e-11PC42t Plus IV

Honeywell PC42t Plus IV Error E-11: Ribbon Failure

The Honeywell PC42t Plus IV error E-11 is a fault related to the ribbon (thermal transfer tape) detection. This alert is activated when the sensor does not detect the presence of the consumable or when the tape is exhausted or improperly installed. Correcting the tension and position of the tape usually suffices.

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Common causes

  • 1Exhausted or improperly placed ribbon.
  • 2Dirty ribbon sensor.
  • 3Incorrect ribbon tension causing slippage.
  • 4Ribbon sensor misaligned due to vibration.

Solutions

Quick Diagnosis

The E-11 error means the ribbon sensor is not receiving the appropriate presence signal.

Step-by-Step Solution

  1. Verification: Make sure the ink side of the ribbon is correctly oriented toward the label material.
  2. Tensioning: Rewind the ribbon so it is firm and wrinkle-free between the cores.
  3. Calibration: Press the paper feed button for 3 seconds so the sensor recalibrates the material presence.

Maintenance and Prevention

Clean the printhead and ribbon sensor periodically with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol.

When to Call a Technician

If the error persists after using a new ribbon and cleaning the sensor, the ribbon sensor may be defective.

Device Technical Specs

  • Technology: Thermal Transfer
  • Speed: 101.6 mm/s
  • Connectivity: USB
  • Consumable: 1/2-inch Ribbon
  • Support: Honeywell Support.

Frequently asked questions

The E-11 indicates the printer does not detect the ribbon or the ribbon is improperly placed in front of the end-of-ribbon sensor.

No; simply verify that the ribbon sensor is clean and the ribbon is tensioned correctly.

Uses wax, wax-resin, or resin ribbons compatible with 1-inch cores.

Ensure you adjust the ribbon guides so it does not oscillate during printing.