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Ribbon Error Code 48 on Seaory S25/S26/S28 — Fast Fix

Updated

Error 48 on a Seaory S25, S26 or S28 means the printer needs a ribbon check. Start with Ribbon LED calibration, then inspect the ribbon and sensor area if the error remains.

Watch the S25/S26/S28 walkthrough. The calibration readings shown are recorded examples, not a universal target. Watch on YouTube.

1. Calibrate the Ribbon LED

Remove the ribbon cartridge and close the cover before calibration.

  • Windows: Devices & Printers → your Seaory printer → Printing preferences → Tool → Calibrate Ribbon LED → Calibrate.
  • Mac: System Settings → Printers & Scanners → your Seaory printer → Options & Supplies → Utility → Open Printer Utility → Other tools → Calibrate Ribbon LED.
Seaory Mac printer utility with Calibrate Ribbon LED under Other tools.
Menu labels can vary by driver version.

Follow the result or status shown by your utility. After calibration completes, reinstall the ribbon and print a test card. The video’s reading of 162 is an example; a number alone does not confirm a pass or identify a failed part.

2. Check the ribbon

  1. Turn the printer off, open the cover and remove the ribbon holder.
  2. Check for a tear, loose film, wrinkles or an incorrectly seated spool.
  3. If the ribbon is torn, follow a repair method confirmed by Bodno support for your ribbon, or install a compatible replacement. See the broken-ribbon guide.
  4. Seat the holder correctly and close the cover without forcing it.

3. Clean the LED and sensor

Locations of the ribbon LED and lower photosensor inside a Seaory printer.

With the printer off and unplugged, gently clean the ribbon LED and lower photosensor with the appropriate printer-cleaning swab. Let them dry completely. Reconnect the printer and repeat calibration with the ribbon removed and the cover closed.

4. Check the ribbon LED bracket

Seaory ribbon LED bracket showing the holder alignment points.

A misrouted ribbon or forced cover can shift the bracket. With power off, compare its position with the video and photo. If the holder is slightly unseated, gently reseat it as shown. If it is bent, resists movement or requires printhead removal, contact Bodno support.

If Error 48 stays on

Send us the calibration result rather than using a fixed number to diagnose a cable, sensor or motor. We can guide the next check before any internal parts are removed.

Need help? Send your printer model, a photo of the ribbon and the calibration result to support@bodno.com, call (732) 987-5300, or contact Bodno support.

Prevent a repeat: Keep the ribbon seated in its guides, never force the cover, and keep the printer clean. This walkthrough covers S25, S26 and S28; ask Bodno for model-specific R330/R660 instructions.

Shop ID card printers and blank PVC cards at Bodno.

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