HP Printer Error Code 47 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 47 on HP LaserJet printers signals a communication problem between the printer controller and an installed accessory or internal component. It is similar to error 46 but often points specifically to a synchronization failure — meaning two parts of the printer are out of step with each other. A power cycle and accessory check usually resolves it.

Affected Models

HP LaserJet 4000 Series
HP LaserJet 4050 Series
HP LaserJet 5000 Series
HP LaserJet Pro M400 Series
HP LaserJet Enterprise M600 Series

Common Causes

An installed accessory (such as a duplex unit or envelope feeder) has a loose or faulty connection
The printer firmware is out of date and is not correctly handling communication with a newer accessory
An EIO card is installed but is incompatible with the current printer firmware version
A cable inside the printer connecting an accessory to the formatter board is loose or pinched
The printer was restarted mid-job, leaving internal components in an unsynced state

How to Fix It

Turn the printer off and unplug it. Wait at least 60 seconds before touching any accessories or cables.

Allowing the printer to fully power down clears any sync errors that are held in temporary memory.
Disconnect all optional accessories attached to the printer — duplex unit, envelope feeder, extra paper trays, and any EIO cards.

Testing the printer in its most basic configuration helps determine whether an accessory is causing the error.
Plug the printer back in and turn it on. If the error does not appear, one of the removed accessories is the culprit.

Add accessories back one at a time, turning the printer off between each addition, until the error reappears — that last accessory added is the problem.
For the accessory that triggered the error, check its connector for bent pins, debris, or corrosion. Clean the contacts and reseat the accessory firmly.

If the accessory is a paper tray, make sure it is pushed fully in and latched — even a slightly loose tray can cause communication errors.
Update the printer's firmware to the latest version from support.hp.com. Newer firmware often includes fixes for communication timing issues with accessories.

After updating firmware, reconnect all accessories and test again before concluding the firmware was not the cause.

When to Call a Professional

If error 47 persists after all accessories have been removed and firmware has been updated, the formatter board may have a fault in its communication bus. This is an internal repair best handled by a qualified HP technician. Formatter board replacement typically costs $80 to $200 depending on the printer model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is error 47 dangerous for my printer?

No, it will not cause physical damage to your printer. It is a communication error, not a mechanical or electrical failure. However, the printer will refuse to print while the error is active, so it needs to be resolved before you can use the printer again.

Can error 47 appear after installing a new accessory?

Yes, this is a common scenario. If a new paper tray, duplex unit, or EIO card was installed just before the error appeared, that accessory is most likely the cause. Check that the accessory is designed for your specific printer model — not all HP accessories are universally compatible.

What if removing all accessories does not fix error 47?

If the error persists with nothing attached, the problem is internal — either a loose cable, corrupted firmware, or a formatter board issue. Try reinstalling the firmware first as it is the easiest internal fix. If that does not work, a technician will need to inspect the internal cables and board.