Service menu.

ENU

key and S

key, and then press the S

ENU

on the front panel.

key while turning the

ELECT

key.

Service menu

Serial number=

Transfer maint count=

Fuser maint count=

Color page count=

Total page count=

Cold reset paper=

Clear event log

Cyan registration=

Magenta registration=

Yellow registration=

Top margin=

Tray 1 left margin=

Trays 2 and 3 left margin=*

Print registr’tn page tray=

Service mode menu map

Service mode

Service menu items

The Service menu provides the options listed below. Press the

key to scroll through the Service menu.

TEM

• Serial number

• Transfer maintenance count

• Fuser maintenance count

• Color page count

• Total page count

• Clear event log (see page 70)

• Registration page (see page 45)

• Diagnostics mode (see page 49)

• Paper path test (see page 50)

• Developer test (see page 51)

• Drum test (see page 52)

• Door sensor test (see page 54)

• Formatter diagnostics (see page 55)

• Engine test (see page 56)

See the page number referenced opposite the item for more details.

44 Chapter 2 Service tools

Registration page

Note

The setting of the registration values must be done if both the formatter and DC controller are replaced at the same time. If only one is replaced, the registration values are copied from the other.

Printing a registration page

Scroll through the Service menu until

displayed. Select the paper tray to pull paper from (only when setting left side

margins will the tray actually matter).

Press

to print the registration page.

ELECT

PRINT REGISTR

’

TN PAGE

Service mode

Registration page

46 Chapter 2 Service tools

Setting registration numbers

On each of the color bars in the process section are bolded numbers that indicate the current number set on the control pa nel. These bol ded numbers will always be in the middle of the bars. To set the correct value for each of the colors, look at the lines within the bar and find the grouping that has the color line directly on top of the black line (it will have more white space). Print at least five registration pages to see if the new settings are correct.

Note

Using a magnifying glass to look at the lines will help in selecting the best number.

Setting the registration number: 1

Use the

key to select the appropriate color (Cyan, Magenta, or

TEM

Yellow) to view or change its registration number. Press the

key to change the registration number to the

+/-

ALUE

one identified. Press the

key to enter the value.

ELECT

Setting margin numbers

The top margin number is not tray dependent like the left side margin. You can print the registration page from whichever tray has paper. Using a ruler, measure from the top edge of the paper to the series of lines. Find the line that is 13 mm (0.5 in) away from the edge of the paper.

Setting the top margin registration value:

Press the

margin is displayed. Press the

Press the

Print another registration page and the number just entered will align with the arrow and be bolded.

key to scroll through the Service menu until top

TEM

M S

key until the number to be entered is displayed.

+/-

ENU

key to enter the number.

ELECT

Service mode

The left-side margin setting is tray dependent. Tray 1 has its own number while Trays 2 and 3 are combined. The procedure is the same as the top margin with one exception. The page must be printed from the tray that will be adjusted.

Printing from Tray 1: 1 Press the I

TEM

key until

PRINT REGISTR’TN PAGE TRAY = 1

(default) is displayed.

2 Press the S

ELECT

key.

3 Measure from the left side of the paper to the lines and find the line

that is 13 mm (0.5 in) from the edge of the paper.

If the number for the line is different then the current number: 1 Press the I 2 Press the V 3 Press the S

TEM

ALUE

ELECT

key until

TRAY 1 LEFT MARGIN = #

is displayed.

key to change the number to the number required.

key.

Printing from Tray 2 and 3: 1 Press the I

TEM

key until

PRINT REGISTR’TN PAGE TRAY = 2

or 3 is

displayed.

2 Press the S

ELECT

key.

3 Measure from the left side of the paper to the lines and find the line

that is 13 mm (0.5 in) from the edge of the paper.

If the number for the line is different then the current number: 1 Press the I

TEM

key until

TRAY 2 AND 3 LEFT MARGIN = #

displayed.

2 Press the V 3 Press the S

key to change the number to the number required.

ALUE

key.

ELECT

48 Chapter 2 Service tools

Diagnostics mode

This section provides an overview of the diagnostic tools incorporated into the HP Color LaserJet 4500/4500 N/4500 DN printer.

CAUTION

When performing printer diagnostics, caution must be taken to avoid risk of injury. Only trained service personnel should access the diagnostic mode with the skins removed.

There are two diagnostic sections built into the firmware, one for the formatter and the other for the engine. Each section contains different tests that allow the service technician to verify printer functionality. While in diagnostic mode there are no error messages associated with these tests. Therefore, determination of the problem will rely on the technicians skill. To exit diagnostic mode, turn the printer off.

Accessing diagnostics

• T o access the diagnostics mode, hold do wn the

the printer.

Engine diagnostics

A good understanding of how the printer operates is required to use the engine diagnostics successfully.

To have a better vie w of th e areas be ing exercised, remove the left-si de cover and the lower front drawer (ITB drawer). Defeat the two ITB drawer switches located on the left side of the drawer cavity.

key and turn on

TEM

Diagnostics mode

Listed below are the diagnostics available and a brief description of what the diagnostic will do.

Engine diagnostics

Menu item Selectable value Description

Continuous N (default) Selected test runs once.

Y Selected test runs in a

continuous loop.

Paper path test Turns on the motors that

control the paper path section of the printer.

Developer test Rotates the carousel and

the developers.

Drum test Turns on the drum drive

motor that drives the drum and ITB.

Path sensors Displays the state for each

of the paper path sensors and switches.

Door sensors Displays the state for each

of the door and drawer switches.

Paper path test

Note

If an error occurs during the paper path test, the message

PATH_1PAPER PATH TEST FAILED

1 Press the I 2 Press the S

key until you see

TEM

key to activate the test. While the test is running

ELECT

ENGINE DIAGS E1:PAPERPATH

The test takes approximately 15 seconds to run.

50 Chapter 2 Service tools

displays.

ENGINE DIAGS PAPER PATH TEST

displays in the front panel.

