err-020pm45-ii

Honeywell PM45 II Error ERR-020: Ribbon Detection Failure

The Honeywell PM45 II error ERR-020 is directly related to ribbon detection failure. If you wonder why does my Honeywell PM45 II show ERR-020?, the ribbon motion sensor is detecting an abnormal stop. This industrial printer is very precise, and any deviation in ribbon tension triggers this code.

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Common causes

  • 1Thermal transfer ribbon broken or out.
  • 2Lack of tension on the take-up spool.
  • 3Ribbon optical sensor blocked by ink debris.
  • 4Printer configured in Transfer mode without ribbon installed.

Solutions

Quick Diagnosis

Error ERR-020 occurs when the ribbon sensor doesn't perceive rotation. Immediately verify if the tape is broken or if the take-up spindle stopped due to low tension.

Step-by-step solution

  1. Open the compartment and check the tape.
  2. Ensure the ink-coated side faces the label.
  3. Reload the ribbon, making sure it is tight on the empty core.
  4. Manually adjust the tension and restart.

Prevention and maintenance

Use ribbons of the correct width for your media; if the ribbon is too wide, it may cause wrinkles that confuse the sensor. Periodically clean the optical ribbon sensor to avoid false alarms. Do not force the spindle if the ribbon is stuck, as this may damage the feed motor.

When to call a technician

If the error persists after installing a new ribbon and ensuring tension, the ribbon motion sensor might be dirty or faulty.

Technical specifications

  • Technology: Thermal Transfer / Direct
  • Resolution: 203, 300, or 600 dpi
  • Compatible consumable: Honeywell industrial series ribbons
  • Recommended use: Heavy-duty production
  • Official drivers / firmware

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Check ribbon

    Verify the ribbon is not torn or loose from the spool.

  2. 2

    Adjust tension

    Ensure the ribbon is properly tensioned on the take-up spindle.

  3. 3

    Reset sensor

    Run the ribbon sensor recalibration from the panel menu.

Frequently asked questions

The sensor fails to detect ribbon movement, usually due to lack of tension or the ribbon having run out.

Verify the ribbon has the ink side down (toward the paper) and is securely attached to the take-up core.

Use high-quality original Honeywell ribbons suitable for your label material (wax, resin, or mixed).

Yes, only if the unit is set to Direct Thermal mode; otherwise, ERR-020 will trigger in Transfer mode.