Method and apparatus for correcting transfer belt position via stored parameters

A method and apparatus for correcting transfer belt positioning error in printers. A transfer belt subassembly includes a transfer belt, a plurality of rollers, and a storage device. The transfer belt also includes a home position indicator. The subassembly is measured and characterized before being installed in a printer. The measurement and calibration data for the transfer belt is stored in the storage device. When the transfer belt assembly is inserted into a printer, a controller within the printer is placed in communication with the storage device. A sensor is used to determine the home position of the belt from the indicator, and a resulting signal indicating the belt is at the home position is provided to the controller. The controller utilizes the measurement and calibration data from the storage device to control the motor to correct for belt positioning errors. In such a manner, the calibration data is predetermined before the belt assembly is inserted into the printer, thereby eliminating the need for calibration cycles after the belt assembly has been installed within the printer, while providing a high degree of alignment of the color planes onto the transfer belt.