If you encounter the Epson WF-3640 error code 0x97, it can be a result of internal hardware issues of the printer. Besides, a motherboard malfunction can also trigger this error. To resolve this, follow the troubleshooting steps mentioned below:
Turn off your printer and turn it on after two minutes.
If the issue persists, turn off the printer again and open the access door of the printer.
Check if there is any jammed paper (s) inside the printer. If yes, grab the paper using both hands and remove it gently while ensuring that no paper traces are left inside.
Remove the printhead and keep it aside.
Dip a clean cloth into lukewarm water and remove the excess water from it.
Use the wet cloth to clean the printhead. Ensure that no dust is left over.
Close the access door of the printer and turn the printer on.
Troubleshooting Methods for fix Error Code 0x97:
1. Disconnect Everything from the Printer
Before you proceed, you need to cancel any print task and take out all paper jams from your printer. This method is relatively easy and may work for you, depending on the cause of the error. After removing all paper jams, disconnect every cable connected to the printer. They include USB cords, cable wires, and power cords, as well as ink cartridges.
Press and hold the printer’s Power button for 1 minute. Then, plug back everything, including reinstalling the Epson ink cartridges into their respective slots. Push the Power button and turn on your printer then conduct a test print. Find out if there are any changes. If the Epson 0x97 persists or if it returned after a few pages of printing, proceed to troubleshoot method 2.
2. Reset your Printer
This troubleshooting technique is virtually similar to the first one. You have to disconnect all your printer’s cables. Allow your printer to rest for about five minutes before you proceed. Then, press and hold the Power button for 1 minute. Continue pressing and holding the Power button while you reconnect every cable back. You may need another person’s help with this method.
Press and hold the Power button once more for 1 minute and then release. Conduct a test print to find out if there are any improvements. If the Epson printer error code 0x97 still lingers, then the last method may be the solution.
3. Clean the Print Head
There are times when a dirty and clogged printhead is the culprit behind an Epson 0x97 error. If this is the case, the solution would be to clean the printhead thoroughly. Here are the steps in cleaning an Epson printer’s printhead:
Step 1 – Remove each ink cartridge one by one from the printhead. Place the ink cartridges (in inverted position) on top of a clean paper or towel. Then, carefully remove the printhead from the printer.
Step 2 – Wipe the bottom of the printhead thoroughly using a clean, lint-free cloth damped in warm water. Keep on cleaning the nozzle area until there’s no more black ink sticking on the fabric.
Step 3 – Soak the printhead in a bowl with warm water for 10 minutes. Do not use boiled water. Put a clean paper towel at the base and let the printhead rest above it while soaking. Take out the printhead from the bowl, and carefully wipe off any water and moisture using a dry lint-free cloth.
Step 4 – Place the printhead on top of a paper towel and allow it to air-dry for 15 minutes. Then, insert the printhead back into the carriage and reinstall all the cartridges into their respective slots. Turn on your printer and see if there are any changes.
4. Install and update your printer's driver
There’s also a chance that a malware is the main reason behind the Epson error code 0x97. If so, then install or update your printer’s malware protection.
Regards, Bruce