I have a HP Laserjet 5 here, with a very strange problem.

If I don't install any external SIMMs, the page prints fine. However, if I
install any SIMM in any position, the printer will randomly crop off a
portion of the bottom of the page. The position varies, sometimes it's OK.
This problem also affects the self-test page.

When I remove the SIMM, the page prints just fine.
I've tried a number of SIMMs, including some original HP modules.
What could the problem be?

TIA


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It's either one of two things. Either in the software you need to set it to the
correct amount of RAM, or there are DIP switches on the board that need to be
set.

The way you described it I'd bet on DIP switches on the board. You'll probably
need a manual to get it right, but look anyway, there may be a chart. Of course
check the software first (it's easier) and if there's an arrow or anything next
to where it reports the "installed memory" click it and see where you go. That
might just be it, I dunno.

It also might require some wierdo kind of RAM that looks the same but doesn't
cook the same.

Good luck (when anything HP breaks down, you need it)

JURB

If I don't install any external SIMMs, the page prints fine. However, if I
install any SIMM in any position, the printer will randomly crop off a

I have a 5MP. This model uses 72-pin SIMMs. It has three slots; two for
RAM, one for a proprietary combo RAM/ROM SIMM. I expanded my printer to
the full 19Mb of supported RAM by adding standard 60ns EDO DRAM 8Mb
SIMMs in the two RAM-only slots. I discovered from googling that there
are size-reporting jumpers on the SIMMs. (Some SIMMs don't implement
them at all; many just have blank pads and no jumpers installed, since
PCs don't require them).

I would guess that the printer is either misreading those size bits, or
your SIMMs have them set incorrectly.

But it's very strange.. I've even used original HP memory, and memory which
worked in a Laserjet 4...


"Lewin A.R.W. Edwards" wrote in message
nk.net...
If I don't install any external SIMMs, the page prints fine. However, if
I
install any SIMM in any position, the printer will randomly crop off a

I have a 5MP. This model uses 72-pin SIMMs. It has three slots; two for
RAM, one for a proprietary combo RAM/ROM SIMM. I expanded my printer to
the full 19Mb of supported RAM by adding standard 60ns EDO DRAM 8Mb
SIMMs in the two RAM-only slots. I discovered from googling that there
are size-reporting jumpers on the SIMMs. (Some SIMMs don't implement
them at all; many just have blank pads and no jumpers installed, since
PCs don't require them).

I would guess that the printer is either misreading those size bits, or
your SIMMs have them set incorrectly.



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Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.742 / Virus Database: 495 - Release Date: 8/19/2004

OK... I think I've solved the problem....

Noticed that the "problem" only occurs when loading paper from the MP
tray, so got a copy of the Laserjet service manual. Manual says
there's a paper sensor which switches off laser power when the end of
paper is detected.. Hmm that's a possibility.
So, remove the cover plate from the manual feeder (the black piece of
plastic) and what do I see? The previous owner totally removed the
paper guide, allowing the paper to "fold" up JUST at the location of
the paper sensor, thus making the sensor think that the paper had
ended... and thus cutting off the laser beam! Tada, truncated
printout.

I took out the paper guide from the Laserjet 4 it replaced... put it
in, and it works properly now.

So, not all faults are due to the formatter....