Honeywell PC43tt Plus error 0513: Ribbon Out
The Honeywell PC43tt Plus error 0513 signals that the printer is not detecting the thermal transfer ribbon. This condition usually occurs if the ribbon is empty, torn, or not correctly threaded through the sensor. It is a common supply-related issue that can be easily addressed by checking the media path.
Common causes
- 1Thermal transfer ribbon exhausted.
- 2Ribbon installed incorrectly (dull side towards printhead).
- 3Dirty ribbon supply sensor.
- 4Ribbon breakage caused by improper printhead temperature.
Solutions
Quick Diagnostic
The 0513 error occurs when the printer senses a ribbon-out status. Check the internal supply spool to see if the ribbon has run out or if the film has snapped during operation.Step-by-Step Solution
- Open the printer's top cover.
- Inspect the ribbon spool for remaining supply and tension.
- Confirm the ribbon is correctly placed in the guide path of the sensor.
- Close the lid and press the status button to resume printing.
Prevention and Maintenance
Perform regular cleaning of the printhead and rollers. Residual adhesive or dust on the sensors can lead to false out-of-ribbon reports.When to Call a Technician
If you have verified the ribbon is loaded correctly and the error persists, the ribbon supply sensor may have failed and requires hardware replacement.Device Specs
- Technology: Thermal Transfer / Direct Thermal
- Speed: Up to 203 mm/s
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, WiFi
- Consumables: PC43 ribbon series (Wax, Resin, Wax-Resin)
- Recommended Use: Distribution centers and retail
- Official Drivers / Firmware
Steps to follow
- 1
Check ribbon
Open the cover and ensure the thermal ribbon is correctly seated and not torn.
- 2
Sensor check
Verify the ribbon is correctly threaded through the ribbon detection sensor.
- 3
Restart
Press the resume button on the control panel to continue printing.
Frequently asked questions
It is an alert indicating that the printer is out of thermal transfer ribbon.
Yes, the printer cannot print labels in thermal transfer mode until the ribbon is replaced.
Use PC43-compatible thermal ribbons; check your required width and material type.
Regularly clean the sensors and rollers with an isopropyl alcohol swab.