How to Fix Brother Printer Error 46: A Comprehensive Guide

Printer error 46 can be a frustrating issue that disrupts your work flow. This code typically indicates a problem with the printer’s hardware or a specific issue related to the printhead or ink cartridges. Here’s a detailed guide on how to troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue, which includes everything from basic troubleshooting steps to a deeper dive into the ink absorber pad.

Causes of Brother Machine Error 46

Brother Machine Error 46 can occur due to several reasons. The most common cause is a full ink absorber pad, which is an essential part of the printer responsible for collecting excess or spilled ink. However, sometimes the printer can trigger this error code when the pad is not actually full, which is why there is a simple method to clear the error without replacing the pad.

Steps to Troubleshoot Brother Printer Error 46

To resolve the error, you can follow these steps:

1. Restart the Printer

Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, wait for about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in and turn it on.

2. Check Ink Cartridges

Open the printer and check if the ink cartridges are properly installed. Remove and reinstall the cartridges to ensure they are seated correctly. Check for any protective tape that may still be on the cartridges.

3. Clean the Printhead

Use the printer's built-in cleaning function, usually found in the printer settings or maintenance menu. If the printer allows, manually clean the printhead with a lint-free cloth and some distilled water.

4. Check for Paper Jams

Inspect the printer for any paper jams or obstructions that could be causing the error. Remove any jammed paper carefully.

5. Update Printer Drivers

Ensure that the printer drivers are up to date. You can download the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website.

6. Reset the Printer

Some printers have a reset option in the menu or can be reset by holding down specific buttons. Refer to the printer's manual for instructions.

7. Refer to the Manual

If you have the printer's manual, check the troubleshooting section for error code 46 for specific guidance related to your model.

8. Contact Support

If the error persists after trying the above steps, consider contacting the manufacturer's customer support for further assistance.

What is an Ink Absorber Pad and Why Does My Printer Need It?

The ink absorber, similar to Canon printers, is a simple sponge pad that collects extra or spilled ink during the printing process. It is crucial for maintaining the printer's functionality without causing ink leaks, stains, or other issues. Over time, the ink absorber can become saturated, leading to the error message.

How to Reset and Clear the Brother Machine Error 46

If you suspect that the ink absorber is full but not causing the error, you can attempt to reset the purge counter. Here’s how to do it:

1. Check the Warranty Period

Make sure to check if your printer is still under warranty. Brother printers come with a one-year warranty, so if the issue occurs within this period, contact customer care service.

2. Put the Printer into Maintenance Mode

Unplug the power cord from the side of the printer. Hold down either the menu set or start button. Keep the button pressed while plugging the power cord back in and holding until you see a maintenance mode message on the screen. Your printer screen should now read “Maintenance”.

3. Resetting the Purge Counter

Depending on the type of printer you have, the process to reset the purge counter will vary. Here are the steps for both keypad and arrow button printers:

A. For Keypad Printers

Press 80 on the keypad to open the options. Use the down arrow key to scroll until you see purge followed by a number. Enter 2783, and the number next to the word PURGE should reset to zero. Press stop or exit to get back to the maintenance mode. Enter 99 to exit and restart the printer.

B. For Modern Keypad Printers

Hold down the home button until you see Serial No., ROM Version, or Print Page and a blank option. Select the blank option at the bottom of the list on the LCD screen. Press 0 on the LCD screen to enter maintenance mode. Enter 80 on the touch screen. Use the arrows to scroll to “purge count”. Enter 2783 and press ‘Mono Start’ to reset the purge counter. Press stop to exit maintenance mode.

C. For Non-Keypad Printers

Once in maintenance mode, follow the previous steps but use the up and down arrows to scroll through the numbers. Select 8, press OK or Set, then select 0 and press OK/Set. Scroll through the options until you see the word “Purge” followed by a count. Enter 2783 using the OK button to reset the purge counter.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error 46 without needing to replace your ink absorber pad. However, if the problem persists, contact the manufacturer’s customer support for further assistance.