Navigating Printer Error Codes
One of the most direct ways your HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M681z communicates a problem is through error codes displayed on its control panel. These codes can vary in format and meaning, often pointing to specific internal issues or operational faults. Attempting to resolve an issue without understanding the error code can be challenging. Fortunately, HP provides a dedicated online tool specifically for looking up these error codes. By entering the code shown on your printer’s display into this tool, you can access detailed explanations of what the code signifies and recommended steps for resolution. Consulting this resource is a crucial first step when an error code appears, helping to quickly identify the root cause and guide you towards the appropriate fix.
Source: HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M681 series
Resolving Paper Handling Difficulties
Paper handling problems are among the most frequent issues encountered with printers, and the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M681z is not entirely immune. These can manifest in several ways, including frustrating paper jams within the paper path, the printer mistakenly feeding the incorrect size of paper for a print job, or the printer pulling paper from the wrong input tray. Such issues can halt printing and require manual intervention. Troubleshooting resources, including detailed manuals and online guides for the M681 series, provide step-by-step instructions for clearing jams safely, verifying paper settings and tray configurations, and addressing sensor issues that might cause misfeeds. Proper loading of paper and ensuring the printer settings match the loaded media are essential preventative measures.
Source: HP m652, m653, mfp, m681, m682 Troubleshooting Manual
Addressing Print Quality Issues
Achieving crisp, clear prints is paramount for a professional printer like the M681z. However, users may sometimes notice print quality defects, such as unwanted lines, streaks, or faded areas on their printed pages. These problems can be caused by various factors, including issues with toner cartridges, the imaging unit, or internal components requiring cleaning. Sometimes, print quality problems are accompanied by observations of excess toner inside the printer or an increase in the frequency of cleaning cycles. HP offers specific troubleshooting guides focused on resolving color print quality problems for its LaserJet printers. These guides typically recommend steps like checking toner levels, performing cleaning procedures via the printer’s control panel, and inspecting cartridges for damage. If issues persist, further diagnostics may be needed.
Source: Solved: HP Color LaserJet – Lines/streaks, HP Color LaserJet Enterprise – Resolving color print quality problems
Other Potential Hardware and Firmware Challenges
Beyond the more common issues, users might encounter less frequent but potentially more concerning problems. One example reported by a user is a black screen display on power-up, indicating a potential issue with the control panel or the printer’s internal systems. While rare, such hardware failures require specific troubleshooting steps, often starting with basic power-on checks and potentially involving HP support. Additionally, firmware anomalies, such as color engine cycle counts not incrementing correctly with certain FutureSmart firmware versions, have been noted. Keeping the printer’s firmware updated is crucial, as updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can prevent or resolve such issues. HP provides firmware updates on its support website, which can be applied to the printer.
Source: Enterprise M681 Laserjet – No Display/Black Screen on Power-…, HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M681, HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M681dh, PDF HP COLOR LASERJET ENTERPRISE MFP M681 and M682 SERIES Firmware Readme