Sc67310 Ricoh Error Extra Quality [ iPad ]
Title: SOLVED: SC673-10 on Ricoh (IPU/ASIC Communication Error) – How to fix without losing print quality
Post:
I recently ran into the SC673-10 error on a Ricoh MP C4504 (also seen on C3004, C6004, and newer 03/04 series devices). For those who haven’t seen it: the machine boots to a black screen or gets stuck on "Please wait" before throwing the code.
What SC673-10 actually means:
- Communication timeout between the Controller Board and the IPU (Image Processing Unit).
- Specifically, the ASIC on the IPU board isn’t responding to the main controller.
Why "Extra Quality" matters here: If you just clear the code without addressing the root cause, you may experience:
- Horizontal lines or banding
- Misaligned colors (CMYK registration off)
- Reduced 1200/2400 dpi rendering
- Scanner-to-printer image shifts
Here’s how to fix the error and restore/retain extra print/copy quality.
Common "Low Quality" Fixes (That Will Return in 2 Weeks)
- Spraying contact cleaner without removing oxidation.
- Tightening screws to the point of warping the controller board.
- Re-flashing firmware without verifying the bootloader integrity.
- Using non-shielded replacement ribbon cables.
Common causes
- Corrupted print job or data stream
- Faulty or malformed PostScript/PCL/PDF sent from host (driver or application bug).
- Large, complex jobs (high-res images, many fonts, complex overlays) that overflow buffers.
- Firmware or controller memory issues
- Firmware bug or corrupted firmware image.
- RAM errors on the controller board or damaged flash storage causing processing faults.
- Image processing module / RIP problems
- The RIP (raster image processor) may crash when converting complex objects—especially with transparency, heavy graphic effects, or unusual fonts.
- Print engine/calibration mismatch
- Sensor errors, calibration data corrupt, or engine module failing can trigger extra-quality checks and abort the job.
- Network/transmission errors
- Packet loss or interruption when sending large jobs can produce incomplete or corrupted data.
- Driver or driver-settings incompatibility
- Wrong driver (e.g., non-Ricoh PCL/PS driver), incorrect emulation mode, or advanced quality options that produce unsupported output.
4. Power Supply Unit (PSU) Ripple Noise
The operation panel runs on a 5V or 3.3V line from the PSU. If the primary capacitors in the PSU are aging, they produce "ripple" (AC noise on the DC line). The panel’s microcontroller resets or fails to respond whenever the ripple exceeds 100mV peak-to-peak. Extra Quality Diagnosis: Use an oscilloscope on the panel’s power pins. Look for sawtooth patterns. A multimeter in AC mode can sometimes detect this (anything over 50mV AC on a 5V DC line is suspect).
What to provide to Ricoh support or a technician
- Exact model and serial number.
- Firmware and controller versions.
- Time/date and frequency of SC67310 events.
- A copy of a file that reproduces the error.
- Printer event logs and any service-mode diagnostic outputs.
- Any recent changes (firmware updates, network changes, new drivers).
Step-by-step troubleshooting (ordered, prescriptive)
- Reproduce simply
- Print a built-in test page and a basic text document. If they print, hardware basic functions are OK.
- Isolate to file
- If the error occurs with a specific document, try:
- Print as image/PDF rasterization (in Acrobat: Print as Image).
- Flatten transparency and convert fonts to outlines or embed fonts.
- Reduce resolution or simplify graphics.
- If the error occurs with a specific document, try:
- Try different driver & protocol
- Switch between PCL and PostScript drivers. Try Ricoh Universal Print Driver vs model-specific driver.
- Print via USB directly (if possible) to rule out network corruption.
- Update or reload firmware
- Check Ricoh support site for firmware updates matching your model and apply latest stable firmware.
- Re-flash firmware if current image may be corrupted. Follow vendor instructions; back up settings first.
- Clear controller memory / power cycle
- Power off, unplug for 60 seconds, then restart to clear volatile memory.
- If the device has a “clear job” or “formatting memory” service menu option, use it per service manual.
- Check and reseat hardware modules
- For service-trained technicians: reseat controller boards, memory modules, and image processing/RIP cards.
- Inspect connectors for corrosion or damage.
- Replace suspect hardware
- If memory diagnostics show faults, replace RAM or the controller board.
- If RIP board fails during complex rasterization consistently, swap with a known-good unit.
- Examine network/storage path
- If printing over SMB/LPR/IPP, try alternate protocol or transfer job via local USB/print server.
- Ensure no network appliances (proxies, print processors) are corrupting files.
- Driver and job-prep fixes
- On client side, disable advanced color/quality options, transparency, and heavy compression.
- Update the application used to generate the job (Adobe Reader/Acrobat updates).
