AS400 size issue on MP4000B

[KenB]

Hi,

Here's a weird one.

When printing to an MP4000B from an AS400, the MFP is insisting that the paper size is A3, instead of letter.

I sent the same file to an MP C2050 - same issue.

When I send the file to an MP 2510 or MP C4500, it prints without issue.

While I have already escalated this issue to Ricoh, I was just wondering if anyone else has seen the problem.

Thanks!

[_Brent_]

Does the printer work correctly if you try to run offline test samples from the problem paper trays ? Does the printer run some type of IPDS emulation? If it does run as an IPDS printer, try setting all the IPDS settings to factory default (of course print off configuration settings before making any changes just in case you have to change them back).

This problem could also be an AS/400 host DEVD problem (Device Description). Try having the system administrator compare the DEVD's from the printers that work with the one's that do not. Have them make corrections if necessary. Also compare each printers network configuration to see if there are any differences. Your problem is more than likely not a print engine problem, but rather a possible firmare issue, AS/400 configuration issue, or some type of network issue. This is assuming that you can run off-line test without issue.

[redstone]

Have u tried different file to print? Try to print simple file first to isolate the trouble, might be mismatch paper size settings from machine and file print settings

[KenB]

Thanks for the replies!

It looks like we have found the problem, and at least a temporary workaround.

First off, there is no IPDS in the mix at all. It happens with all files.

After doing a "Card Save" on the printer, we saw that the escape codes were present that called for Letter size, and Portrait orientation. Sorry that I can't attach the file; it's confidential, otherwise I would.

The problem, though, was that there was also an escape code which called for 68 lines. I don't know just where that is coming from, at least not yet. This call is an outdated spec, per HP, and is not required or recommended. They use a forms package, which generates creates files using an HP LaserJet III D driver - quite ancient, but necessary to avoid issues. I suspect that this may be at least part of the culprit.

At least apparently, the newest MFPs (not all) don't like this combination, and see it as A3, resulting in the error.

It also seems that the older version(s) of firmware for the MP 4000 didn't have the problem. Both the current version, and the one previous (both on the TSC site) have the issue. The MP C2050 also has the problem. The MP C4500 does not.

Eliminating the call for the 68 lines corrects the problem, but it may be difficult to do so without knowing just what is causing it.

Another possibility would be to use the PDL filter to eliminate the code.

I will work with the customer's AS400 IT next week to see what can be done.

I'll post back here afterwords.

My hat's off to the guys at the Ricoh Advanced Solutions help desk. It only took a few hours to get an answer back!