There is nothing worse than running to your multifunction printer to make a quick copy or pick up your print out only to find an error code flashing on the control panel. What do you do now? Do you run away to another machine and pretend that you never saw it? (…Don’t worry; we’ve all done it.)

Think of your MFP like the human body – we all have off days. Often there are signals letting us know that something needs to be checked on, whether it’s swelling, pain, or a visible mark. Multifunction printers are developed in a similar way to let you know what needs attention. And much like the human body, if we ignore these signals, oftentimes they get worse.

Consider this advice from Toshiba service technicians to recognize and navigate these symptoms:

Tip 1: Look for Error Messages
The copier control panel is programmed to always communicate issues. Take a few extra seconds before and after using the copier to insure there are no messages appearing. Rest easy knowing that not all are error messages. Some may communicate low toner or waste toner full, which may be helpful.

Tip 2:  Pay Attention to All Messages on the Machine
If you do see an error message, take time to read it and understand what the machine is reporting. Be aware that some are just maintenance codes indicating it’s time to service the device. If that is the case, it is usually OK to continue using the device until it is serviced. Other codes will alert actual problems that need to be corrected immediately.  In the case of a paper jam, the user should be able to remove it and return the machine to operational status.

If you do see an error message, take time to read it and understand what the machine is reporting. Always keep the Hardware Troubleshooting Guide handy for reference.