- Factory reset / service mode diagnostics
- As a last resort, perform factory settings reset (note: will erase configs). Use service manual diagnostics with caution.
- Contact Ricoh support / file a service ticket
- Provide: model, firmware version, full error code string, event log entries, a problematic sample file, and steps already taken.
C. Connection Issues
- Loose Connections: Internal cables (flat cables) connecting the Controller to the Operation Panel or the Engine Board (IOCB) are loose or damaged, preventing the handshake.
Final quality verification
After the error is gone, print:
- SP2-109-008 (Grid Pattern – Fine) → Check for moiré or jagged lines.
- SP2-109-009 (Solid Fill – Each color) → Look for banding.
- Run a Process Control (SP3-011-001) twice in a row.
If all passes, you’ve successfully fixed SC673-10 without degrading your output quality.
TL;DR:
- SC673-10 = Controller ↔ IPU communication loss.
- Don’t just clear the code – it kills print quality.
- Replace power supply first, update firmware, reseat cables.
- Replace IPU only as last resort.
- Always re-run registration and process control after repair.
Machine series confirmed affected: MP C2004/C2504/C3004/C3504/C4504/C6004, IM C2000/C3000/C4000/C6000 (same IPU architecture).
While there is no standard Ricoh error code exactly matching "SC67310," it is highly likely you are seeing SC672-10 or a similar controller communication error. Ricoh SC (Service Call) codes typically follow a three-digit format (e.g., SC672) often followed by a dash and a sub-code (e.g., -10).
The error SC672-10 (Controller-to-Operation Panel Communication Error) generally indicates that the machine's operation panel failed to communicate with the controller board during startup. Common Causes
Startup Timing: The operation panel did not receive a response from the controller within the expected time after power-on.
Connection Issues: Loose or damaged cables between the controller board and the operation panel.
Hardware Failure: A fault in the controller board, the operation panel itself, or the machine's memory (DIMM).
Firmware Glitch: Corruption or out-of-date software preventing proper communication. Troubleshooting Steps
Perform a Hard Reset: Turn off the main power switch, unplug the machine from the wall for at least 60 seconds, and then plug it back in and restart. This can often clear temporary communication "handshake" failures.
Check External Connections: Ensure no USB devices or SD cards are plugged into the controller or panel that might be interfering with the boot process.
Reseat Memory and Cables: (For technicians) Open the controller box and reseat the controller's memory modules (DIMM) and the interface cables connecting to the operation panel.
Update Firmware: If the machine boots intermittently, ensure the Ricoh firmware is updated to the latest version to resolve known communication bugs.
If the error persists after a hard reset, it usually requires a service technician to inspect the Controller Board or the Operation Panel for hardware replacement. Printer Problems - Ricoh Support
The SC673-10 error code on Ricoh devices indicates an Operation Panel Flair Communication Error. This specific code appears on machines equipped with a Smart Operation Panel and signifies that the system application (Monitor Service) has performed an abnormal operation or failed to communicate with the main controller board. Core Meaning of SC673-10
The term "Flair communication" refers to the data exchange between the Smart Operation Panel and the main machine. When this communication is interrupted or fails to reach the panel, the SC673-10 code is triggered. Common Causes
Software Glitches: The operation panel software or Monitor Service has ended abnormally or stalled.
Physical Connectivity: Loose, broken, or defective operation panel connectors or cables. sc67310 ricoh error extra quality
Controller Issues: The controller board may be stalled, defective, or improperly installed.
Firmware/Software Mismatch: Software version inconsistencies can sometimes trigger communication timeouts. Recommended Troubleshooting Steps
Power Cycle (Immediate Fix): Turn the main power switch off, wait approximately 60 seconds, and turn it back on. This often resets the internal monitor service and clears temporary stalls.
Inspect Connections: If the error persists, check the physical cables connecting the Operation Panel to the controller board to ensure they are seated correctly and undamaged.
Software Reset: In some cases, a full power reset by disconnecting the power cord for 60 seconds can recover the system from a deep software stall.
Service Mode Reset: Technicians may use the Ricoh Service Mode to perform an SC Reset (SP 5810) if the error is persistent and not caused by a hardware failure.
If these steps do not resolve the issue, the controller board or the Smart Operation Panel itself may require replacement by an authorized service provider. 'Scanner Failure' error displays - Ricoh
Error Code: SC67310 Ricoh Printer Error: Extra Quality
The SC67310 error code is a specific error message that appears on Ricoh printers, indicating an issue related to "Extra Quality". This error typically occurs when the printer's quality control system detects an abnormality in the printing process, resulting in reduced print quality.
