Model 944 All in one Error message - Scanner Unit Open & Change cartridge

Question

I recently set up a Dell 944 all in one printer that had been in storage for the past several months but couldn't get past the following error messages - "Change cartridge" & "Scanner Unit Open". I have changed the cartridge but still get the "Change Cartridge" error message on the printer display screen. When I attempt to print, I get the "scanner unit open" error message.

Has anyone else come across this and/or have a solution?

PudgyOne · Answer

rmeshil,

Unplug the printer from the wall. Also remove the power brick from the back of the printer for 60 seconds. This will reset the printer error codes. When you installed your Dell Series 5 ink cartridges, you should have the power on to replace them.

Dell Series 5 ink cartridges have a sensor in them that cannot be reset. Article on refilling Dell ink cartridges.

Dell Series 5 ink cartridges can be purchased at Staples, Walmart or Dell's Website.

It is also possible to get a new ink cartridge with a bad sensor. Please take it to the place of purchase for a refund or a replacement one.

Rick

rmeshil · Answer

Rick,   Thanks so much for your response.   Unfortunately, I am still at a loss as to how to resolve.   I have unplugged the printer both from the wall and from the power brick on several occasions. I have also now tried 3 different sets of Dell cartridges including 1 purchased this morning at Staples. The power is on when I have replaced the cartridges in each instance. However, I am still getting the same error messages.   I took the printer to a local computer technician. He cleaned the printheads and ink cartridges with coffee filters (no lint) and we still get the same messages. They are of the opinion that either printhead has gone bad or a sensor is bad.   In either event, a new printer seems likely to be less expensive than to repair this one.   Are you of the same opinion?  Anything else before I should try before I purchase new?   Thanks again for your assistance.   Ron

PudgyOne · Answer

Ron,

Yes, purchasing a new printer would be cheaper than repairing your old printer. You can try this first, it may work.

Rick

Clean the Encoder Strip

Additional Information

	Notice:
	As you perform the following steps, be careful when handling the encoder strip as it can break easily.

It is possible that dust can gather on the encoder strip which will make it very difficult for the printer to determine where the carriage is on its track. To clean the encoder strip, perform the following steps:

Power down the printer and unplug the power.
Lift the cover on the printer.

Using a dry, lint free cloth, pinch the encoder strip on the right-hand side of the cartridge carriage and pull your fingers across it toward the right-hand side of the printer (Figure 1).

Figure 1: The Encoder Strip to the right of the cartridge carrier

	Note:
	The encoder strip is a narrow band of clear plastic and can be difficult to see without direct lighting.

Plug in the printer and power it on.
Open the cover to allow the cartridge carriage to center itself.
Using a dry, lint free cloth, pinch the encoder strip on the left-hand side of the cartridge carriage and pull your fingers across it towards the left-hand side of the printer. (Figure 2).

Figure 2: The encoder strip to the left of the cartridge carrier

bigmarky · Answer

My 944 says the sacnner unit is open when its is deffinately closed any ideas?   Cheers   Marky

Printers

Model 944 All in one Error message - Scanner Unit Open & Change cartridge

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