[Error Code] DesignJet 500

[JimB]

Error 81.01

I'm at the point to where I'm just throwing parts at this machine. Installed new maintenance kit with all new printheads. Replaced the paper axis motor, still no change. About the only items not replace yet is the Paper Encoder and Power Module. Don't want to keep guessing though. Have completely followed trouble shooting procedures in the service book and still same error code. Any ideas?

[jeff33]

Re: DesignJet 500

Check the paper sensor and also clean the encoder wheel, it is located on the left under a small door that you will have to remove.

[JustManuals]

Re: DesignJet 500

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[Imsdal]

Re: DesignJet 500

Hello.

I know this is an old question. But did you fix the problem.?
I have a designjet 500 that show 81.01 papermotor.c 1587.
I dont have the parts to change..but what can I do before changing the motor?

//Imsdal

[Lance15]

Re: DesignJet 500

81:01
Problem Description: Paper-Axis shutdown.
Corrective Action: If this error code appeared but was not caused by a paper jam, then try the following:
Perform the Paper Advance Test.
If the problem persists, replace the Encoder Disk Assembly.


Lots of work for an ancient plotter. Had an 800 with same error. Told them it's not worth the money.

[Kiran Otter]

Re: DesignJet 500

It's probably the drive roller encoder sensor. It's tricky to get to but follow the service manual and you'll get there. C7769-60384 It's $52 from HP. I've replaced several of them, and I've never had a bad paper advance motor.

Kiran

[Imsdal]

Re: DesignJet 500

HI.

Thanks I will order the sensor and I will get back to tell you how it went.

//Imsdal.

[theengel]

Re: DesignJet 500

Yeah, I don't think I've ever fixed a problem by replacing the paper axis motor--it's always been that encoder sensor that goes bad. Sometimes cleaning the encoder wheel will do it, but I've gotten to the point that I just go ahead and do the sensor if I'm going to open the machine for that problem. That way I don't get a call-back. Because sometimes you clean the wheel and it appears to work, and then you're back again a month later.

[Imsdal]

[Kiran Otter]

Re: DesignJet 500

No, you don't have to do anything. It's possible though that the disk the sensor reads is dirty. Make sure you clean it while you're at it.. both sides. I think HP says to use alcohol but I would just use water and a lint-free cloth or coffee filter.

Kiran

[Imsdal]

[Phil B.]

Re: DesignJet 500

Hello.

I know this is an old question. But did you fix the problem.?
I have a designjet 500 that show 81.01 papermotor.c 1587.
I dont have the parts to change..but what can I do before changing the motor?

//Imsdal

just an FYI parts for these units are getting harder to find... might be easier to get them a new plotter

[theengel]

Re: DesignJet 500

I would never throw out a 500. Those suckers are gonna last forever.

Another problem sometimes is in the motor. Not the motor itself, but if you take the motor apart, you'll see another encoder disk inside there. I've cleaned that and had it fix a problem.

Also, it's very possible that the new encoder sensor wasn't installed quite right???

[Lance15]

Re: DesignJet 500

I hate condemning equipment as well, but, it gets to a point where the unit just doesn't understand what the application wants to do. The latest firmware for the 500/800 is from 2009. GIS/CAD applications are still getting updated. We, as techs, would be able to figure ways around issues, but, your normal user just wants to hit print and have it print. They don't want to have to click this, then that, uncheck this box, etc.

[Kiran Otter]

Re: DesignJet 500

I have a customer with 3 500s (2x42" and a 24"), all printed to using AutoCAD and the latest version. I've never had an issue with compatibility and to my memory have never updated the firmware on these printers. I did the math on the media usage on the 24"; it's been through over 2,600 rolls of 24x150 paper. These printers literally print all day long, sometimes over the weekends.

The best option to set (in my opinion) is to send the job as a bitmap in the driver. This takes all the work off the printer; no HPGL2 card needed, no extra RAM needed.. and the printer starts printing immediately instead of sitting there forever 'processing' the job.

Kiran