Components exercised by the paper path test include the fusing motor (M1), paper path motor (M2), and associated gears and assemblies. The paper pick roller for tray 2 can be activated by manually activating the paper pick solenoid (SL2). This test will not pick paper and move it through the paper path. To test this function, run a configuration page. For multiple pages, select control panel.

The paper path test allows the service technician to verify the ope ration of components within the paper path. When the test is initiated, both M1 and M2 are activated. You will see the ITB lift cams rotate once and the ITB drive gear turn briefly. The remaining portion of the test allows both M1and M2 to run, thus exercising the associated gears and rollers.

CONTINUOUS CONFIGURATION PAGE

in the

Developer test

The developer te st rotates the carousel stoppin g at each toner cartridge and rotating the dev eloper slee v e . F or the best vie w of the caro usel and the toner cartridge sleeves, remove the drum cartridge. The top front drawer (drum drawer) must be closed before the test can run.

Press the

displayed. Press the

ENGINE DIAGS E2:DEVELOPER

carousel and make sure that the toner cartridge developer sleeve rotates. The sequence is black followed by a pause, then magenta, cyan, and finally yellow.

The test takes approximately 35 seconds. While the developer test is running you will see the drum turn if it is installed, as well as the drive gear for the ITB.

TEM

ELECT

key until

ENGINE DIAGS DEVELOPER TEST

key to run the test. The front panel displays

while the test is running. Watch the

Diagnostics mode

Drum test

The drum test exercises the drum drive mechanism. In addition, the fuser motor is turned on to allow the lift cams for the ITB to be rotated into the ITB up position.

1 Press the I 2 Press the S

TEM

ELECT

key until

ENGINE DIAGS E3:DRUM

Watch to see if the ITB lift cams turn and if both the drum drive gear and the ITB drive gear is rotating

ENGINE DIAGS DRUM TEST

key to run the test. The front panel displays

while the test is running.

displays.

Path sensors

The path sensors test allows the paper path sen sors and s witches to be tested for correct operation. The table below shows the correlation between the identifier on the front panel and the sensor or switch it represents.

Paper path sensors and switches

Identifier Name Description

A PS8 Tray 2 paper detect sensor B PS3 Tray 1 last piece of media pulled sensor C PS4 Tray 1 paper detect sensor D SW801 Tray 2 paper size switch 2 E SW802 Tray 2 paper size switch 1 F SW803 Tray 2 paper size switch 0 G PS3001 Optional Tray 3 paper detect sensor H SW3001 Optional Tray 3 paper size switch 2 I SW3002 Optional Tray 3 paper size switch 1 J SW3003 Optional Tray 3 paper size switch 0 K PS10 Carousel position sensor

52 Chapter 2 Service tools

Paper path sensors and switches (continued)

Identifier Name Description

L PS11 N/A M N/A 500-sheet feeder: 1=installed, 0=uninstalled N PS9 Top output tray full sensor

Press the

on the front panel. Press the

A through N with a binary value below it.

When running this test, make sure the ITB drawer is installed with Tray 2 and Tray 3 (if installed) removed. In this state, the default value on the front panel should be: 0X111111110010, where the x ca n be either 0 or

. If there is any other value, then there is a possible problem. Identify

the sensor or switch in the table above and test to see if the value changes. Cassette paper-size settings f or each tra y are described in the table below.

TEM

ELECT

key until

ENGINE DIAGS PATH SENSORS

key to activate the test. The front panel will displa y

is displayed

Paper-size settings

Paper Size Tray 2 switches (DEF) Tray 3 switches (HIJ)

A4 000 000 B5 001 001 Custom (A5) 010 011* Custom (B5 ISO) 011 011* Letter 100 100 Executive 101 101 Legal 110 110 No tray installed 111 111

* These values are the same for tray 3.

Diagnostics mode

Door sensor test

The door sensor test allows service personnel to open and close doors on the printer while watching the sensor status on the front panel. Switches 4 and 5 are in series with each other, which causes the value to toggle under identifier A.

Once the door sensor test is initiated, the front panel displays the status for each sensor listed in the table below. As a door is opened and closed, the state of the sensor changes the indicator v alues on the fr ont panel.

Sensor status

Identifier Name Description

A SW4 and

SW5

B SW1 * ITB drawer switch C SW2 * Toner cartridge door * D SW3 * Drum drawer switch * E Drum detect Detect if a drum cartridge is installed F Fuser Detects if fuser is installed. Changes the

* Activates (A) when opened.

1 Press the I

TEM

on the front panel.

2 Press the S

ELECT

The front panel displays A through F with a binary value below it. All the doors and drawers should be closed. In this state, the display will show all 0’s. Open the doors and drawers one at a time to verify correct functionality. If operating correctly, the 0 will change to a 1. If a 1 is displayed with all doors and drawers closed; there is a bad switch or connection.

Front and rear door switches

state of the sensor if not detected or removed when rear door is opened and closed.

key until

ENGINE DIAGS DOOR SENSORS

key to activate the test.

is displayed

54 Chapter 2 Service tools

Formatter diagnostics

Formatter diagnostics are designed to be used b y qualified service personnel. This set of tests are designed to thoroughly test the functionality of the formatter. If all the tests pass, the formatter is working correctly and it is likely that the problem resides elsewhere. Listed below are descriptions of the formatter tests available.

CAUTION

NVRAM can be lost if the printer is turned off during testing.

Formatter diagnostics

Test Description

REPEAT If set to yes, the tests will run continuously until

interrupted

ON FAULT The following will occur for each setting:

BREAK – the test will stop when a failure occurs PAUSE – stops the test for a short period of time then resume with the remaining tests CONT – continues to execute the tests ev en when

a failure occurs

ROM CRC Tests the firmware ROM for correct functionality DRAM Tests the on-board RAM and the DIMMs SRAM 1 Tests the SRAM inside the ASIC SRAM 2 Tests the SRAM physically mounted on the

formatter

NVRAM Tests the formatter NVRAM. This test takes 15

minutes to run and should only be used when

NVRAM values are being lost. In almost all cases,

this test should never be run

EXECUTE TESTS Runs the selected tests

Diagnostics mode

Engine test

The printer has one test pattern (vertical lines). When an image defect appears, a test print can be made to identify the problem. The test print can be made by pressing the test print switch located on the right side of the printer (see figure below). A test pattern can be printed by pressing the test print switch once after the photosensitive drum has stopped and the printer has entered the standby mode. If the switch is held down, the test pattern is printed continuously. The switch can be used when paper is loaded in any tray other than Tray 1.

