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High Yield Tri-Color Ink Cartridge for HP 63XL (F6U63AN)
This Cartridge may be used with the following printers:
HP
DeskJet 1110
DeskJet 1111
DeskJet 1112
DeskJet 2130
DeskJet 2132
DeskJet 2134
DeskJet 3630
DeskJet 3631
DeskJet 3632
DeskJet 3633
DeskJet 3634
DeskJet 3636
DeskJet 3637
ENVY 4511
ENVY 4512
ENVY 4513
ENVY 4516
ENVY 4523
ENVY 4524
ENVY 4525
ENVY 4526
ENVY 4527
ENVY 4528
Envy 4520
Envy 4522
OfficeJet 4652
OfficeJet 4654
OfficeJet 4655
Officejet 3830
Officejet 3831
Officejet 3833
Officejet 4650
Officejet 4657
Officejet 5252
Officejet 5255
Officejet 5258
Officejet 5264
Please select an issue you might be having with your cartridge
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
To ensure continued operation of your aftermarket printer cartridges, please follow these step-by-step instructions to Disable Automatic Firmware Updates on your printer.
1. On the printers LCD screen, locate the "SETUP" icon on the main screen and press to select. 2. Scroll down and locate "TOOLS or Printer Maintenance" option and press to select. 3. Next, press "Update the Printer" from the available options. 4. Press "Printer Update Options". 5. Choose "Do Not Check”. 6. Do you want to turn on printer updates? Select "NO".
This option prevents the automatic installation of firmware updates that might otherwise eliminate your ability to use aftermarket printer cartridges.
Please note - Not all firmware updates disable cartridges, and some may contain important security updates. We suggest reviewing firmware release notes and periodically checking for critical security updates from your printer manufacturer so you can make an informed decision whether to install a particular firmware revision.***
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
If you receive an error message stating that the “alignment failed” or that the ”alignment could not be completed”, this may indicate that the printer is not properly recognizing the cartridge.
Remove the cartridge from your printer and locate the copper contacts. Ensure that the copper strip is intact; and if so, you will want to clean the contacts from any obstruction or debris as this may be preventing the alignment from completing.
Using a lint free cloth (such as a coffee filter), gently wipe the copper contacts to remove any obstruction or debris.
It may also be helpful to clean the nozzle plate to ensure a proper ink flow. Dampen a lint-free cloth with bottled water and gently wipe the nozzle plate 2-3 times until you see ink appearing on the cloth. Please note that the ink will stain any underlying surfaces so please use caution and discard the cloth as soon as the nozzle plate has been cleaned.
Reinstall your cartridge into the printer and attempt the alignment process again.
If the error continues, it may be necessary to perform a cleaning cycle to improve the quality of the print and allow the alignment process to be completed. Every printer is different so please consult your printer’s user manual for instructions on performing a cleaning cycle on your specific printer.
If you are not able to perform a cleaning cycle or if the alignment fails even after performing a cleaning cycle, please ensure that the scanner glass is clean and free from fingerprints or debris (this applies to certain models only).
If these steps do not allow the printer to align the cartridge(s), you will need to return the cartridge(s) to the place of purchase.
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
If you encounter an error message stating that the cartridge cannot be recognized, is an incompatible cartridge, the wrong cartridge is installed or if your printer has blinking lights, there may be a simple solution to fix this.
This solution should also be attempted if you receive a message stating that your printer is printing in Single Cartridge Mode.
Confirm that the cartridge pictured matches the cartridge you have in your hand or installed in your machine.
Confirm that the printer you are using is listed in the printer compatibility table as a compatible printer for the cartridge you are trying to install.
If ONE of these TWO criteria do NOT match, you have most likely received the incorrect cartridge for your printer. Please visit our PRINTER COMPATIBILITY page in order to determine what cartridge you need for your machine.
Once you have confirmed you have the correct cartridge for your printer, open the cover on the printer and remove the cartridge.
