How to fix card jam FARGO DTC1250e?
A card jam on your FARGO DTC1250e ID Card Printer is a common issue, but usually resolvable with some careful troubleshooting. These jams can be caused by various factors, including misaligned cards, dirty rollers, or minor obstructions.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you fix a card jam on your FARGO DTC1250e:
Safety First:
- Always power off the printer and unplug it from the power source before attempting to clear any jam or perform maintenance. This prevents accidental damage to the printer and potential injury.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clear a Card Jam:
- Open the Printer Cover:
- Lift the top cover of the printer. You may need to remove the ribbon cartridge and/or cleaning roller to get better access to the card path. Place them in a clean, dust-free area.
- Locate the Jammed Card:
- Carefully inspect the entire card path, from the input hopper to the output tray. Look for the jammed card, or any small fragments, dust, or debris.
- Do NOT use any sharp objects to try and dislodge the card, as this can severely damage the printhead or internal components.
- Gently Remove the Jammed Card:
- Once you locate the card, try to gently pull it out in the direction it was supposed to move. Avoid forcing it, as this can bend the card or damage internal rollers.
- The DTC1250e has a manual card feed knob usually located on the right side of the printer (or sometimes accessible through the driver’s toolbox utilities). Slowly rotate this knob to manually push or pull the jammed card through the path.
- If there’s any torn ribbon stuck with the card, try to gently remove that as well.
- Check and Clean Rollers:
- Dirty or overly sticky rollers are a common cause of jams. The rollers can accumulate dust, debris, and card residue, affecting their grip and causing cards to stick or misfeed.
- Use a FARGO DTC1250e cleaning card from your cleaning kit. Follow the instructions in your printer’s manual for a full cleaning cycle.
- Alternatively, you can gently wipe the rollers with an isopropyl alcohol cleaning wipe (specifically designed for printer rollers, lint-free). Ensure the rollers are completely dry before reassembling.
- Tip: If rollers are too sticky, gently rolling them on a clean, smooth surface (like a clean desk) can help reduce excessive stickiness without removing all necessary traction.
- Inspect the Card Path for Obstructions:
- Even after removing the main jam, tiny pieces of card, dust, or lint can remain and cause future jams. Use a can of compressed air (holding it upright to avoid moisture discharge) to blow out any loose debris from the card path.
- Reload Cards Properly:
- Use high-quality, clean, flat, and dust-free PVC cards. Bent, warped, or dirty cards are a primary cause of jams.
- Ensure the cards are stacked evenly and correctly in the input hopper.
- Avoid overloading the input hopper beyond its recommended capacity.
- Check the Ribbon:
- Ensure your print ribbon cartridge is properly installed and seated.
- Inspect the ribbon itself for any tears, wrinkles, or damage, as a damaged ribbon can also cause card jams. If torn, you might be able to temporarily tape it back together (using clear tape on the non-print side) to complete a job, but it’s best to replace it.
- Restart and Test the Printer:
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- Reinsert the ribbon cartridge and cleaning roller (if removed).
- Close the printer cover securely.
- Plug the printer back into the power source and turn it on.
- Once the printer initializes and is ready, send a test card to confirm it’s working properly.
Advanced Troubleshooting & Prevention:
- Update Firmware and Drivers: Regularly check HID Global’s website for the latest firmware and printer drivers for your DTC1250e. Outdated software can sometimes lead to unexpected errors, including jams.
- Regular Cleaning: This is the most crucial preventive measure. Use genuine Fargo cleaning kits regularly as recommended in your printer’s manual to keep rollers and internal components free from dust and debris.
- Proper Card Storage: Store blank cards in their original packaging or a sealed container to protect them from dust and moisture.
- Power Supply: Ensure the printer is connected to a stable power source and not plugged into a cheap surge protector that might cause power fluctuations.
If the card jams persist after following all these steps, it may indicate a deeper mechanical issue with the printer (e.g., worn rollers, sensor malfunction). In this case, it’s recommended to contact HID Global (FARGO) technical support or an authorized service center in Lahore for professional assistance. You can typically find their contact information through local distributors like Ahmed Infotech Solutions (+92-309-786-2487).