How to Bypass the 100016 Scanner Error on Epson Printers When the Scanner Malfunctions

Customer Question:
Can I disconnect the scanner unit from my Epson printer so that it can function solely as a printer? The issue with mine stems from a broken scanner lamp or its moving trolley, though the internal wiring appears intact. Epson doesn’t seem to offer a replacement part, and I suspect I’d still encounter the 100016 error if I tried to operate the printer without the scanner.

Answer:

Now, to address your concern about bypassing the scanner on your Epson printer—especially regarding the 100016 scanner error—you’ve touched on a very real limitation with these multifunction devices. The 100016 error typically indicates a communication failure between the scanner unit and the printer’s control board, often caused by a non-functional scanner lamp, a jammed scanner carriage (trolley), or internal component failure like faulty sensors or damaged motors.

Unfortunately, Epson printers are designed to operate as integrated units. That means the printer and scanner boards communicate during startup and print operations—even if you're not using the scanner itself. If the scanner fails to initialize or report ready status, the printer throws the 100016 error and halts all functions.

Completely disconnecting the scanner is not feasible because the printer’s firmware requires a handshake signal from the scanner assembly during boot-up. If the scanner is absent, the printer assumes a hardware malfunction.

However, there’s a practical workaround. As mentioned, while you cannot fully remove or disconnect the scanner unit, you can convert it into a non-functioning "dummy" unit by relocating it within the printer chassis. This typically involves moving the scanner board and lamp assembly to the bottom of the printer casing (some disassembly is required), securing it in place, and ensuring that cables remain connected and signals continue to pass through. When done correctly, this allows the printer to bypass the scanner self-check process, avoiding the 100016 error and enabling you to use the device as a standalone printer.

We’re currently working on an updated video guide to walk users through this procedure step by step. In the meantime, you can refer to our existing write-up, How to Fix the 100016 Scanner Error on Epson Printers [https://bchtechnologies.com/blogs/blog/how-to-fix-the-100016-scanner-error-on-epson-printers], which covers some foundational ideas behind the workaround.

That said, this solution requires careful handling of printer internals. If you’re not comfortable opening the unit or dealing with ribbon cables and components, we recommend you consult a professional or use our diagnostic service.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility [https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service]. Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage [https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies]. Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thank you again for your engagement and for supporting BCH Technologies. We truly appreciate your patience and interest in keeping your printer operational.