CIS Sensor Communication Error
Last updated: February 21, 2026
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HP Designjet 500 & 800 Error 86:01 AFTER Belt Replacement
Troubleshoot error 86:01 on your DJ 500/800 after replacing the carriage belt. Here are the most common causes of error 86:01 ...
The printer's scanner (CIS - Contact Image Sensor) is unable to communicate with the main system. This prevents the printer from performing any scanning or copying functions. The issue could be a faulty sensor, a damaged cable, or a problem with the scanner's control board.
- 1
Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
- 2
Carefully open the scanner lid and inspect the CIS sensor bar for any visible damage or debris.
- 3
Check the ribbon cable connecting the CIS sensor to the scanner's control board (if accessible) for secure connection.
- 4
Close the scanner lid, plug in the printer, and turn it back on.
Model-Specific Notes: • T-Series MFP (e.g., T850 MFP, T950 MFP): Accessing the CIS cable often requires removal of the scanner's top cover. Be gentle with flex cables as they are fragile. Expert Insight: A common cause for this error is a loose or damaged flex cable connecting the CIS sensor to the scanner's formatter board. Visually inspect the cable for kinks, tears, or corrosion on the contacts. If the cable appears fine, gently reseat it on both ends. If the problem persists, the CIS module itself or the scanner formatter board might be faulty. A dirty CIS lens can also cause scan quality issues, but usually not a communication error unless the contamination is severe enough to short out components.
Reference diagrams for common repair procedures related to this error:
Carriage Belt Replacement

Formatter Board Location & Connections

Note: These diagrams are for reference only. Always consult official HP service documentation and follow proper ESD precautions.
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Related Questions
A flexible flat cable that connects the carriage assembly to the main PCA, transmitting data and power signals to the printheads as the carriage moves.
Optical or mechanical sensors that detect the presence, type, width, and position of print media loaded in the printer.
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 complete system that stores, transports, and delivers ink from the cartridges to the printheads, including tubes, valves, and pressure regulators.
Software that converts vector graphics, text, and images into a raster (bitmap) format that the printer can output. Essential for processing complex design files.
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