Causes of SC67310 Error:
The SC67310 error can be caused by several factors, including:
- Toner or ink issues: Low toner or ink levels, or using non-genuine Ricoh toner or ink cartridges, can cause this error.
- Print head problems: Clogged or dirty print heads can lead to poor print quality, triggering the SC67310 error.
- Paper quality issues: Using low-quality or incompatible paper can cause printing problems, resulting in this error.
- Printer calibration: Incorrect printer calibration or settings can affect print quality, leading to the SC67310 error.
Symptoms of SC67310 Error:
When the SC67310 error occurs, you may notice:
- Reduced print quality, such as blurry or faded prints
- Distorted or irregular printouts
- Printer stops printing or produces blank pages
Troubleshooting Steps:
To resolve the SC67310 error, follow these steps:
- Check toner or ink levels: Ensure that the toner or ink cartridges are not empty or low.
- Clean the print head: Run the printer's built-in cleaning process to clean the print head.
- Adjust paper settings: Verify that the paper settings match the type of paper being used.
- Calibrate the printer: Run the printer's calibration process to ensure proper settings.
- Restart the printer: Turn off the printer, wait for a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
Resetting the Error Code:
If the above troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to reset the error code. This can be done using the printer's control panel or through the printer's software.
Prevention:
To prevent the SC67310 error from occurring in the future:
- Regularly clean and maintain the printer
- Use genuine Ricoh toner or ink cartridges
- Monitor paper quality and adjust settings accordingly
- Periodically calibrate the printer to ensure optimal performance
By following these troubleshooting steps and taking preventative measures, you should be able to resolve the SC67310 error and improve the overall print quality of your Ricoh printer.
The Ricoh SC673-10 error code primarily indicates an Operation Panel Flair Communication Error. This specialized error occurs when the printer’s quality control system detects an abnormality in the internal communication process, which can lead to reduced print output quality or a complete system halt. Understanding the SC673-10 Error
This error specifically points to a communication failure between the Smart Operation Panel (SOP) and the controller board. Unlike common mechanical jams, this is a software or board-level issue often triggered by:
Abnormal application behavior: The Monitor Service on the Smart Operation Panel may have performed an unexpected operation.
Hardware failure: Defective components like the Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Controller PCB, or NVRAM can disrupt this communication.
Firmware Glitches: Corrupt or outdated firmware can cause the "extra quality" control system to flag false positives. Initial Troubleshooting Steps Before replacing hardware, try these fundamental resets: Communication timeout between the Controller Board and the
Power Cycle: Turn the main power switch (located behind the front cover) to OFF, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back ON.
Check Connections: For technical users, ensure the Ethernet or USB cables connecting internal modules are seated correctly.
Clear Error Log: Access the printer screen and select [Error Log] to identify if other related codes are appearing simultaneously. Advanced Solutions
If a simple restart does not resolve the error, technical intervention may be necessary:
Service Mode Reset: To clear persistent SC codes, enter the Service Program (SP) mode. On many models, this is done by pressing [Clear Modes], then [0][7], and holding [Stop] until the screen changes. Navigate to System SP > 5810 (SC Reset) and restart the machine.
HDD Inspection: Technicians often find that a failing Hard Disk Drive can cause SC673-10. Disconnecting the HDD and booting the machine can help verify if the drive is the culprit.
Firmware Update: Reflashing the system firmware can resolve software-based communication hangs.
The Ricoh error code (often part of the 600-series communication errors) typically signifies a
communication failure between the controller board and the operation panel
or an internal timing error during startup. While users often associate "extra quality" with high-resolution printing settings, in the context of this error, it usually relates to a mismatch in how the machine handles high-complexity data or "Extra Quality" image processing instructions. Understanding Ricoh SC673-10 1. The Core Issue: Communication Lag
At its heart, SC673-10 is a "Service Call" error. It occurs when the controller fails to receive a response from the operation panel within a set timeframe after power-on. This delay can be caused by: Corrupted Data:
Attempting to process a file that is too complex, often when using "Fine" or "Extra Quality" gradation settings. Software Mismatch: A conflict between the printer driver and the firmware. Hardware Fatigue:
Aging RAM or a failing hard disk drive (HDD) that cannot keep up with the processing demands of high-quality images. 2. The Role of "Extra Quality"
When users select "Extra Quality" or high-gradation settings in their printer driver, the machine requires significantly more memory to "draw" the page before printing. If the machine's internal memory is nearly full or the data is corrupt, the controller may "hang," triggering the communication timeout (SC673). Recommended Solutions
Understanding and resolving complex technical errors like the SC673-10 on Ricoh multi-function printers (MFPs) is essential for maintaining "extra quality" in professional printing environments. This specific service code typically points to a communication or startup failure within the device's internal systems. What is the Ricoh SC673-10 Error?