The engine test does the following:

• Verifies that the print engine is functioning correctly (the fo rmatter

PCB is completely bypassed during an engine test).

• Isolates printer problems.

• Checks and adjusts registration.

• Prints from Tray 2 or 3 only, not from Tray 1.

• Can be activated with the formatter PCB removed.

Note

For the printer to perform an engine test, Tray 2 or Tray 3 must be installed and loaded with paper, and the toner cartridges must be installed in the printer.

Engine test button

Location of the engine test button

56 Chapter 2 Service tools

NVRAM initialization

NVRAM initialization should always be executed after replacing firmware or the formatter board.

NVRAM initialization instructions

Before replacing the firmware, formatter board, or performing an NVRAM initialization be sure to gather and write down the information listed below.

• serial number

• total page count and color page count

– Print a configuration page to obtain both page counts and the

serial number.

• percentage of life remaining for both the transfer kit and the fuser kit

From

1 2 3

SERVICE MODE

Go to

SERVICE MENU

Use the

COUNT=XXXXXXX

Go to

FUSER MAINT COUNT=XXXXXXX

numbers shown.

keys to go to

+/-

ALUE

and write down the exact numbers shown.

NVRAM initialization

Hold down both the

lights are on, then release the keys. Press

2 3

Press

ANCEL JOB

ELECT

ANCEL JOB

on the printer display panel, press

and press

TEM

TRANSFER MAINT

and write down the exact

and

keys until all the LED

ELECT

ENU

NVRAM initialization results

• Loss of color page count (defaults to 0).

• Loss of transfer kit percentage of life remaining (defaults to 100%).

• Loss of fuser kit percentage of life remaining (defaults to 100%).

• Loss of printer serial number.

NVRAM initialization

Firmware replacement results

Note

NVRAM initialization should always be executed after replacing firmware. See “NVRAM initialization instructions” on page 57.

• Loss of color page count (defaults to 0).

• Loss of transfer kit percentage of life remaining (defaults to 100%).

• Loss of fuser kit percentage of life remaining (defaults to 100%).

• Loss of printer serial number.

• If a NVRAM initialization is not executed when firmware is replaced,

incorrect printer functionality may result.

• An NVRAM initialization aligns the firmware with the formatter.

Formatter replacement results

Note

NVRAM initialization should always be executed the first time the printer is turned on after replacing the formatter. See “NVRAM initialization instructions” on page 57.

• Loss of both color and total page counts. If not done correctly the

default is reset to 0. – NVRAM initialization results in a correct total page count.

– If an NVRAM initial ization is not done the total page co unt on the

new formatter board (usually 0) is written to the engine. This results in an incorrect page count.

• Loss of transfer kit percentage of life remaining (defaults to 100%).

• Loss of fuser kit percentage of life remaining (defaults to 100%).

• Loss of printer serial number.

• If a NVRAM initialization is not executed when formatter is replaced,

incorrect printer functionality may result.

• An NVRAM initialization aligns the firmware with the formatter.

58 Chapter 2 Service tools

Overview

Three power supplies are used to po we r v arious sections o f the printer: AC, DC, and a high-voltage power supply. This chapter details the distribution of these power supplies.

Power supply

Overview

AC/DC power supply

The low-voltage power supply circuit supplies +24 Vdc and +5 Vdc required for the printer and 3.3 and 5 Vdc required for the video controller.

+24 Vdc

• The paper pickup motor, scanner motor, and high-voltage power

supply PCB use +24 Vdc.

• The front door switch or the rear door switch is deactivated by

opening the drum cartridge drawer, ITB unit drawer, toner cartridge door, or delivery door. These switches are in series and disable the 24 Vdc when open.

+5 Vdc

• The sensors and the ICs on the DC controller PCB use +5 Vdc.

• The low-voltage power supply circuit monitors the 5 VS (volt signal)

fed back from the connector PCB to e nsure the 5 V power supply to the formatter.

+3.3 Vdc

• Formatter PCA

• DIMM

• EIO PCA

60 Chapter 3 Power supply

Overcurrent overvoltage protection

Each DC power supply circuit has an overcurrent protective function and overvoltage protective function. This prevents a power supply circuit failure by automatically interrupting the output voltage when anomalies such as a short develop on the loads that result in overcurrent flow or abnormal voltage.

Note

Protective functions remain active for 2 minutes after activation. Wait for at least 2 minutes to turn the power back on again.

If this function is activated and no DC voltage is output from the low-voltage power supply circuit:

Turn off the power switch (SW6).

Unplug the power cord.

Resolve the anomaly on the load.

Turn the power switch (SW6) on again.

Overcurrent overvoltage protection

High-voltage power supply

The printer contains two high-voltage PCBs mounted in one assembly. Together these PCBs generate the voltage supplied to the following:

• primary charging roller

• developing sleeve

• primary transfer roller

• secondary transfer roller

• ITB cleaning roller

• upper fusing roller

DC voltage or a superimposed AC voltage and DC voltage is applied to the primary charging roller, developing sleeve, and ITB cleaning roller.

Positive or negative DC voltage is applied to the primary transfer roller and secondary transfer roller. Negative DC voltage is applied to the upper fusing roller.

Protection systems

Problems on the load side, such as short-circuits, can cause an excessive flow of current from the DC power supplies or can generate abnormal voltage. When this happens, the excess-current and excess-voltage protection systems automatically shut off output voltage to protect the power supplies.

If the protection systems are activated and the power supply circuit does not output DC voltage, turn the printer off, correct the problem in the faulty load, and then turn the printer on again.

62 Chapter 3 Power supply

Overview

This chapter provides information on cabling and the printer interface.

Input/Output (I/O)

Overview

Enhanced I/O (EIO) configuration

The 4500 series printers come equipped with two enhanced input/ output (EIO) slots. These slots hold compatible external devices such as the HP JetDirect 600N Print Server. Plugging EIO cards into the slots increases the number of network interfaces available to the printer.

EIO cards can maximize printer performance when you are printing from a network. In addition, they provide the ability to place the printer anywhere on a network. This eliminates the need to attach the printer directly to a server or a workstation and enables y ou to p lace the printer closer to your network users.

The printer control panel will have an additional menu (EIO Menu) if the printer is configured with EIO cards. (See the chapter on using the printer control panel in the online user guide.)

Note

Installation of cards and network configuration should be performed by a network administrator.

HP JetDirect print servers

HP JetDirect print serv ers (network cards) can be installed in one of the printer EIO slots. These cards support multiple network protocols and operating systems. HP JetDirect print servers facilitate network management by allowing you to connect a printer directly to your network at any location. HP JetDirect print servers also support the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), which provides network managers with remote printer management and troubleshooting through HP JetAdmin software.

64 Chapter 4 Input/Output (I/O)

LocalTalk I/O

The LocalTalk interface enables you to print directly from a stand-alone Apple Macintosh computer or from a Macintosh computer on a LocalTalk network. For specific information on configuring your computer and printer to print through a LocalTalk interface, refer to the printer’s getting started guide and the

Software Installation Guide.

HP JetDirect Print Server

CPU

The formatter PCB incorporates a 133MHz RISC processor.

LocalTalk I/O

Bidirectional parallel interface

The formatter PCA receives incoming data through its bidirectional interface (IEEE 1284).

The bidirectional parallel interface (IEEE-1284 compliant) is compatible with Centronics parallel interfaces. To take advantage of its enhanced capabilities, such as bidirectional communication, the following must be provided:

• Software application support for these features.

• An IEEE-1284 compliant parallel cable with the correct pin

configuration (see the following table).

The user may configure the menu. The default setting, speeds supported by most newer computers. When set to NO, the parallel interface runs at the slower mode that is compatible for older computers. The user may also configure the item. The default setting, ON, allows for two-way parallel communications. The

HIGH SPEED

YES

, allows the I/O to run at the higher

item in the Control Panel

ADVANCED FUNCTIONS

OFF

mode disables this advanced functionality.

66 Chapter 4 Input/Output (I/O)

Parallel cable pin configuration

Use the following table to verify the correct pin configuration.

Signal name Printer pin # Computer port #

nSTROBE 15 1 DATA

DATA 1 7 3 DATA 2 8 4 DATA 3 9 5 DATA 4 10 6 DATA 5 11 7 DATA 6 12 8 DATA 7 13 9 nACKNLG 3 10 BUSY 1 11 CALL (PE) 5 12 SELECT 2 13 NAutoFd 17 14

Vdc (GND)

nFAULT 4 15 nSe/In 16 17 nINIT 14 16 PERIPHLH 36 N.C. 18

19 – 35 18 – 25

Bidirectional parallel interface

IEEE-1284 compliant parallel cables

HP helped develop the IEEE-1284 standard and is one of the first companies to introduce products that are compliant with it. HP offers the following IEEE-1284 compliant parallel cables. Each is described below.

Part number Length Connector type

C2946A 3 meters

(10 feet)

C2947A 10 meters

(33 feet)

Maximum I/O cable lengths

Host A to printer C (small) connector

Parallel (non-IEEE-1284) Parallel (IEEE-1284) with “C”

type connector

68 Chapter 4 Input/Output (I/O)

3 meters (10 feet) 10 meters (33 feet)

Configuring the computer interface

You can verify that the printer is configured properly by printing out a printer configuration page.

Note

If the printer is configured with EIO cards (for example, an HP JetDirect print server), an additional configuration page will print that provides interface configuration information.

Interpreting the printer configuration page I

The following sample illustrates a printer configuration page.

Printer configuration page

1 Printer information

firmware revision, total number of p ages printed during the lif e of the printer, and total number of color pages printed during the life of the printer.

—Lists the printer serial number, PCL/PS

Configuring the computer interface

2 Consumables: % of lif e remaining—Lists the percentage of the

estimated remaining life for the transfer kit, fuser kit, and the drum kit.

3Security—Shows whether the printer control panel is locked or

unlocked. Also shows whether the printer control panel password is enabled or disabled.

4 Density settings—Lists the current density settings. 5 Configuration menu —Lists the current settings of the configuration

menu items.

6 I/O menu—Lists the current settings of the I/O menu items. 7Paper trays—Lists the size and type of media currently configured

for each input tray. Also lists the current Tray 1 mode, A4/letter override setting, and default size setting

8Event log—Lists the last five printer events, including printer jams,

service errors, and other printer conditions. If printed while in service mode, all events (up to 50) are printed.

9 Installed options—Lists installed options such as EIO cards,

DIMMs, duplex printing accessory, and 500-sheet paper feeder.

10 Memory—Shows the total memory installed and the total memory

available in the printer. Also lists the memory allocation settings.

11 Printing menu—Lists the current settings of the printing menu

items.

70 Chapter 4 Input/Output (I/O)

Media specifications

Overview

Use media that meet the specifications listed on the following pages. By doing so, you will minimize the incidents of paper jams, prevent premature wear to the printer , and reduce repair costs . Hewlett-P a ckard recommends testing print media before buying it in large quantities.

Note

For complete paper specifications for all LaserJet printers, see the

HP LaserJet Printer Family Paper Specification Guide

Overview

Supported media weights and sizes

The table below shows the media types and sizes supported by the printer and the printer accessories. For optimum results, use conventional 75 g/m2 (20 lb) xerographic paper.

