Canon MP287 Paper Output Tray Is Closed: Solutions and Troubleshooting
The "Paper Output Tray Is Closed" error on your Canon MP287 printer can be frustrating, halting your printing process. This message appears when the printer detects the output tray isn't properly open or installed. This guide provides comprehensive solutions to resolve this issue and get you printing again.
Understanding the Problem:
The Canon MP287 printer relies on a correctly positioned output tray to receive printed pages. If the tray is closed, improperly installed, or obstructed, the printer will trigger the error message. This prevents paper jams and ensures successful printing.
Troubleshooting Steps:
Here's a step-by-step guide to fix the "Paper Output Tray Is Closed" error:
1. Check the Output Tray:
- Open the tray completely: Make sure the output tray is fully extended and open. Sometimes, a slight misalignment can trigger the error. Gently pull it outwards until it's fully extended.
- Check for obstructions: Ensure nothing is blocking the tray's path or preventing it from opening completely. Remove any debris, paper scraps, or objects that might be interfering.
- Proper Tray Installation: Carefully examine the tray's connection to the printer. Make sure it's securely fitted and in the correct position. Sometimes, a loose connection can cause this error.
2. Restart the Printer:
- Power off: Turn off your Canon MP287 printer completely.
- Unplug: Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
- Wait: Wait for at least 30 seconds before plugging the printer back in.
- Power on: Plug the power cord back in and turn the printer on.
This simple step often resolves minor software glitches that might be causing the error.
3. Check the Printer Driver:
- Update the driver: An outdated or corrupted printer driver can sometimes lead to unexpected errors. Visit the Canon support website and download the latest driver for your MP287 model. Ensure you download the correct driver for your operating system (Windows or macOS).
- Reinstall the driver: If updating doesn't work, try uninstalling the current driver and then reinstalling the latest one.
4. Inspect for Mechanical Issues:
- Internal obstructions: In rare cases, a small piece of paper or debris might be lodged inside the printer mechanism. Carefully examine the printer's internal components (if you are comfortable doing so) to ensure nothing is blocking the paper path.
- Damaged tray: If the output tray itself is damaged or broken, it might prevent it from being recognized correctly by the printer. Consider contacting Canon support or a local repair service.
5. Contact Canon Support:
If you've tried all the above steps and the error persists, it's best to contact Canon support directly. They might have more specific troubleshooting advice or might need to diagnose a more serious hardware problem.
Preventive Measures:
To prevent this error from occurring again, consider these preventive measures:
- Regular maintenance: Keep the output tray and printer area clean and free of debris.
- Gentle handling: Avoid forcefully opening or closing the output tray.
- Proper paper usage: Use the recommended paper type and size for your Canon MP287 printer to avoid paper jams.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "Paper Output Tray Is Closed" error on your Canon MP287 printer and resume printing. Remember to always consult the printer's manual for more specific instructions.
