1005PX4i

Honeywell PX4i Error 1005 | Out of Ribbon Fix

Error code 1005 on the Honeywell PX4i industrial printer indicates that the device detects a depleted thermal transfer ribbon or a rotation halt. This safety lockout halts current print runs to avoid friction damage on the printhead element.

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Common causes

  • 1The thermal transfer ribbon is physically torn or fully depleted.
  • 2The ribbon sensor or core assembly is coated with adhesive residue.
  • 3Firmware is set to Thermal Transfer while using Direct Thermal media (or vice versa).

Solutions

Troubleshooting Out of Ribbon Error 1005

This fault is triggered when the physical ribbon runs out, is threaded incorrectly, or when paper/adhesive dust obscures the optical rotation sensor.

Solution 1: Verify Ribbon Path and Core Tension

An slipping ribbon spindle will trigger a false empty alert.
  • Open the side compartment door and disengage the printhead assembly.
  • Ensure the ribbon paths align exactly with the diagram affixed inside the media cover.
  • Check that the cardboard ribbon cores fit tightly over the supply and take-up spindles without slipping.

Solution 2: Set Correct Printing Method in Firmware

If you print without ribbon on direct thermal stock, a mismatch in media configuration will force the printer to look for a ribbon spin.
  • Open the LCD control panel menu.
  • Navigate to Settings > Media > Paper Type.
  • For ribbonless media, set the selection to Direct Thermal to turn off the ribbon sensors.
  • If you use ribbon, verify it is set to Thermal Transfer.

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Confirm Ribbon loading

    Lift the printhead and inspect the ribbon alignment to ensure it follows the specified hardware diagram.

  2. 2

    Clean optical spindle sensors

    Clean dust buildup off the optical sensor path using compressed air or a swab slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol.

  3. 3

    Verify paper type parameter

    Access the console or printer properties in your driver to confirm the Paper Type matches your physical media.

Frequently asked questions

This usually happens if the cardboard ribbon roll is slightly oversized and slips over the supply reel, preventing the sensor from detecting proper mechanical spindle rotation.