How to Fix Xerox Error 016-952: A Comprehensive Guide

Xerox error 016-952 indicates a problem with the printer’s ability to read or process data from a print job, usually related to the file format or data stream. This error can be frustrating, but thankfully, it can often be resolved with a systematic troubleshooting approach. This guide provides detailed steps to diagnose and fix the Xerox error 016-952.

Understanding Xerox Error 016-952

Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand what triggers this error. Error 016-952 generally points to:

  • Corrupted Print Data: The data being sent to the printer is damaged or incomplete.
  • Incorrect File Format: The printer doesn’t recognize or support the file format.
  • Driver Issues: The printer driver is outdated, corrupt, or incompatible.
  • Connectivity Problems: Issues with the connection between the computer and the printer.
  • Firmware Problems: Outdated or corrupted printer firmware.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Follow these steps in order to troubleshoot and resolve the 016-952 error:

1. Restart Your Printer

  • The simplest solution is often the most effective. Turn off the Xerox printer, wait for about 30 seconds, and then turn it back on. This can clear temporary errors and reset the printer’s memory.

2. Restart Your Computer

  • Similarly, restart the computer you’re printing from. This ensures that any temporary software glitches are resolved.

3. Check the Print Queue

  • Sometimes, a stuck print job can cause errors. Clear the print queue:
    • Windows: Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers. Double-click on your Xerox printer. Click “See what’s printing.” Cancel all documents in the queue.
    • macOS: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners. Select your Xerox printer. Open the print queue and delete any pending jobs.

4. Try Printing a Different Document

  • Determine if the error is specific to a particular document. Try printing a different file (e.g., a simple text document). If the new document prints successfully, the original file may be corrupt.

5. Save the Document in a Different Format

  • If the error is document-specific, try saving the document in a different format. For example, if you’re printing a PDF, try saving it as a different PDF version or as an image (JPEG, PNG).

6. Update or Reinstall the Printer Driver

  • Outdated or corrupt printer drivers are a common cause of printing errors. Follow these steps:
    • Download the Latest Driver: Go to the Xerox website and download the latest driver for your specific printer model and operating system.
    • Uninstall the Existing Driver:
      • Windows: Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers. Right-click on your Xerox printer and select “Remove device.”
      • macOS: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners. Select your Xerox printer and click the “-” button to remove it.
    • Install the New Driver: Run the downloaded driver installation file and follow the on-screen instructions.

7. Check the Connection

  • Ensure that the printer is properly connected to your computer:
    • USB: Make sure the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and the computer. Try a different USB port or cable.
    • Network: Verify that the printer is connected to the network and that your computer is on the same network. Check the printer’s IP address and ensure it’s correctly configured.

8. Check the File for Corruption

  • A corrupt file can also cause this error. Try opening the file on a different computer to see if the file is corrupt. Also, scan the file with an antivirus program to ensure that it is not infected with a virus.

9. Update Printer Firmware

  • Outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues. Check for firmware updates on the Xerox website and follow the instructions to update your printer’s firmware. This is usually done through the printer’s control panel or a web interface.

10. Simplify the Print Job

  • Complex documents with many graphics, fonts, or special formatting can sometimes overwhelm the printer. Try simplifying the print job by:
    • Printing in black and white instead of color.
    • Reducing the image resolution.
    • Using simpler fonts.
    • Printing only a portion of the document.

11. Check Printer Settings

  • Incorrect printer settings can sometimes cause this error. Check settings such as:

    • Paper Size: Ensure that the paper size selected in the print settings matches the paper loaded in the printer.
    • Paper Type: Verify that the paper type setting is appropriate for the paper being used.
    • Print Quality: Lowering the print quality can sometimes resolve errors.

12. Contact Xerox Support

  • If you’ve tried all the above steps and the error persists, contact Xerox support for further assistance. They may be able to provide more specific troubleshooting steps or identify a hardware issue.

Conclusion

Xerox error 016-952 can be a nuisance, but by following these troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue and get back to printing. Remember to proceed methodically, testing each solution before moving on to the next. With a little patience, you should be able to identify the root cause of the error and find a solution that works for you.