Hieroglyphics, strange symbols or random characters appear on the printed page

Issue description

If the printer is producing garbage print such as long lines of random symbols, text, and numbers, or pages with a single symbol in the upper left-hand corner of the page, there may be an issue with the way the printer is connected to a certain port like a USB cable, Internet cable, etc..

Garbage printing sample

Solution

This article will help you confirm the problem. Please refer to the directions in the table below to help determine the hardware part causing the issue.

1. To correct the issue, power off the printer and disconnect all communication cables connected to the printer to the computer or network.

   The only cable that should be connected to the printer at this time is the power cord.



2. Power the printer back on and print a test page.

   Did the issue return?

   • Yes: Continue with Step 3
   • No: Issue is with the communication cables; please try a different cable or port.


3. Turn the printer Off and disconnect the power cable from the power supply adapter or outlet.

   Wait 30 to 60 seconds, reconnect the power cable and then turn it on.



4. Print another test page.

   Did the issue return?

   • Yes: Contact Lexmark support for further diagnosis of the issue.
   • No: Issue is resolved.


5. Check the print driver version and update it to the latest version if it is not the latest version. Follow steps outline in Downloading the latest Lexmark printer firmware to know how to check, download and update the printer firmware.



6. Print another test page.

   Did the issue return?

   • Yes: Contact Lexmark support for further diagnosis of the issue.
   • No: Issue is resolved.