Supported media specifications

Tray Supported media Media

specifications

Tray 1

Pape r

A4/Letter Legal Executive JIS B5 A5

Custom Minimum Size: 76 x 127 mm (3 x 5 in) Maximum Size: 216 x 356 mm (8.5 x 14)

Transparencies Glossy Paper

Envelopes (Tray 1 only)

Com10

Monarch

B5 (JIS) Labels

(Tray 1 only) Cardstock

(Postcards)

(Tray 1 only)

Single-sided:

60 to 159 g/m (16 to 42 lb)

If less than or equal to 148 mm width:

60 to 176 g/m (16 to 47lb)

If more than or equal to 148 mm width:

60 to 176 g/m (16 to 36lb)

Two-sided:

64 to 105 g/m (17 to 28 lb)

0.13 mm (5 mil) 120 g/m

(32 lb/80 lb text) Maximum weight:

90 g/m

Maximum weight:

176 g/m

Maximum size:

200 mm x 148 mm (7.87 in x 5.82 in)

(24 lb)

(47 lb)

Capacity

150 sheets of

75 g/m2 (20 lb) paper

Limit of 50 Limit of 50 sheets

Limit of 10

Limit of 50

Do not load more than the maximum stack height of 15 mm (0.6 in)

72 Chapter 5 Media specifications

Supported media specifications (continued)

Tray Supported media Media

Capacity

specifications

Tray 2*

Tray 3* (optional)

Duplex printing accessory (optional)

Pape r

A4/Letter Legal Executive JIS B5 A5 Custom (B5 ISO)**

Transparencies Glossy Paper

Pape r

A4/Letter Legal Executive JIS B5 Custom (B5 ISO)**

Transparencies Glossy Paper

Paper

A4/Letter Legal Executive JIS B5

60 to 105 g/m (16 to 28 lb)

0.13 mm (5 mil)

120 g/m (32 lb/80 lb text)

60 to 105 g/m (16 to 28 lb)

0.13 mm (5 mil)

120 g/m (32 lb/80 lb text)

64 to 105 g/m (17 to 28 lb)

250 sheets of 75 g/m

Limit of 50 Limit of 200 sheets

500 sheets of 75 g/m2 (20 lb) paper

Limit of 50 Limit of 500 sheets

(20 lb) paper

*Trays 2 and 3 do not support the range of custom sizes available in Tray 1. **Trays 2 and 3 use “custom” size—specifically for B5 ISO.

Note

Use only HP-supported transparencies (HP part number C2934A, letter size; C2936A, A4 size)

Supported media weights and sizes

Media requirements

Selecting print media

You can use many types of paper and other print media with this printer . This section provides guidelines and specifications for selecting and using different print media.

For optimum results, use conventional 75 g/m paper. Verify that the paper is of good quality and is free of cuts, nicks, tears, spots, loose particles, dust, wrinkles, curls, or bent edges. See “Supported media weights and sizes” on page 72.

Before purchasing any media or specialized forms in quantity , v erify that your paper supplier obtains and understands the print media requirements specified in the

Guide

. The guide is available through HP Direct. See “Services and

support resources” in Chapter 11. It is possible that media could meet all of the guidelines in this chapter

and still not print satisfactorily. This may be due to abnormal characteristics of the printing environment or to other variables over which Hewlett-Packard has no control (for example, extremes in temperature and humidity).

Hewlett-Packard recommends testing any media before buying it in large quantities.

HP LaserJet Family Paper Specification

CAUTION

Using media that does not conform to the specifications listed here or in the problems that require service. This service is not covered by the Hewlett-Packard warranty or service agreements.

HP LaserJet Family Paper Specification Guide

(20 lb) xerographic

can cause

74 Chapter 5 Media specifications

Non-supported media

Use the following guidelines to avoid poor print quality or damage to your printer:

• Do not use paper that is too rough.

• Do not use paper that is embossed or coated unless it is specificall y

recommended for use in this printer.

• Do not use paper with cutouts or perforations other than standard 3-

hole punched paper.

• Do not use multipart forms.

• Do not use paper with irregularities such as tabs or staples.

• Do not use letterhead paper with low temperature dyes or

thermography. Preprinted forms or letterhead must use inks that can tolerate temperatures of 190° C (374° F) for 0.1 second.

• Do not use any media that produces hazardous emissions, or that

melts, offsets, or discolors when exposed to 190° C (374° F) for 0.1 second.

• Do not use paper that has already been printed on or fed through a

photocopier or printer.

• Do not use paper with a watermark if you are printing solid patterns.

Printing on special media

Use these guidelines when printing on special types of media. For optimum results, use conventional 75 g/m

paper. Verify that the paper is of good quality and is free of cuts, nicks, tears, spots, loose particles, dust, wrinkles, curl s, or bent edges.

(20 lb) xerographic

Media requirements

Transparencies

Note

Hewlett-Packard recommends using HP Color LaserJet Transparencies with this printer. HP products are designed to work together for optimum printing results.

When printing on transparencies, use these tips to prevent printer malfunctions caused by transparencies:

• Do not send transparencies from Tray 2 to the rear output bin. The

toner will be warm and may cause the transparencies to stick together.

• Send transparencies to the top output bin.

• Handle transparencies using the edges. Oils from your fingers can

remain on the transparency and can cause print quality problems.

• Use transparencies with the correct resistivity.

• Use transparencies that meet HP specifications for fusing

compatibility.

• Use only overhead transparencies recommended for use in this

printer. The following table gives the recommended specifications for transparencies.

Printing on transparencies

Description Specifications

Electrical surface 2.0 to 15 x 10 ohms per square inch Resistivity Overhead transparencies must be able to

withstand the heat and pressure of the fusing process.

Fusing compatibility Materials must not discolor, melt, offset, or

release hazardous emissions when heated to 190° C (374° F) for 0.1 second.

Caliper (thickness) 0.12 mm (0.0048 in) to 0.13 mm (0.0052 in)

76 Chapter 5 Media specifications

Glossy paper

For optimum results when printing on glossy paper, select the glossy print setting in the printer driver. You can also use the printer control panel to set the media type to Because this setting affects all print jobs, it is important to return the printer to its original settings once your job has printed. See the section in the online user guide on configuring input trays.

for the input tray you are using.

