What paper is needed for diagnostics

[DaveBell]

Hi. 
just purchased a used Designjet Z5200 PS Photo 44” (CQ113A) its loaded with non hp print heads and ink , but I’m attempting to systematically go through all the diagnostics I can before getting it onto HP ink and print heads. I figure it’s better to burn through the cheap ink sorting as many problems out as I can . 
anyway U duly updated the firmware which was successful but regretted it when zi realised its reset all the calibration. lol . Have the user manual and service manual . 
image dramatically improved but not perfect , still have some banding . 
I am stuck at the print alignment . I have only 24” paper and A3 gloss sheets. And it throws an error 
is my problem that the diagnostic alignment will only perform running the full width of the bed - so I need either a roll of 42/44” glossy or the Print Head alignment kit ( seems impossible to obtain)  or will it complete on 24” paper once the print quality is good enough ? 
one last question . Running through Diagnostics it’s a PIA having to reboot every time to go to the next Disgnostics item . Is there any way around this ? 
many thanks 

Dave

[D Hook · Accepted solution]

Don't think there's anyway around the constant rebooting.  At least, not any I've found.

What's the error code you're seeing?

Banding is probably coming from the remanufactured printheads.  Size of paper shouldn't make a difference.  But using the non-HP printheads can cause the banding you're seeing.  When doing image quality testing it's important to use genuine HP supplies.  The ink used for the tests is negligible.  Also, know that after replacing any of the printheads it will ask to do another printhead alignment so even if you get the banding solved now, when you do replace the printheads you'll be doing another alignment anyway so I wouldn't worry too much about completing the alignment now until you get the correct printheads installed.

If the other diagnostics turned out ok, I think you're on the way to having a very nice printer.

[Repairatrooper]

Just to confirm, unit has to reset after each diagnostic. Truly a pain.

[DaveBell]

Thanks for the response . 
I agree . Using up the non non hp cartridges and print heads is a good way to learn about the foibles of the printer. Just waiting for a remaining couple of HP inks and print heads and I will do a full changeover . 

After hunting literally for hours I’ve ordered the advance paper calibration kit , as it’s a 44” and 24” sheet and the 44” is the only one that works on the z5200 to my knowledge ( and not cheap) I will wait until the go inks and print heads are well bedded in before using it . 
if anyone has experience of this process over and above the manuals I would appreciate it . 
cheers

Dave 

[DaveBell]

Apologies. Error was 58.10. 
deltaE out of limits 

think this is the poor print quality - non Jo inks/ print head 

[D Hook]

As you probably already know, the 58:10 points to the Color Sensor (ESP) not getting the reading it needs.  Probably due to the banding of the printheads or quality of the after-market ink you're using.

Not familiar with the alignment kit you ordered.  Haven't had the need to use it.  Maybe other Z5200 owners can chime in on this.  

Good luck with the printer.  I have a Z5400 that I recently refurbished and use it for photo prints and it does a great job.  I think you'll really like the Z5200.  It will be well worth the costs incurred to keep it fed.