How to Fix HP OfficeJet Pro 8015 Error Code 0xb83fa27c After Printhead Cleaning

Question:
After following your helpful YouTube videos, I recently tried manually cleaning my HP OfficeJet Pro 8015 printhead. Unfortunately, during the cleaning, the FCC pads on the printhead got partially ripped, and I trimmed about 1.5 mm off to restore connectivity. Initially, the printer worked perfectly but wouldn't connect to Wi-Fi. After rebooting, it shows an unknown error code: 0xb83fa27c, and it's completely stuck. What might have caused this issue, and how can I fix it?

Answer:

Possible Cause: Damaged or Misaligned FFC Cable

From your detailed explanation, it seems the trimmed Flat Flexible Cable (FFC) may be causing issues. Although your initial fix of trimming the cable was clever and worked initially, FFC cables are highly sensitive. The error code 0xb83fa27c typically points to a hardware-level communication fault—specifically related to the printhead or its connection to the printer’s main logic board.

Why Your Printer Worked Initially but Now Shows an Error

When performing prints directly from the printer's menu, the printer might skip certain hardware checks that it conducts during startup. After rebooting, the printer performs comprehensive internal diagnostics, identifying subtle connectivity issues previously undetected during basic printing tasks.

Recommended Solutions:

1. Inspect and Clean the Trimmed FFC Cable

Use a magnifying glass to carefully inspect the trimmed ends:

• Ensure the edges are perfectly straight and even.

• Confirm no copper traces are crossing or shorting.

• Check if any minor slivers or debris might be bridging adjacent contacts.

2. Replace the FFC Cable

Replacing the cable entirely is often the most effective solution. A new cable eliminates doubts about hidden damage, shorts, or intermittent continuity issues caused by trimming.

3. Full Re-seating of Connections

• Fully disconnect and then reconnect all related cables—both at the printhead and the mainboard ends.

• Ensure connectors snap fully into place, creating secure and stable connections.

4. Conduct a Thorough Visual Inspection

Check the printhead area for potential burn marks or visibly damaged components. A damaged component caused by a short circuit from the trimmed cable could trigger the error.

5. Power Cycle with Extended Disconnect

Sometimes, errors are stored in the printer's memory:

• Disconnect all cables and power from the printer.

• Leave unplugged overnight.

• Reconnect everything the following day to see if the error clears.

6. Attempt USB Connection Initially

Since the Wi-Fi issue occurred concurrently, try connecting via USB to rule out Wi-Fi hardware initialization as a contributing factor.

About Error Code 0xb83fa27c

This specific error code typically indicates:

• Printhead communication failure

• Printhead or carriage initialization issues

• Internal logic board errors or sensor faults

Since HP printers, especially the OfficeJet series, are sensitive to modifications or damage in printhead cables, even slight irregularities can trigger critical errors during boot-up diagnostics.

Additional Recommendations

Addressing printer issues can be intricate, given their technical and hands-on nature. Consequently, we can't provide detailed remote troubleshooting or support for printer repairs. However, we offer comprehensive in-person evaluation and repair services at our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, appointments operate on a first-come, first-served basis, potentially resulting in a wait of several weeks.

While our professional repair services are robust, we recognize they may not be the most economical option for everyone. Therefore, we highly recommend exploring DIY solutions through online resources. Visit our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and use the search icon next to the "About" section in the menu bar to quickly find relevant tutorials we've created over the past nine years. Additionally, YouTube may suggest helpful videos from other creators as well.

Thank you again for your valuable question and continued support! We're here to assist and support your printing needs whenever possible.