Canon support code 4102 (media type not compatible with settings)
Support codes 4102 and 4103 mean the printer cannot carry out the job with the combination of paper type, size and print settings selected. 4102 typically appears when the media type chosen in the driver is not supported for the selected paper size or tray, and 4103 when borderless printing is requested on a paper size or type that does not support it. The printer cancels the job.
What causes it
- Borderless printing selected for plain paper, which Canon does not allow
- Media type set to a photo paper that the printer cannot feed from the chosen tray
- A custom paper size outside the range the printer supports
- Envelope or card stock settings combined with duplex printing
- Driver and printer paper registration disagree about what is loaded
How to fix it, in order
Work down the list and stop when the printer recovers. The steps are ordered from most likely and least invasive to last resort.
Press OK to clear the code
Dismiss the message on the printer. The job is cancelled and must be resent with corrected settings.
Turn off borderless for plain paper
In the print dialog, uncheck Borderless printing if Media Type is Plain Paper. Borderless is only available on photo paper types.
Match the media type to the paper size
Some media types are only allowed on certain sizes, such as 4x6 photo paper types. Select a media type that Canon lists for the size you are using.
Select the correct paper source
Photo paper must feed from the rear tray on two-tray models. If the driver has the cassette selected with a photo media type, change the source to Rear Tray.
Disable duplex for thick paper
Automatic two-sided printing is only supported on plain paper. Turn off duplex when printing on card, envelopes or photo paper.
Check the custom size limits
If you are using a custom size, confirm the dimensions are within the printer's minimum and maximum printable sizes shown in its specifications.
Stopping it happening again
When it is not worth fixing yourself
If you would rather not work through this alone, a printer specialist can take a look with you on a screen-share and tell you honestly whether the machine is worth saving.
Frequently asked questions
What does 4103 mean?
The printer cannot print borderless with the selected paper type or size. Turn off borderless or switch to a supported photo paper type.
Why does 4102 appear when printing an envelope?
Envelope settings cannot be combined with duplex or borderless options, and envelopes must feed from the rear tray. Check all three.
Does 4102 appear when printing from a phone?
It can if the app requests borderless on plain paper. Change the paper type in the app or on the printer's tray registration.
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