HP DESIGNJET 500

[Printmend]

Re: HP DESIGNJET 500

I got this sorted by updating the firmware from a different laptop and it worked straight away.

Thanks for all the replies

[Lance15]

Re: HP DESIGNJET 500

the firmware update from HP doesn't work over USB, for whatever reason

Similar to the 130's. For whatever reason, the Maintenance program doesn't "see" one hooked up via USB, but, parallel and network is fine. Never understood that. Firmware updates I can understand. USB is more of a virtual port rather than a REAL port like parallel. Newer LaserJet's have that built in DEV PORT for emergency firmware updates so long as you set it up right, you can send firmware over USB.

[Printmend]

Re: HP DESIGNJET 500

OK great thanks Kiran for the advice.

[Kiran Otter]

Re: HP DESIGNJET 500

This is indeed a problem with the 500s. It has something to do with the way the printer reads the date code on the printheads. I spent 2 weeks going back and forth with HP over a 500 not accepting a stack of printheads, complete with new carriage, trailing cable, and emod. So if you have a 500 rejecting printheads, make sure the firmware has been updated first!

In my experience, the firmware update from HP doesn't work over USB, for whatever reason. I thought I could use a USB to parallel cable, but I couldn't make that work either. It does work over a network, if you have a NIC installed or can at least install one temporarily. Otherwise the parallel cable method is your last resort. You can run the uploader or just copy the correct .fmw file to the printer at a command prompt.

i.e. copy /b DJ500_A.05.01.fmw lpt1

Only use the DJ500HPGL2_A.04.02.fmw file if the printer has the HPGL2 accessory card installed.

HP's article on the matter: HP DesignJet 500, 510 and 800 Printers - HP 11 Printhead Errors | HP(R) Customer Support

You can buy a used NIC off ebay for $15 or so. Might be easier to go that route, plus then the printer is on the network.

Kiran

[Lance15]

Re: HP DESIGNJET 500

Don't have access to my old laptop (currently being used to recover files from a HDD), but, I think you only need to send the "firmware". Can Engel or Kiran confirm? I don't think the 500 needs the disk image, just the firmware file.

[Printmend]

Re: HP DESIGNJET 500

OK thanks Lance, I'll have to go searching for a cable so!
Any different procedures for the update?

[Lance15]

Re: HP DESIGNJET 500

Emergency firmware update method using a parallel cable. Good 'ol reliable.

[Printmend]

I have a hp designjet 500 that needs a new black printhead.
In order to install it i need to update the firmware as it states on the package.
When i run the installer it goes through all the steps but when you hit install it is done instantly and it does not take the update..

Any help appreciated.