Why is the CM750 showing a deflection fault?

A deflection fault means your ink droplets aren’t hitting their target path. Here’s how to fix charging, alignment, and stream issues in your CM750.

What a deflection fault means

In Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) printing, charged ink drops are deflected by an electric field to form characters. A deflection fault means drops are missing that deflection path—so they’re not forming readable marks, or they're splattering off-target.


Symptoms

  • Fault: Deflection Error or Charge Not Detected

  • Faded or missing characters

  • No visible deviation in the ink stream

  • Frequent EHT/charge faults


Common causes & solutions

Cause Fix
Weak or failed charge electrode Clean or replace the charge electrode
EHT power supply fault Test and replace EHT board if voltage is unstable
Dirty or unstable ink stream Run Clean Ink System and check fluid specs
Stream not aligned with deflection plates Realign nozzle and deflector plate spacing
 

How to fix a deflection fault

  1. Clean the printhead, especially the charge electrode and nozzle

  2. Run a stream test with strobe to confirm drop breakoff

  3. Inspect EHT board output in Diagnostics > High Voltage

  4. Replace restrictor if the stream is wobbling or misdirected

  5. Reboot and test print in Manual Test Mode


Pro tips for long-term stability

  • Replace filters and restrictors on schedule

  • Never run the printer with expired fluids

  • Keep the printhead clean and protected when not in use

  • Ensure printhead alignment is locked in after any repositioning