Gloss

Colored paper

Colored paper should be of the same high quality as white xerographic paper. Pigments used must be able to withstand the printer’s fusing temperature of 190° C (374° F) f or 0.1 seco nd without de terioration. Do not use paper with a colored coating that was added after the paper was produced.

The printer creates colors by printing patterns o f dots, overlaying and varying their spacing to produce various colors. Varying the shade or color of your paper will affect the shades of your printed colors.

Heavy paper

CAUTION

Do not use paper that is heavier than the recommended paper specification for this printer. Doing so can cause misfeeds, paper jams, inferior print quality, and excessive mechanical wear.

Use Tray 1 for paper that is heavier than 105 g/m results when printing on heavy paper, select the heavy print setting in the printer driver. You can also use the printer control panel to set the media type to setting adjustment affects all print jobs, it is important to return the printer to its original settings once your job has printed.

for the input tray you are using. Because the

Heavy

(28 lb). For optimum

Media requirements

Envelopes

Envelopes can only be printed from Tray 1. For information on loading envelopes, see the section in the online user guide on loading envelopes into Tray 1.

Adhering to the following guidelines will help ensure proper printing of envelopes and help prevent printer jams:

• Do not load more than 10 envelopes into Tray 1.

• The weight rating of envelopes should not exceed 90 g/m

(24 lb).

• Envelopes should be flat.

• Envelopes must not be wrinkled, nicked, or otherwise damaged.

• Envelopes with peel-off adhesi ve strips must use adhesiv es that can

withstand the heat and pressures of the printer’s fusing process.

• Envelopes should be loaded with the flaps facing away from the

printer and toward the left side of the printer.

CAUTION

To prevent severe printer damage, do not use envelopes that have windows, clasps, snaps, or synthetic materials.

Loading envelopes—envelope flaps at left, face down

78 Chapter 5 Media specifications

Labels

Note

T o print labels , Hewlett-P ackard recommends con figuring Tray 1 as a cassette and setting the tray’s media type to control panel.

When printing labels, use the following guidelines:

• Verify that the label’ s adhesive material can tolerate temperatures of

190° C (374° F) for 0.1 second.

• Verify that adhesive material is not exposed between the labels.

Exposed areas can cause labels to peel off during printing, which can cause printer jams. Exposed adhesive can also cause damage to printer components.

• Do not re-feed a sheet of labels.

• Verify that labels lie flat.

• Do not use labels that are wrinkled, bubbled, or otherwise damaged.

Preprinted forms and letterhead

Observe the following guidelines for best results with preprinted forms and letterhead:

• Forms and letterhead must be printed with heat-resistant inks that

will not melt, vaporize, or release hazardous emissions when subjected to the printer’s fusing temperature of approximately 190° C (374° F) for 0.1 second.

• Inks must be non-flammable and should not adversely affect any

printer rollers.

• Forms and letterhead should be sealed in a moisture-proof

wrapping to prevent changes during storage.

• Before you load preprinted paper such as forms and letterhead,

verify that the ink on the paper is dry. During the fusing process, wet ink can come off the preprinted paper.

Labels

in the printer

Media requirements

Recycled paper

This printer supports the use of recycled paper. Recycled paper must meet the same specifications as standard paper (refer to the

HP LaserJet Family Paper Specification Guide

through HP Direct. See Appendix D in the online user guide for ordering information. Hewlett-Packard recommends that recycled paper contain no more than 5 percent groundwood.

). The guide is available

80 Chapter 5 Media specifications

General tips

Paper curl

Paper curl results from both the heating process used to bond the print image (toner) to the paper and from the path that the paper must negotiate through the printer.

Take the followin

Turn the paper over in the input tray. Some paper packages (reams)

have an arrow indicating the preferred printing side. Experiment to determine which orientation yields the least curl.

Try a different output paper path (if available for your printer). Using

the face-up output path may yield more acceptable results than the standard face-down output bin.

Protect the paper from adverse environmental conditions prior to

use. Paper designed f or la ser printing has an initial moi sture content of 4-6 percent, which is maintained as long as it is stored properly. Once the paper has been removed from its packaging it will dry out or absorb additional moisture, depending on the environment. Excess moisture in the paper will increase the amount of curl.

Try a different type or brand of paper. Not all paper is designed for

laser printing. Heavy toner coverage can result in more curl.

Much of the paper curl that is induced by the laser printer fusing process will tend to relax within the first 24 hours following printing. However, the curl on the leading edge of the page may remain longer because the leading edge tends to remain in contact with the fusing roller for longer periods.

actions to help reduce paper curl:

General tips

82 Chapter 5 Media specifications

Toner cartridge

Overview

This chapter provides information on toner cartridges and their use. Hewlett-Packard recommends using HP toner cartridges, which are designed specifically to enhance the output from the HP LaserJet family of printers.

information

Overview

Approximate replacement intervals for consumable items

You can identify consumable items by their labeling and their blue plastic handles. For instructions on installing consumables, see the installation guides supplied with each consumable item.

The following table lists the replacement intervals for printer consumable items and the control panel messages that prompt you when it is time to replace each item.

Approximate consumable replacement time

Consumable Printer

Page count Approximate

message

Black (K) toner cartridge

TONER K LOW

9,000 pages

TONER K OUT

Cyan (C) toner cartridge

TONER C LOW

6,000 pages

TONER C OUT

Magenta (M) toner cartridge

TONER M LOW

6,000 pages

TONER M OUT

Yellow (Y) toner cartridge

TONER Y LOW

6,000 pages

TONER Y OUT

Drum kit

DRUM KIT LOW

DRUM KIT OUT

25,000 black and white only pages, or 6,250 color pages.

REPLACE DRUM KIT

84 Chapter 6 Toner cartridge information

time period

4 months

2.5 months

12.5 months for black and white only pages, or 3 months for color pages.

Approximate consumable replacement time (continued)

Consumable Printer

message

Transfer kit

TRANSFER KIT LOW

TRANSFER KIT

Page count Approximate

time period

100,000 black and white only pages, or 25,000 color pages.