Service Call (SC) codes in the 600-series generally indicate communication errors between the main controller and its various sub-components. While specific sub-codes can vary by model, the SC673-10 typically signals a failure in the communication link between the controller board and the operation panel or an auxiliary engine board.
When this error occurs, the machine often halts all operations to prevent further data corruption or hardware damage. Primary Causes of the Error
Communication Timing Issues: The operation panel or engine board may not respond within the designated time during startup.
Loose or Damaged Cabling: Internal flat cables (FFCs) or USB connections between boards can become loose or oxidized.
Firmware Glitches: Outdated or corrupted firmware can cause "extra quality" processing tasks to hang, triggering a system timeout.
Hardware Failure: In rare cases, a defective controller board (CTL) or a faulty memory module may be the culprit. Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
To restore your machine to its peak performance and maintain "extra quality" output, follow these diagnostic steps: 1. Perform a Hard Power Cycle The simplest fix is often a full system reset. Turn off the main power switch on the side of the machine.
Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet and wait at least 30 seconds.
Plug it back in and restart. This clears temporary memory glitches that may be causing the communication lag. 2. Clear the Print Queue
Software-side errors, such as a corrupted high-resolution print job, can sometimes manifest as SC codes. Ensure all pending jobs on connected PCs are deleted before restarting the printer. 3. Enter Service Mode to Reset the SC Why "Extra Quality" matters here: If you just
For persistent errors, you may need to manually reset the code via the Service Program (SP) Mode:
Access the SP mode by pressing [Reset] -> -> [0] -> [7] -> [Clear/Stop] (hold for 3 seconds).
Note: On newer Android-based panels, use the [Check Status] -> [Service Mode] path. Navigate to System SP. Go to SP 5-810 (SC Reset) and select "Execute". Turn the main power off and then back on. 4. Check Internal Connections If you are comfortable with hardware maintenance: Ensure the device is unplugged.
Inspect the USB or flat cables connecting the operation panel to the controller board. Reseating these cables can often resolve intermittent communication failures.
error code on Ricoh devices typically indicates a communication failure
between the controller and the operation panel during the startup sequence
. This specific sub-code (-10) often points to a timeout or a mismatch in how these two core components interact. Quick Fixes & Troubleshooting
Most users can resolve this by following a specific power-cycling sequence to clear temporary software glitches. Standard Reboot:
Turn off the main power switch, wait for 60 seconds, and turn it back on Check External Connections:
Ensure no external USB devices or SD cards are plugged into the operation panel, as these can interfere with the boot process. Controller Reset:
If a simple reboot fails, perform a "hard" power cycle by unplugging the power cord from the wall for at least 30 seconds before reconnecting Copier Liquidation Center Technical Maintenance (Service Mode)
If the error persists after a reboot, it may be logged in the machine's memory. A technician or advanced user can perform an via Service Mode Service Mode : (Usually Hold Clear/Stop Navigate to Search for (SC Reset). and restart the machine Altimate Business Machines Potential Root Causes
If "Extra Quality" isn't being met or the error returns immediately, the following hardware components may be failing: Controller Board (CTL):
The main logic board may have a loose connection or faulty firmware Operation Panel Cable:
The physical harness connecting the screen to the printer body may be pinched or frayed. Firmware Mismatch:
If you recently updated the engine or controller firmware, the two components may no longer be compatible For official diagrams and part numbers, you can check the Ricoh Support Portal or detailed service guides on
If you'd like, I can help you with more specific steps if you tell me: What is the exact model of your Ricoh machine? (e.g., MP C3503, IM C3000) Did this happen after a power outage firmware update Are you comfortable opening the machine to check cable connections
The Ricoh error code (often misread as sc67310) indicates a Controller Startup Error
, specifically a communication failure between the operation panel and the controller board after the machine is powered on Understanding Error SC672-10
This error occurs when the operation panel fails to receive a signal from the controller during the boot sequence. Because it is a startup-related issue, it may not appear in the standard SMC logging report. Common Causes Controller Board Issues
: The most common culprit is a stalled or defective controller board. HDD Failure
: A defective or corrupted hard drive can prevent the controller from starting correctly. Communication Link Failure
: Loose or faulty USB cables/harnesses connecting the operation panel and the controller (IPU). Firmware Glitches : Outdated or corrupted system firmware. Power Issues
: Inadequate voltage supply to the controller's onboard components. Step-by-Step Troubleshooting 1. Basic Power Cycle Fix SC672 Error on Ricoh MP5055 Copier Step by Step 20 Aug 2025 —
2. Technical Root Causes
The error is triggered when the controller board cannot read, decompress, or execute the application data. The primary causes can be categorized as follows: