Printer Failure 0x61000049

[justprint3]

I have a HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 printer. Whenever I turn the printer on, I get an error saying the printer wasn't properly shutdown and then I get a printer failure 0x610004a. This happens after I've left the printer turned off and unplugged for days. I even did a factory reset and still received these messages. I've checked for jams, cleaned the printer, and visually checked for anything that could be wrong. The printer carriage can move freely and manually. I'm not sure what else I can try.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @justprint3,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

The error code 0x61000049 on your HP Officejet Pro 6978 printer indicates a problem with the printer or print system.

Please try the steps below and let me know.

1. Check for Obstructions:

• Open the printer cover and check for any obstructions in the carriage path, such as paper, debris, or foreign objects.
• Ensure the carriage can move freely. 

2. Check Ink Cartridges:

• Ensure Proper Installation: Make sure the ink cartridges are correctly seated and that the orange tab (if present) has been removed.
• Clean Contacts: Use a lint-free cloth to wipe any ink or debris from the copper-colored contacts on the ink cartridges.
• Clean Vents: If the ink cartridges have clogged vents, use a pin to clean them. 

3. Perform a Hard reset, App re-installation, & Firmware update:

Please remove the Cartridges from the Printer if possible, and try a Hard Reset. Do keep us posted to help you better

** Hard reset :
1. Turn the printer on, if it is not already on.
2. Wait until the printer is idle and silent before you continue.
3. With the printer turned on, disconnect the power cord from the rear of the printer.
4. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
5. Wait at least 60 seconds.
6. Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet.
NOTE: HP recommends connecting the printer power cord directly to the wall outlet.
7. Reconnect the power cord to the rear of the printer.
8. Turn on the printer, if it does not automatically turn on. The printer might go through a warm-up period. The printer lights might flash, and the carriage might move.
9. Wait until the warm-up period finishes and your printer is idle and silent before you proceed.
 

Please uninstall the HP Smart app --> restart the Device, Wi-Fi router and printer --> install it back and add the printer

Please update the Firmware from the link, This will help with how to update the firmware on the printer or devices
 

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, as it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

VikramTheGreat

HP Support 

[justprint3]

Thank you for the response. I tried the steps you suggested and I'm still getting an error. Technically now it's reading 0x61000048. But every time I restart the printer, no matter how long has passed, it starts, says that the printer wasn't properly shutdown, stays I should check for a paper jam, tries to do printer maintenance, and then shows the printer failure message. Any other suggestions?

[zoey7886]

@justprint3, 

@VikramTheGreat is away at this time, I'm replying on his behalf!

Thanks for trying those steps and getting back to us.

It sounds like you've done quite a bit already—thanks for being so thorough. The error shifting to 0x61000048 still points to a possible internal hardware issue, especially with the printhead assembly or service station.

Here are a couple more things you can try:

1. Reseat the Printhead (if removable):

Turn off the printer and unplug it.

Open the access door and gently lift the latch holding the printhead.

Carefully remove it, wait 30 seconds, and reseat it securely.

Close the latch, close the door, and power on.

Note: Not all OfficeJet models allow this. If you don't see a latch, skip this step.

2. Check Service Station (Wiper Mechanism):

While powered off and unplugged, look deep inside where the cartridges park on the right.

Use a flashlight to check for dried ink, paper bits, or obstructions.

Gently clean with a lint-free cloth and a bit of distilled water if needed.

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Regards,