Brother Printer Error Code 50 is another commonly encountered error that typically signifies an issue with the mechanical functionality of the printer, particularly in relation to the purge unit, print head, or other internal components. The error can often be resolved with basic troubleshooting, though in some cases, professional repair may be necessary.
Understanding Brother Printer Error Code 50
Error Code 50 generally points to a mechanical malfunction that is usually associated with the printer’s cleaning or print head systems. Some common causes of this error include:
- Obstruction in the Print Head Movement: The print head may be jammed or blocked by debris, paper, or dried ink.
- Purging Unit Failure: The purge unit, which is responsible for cleaning and maintaining the print head, could be malfunctioning or stuck.
- General Mechanical Malfunction: Over time, wear and tear on various components of the printer (e.g., belts, gears, or sensors) may lead to mechanical errors.
- Internal Sensor Issues: Sensors inside the printer may incorrectly detect a problem and trigger the error code.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide for Brother Printer Error 50
Before diving into more complex fixes, always try restarting your printer to see if the error resolves. Power cycling can sometimes clear minor glitches.
Step 1: Power Cycle the Printer
This simple step can often resolve minor errors:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
- Wait for about 5 minutes to allow the printer’s memory to reset.
- Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
- If the error code persists, proceed to the next steps.
Step 2: Check for Paper Jams and Obstructions
A key cause of Error 50 is a paper jam or foreign objects lodged in the printer’s internal components.
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power outlet.
- Open the printer covers (both the front and rear if applicable) to access the interior.
- Look for any signs of paper jams or small objects (paper clips, torn paper pieces) inside the printer. Use a flashlight if needed to check every corner, especially around the paper feed and print head areas.
- If you find any jammed paper, gently remove it. Be sure to pull in the direction of the paper path to avoid damaging the internal components.
- Once you have cleared any obstructions, turn the printer back on to check if the error has been resolved.
Step 3: Inspect the Print Head and Purge Unit
Since Error Code 50 often relates to issues with the print head and purge unit, carefully inspecting these components is essential.
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Manually Move the Print Head: Turn off the printer and, if possible, manually move the print head along its track. If it is stuck or difficult to move, this could indicate an obstruction.
- Check for any debris, dried ink, or paper fragments that may be blocking the print head’s movement.
- If the print head is hard to access, consult your printer’s user manual for specific instructions on how to reach it.
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Clean the Purge Unit: The purge unit, which is located near the print head, helps to clean and maintain the print head by pumping out ink residues. Over time, dried ink can clog this unit and lead to errors.
- Use a soft cloth or cotton swab dampened with water to gently clean the area around the purge unit.
- Remove any visible ink buildup, ensuring the unit can move freely without obstruction.
Step 4: Reset the Printer’s Purge Counter
Brother printers keep track of the number of times the purge unit is used through a purge counter. Sometimes, this counter exceeds its limit, triggering Error 50. Resetting the purge counter may clear the error.
To reset the purge counter, follow these steps (the process may vary slightly depending on your model):
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Enter Maintenance Mode:
- Turn off the printer.
- Hold down the Menu/Set key while turning the printer back on. Continue holding the key until you see the Maintenance Mode on the display.
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Enter the Purge Reset Command:
- Using the keypad, press 80 to access the “Purge Counter” settings.
- Navigate to the purge counter using the arrow keys, then press OK.
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Reset the Purge Counter:
- Enter 2783 to reset the purge counter to zero.
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Exit Maintenance Mode:
- Press 99 to exit the Maintenance Mode and return the printer to its normal operation mode.
After resetting the purge counter, power cycle the printer to see if the error is cleared.
Step 5: Update the Printer’s Firmware
In some cases, Brother may release firmware updates that correct bugs or other issues leading to Error 50. Check for firmware updates by visiting Brother’s official website.
- Go to the Brother Support Page for your specific model.
- Download the latest firmware update file.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.
After the update is complete, restart the printer and see if the error persists.
Step 6: Perform a Hard Reset or Factory Reset
If the above methods don’t resolve the error, performing a factory reset may help eliminate any lingering software or hardware issues.
Warning: A factory reset will erase all user settings and preferences.
- Refer to your printer’s manual for the correct button combination to perform a factory reset (often a combination of buttons like Menu + OK or similar).
- After performing the reset, reconfigure your printer settings and test if the error has been resolved.
Step 7: Inspect Mechanical Parts
If Error 50 continues, the issue may be due to more serious mechanical problems with components like belts, gears, or motors. Over time, these parts can wear out, especially if the printer is frequently used.
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Drive Belts: Check for any wear or slack in the belts that drive the print head or paper feed mechanism. Worn-out belts can lead to mechanical errors.
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Gears and Motors: Look for any signs of damage, misalignment, or wear on the internal gears and motors. If any of these components are malfunctioning, professional repair or replacement may be required.
At this point, it is advisable to contact Brother Customer Support or take the printer to an authorized repair center.
Preventing Brother Printer Error Code 50
To avoid encountering Error Code 50 in the future, consider the following preventive measures:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the print head and purge unit regularly to prevent ink buildup.
- Keep the Paper Path Clear: Always use high-quality paper to minimize paper jams, and make sure the paper is properly aligned in the tray.
- Dust-Free Environment: Keep the printer in a clean, dust-free environment. Dust can interfere with sensors and moving parts, leading to mechanical errors.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check for firmware updates on Brother’s website to ensure your printer is running the latest software.
Conclusion
Brother Printer Error Code 50 is usually a mechanical issue related to the print head, purge unit, or other internal components. By following the steps outlined above, you can often resolve the problem without needing professional assistance. However, if the error persists after trying these troubleshooting methods, it may be necessary to seek help from Brother’s support team or a professional technician. Regular maintenance and careful handling can help prevent future occurrences of this error.
