- Problem #1: Paper Jams and Background Scattering
- Problem #2: Toner is Smearing or not Adhering to the Page
- Problem #3: Printer Is Not Printing from the Expected Tray
- Problem #4: Can’t Find a Driver for a Particular Operating System
- Problem #5: The Printer Is Displaying a 50.4 Error Message
- Problem #6: The Printer Is Displaying a 79 Error Message
- Problem #7: Connectivity Issues
In today’s digital age, laser printers have become an indispensable tool for businesses and professional individuals. Laser printers are a popular choice for offices due to their efficient, low-cost, and reliable printing. However, like any other technology, businesses do experience some common laser printing problems, leading to various bottlenecks in the workflow. In this guide, we’ll explore some common ways to troubleshoot laser printer problems and practical solutions to troubleshoot and resolve them.
Common Laser Printer Problems and Its Solutions
The following section will highlight some common laser printer issues and their solutions to help you quickly resume your pending tasks.
Problem #1: Paper Jams and Background Scattering
Paper jams and background scattering are some of the most common printer problems in both laser and inkjet printers. This printing problem occurs due to dust, wear and tear of rollers and fusers, or placement of incorrect paper type. Solution: Frequently clean your printer and replace any broken rollers or fusers. Also, check the paperweight specification in the printer’s manual.
Problem #2: Toner is Smearing or not Adhering to the Page
An old fuser assembly or defective toner cartridge can cause toner smearing or toner powder not to stick to the paper. Both of these problems are very common in laser printers and can easily be fixed. Solution: Try removing the toner from the printer and shake it side by side slowly (be careful of the toner spill). If it doesn’t resolve the problem, replacing the toner cartridge is the best option.
Problem #3: Printer Is Not Printing from the Expected Tray
This problem arises due to misconfiguration in the printer’s setting or misalignment of paper on the paper tray. Solution: This problem is easily fixable by changing the printer paper tray settings. Open your printer settings and follow these steps: Printing PC > Print Properties > Tray settings and select the right paper tray setting to align with your paper type and size. If the problem continues, check the printer paper tray specifications and change the paper if it doesn’t match the required specifications.
Problem #4: Can’t Find a Driver for a Particular Operating System
Finding the correct driver for specific printer types and operating systems takes a lot of time and effort. It is hard to determine the correct updated version of the printer driver for their system, leading to some inaccessible features and add-ons like Automatic Document Feeder (ADF), duplexer, and more. Solution: It is best to consult the printer manual or find resources on your respective printer model on the official brand website. Also, you can contact the printer’s helpline to guide you through this difficult process step-by-step.
Problem #5: The Printer Is Displaying a 50.4 Error Message
Error 50.4 means the printer isn’t getting the electrical surges required to warm the fuser assembly. This happens when your printer is connected to a UPS or power strip. Solution: Simply, unplug your LaserJet printer from UPS and plug it directly into a wall outlet as printers have built-in surge protectors pre-installed.
Problem #6: The Printer Is Displaying a 79 Error Message
When the system displays error 79 during printing, it is due to a problem with the network printer server. This happens if one of the printer components fails such as MIO cards or formatter boards. Also, sometimes this error pops up due to impending printer jobs on the queue. Solution: First, clear your printing queue from the printer settings. If the problem continues then contact your printer manufacturer for possible hardware faults.
Problem #7: Connectivity Issues
One of the most recurrent and common laser printer problems is connectivity issues. Normally, the problem arises even in the most secure wireless network due to multiple reasons. For example, the printer may not be compatible with (802.11) Wi-Fi protocol or have damaged network cards. Solution: First check your printer specification to see if it offers wireless printing. Secondly, the problem may be caused by the Wi-Fi network, and then troubleshooting the wireless router will fix the problem. If the problem persists then you may need to set up the wireless printer again. In case everything fails, try replacing the network card adapters or contact your respective printer helpline.
Frequently Ask Questions:
How do I know if my laser printer is out of toner?
You can check the toner gauge from your respective printer software, or if you notice streaks on the page your toner is running low.
How Often Do You Have to Replace Toner in Laser Printers?
Generally, the laser printer toner cartridge should be replaced after 2000 or 3000 prints. However, this range varies from model to model, check printers guidelines for more help.
Is a Laser Printer more Expensive than an InkJet Printer?
Laser printers normally cost more upfront than inkjet printers. However, In recent years, some older and refurbished laser printers have lowered. Now, you can find multifunction laser printers for a price comparable to inkjet printers. Computing Worlds offers a wide range of new, used, and refurbished laser printers for sale at competitive prices. Also, you can request a free bulk quote for the required printers and their accessories.
Laser printers offer the best and most cost-effective printing solutions for enterprises. Some of the best HP laser printers may have some common laser printing problems due to misconfiguration or carelessness. However, fixing laser printer problems is quick and easy due to countless solutions and tools such as printer maintenance kits. The best precaution you can take is to evaluate the pros and cons of laser printers and compare them with your needs and budget. Most printer problems are solvable if you consider some things before buying printers such as wireless capabilities, duplex printing, and more.
This marks the end of troubleshooting common laser printer problems, for more information about printers stay connected to the Computing Worlds blog.