50 months for black and white only pages, or 12.5 months for color pages.

OUT REPLACE KIT

Fuser kit

FUSER KIT

LOW FUSER KIT OUT

100,000 black and white only pages, or 50,000 color pages.

REPLACE KIT

1 The approximate average A4/letter-size page count is based on 5% coverage

of individual toner colors. Page counts are only estimations; usage conditions and print patterns can cause results to vary.

2 Approximate lives are based on 2,000 pages per month.

50 months for black and white only pages, or 25 months for color pages.

CAUTION

Hewlett-Pac kard recommends the use of HP products in this printer. Use of non-HP products may cause problems requiring service that is not covered by the Hewlett-Packard warranty or service agreements.

Approximate replacement intervals for consumable items

Potential toner cartridge issues

Banding

When printing with a laser printer, the toner is applied across the page in horizontal strips. The page is moved through the printer and toner is continually applied. When printing text or black image pages, a large amount of toner is deposited on the page. As the amount of toner deposited on the page decreases, slight speed variations become more apparent. As the resolution (dots per inch) and the speed (pages per minute) increase, a variation in pattern intensity may appear on the page as lines or bands.

The bands are more visible in certain grayscale patterns. High speed printers that are capable of printing high resolution grayscale patterns are more likely to display the pattern variations. Changing the gra yscale pattern or reducing the resolution may significantly reduce the amount of banding that occurs.

Character voids

Small gaps or voids may appear in some of the characters when printing on media other than standard photocopier paper. These “character voids” occur because some print media does not accept the transfer of toner as well as others.

To minimize the occurrence of character voids, avoid media with a rough finish. Use media that is within the Hewlett-Packard paper specifications listed in the user guide, service manual, or

Family Paper Specification Guide

will consist of large inconsistencies. If the finish is too smooth, toner will not adhere well. Adjusting the print density may affect the severity of character voids.

. If the finish is too rough, the surface

HP LaserJet

86 Chapter 6 Toner cartridge information

Toner cracking

When the paper is folded and the crease aligns with a line of text, it is possible with certain types of paper for the text to break along the line, giving the appearance of a white line through the text. Papers that do not meet the smoothness (100-250 Sheffield, 100-500 Bendtsen) or wax pick (>11 Dennison) are likely to exhibit this effect more than others.

Toner in the HP LaserJet printers is composed of minute particles of pigmented plastic material (styrene) and iron oxide. When the toner is subjected to the fusing temperature, these individual iron-impregnated plastic particles become part of a larger plastic image on the page. When the printed page is subsequently folded, the plastic image must also give, in some fashion, to accommodate the fold. If the print image has been well-set into the paper, this resulting break in the plastic will not be apparent. Howev er , if the toner is unabl e to adequately penetr ate the paper fibers or if, in the process of folding the paper, the paper fibers behind the toner break awa y from the page itself , the result will be a “white line” through the image. There are several ways to minimize this effect:

• Ensure that the paper being used meets all of the specifications

provided in the

; in particular the smoothness and wax pick.

Guide

• For the reasons listed earlier, a narrower character-stroke width

might also help.

In xerographic (laser) printing, using paper that has a laid finish often causes problems. The surface roughness of the paper is often responsible for the problems.

Paper that is stiffer than xerographic paper also causes problems. Stiff papers do not fold well. When stiff paper is folded and a toner image is applied to the paper’s surface, the problems are even worse.

HP LaserJet Printer Family Paper Specification

Potential toner cartridge issues

Transfer of toner image (post-image transfer)

After printing a document on a HP LaserJet printer, folding it, and sending it through the mail, you might observe that a portion of the print image was transferred to opposing surfaces of the folded document.

The laser printing process uses a pigmented plastic powder (toner) to form a print image that is first transferred to a sheet of paper (or other print medium) and then melted (fused) onto the surface of the paper to form a permanent image. Though paper is usually thought of as being “soft,” it is actually quite abrasive. When the printed page is folded, movement under pressure between a paper surface and the toner image may cause the paper to abrade (scratch) the toner, causing a transfer of the toner material onto the opposing surface of the paper. This can be demonstrated by rubbing a print image against (or into) a clean sheet of paper.

Some machinery, such as that used by the U.S. Postal Service to sort mail, can apply the necessary pressure and agitation to cause this toner image transfer phenomenon.

To minimize this effect:

• Minimize the amount (or height) of toner used to produce the print

image.

• Use a paper that is less abrasive.

• Ensure optimal fusing of the toner (print) image to the paper.

88 Chapter 6 Toner cartridge information

HP LaserJet printers have been designed for optimum results with xerographic (laser) bond papers such as HP Multipurpose paper. The properties of this type of paper (for example, surface roughness, composition, and moisture content) are such that the other causes of potential toner transfer are minimized. Photocopy papers are typically less abrasive than other types of paper (such as writing bond) and are also formulated to ensure optimal fusing of the toner image. Using other types of paper will generally yield less than optimal results in laser printers. For help in selecting paper suitable for use in the HPLaserJet printers, refer to the

. This guide can be ordered by calling HP Parts Direct at (800)

Guide

227-8164 in the U.S., or HP Distribution at (970) 339-7009. Because of the way that laser printing is accomplished, currently there

is no way to entirely eliminate the possibility of toner transfer. However, using these techniques should yield results that are more satisfactory and will often reduce the problem to imperceptible levels.

HP LaserJet Printer Family Paper Specification

Gray background on envelopes

Poor print quality is normally the result of using envelopes that are of the incorrect weight or finish. The paper used to construct the envelope may be embossed; or may be too heavy, too rough or too slick; or may be made in such a way that it is incompatible with the high temperatures encountered in toner fusing. The result is that the toner does not adhere well to the surface. Also, on heavier envelopes, a gray background may appear on the front (or print side) of the envelope.

Potential toner cartridge issues

HP PLANET PARTNERS

The U. S., Canada, Eu rope, and Australia now have HP toner cartridge recycling programs. The used toner cartridge should be placed in the wrapper and box that held the new cartridge and sent back for recycling.

