Media Sensor Error
Last updated: February 21, 2026
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DesignJet 500 repair 86:01 86:11 error codes - Call HP Plotter 01256 783390
HP DesignJet 500 repair. Guidance on the 86:01 & 86:11 carriage movement (Y-Axis) error codes. For Service, Repairs, Support, ...
The printer's media sensor, which detects the presence and type of paper, has encountered an issue. This can prevent the printer from loading media, determining media size, or printing correctly.
- 1
Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord.
- 2
Open the roll cover and inspect the area where the media loads. Look for any paper scraps, dust, or debris that might be obstructing the media sensor (often a small optical sensor).
- 3
Gently clean the sensor area with a lint-free cloth. Do not use excessive force.
- 4
Ensure the media is loaded correctly and squarely into the printer. Try loading a different type of media if available.
- 5
Close the roll cover, plug the printer back in, and power it on. Attempt to load media again.
Model-Specific Notes: • T-Series (e.g., T830, T1600): These models often have multiple media sensors (leading edge, width, type). Ensure all are clean. For sheetfed, check the sheet sensor. • Z-Series (e.g., Z6800): These printers have sophisticated media detection. Ensure the media edge guides are correctly set for the loaded roll. Expert Insight: The media sensor is often an optical sensor (an emitter and a receiver). Ensure both parts are clean and aligned. If the error is intermittent, try using a different brand or type of media, as some media can be too reflective or transparent for the sensor. For roll media, ensure the roll is not too tightly wound or has a damaged core, which can affect its smooth feeding past the sensor. A hard reset (unplugging for a minute) can sometimes clear a transient sensor misread.
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Glossary Terms
Related Questions
Optical or mechanical sensors that detect the presence, type, width, and position of print media loaded in the printer.
A set of printer settings optimized for a specific media type, including ink limits, drying time, number of passes, and color profile.
A print mode where the printhead deposits ink in both directions of travel (left-to-right and right-to-left), doubling print speed compared to uni-directional printing.
Paper with a special coating that improves ink adhesion, color vibrancy, and sharpness compared to uncoated (plain) paper.
A numeric or alphanumeric code displayed on the printer's front panel or in diagnostic logs that identifies a specific hardware or software malfunction.
The motor responsible for feeding media through the printer in precise increments between each pass of the printhead carriage.
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