Printer shows Error message "0x6100004a"

[windows_mss]

Printer shows Error message "0x6100004a". tried troubleshooting steps from HP but still no luck.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @windows_mss,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding error message on your printer!  

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

The 0x6100004a error on the HP Officejet Pro 6978 typically indicates a paper feed mechanism jam or carriage stall.

Try these advanced fixes to resolve the issue:

Perform a Hard Reset

Sometimes, a hard reset can clear internal printer errors.

1. Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
2. Wait for at least 2-3 minutes to let the printer fully discharge.
3. Press and hold the Power button for 15 seconds while the printer is unplugged.
4. Reconnect the power cord directly to a wall outlet (not a surge protector).
5. Turn the printer back on and check if the error persists.

Manually Move the Ink Carriage

If the ink carriage is stuck, the printer won’t function properly.

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Open the ink cartridge access door.
3. Gently move the ink carriage left and right to check for any obstruction.
4. Remove any jammed paper, debris, or ink buildup.
5. Close the access door and restart the printer.

Check for Paper Jam (Even if You Don’t See One)

Even a tiny piece of paper can trigger the error.

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
2. Remove the paper tray and check for hidden paper bits.
3. Open the rear access door and inspect for paper fragments.
4. Gently rotate the rollers inside to remove any stuck paper.
5. Plug the printer back in and restart.

Clean the Paper Feed Rollers

If the printer is trying to pull paper but failing, the rollers might be dirty.

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
2. Open the paper tray and locate the rubber rollers inside.
3. Use a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water to clean the rollers.
4. Let them dry for 10 minutes, then restart the printer.

Reset the Printer to Factory Defaults

If the error is caused by a firmware issue, a factory reset may help.

1. On the printer's control panel, go to Setup > Printer Maintenance.
2. Select Restore > Restore Factory Defaults.
3. The printer will restart—check if the error clears.

Update or Reinstall the Printer Firmware

If the issue started after a firmware update, try reinstalling the firmware.

1. Go to HP’s official website.
2. Enter OfficeJet Pro 6978, download the latest firmware update, and install it.
3. Restart the printer and check if the error disappears.

Let me know if any of these worked for you! 😊

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?"—your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @windows_mss,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding error message on your printer!  

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

The 0x6100004a error on the HP Officejet Pro 6978 typically indicates a paper feed mechanism jam or carriage stall.

Try these advanced fixes to resolve the issue:

Perform a Hard Reset

Sometimes, a hard reset can clear internal printer errors.

1. Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
2. Wait for at least 2-3 minutes to let the printer fully discharge.
3. Press and hold the Power button for 15 seconds while the printer is unplugged.
4. Reconnect the power cord directly to a wall outlet (not a surge protector).
5. Turn the printer back on and check if the error persists.

Manually Move the Ink Carriage

If the ink carriage is stuck, the printer won’t function properly.

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Open the ink cartridge access door.
3. Gently move the ink carriage left and right to check for any obstruction.
4. Remove any jammed paper, debris, or ink buildup.
5. Close the access door and restart the printer.

Check for Paper Jam (Even if You Don’t See One)

Even a tiny piece of paper can trigger the error.

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
2. Remove the paper tray and check for hidden paper bits.
3. Open the rear access door and inspect for paper fragments.
4. Gently rotate the rollers inside to remove any stuck paper.
5. Plug the printer back in and restart.

Clean the Paper Feed Rollers

If the printer is trying to pull paper but failing, the rollers might be dirty.

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
2. Open the paper tray and locate the rubber rollers inside.
3. Use a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water to clean the rollers.
4. Let them dry for 10 minutes, then restart the printer.

Update or Reinstall the Printer Firmware

If the issue started after a firmware update, try reinstalling the firmware.

1. Go to HP’s official website.
2. Enter OfficeJet Pro 6978, download the latest firmware update, and install it.
3. Restart the printer and check if the error disappears.

Let me know if any of these worked for you! 😊

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?"—your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[windows_mss]

Thank you for your email and the troubleshooting steps provided. I have attempted all the suggested solutions, but unfortunately, the issue persists. I have installed the ink cartridges received through my HP Smart subscription, yet I continue to receive error messages. Additionally, despite there being no paper loaded, the printer is repeatedly displaying a false paper jam error.

 

 

 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @windows_mss,

Thank you for your response, It sounds like you're dealing with a couple of issues related to the printer, particularly the error code "0x6100004a," which is commonly associated with ink cartridge issues, and the false paper jam error. Let's go through a few troubleshooting steps to try and resolve both issues.1. Resolve the "0x6100004a" Error:

This error is often linked to ink cartridge problems, even if the cartridges appear to be fine. Here's what you can do:

A. Check the Ink Cartridges:

• Remove the cartridges and carefully inspect them. Ensure that the protective tape has been removed and that the ink cartridges are correctly installed in their respective slots.
• Reinstall the cartridges carefully, making sure they click into place properly.
• If the issue persists, try replacing the cartridges with a set that is known to work.

B. Reset the Printer:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source for about 1-2 minutes. This will reset the printer’s internal components.
• Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
• Check if the error persists.

C. Clean the Cartridge Contacts:

• Turn off the printer and remove the cartridges.
• Gently clean the gold-colored contacts on the cartridges and inside the printer with a lint-free cloth or a cotton swab dipped in distilled water.
• Wait for the area to dry before reinstalling the cartridges.

. Fix the False Paper Jam Error:

A false paper jam error can be caused by several issues, such as debris, misaligned sensors, or even dust buildup. Here’s what you can try:

A. Check for Actual Paper Jam:

• Open the printer’s paper tray and scanner lid (if applicable) to ensure there’s no visible paper jam. Sometimes paper can get stuck in hard-to-reach areas.
• If you find any paper stuck, gently remove it.

B. Inspect Paper Path and Feed Rollers:

• Inspect the rollers for any debris, dirt, or paper pieces. You can clean the rollers gently with a soft cloth dampened with water.
• If there is any paper debris in the paper path, remove it carefully.

C. Check the Paper Tray:

• Ensure the paper tray is aligned properly and that the paper is not jammed or stuck inside.
• If the paper is loaded incorrectly or jammed, it could trigger the false paper jam error. Make sure the paper is correctly loaded and aligned with the tray guides.

D. Check for Stuck Sensors:

• The printer uses sensors to detect paper jams. If these sensors get dirty or are obstructed, they could trigger a false jam message. Clean around the paper path and any sensors with a dry cloth or compressed air.

I hope this helps.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

[windows_mss]

We tried the above methods and it didn't work. The printer still shows the same error. We cleaned the rollers, we cleaned the cartridges and removed the paper in the paper tray and document feeder. We cleaned thoroughly still the printer shows the same error.

I have subscribed to HP Smart Instant Ink Subscription and Im  using the cartridges sent by HP. Not sure if the cartridges has a problem. I can try with a new set of cartridges (M,C,Y,K)if you send a new one .

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @windows_mss,

I would need to know a few details regarding your Instant ink account to help you get the ink cartridges sorted. Since the instant ink account details are confidential, please send me the required information via private message.   

To access your private messages, simply click the private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your profile name. 

You can use this link as well: 

Private Messages - HP Support Community

To locate your account, please provide 

Your registered email address 

Your Instant Ink account ID 

Serial number of your printer enrolled in instant ink 

Confirm your address, 

Take care and have a great day ahead! 

Best Regards,