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Understanding Fargo Error 97: Ribbon Search Error for DTC and HDP Printers
When your printer display or computer screen shows Fargo Error 97, the printer is signalling that it cannot locate the next colour panel on the ribbon. Whether you are using a Direct-to-Card (DTC) printer or a High Definition Printing (HDP) retransfer printer, this error indicates a synchronization failure between the hardware and the ribbon.
In short, Fargo Error 97 means: "I am moving the ribbon, but my sensors cannot find the start of the next colour panel."
Why Does Error 97 Happen?
While the core issue is a "lost" ribbon panel, the causes can differ slightly between DTC and HDP models:
1. Broken or Torn Ribbon
This is the most common cause. If the ribbon snaps, the take-up motor spins, but the sensors never see the colour panels pass by.
DTC specific: Often caused by high "Print Head Heat" settings.
HDP specific: Less common for the ribbon to snap, but if the HDP film (the clear layer) breaks, it can occasionally cause mechanical resistance that leads to ribbon errors.
2. Optical Sensor Blockage or Failure
Fargo printers use optical sensors to "see" the clear gaps between ribbon panels.
Dust & Debris: Card dust or pigment flakes can coat the sensor lens.
Calibration: If the sensor's sensitivity is off, it may "see" through a dark panel or fail to see a light one.
3. Mismatched Ribbon Settings
If your printer driver is set to print with a YMCKK ribbon but you have a standard YMCKO ribbon installed, the printer will search for a panel sequence that doesn't exist, triggering Error 97.
4. Mechanical Slip
If the ribbon supply or take-up spindles are not seated correctly, or if the "O-ring" on the drive motor is worn, the ribbon won't move even though the motor is turning.
How to Fix Fargo Error 97
Follow these steps to troubleshoot both DTC (e.g., DTC1250e, DTC4500e) and HDP (e.g., HDP5000, HDP6600) printers:
Step 1: Inspect the Ribbon
Open the printer cover and remove the ribbon cartridge (DTC) or the ribbon supply/take-up spools (HDP).
Check for a break. If it’s broken, use a small piece of clear tape to splice the two ends together.
Wind the ribbon forward manually until the taped portion is onto the take-up spool (the right-hand side) and a fresh, clean panel is ready to be used.
Step 2: Verify the Driver Settings
Go to Devices and Printers on your PC.
Right-click your Fargo printer and select Printing Preferences.
Ensure the "Ribbon Type" selected in the software matches exactly what is physically inside the printer.
Step 3: Clean the Sensors
Remove the ribbon.
Perform a standard cleaning cycle using the Fargo cleaning cards to remove any invisible oils or debris.
Step 4: Calibrate the Sensor (Crucial for HDP)
If cleaning doesn't work, the sensor may need to be recalibrated:
In the printer's Toolbox (via the driver), look for the Calibrate tab.
Follow the prompts to calibrate the "Ribbon Sensor." This tells the printer's "eye" what a transparent panel looks like versus a coloured one.
How to Prevent Error 97
Always use Genuine Fargo Supplies: Third-party ribbons often have different panel densities that the optical sensors cannot read accurately.
Regular Cleaning: Clean your printer every time you change the ribbon. Dust is the #1 enemy of optical sensors.
Update Firmware: HID Global frequently releases firmware updates that improve sensor logic and ribbon detection.
Environment Matters: Store ribbons in a cool, dry place. Heat and humidity can cause the ribbon layers to stick together (static), causing the motor to slip.
When to Call for Professional Support
If you have replaced the ribbon, cleaned the sensors, and performed a calibration but the Error 97 persists, you may be looking at a failed ribbon sensor or a faulty drive motor.
Groove Identification Solutions can provide expert assistance with:
In-depth calibration for your Fargo Card Printers.
Repairing or replacing broken sensor assemblies.
Providing genuine Fargo DTC and HDP consumables.
Contact us today to help with any and all questions regarding to your ID Card Printer!
📧: info@groovebadges.com
