5100PIXMA TR8620a

Canon PIXMA TR8620a Error 5100: Carriage Issues

Canon PIXMA TR8620a error 5100 points to a failure in the ink carriage movement. If you wonder why does my Canon PIXMA TR8620a show error 5100, the carriage path is likely obstructed or the encoder strip (the transparent plastic belt behind the carriage) is smudged. Proper calibration depends on a perfectly clean encoder strip for accurate positioning.

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Common causes

  • 1Physical Obstruction: Paper jams interfering with the carriage.
  • 2Encoder Dirty: Smudged transparent positioning strip.
  • 3Rail Friction: Dust buildup reducing rail slickness.
  • 4Misalignment: Impact damage pushing the carriage off track.

Solutions

Quick Diagnosis

Error 5100 stops the printer mid-job. If you hear loud clicking or thudding sounds, the carriage is physically hitting an obstruction or missing its position sensors.

Step-by-step Solution

  1. Shutdown: Turn off the power and disconnect the cable.
  2. Clear Track: Inspect under the carriage for paper remnants or sticky label residues.
  3. Clean Encoder: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to gently clean the transparent encoder strip.
  4. Restart: Turn the unit back on and check for fluid movement.

Prevention and Maintenance

Do not use liquid chemicals on the encoder strip, just a dry cloth. Keep the surrounding area free of dust to maintain movement precision.

When to Call a Technician

If the carriage strikes the printer ends forcefully during initialization, the logic board or drive motor may have failed.

Equipment Technical Data

  • Technology: Thermal Inkjet
  • Print Speed: 15 ipm
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet
  • Capacity: 200 sheets
  • Compatible Consumables: CLI-281 / PGI-280 series
  • Recommended Use: Home / Small office
  • Official Drivers / firmware

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Power Off

    Turn off and unplug the printer immediately.

  2. 2

    Check Obstacles

    Search for small paper pieces or labels in the carriage track.

  3. 3

    Clean Encoder

    Gently clean the transparent encoder strip with a dry, soft cloth.

Frequently asked questions

This error means the print carriage cannot move freely due to an obstruction or debris.

Yes, forcing the carriage can damage the motor.

No, this is a mechanical error, not an ink-related one.

Ensure paper is properly loaded and free of adhesives.