Ribbon OutHoneywell PX940V

Honeywell PX940V Ribbon Out Error: Troubleshooting Guide

The 'Ribbon Out' error on the Honeywell PX940V series indicates the printer has detected an absence of the thermal transfer ribbon. This condition typically occurs when the ribbon has run out, snapped during the printing process, or the ribbon sensor is obstructed. The primary fix involves checking the ribbon supply and cleaning the internal detection sensors.

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Common causes

  • 1Empty ribbon spool: The printer reached the end of the supply roll.
  • 2Ribbon break: High tension or incorrect heat settings snapped the film.
  • 3Sensor blockage: Accumulated paper dust is obscuring the optical sensor path.
  • 4Sensor calibration failure: The internal software settings have drifted from the physical sensor state.

Solutions

Diagnóstico rápido

This error is triggered when the printer's sensors fail to detect the ribbon movement. Check the screen for the alert and inspect the ribbon supply spool. If the ribbon is present but the error persists, the sensor path likely contains debris or paper dust interfering with the optical reader.

Solución paso a paso

  1. Release the printhead by lifting the locking lever.
  2. Inspect the ribbon to ensure it hasn't snapped or reached the end of the roll.
  3. Reload the ribbon following the internal path diagram, ensuring it passes through the sensor guides.
  4. Clean the sensors using a lint-free swab dipped in 99% isopropyl alcohol to clear any accumulated debris.
  5. Power cycle the unit and press 'Feed' to allow the system to re-calibrate.

Prevención y mantenimiento

Clean the printhead and ribbon sensors regularly during every ribbon roll replacement. Ensure the operating environment is free of excess dust. Keeping the firmware updated ensures the sensor logic remains accurate and reliable for high-speed printing.

Cuándo llamar a un técnico

If the error continues after cleaning and verifying the ribbon path, there may be a hardware failure in the ribbon sensor itself. Contact an authorized service center if the error persists after a factory reset, as internal hardware may require professional repair.

Ficha técnica del equipo

  • Technology: Thermal Transfer / Direct Thermal
  • Speed/Performance: Up to 350 mm/s
  • Connectivity: Ethernet, USB 2.0, RS-232, Bluetooth
  • Media Capacity: Up to 213 mm (8.38 in) outside diameter
  • Compatible consumables: PX series thermal transfer ribbons
  • Recommended use: Industrial labeling and high-volume environments
  • Official drivers / firmware: https://sps.honeywell.com/us/en/support/technical-support/printers/px940-industrial-printer

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Release printhead

    Lift the mechanism lever to relieve tension on the ribbon supply.

  2. 2

    Load ribbon

    Insert the new ribbon roll ensuring it feeds smoothly across the printhead.

  3. 3

    Sensor check

    Ensure the ribbon edge is perfectly aligned with the optical sensor mark.

  4. 4

    Re-calibrate

    Close the mechanism and trigger a calibration check via the control panel.

Frequently asked questions

This is usually caused by a dirty sensor or improper ribbon alignment. Try cleaning the sensor path with alcohol and ensuring the ribbon is centered correctly.

It is a standard operational error that halts printing, but it does not cause permanent damage if resolved promptly by stopping the printhead from running dry.

This model supports standard industrial thermal transfer ribbons (wax, wax-resin, or resin) depending on your label stock requirements.

You should clean the sensors every time you load a new ribbon roll to prevent dust buildup from triggering false 'out' alerts.

Honeywell PX940V Ribbon Out Error: Troubleshooting Guide | Vimazdev