Epson Printer Error Code 0xA0 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Epson error 0xA0 means the printer lost its communication link with the connected computer. This error typically appears when the USB connection drops, or when the printer driver has a problem. Most of the time it resolves quickly with a cable change or driver reinstall.

Affected Models

Epson WorkForce Pro WF-3720
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4720
Epson Expression Home XP-4100
Epson WorkForce WF-2850
Epson Expression Premium XP-7100

Common Causes

The USB cable between the printer and computer is loose, damaged, or faulty
The printer driver on the computer has become corrupted or is the wrong version
The USB port on the computer has a fault or is not providing adequate power
A USB hub between the printer and computer is causing intermittent connection drops
The printer's own USB port has developed a physical fault

How to Fix It

Unplug the USB cable from both the printer and the computer. Wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in firmly.

USB connectors can develop poor contact over time. A firm reconnection often immediately resolves the error.
Try a different USB cable. USB cables can fail internally without showing visible damage. A replacement cable costs about $5 to $10.

Use a cable that is no longer than 2 meters (6 feet) for reliable communication.
Connect the USB cable directly to the computer — not through a USB hub or extension. USB hubs can introduce latency and connection instability.

If the printer works directly but not through the hub, the hub itself is the problem.
Reinstall the printer driver. On your computer, go to Settings > Printers and remove the Epson printer. Then download and install the latest driver from epson.com/support.

A corrupted driver is a very common cause of persistent USB communication errors.
Try the printer on a different computer using a known-good USB cable. If it works on another computer, the issue is with your original computer's USB port or driver.

This test quickly isolates whether the problem is the printer or the computer.

When to Call a Professional

Error 0xA0 is usually a cable or software issue, not a hardware fault. If the error persists after trying a different cable and reinstalling the driver, the printer's USB port may be physically damaged. Contact Epson Support at 1-800-463-7766 or take the printer to a repair shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use USB or Wi-Fi to connect to my Epson printer?

Both work well, but for a desktop computer that is always in the same location, USB provides a more stable, interference-free connection. Wi-Fi is better for multiple devices or when the printer is in a different room. For printing heavy documents or photos, USB is slightly faster.

Can a bad USB port on my computer cause this error?

Yes. If the USB port is loose, has debris in it, or has a hardware fault, communication errors are common. Try a different USB port on your computer (not just a different socket on the same hub). If possible, use the rear USB ports on a desktop PC — they are on the motherboard and generally more reliable than front panel ports.

Why does error 0xA0 appear randomly during printing?

Random mid-print errors usually indicate a marginal connection that works at first but fails under the sustained data transfer of a large print job. A new USB cable almost always resolves this pattern. A printer driver reinstall is the next step if a new cable does not help.