Toner End/Near-End Detection - Ricoh Aficio 240W Service Manual

DEVELOPMENT

6.6.9 TONER END/NEAR-END DETECTION

The machine compares Vsp/Vsg with two SP settings to find when the toner
cartridge is almost empty (Toner Near End) or fully empty (Toner End).
• SP2927 001: Toner near-end
• SP2927 003: Toner end
Toner Near End
When Vsp/Vsg is larger than SP2927 001 three times in sequence, the machine
shows a toner near-end indication. The default is 0.200 (the lowest setting). If the
setting is higher, the quantity of toner in the cartridge becomes less before toner
near-end occurs. This can cause paler images at the end of the toner cartridge's
life. When toner near-end occurs, the toner near-end indicator lights on the
operation panel.
Toner End
When Vsp/Vsg is larger than the setting for SP2927 003 (0.225: default) three
pages in a row, the machine prints one more page and then stops immediately.
When toner end occurs, the toner end indicator lights on the operation panel and
copying stops. The machine cannot be used until:
• A new toner cartridge is installed.
• The machine recovers from toner end.
Toner End Recovery
The flow chart on the next page shows the recovery sequence when a new toner
cartridge is installed after toner end occurs. After toner end occurs, toner end
recovery starts if you open and close the toner hopper cover.
The machine makes an ID sensor pattern to detect if a supply of toner is available.
If Vsp/Vsg is less than Vref, then the machine detects recovery from toner end, and
goes out from the toner end condition. If Vsp/Vsg is more than Vref 5 times, then
the machine stays in the toner end condition, and it cannot be used. In some
conditions, the machine recovers from toner end if you switch the machine off and
on.
SM 6-47 B125