HP mfp236sdw printer

[YasCar]

stuck on error 49. Tried everything and now the buttons on control panel don't work.  doesn't let me do a cold reset, doesn't pick up the wifi.  Help please

[Meghana_10]

Hello @YasCar, Welcome to the HP Support Community.

We understand how concerning this can be, especially since the HP LaserJet MFP M236sdw is now displaying Error 49, the control panel is unresponsive, and you're unable to perform a cold reset. Error 49 is a firmware-related error that is commonly triggered by a corrupted print job, a communication issue, or, less commonly, firmware corruption that prevents the printer from completing startup.
 

Error 49 typically occurs when the printer encounters an unexpected firmware exception. This can happen if a corrupted print job is repeatedly sent to the printer, a communication issue interrupts startup, or the firmware becomes unstable. If the error appears immediately after powering on with no network connections, the issue is more likely related to the printer's firmware than to an active print job.
 

Follow these steps in order to isolate the cause.

1. Perform a Hard Power Reset

A hard reset clears temporary memory and can recover the printer from a firmware exception.

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall outlet.
3. Wait at least 60 seconds.
4. Plug the printer directly into a wall outlet, avoiding power strips or surge protectors.
5. Turn the printer back on.

2. Start the Printer Without Any Connections

Disconnect all communication paths so the printer can boot independently.

1. Disconnect any USB cable connected to the printer.
2. If the printer was previously connected to a network, allow it to start without reconnecting it to Wi-Fi.
3. Power the printer on and observe whether it reaches the Ready state.

This helps determine whether Error 49 is being triggered by an incoming print job or by the printer itself.
 

3. Clear Pending Print Jobs

If the printer was connected to a Windows or macOS computer, a corrupted print job may continue to resend each time the printer reconnects.

1. Open Printers & Scanners on your computer.
2. Remove the HP LaserJet MFP M236sdw if necessary.
3. Clear any pending print jobs from the print queue.
4. Restart the computer before reconnecting the printer.

This prevents the same corrupted print job from immediately triggering Error 49 again.
 

4. Check Whether the Printer Boots Normally

Allow the printer to complete startup before reconnecting it to your computer or network.

• If the printer reaches the Ready screen, reconnect it and test printing.
• If Error 49 appears immediately after startup, even with no USB or network connections, the issue is likely internal to the printer rather than being caused by a print job.

If the error was caused by a corrupted print job or temporary firmware condition, the printer should complete startup normally after the power reset and print queue has been cleared. If the printer continues to display Error 49 with all external connections removed and the control panel remains unresponsive, the firmware or formatter may require further service.
 

To help identify the most appropriate recovery option, could you let me know:

• Does Error 49 appear immediately after powering on, even with all USB and network connections disconnected?
• Is the control panel completely unresponsive, or do any buttons or indicator lights respond during startup?

These details will help determine whether the issue is related to a persistent firmware fault or another hardware-related condition.

Have a great day!