HP Color Laser Jet MFP 281 cdw - Bricked after firmware update

[SteveFY]

After the firmware update in Oct, the device would not recognize actual HP OEM toner (chip not identified). Attempted to reset the device from the interface and now it only boots to a '49 service error'. Cannot get into it from the touchscreen or USB connection. Attempted to 'hard reset' by touching the screen during boot up, it does show the 'Permanent storage init' reset screen, but still goes to the  '49 service error'.

How can I get back into the device? I am fine with it being fully reset (obviously). Is there a way to actually force a reset (physical jumper, etc)? Does the formatter have to be replaced to correct this?

[Andr-1611]

Hello @SteveFY,
Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Please follow these instructions here: HP toner chip error on HP toner cartridges in HP laser jet MFP M281cdw 

Hope this helps! Keep me posted.
Andr-1611

If my post resolved your problem please mark this post as an "Accepted Solution".
Or click on the YES button to reply that the response was helpful and/or to say “Thank You”.

[SteveFY]

Placed the .rfu on an empty FAT32 thumbdrive and tried it in the front USB, but the touchscreen still freezes during initialization screen with the 49 service error. I even attempted the 'Permanent storage init' again but unfortunately it led to the same results. Not certain I can use the .exe as the other poster did, my PC doesnt recognize the printer when directly connected through the USB cable (guessing because the device is failing to initialize). Is there another way to force the .rfu update?

[Andr-1611]

try it, but proceed like this

1. shut down printer via on/off switch or disconnect the power cable from the printer
2. shut down the computer
3. connect the printer and the computer with a USB cable
   Reminder: USB only, no Ethernet cable!
4. wait about 60 sec.
5. Switch on the printer, wait until the printer has finished its initialization
6. switch on computer, log in (with admin rights) and wait about 10 sec.

right click on "start" > "run" > search in the download directory for the update > click >OK

The printer may still have to be selected!

Note error message(s).

[SteveFY]

Gave that a try as well. Unfortunately the device is in a reboot cycle. After the 49 Service Error, the screen whites out and restarts. The PC never has an opportunity to connect.

[Andr-1611]

Well then, let's try this:
Disconnect the power supply cable
remove all toner cartridges
now wait at least 60 seconds
switch on the printer

I ask for an exact feedback.

[SteveFY]

Ok, completed that. HP firmware 'BIOS' page with bottom progress bar moved to right. The circular 'Initializing' graphic came up and was 'spinning'. A quick flash of the toners appeared, assuming it showed that they missing but it was very quick. Then it popped up the 49 service error, screen went white and it rebooted.

[Andr-1611]

Switch off the printer
Now insert only the black toner cartridge
Switch on printer

What happens now

[SteveFY]

Same sequence, except the toner missing screen. This time that screen was only displaying the black toner and the printer made a dinging sound for the brief second it flashed.

[Andr-1611]

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@SteveFY wrote:

Same sequence,

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49 service error ?