e002TEC B-SA4T

Toshiba TEC B-SA4T Error E002: Ribbon Out

The Toshiba TEC B-SA4T error E002 indicates that the printer is out of ribbon or the ribbon supply is not moving correctly. This error prevents the system from continuing with thermal transfer jobs. Knowing how to troubleshoot this ribbon-out condition ensures minimal downtime during label production.

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Common causes

  • 1Actual depletion of the thermal transfer ribbon roll.
  • 2Insufficient tension on the ribbon core.
  • 3Sensor debris preventing the rotation detection of the ribbon.
  • 4Wrong printer mode configuration (expecting ribbon in Direct Thermal mode).

Solutions

Diagnóstico rápido

The E002 error is straightforward: the printer isn't sensing ribbon movement. First, inspect if the ribbon roll has run out or if it has become slack, causing the pickup spindle to stop rotating.

Solución paso a paso

  1. Open printhead: Lift the top mechanism to access the ribbon spindles.
  2. Verify condition: Check if the ribbon has run out or if the tension is loose.
  3. Replace consumable: Remove the empty core and install a new ribbon roll, ensuring proper tension.
  4. Reset: Close the printhead and press the Pause button to clear the error message.

Prevención y mantenimiento

Ensure the ribbon tension is correctly set during loading. Always use high-quality, genuine ribbons compatible with your model to avoid spooling issues. Clean the ribbon sensors periodically to prevent dust-related detection errors.

Cuándo llamar a un técnico

If replacing the ribbon doesn't fix the E002 error, the ribbon motor or the rotation sensor may be faulty. Consult a technician for further diagnosis.

Ficha técnica del equipo

  • Technology: Thermal Transfer / Direct Thermal
  • Performance: 6 ips
  • Connectivity: USB, Ethernet
  • Consumibles: B-SA4T Series Ribbons (Wax, Wax-Resin)
  • Special Mode: Direct Thermal
  • Drivers / official firmware

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Open printhead

    Lift the top mechanism to access the ribbon spindles.

  2. 2

    Replace consumable

    Remove the empty core and install a new ribbon roll, ensuring proper tension.

  3. 3

    Reset

    Close the printhead and press the Pause button to clear the error message.

Frequently asked questions

The E002 error means the printer has detected an empty ribbon or the ribbon is not rotating as expected.

Yes, printing will be blocked until the error is cleared. Don't force the printer if the ribbon sensor is not sensing movement.

Use B-SA4T compatible ribbons, typically wax or wax-resin, depending on your label requirements.

Keep the ribbon sensor clean. If using direct thermal labels, ensure the printer settings are set to 'Direct Thermal' mode.