On my Smart Tank printer 5101, what does error code E3 mean?

[JonathonSeagull]

HP Smart Tank 5101; Connected to Mac mini;   Error code on printer is E3.  What does that mean?

[Raj2111]

hI @JonathonSeagull 

elcome to the HP support community.
 

I understand you're experiencing an issue with your HP device, and I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. I'm here to help you today.

The E3 error code on the HP Smart Tank 5101 All-in-One Printer typically indicates a paper jam or a paper feed issue. The error suggests that the printer has detected a blockage or some kind of obstruction preventing it from feeding paper properly, or it could also indicate that there is paper stuck inside the printer.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and resolve the E3 error:

1. Check for Paper Jams

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source to avoid any electrical hazards while you inspect the printer.
• Open the printer's main cover to check the paper path.
• Look for any jammed paper inside the printer, especially around the paper rollers or the ink carriage.
• If you find any jammed paper, gently pull it out in the direction of the paper path. Be sure to avoid tearing the paper, as small pieces left behind can cause further issues.
• After removing the jammed paper, make sure that there are no small paper scraps or debris left behind inside the printer.
• Close the printer cover, plug it back in, and turn it on to see if the error is cleared.

2. Check the Paper Tray

• Remove the paper from the tray and check that the paper is not stuck or misaligned.
• Ensure that the paper guides in the tray are adjusted correctly to fit the size of the paper.
• If the paper is too tightly packed or improperly loaded, the printer may have difficulty feeding it properly.
• Reload the tray with a fresh stack of paper, ensuring that it's not overfilled.

3. Check for Obstructions Around the Paper Path

• Open all access doors and check inside for any foreign objects that could be blocking the paper path.
• Check the roller mechanism to see if it is clean and free of paper dust or debris.

4. Reset the Printer

1. Turn off the printer using the power button.
2. Unplug the power cable from the printer.
3. Wait for about 60 seconds to allow any residual power to dissipate.
4. Plug the power cable back in and turn the printer back on.

5. Inspect the Ink Cartridges

• Open the cartridge access door and check if the ink cartridges are installed correctly.
• Ensure that no protective tape or plastic is still attached to the cartridges.
• If necessary, remove and reinstall the cartridges to ensure they are seated properly

6. Update Printer Firmware

• Download the latest firmware for your printer from the HP Support website.
• You can also check for updates using the HP Smart app or the HP Printer Assistant (if you're connected to your printer via your Mac).

I hope this helps! Keep me posted.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.
 

-Regards
Raj-HP Support
 

[JonathonSeagull]

Thank you for the help.  Next to the printer window there's a yellow/orange exclamation mark blinking.  Looks important, but I can't find what it means.  Help please

[Raj2111]

Hi @JonathonSeagull 

Welcome to the HP support community.
 

I understand you're experiencing an issue with your HP printer blinking lights , and I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. I'm here to help you today.

Please check this link, click here

I hope this helps! Keep me posted.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.
 

-Regards
Raj-HP Support