HP Printer Error Code 89 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 89 on an HP LaserJet printer indicates a PostScript ROM (read-only memory) failure. PostScript is a page description language used to render complex documents and graphics. The printer's PostScript processing component has encountered a fault and cannot continue.

Affected Models

HP LaserJet 4000 Series
HP LaserJet 4050 Series
HP LaserJet 5000 Series
HP LaserJet 8000 Series
HP Color LaserJet 4500 Series

Common Causes

The PostScript SIMM or DIMM memory module is not fully seated in its slot
The PostScript firmware ROM chip or module is faulty or has failed
A firmware update was interrupted partway through, corrupting the PostScript data
The formatter board's memory interface circuitry has developed a fault
A document sent to the printer contains malformed PostScript code that crashed the interpreter

How to Fix It

Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord. Wait at least 60 seconds before proceeding.

A full power cycle clears the printer's memory and may resolve a temporary PostScript crash caused by a bad document.
Cancel all pending print jobs in your computer's print queue before turning the printer back on. This prevents the same malformed PostScript document from being resent.

On Windows, go to Settings > Devices > Printers, click your printer, and open the print queue to cancel all jobs.
Access the printer's memory slots. On HP LaserJet models, these are located inside the printer behind an access panel on the right side. Remove the PostScript SIMM or DIMM module and reinsert it firmly.

The memory modules snap into place. You should feel it seat fully. Even a tiny amount of play indicates it is not properly connected.
Test the printer by printing a simple text-only document. If the error only occurs with certain documents, the problem is likely a malformed PostScript file rather than a hardware fault.

Try printing from a different application or printing a different file type, such as a simple Word document with no special fonts or embedded graphics.
Check HP's support website for firmware updates for your printer model. A firmware update can repair corrupted PostScript data and resolve compatibility issues with modern PostScript documents.

Go to support.hp.com, search your model, and look under Software and Drivers for firmware packages.

When to Call a Professional

If reseating or replacing the PostScript SIMM does not resolve error 89, the formatter board may need professional service. Formatter boards for this era of HP LaserJet printers are available refurbished for $80 to $200. A technician can also attempt a firmware reflash to repair corrupted PostScript firmware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PostScript and why does my printer need it?

PostScript is a language that tells the printer exactly how to draw each page — where to put text, how to draw shapes, and how to render images. It was created by Adobe and is widely used in professional printing. Not all HP printers come with PostScript built in — some require an optional PostScript module installed in the printer.

Can I print without PostScript if error 89 keeps occurring?

Yes — if you remove the PostScript module and print using the standard PCL printer language instead, most documents will print normally. PCL is the default HP printer language and does not require the PostScript module. You may lose compatibility with some professional publishing applications that only output PostScript.

Did a virus corrupt my PostScript firmware?

Extremely unlikely. PostScript firmware corruption is almost always caused by a bad firmware update, a hardware failure, or a printer power cut during a firmware install. Normal print jobs — even ones with errors — cannot corrupt firmware. You do not need to worry about malware as a cause of error 89.