HP Planet Partners

U.S. A brochure explaining the recycling program in the U.S., part

AUSTRALIA Australian customers can send their toner cartridges to their local

EUROPE The recycling program in Europe currently includes these

number 5091-1325EUS, can be ordered. The customer returns used toner cartridges via UPS at no cost to the customer using shipping labels included in the brochure. The toner cartridges can be shipped one at a time or in volume shipments. Some of the parts are recycled to make new cartridges. Other parts are melted for re-use as raw materials. If the customer has any questions, and to receive the free recycling brochure, refer them to the Customer Information Center at (800) 752-0900.

HP dealer. If more than 30 cartridges a month are used, contact the local dealer for instructions on how to have the cartridges picked up directly from the customer's site. For further information, contact the dealer or local HP sales office.

countries: Germany, Switzerland, Austria, United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Sweden. If more than 30 cartridges a month are used, contact the local dealer for instructions on how to have the cartridges picked up directly from the customer's site. For further information, contact the dealer or local HP sales office.

90 Chapter 6 Toner cartridge information

HP Planet Partners (continued)

CANADA Canada uses Federal Express for their recycling program. At least

eight but no more than 40 Toner Cartridges can be shipped at one time. Shipments of less than eight cartridges are at the shipper's expense. Call Federal Express at (800) GoFedEx; (800) 463-3339 to arrange for free pickup of the bundled cartridges. Fill out a Federal Express Waybill or obtain a preprinted one from your dealer.

In Alberta, B.C., Manitoba, NWT, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon, send the bundles to: Hewlett-Packard Toner Cartridge Recycling Program 6551 Westminister Hwy, Unit 160 Richmond, B.C. V7C 4V4 Acct. No.: 1246-1740-5

In the Atlantic provinces, Ontario, and Quebec send the bundles to: Hewlett-Packard Toner Cartridge Recycling Program 6600 Goreway Drive, Unit C Mississauga, Ontario L4V 1S6 Acct. No.: 1246-1740-5

For more information, call: Canada wide: (800) 387-3867 Dept. 129; Toronto: (800) 678-9430 Ext. 4981

Note

Recycling information is included in the toner cartridge package.

For additional information about HP corporate-wide, environmental policies, practices, and awards, visit

www.hp.com

HP PLANET PARTNERS

Toner cartridge refill statement

Hewlett-Packard toner cartridges have been designed to maximize the reliability of the HP LaserJet printer by including all of the components that need frequent replacement or adjustment within the cartridge. While we recognize that all parts of this critical printer mechanism will not wear consistently, the HP toner cartridge has been designed to optimize the exceptional print quality that is synonymous with the HP LaserJet printer name. While Hewlett-Packard does not prohibit the use of refilled toner cartridges during the warranty period or under a maintenance contract, we also do not recommend their use for the following reasons:

1 The HP LaserJet toner cartridge is not designed to be refilled or

remanufactured.

2 Hewlett-Packard has no control or process to ensure that a refilled

toner cartridge will functio n at the high level of reliability of a new HP LaserJet toner cartridge. Hewlett-Packard also cannot predict what the long-term effect on the printer's reliability could be from using different toner formulations found in refilled cartridges. Because the HP LaserJet printer has the highest reliability reputation in the industry, we are concerned about any usage that might affect this reputation.

3 Hewlett-Packard has no control over the actual print quality of a

refilled toner cartridge. The print quality of the HP LaserJet toner cartridge directly influences the customer's perception of the HP LaserJet printer itself. The high print quality of the HP LaserJet printer is one of the primary reasons for the success of the product and we are keenly interested in maintaining that image.

92 Chapter 6 Toner cartridge information

The entire family of HP LaserJet printers is covered under a standard one-year warranty from the date of purchase. Hewlett-Packard offers optional maintenance contracts after the one-year warranty expires. The use of refilled toner cartridges alone does not affect either the warranty or any maintenance contract purchased from HP.

a HP LaserJet printer failure or damage is found to be directly attributed to the use of a refilled toner cartridge, the repair will not be covered under the warranty or by the maintenance contract

Rather, standard time and material charges will be applied to service the printer for that particular failure or damage.

Hewlett-Packard is constantly striving to provide the highest quality printer products possible. The HP LaserJet printer family was designed for optimum output performance when the printing mechanism is periodically replaced with a new HP toner cartridge. The HP toner cartridge is designed specifically to enhance the output from the HP family of printers. We know that the highest quality print results will be obtained when new HP toner cartridges are used with HP LaserJet printers.

However, if

Toner cartridge refill statement

94 Chapter 6 Toner cartridge information

HP CLJ 4500, CLJ family Service Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Ordering other manuals

Supported products

Overview

Pre-troubleshooting checklist

Control panel messages

Alphabetical messages

Numerical messages

Troubleshooting paper path problems

Paper jams

Paper jam locations

General paper path checklist

Print media checklist

Service tools

Overview

Cold Reset

To perform a cold reset

Service mode

To access service mode

Service menu items

Registration page

Diagnostics mode

Accessing diagnostics

Engine diagnostics

Formatter diagnostics

NVRAM initialization

NVRAM initialization instructions

Overview

Power supply

AC/DC power supply

Overcurrent overvoltage protection

High-voltage power supply

Protection systems

Overview

Input/Output (I/O)

Enhanced I/O (EIO) configuration

HP JetDirect print servers

LocalTalk I/O

Bidirectional parallel interface

IEEE-1284 compliant parallel cables

Maximum I/O cable lengths

Configuring the computer interface

Interpreting the printer configuration page I

Media specifications

Overview

Supported media weights and sizes

Media requirements

Selecting print media

Non-supported media

Printing on special media

Transparencies

Glossy paper

Colored paper

Heavy paper

Envelopes

Labels

Recycled paper

General tips

Paper curl

Overview

Potential toner cartridge issues

Banding

Character voids

Toner cracking

Transfer of toner image (post-image transfer)

Gray background on envelopes

HP PLANET PARTNERS

Toner cartridge refill statement