Upon removing the cartridge, you will need to locate the copper contacts. If the copper strip is missing, the cartridge will not function and will need to be replaced.
If the copper strip is intact, you may need to clean the contacts from any type of obstruction or debris as this may be the cause of the error.
You may use a pencil eraser to clean the contacts. Gently brush the copper strip with the pencil eraser to remove any potential obstruction or debris. You may also use any type of lint free cloth or a coffee filter. Again, gently wipe the copper strip with the lint free cloth removing any type of obstruction or debris.
Once this is complete, replace the cartridge in the cradle, close the lid and then follow any on screen prompts that may appear.
If the problem persists after returning the cartridge to its cradle, you will want to reset your printer.
This can be done by turning off your computer and your printer with the cartridges installed.
Unplug your printer and leave your machines off for 2 minutes.
Restart the printer and your computer, and attempt your print again.
If you have attempted both of these procedures and you encounter the same error, there is most likely an electrical problem with the cartridge, and you should return the cartridge to the place of purchase.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing".
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
If you encounter an error message stating that the cartridge cannot be recognized, is an incompatible cartridge, the wrong cartridge is installed or if your printer has blinking lights, there may be a simple solution to fix this.
This solution should also be attempted if you receive a message stating that your printer is printing in Single Cartridge Mode.
Confirm that the cartridge pictured matches the cartridge you have in your hand or installed in your machine.
Confirm that the printer you are using is listed in the printer compatibility table as a compatible printer for the cartridge you are trying to install.
If ONE of these TWO criteria do NOT match, you have most likely received the incorrect cartridge for your printer. Please visit our PRINTER COMPATIBILITY page in order to determine what cartridge you need for your machine.
Once you have confirmed you have the correct cartridge for your printer, open the cover on the printer and remove the cartridge.
Upon removing the cartridge, you will need to locate the copper contacts. If the copper strip is missing, the cartridge will not function and will need to be replaced.
If the copper strip is intact, you may need to clean the contacts from any type of obstruction or debris as this may be the cause of the error.
You may use a pencil eraser to clean the contacts. Gently brush the copper strip with the pencil eraser to remove any potential obstruction or debris. You may also use any type of lint free cloth or a coffee filter. Again, gently wipe the copper strip with the lint free cloth removing any type of obstruction or debris.
Once this is complete, replace the cartridge in the cradle, close the lid and then follow any on screen prompts that may appear.
If the problem persists after returning the cartridge to its cradle, you will want to reset your printer.
This can be done by turning off your computer and your printer with the cartridges installed.
Unplug your printer and leave your machines off for 2 minutes.
Restart the printer and your computer, and attempt your print again.
If you have attempted both of these procedures and you encounter the same error, there is most likely an electrical problem with the cartridge, and you should return the cartridge to the place of purchase.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing".
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
To install your remanufactured cartridge in your printer, begin by removing the old cartridge from the printer.
Next, remove the plastic clip from the cartridge. Clips come in many forms and may not look exactly like the one in the video.
Now your cartridge may be installed into the printer.
*The cartridge and printer shown may vary from yours, but the general installation instructions are the same.
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
Confirm that the cartridge pictured matches the cartridge you have in your hand or installed in your machine.
Confirm that the printer you are using is listed in the printer compatibility table as a suitable printer for the cartridge you are trying to install.
If ONE of these TWO criteria do NOT match, you have most likely received the incorrect cartridge for your printer. Please visit our PRINTER COMPATIBILITY page in order to determine what cartridge you need for your machine.
Once you have confirmed you have the correct cartridge for your printer we will begin by making sure you have properly removed all of the protective outer components from your cartridge before installation into the printer.
The first step is to make sure you have properly removed the clip from the cartridge. This clip protects the electrical circuitry on the cartridge and also keeps the cartridge from leaking.
Once the clip has been removed, you should see a copper strip and this is the cartridge’s contacts. These contacts communicate with the printer to print your documents. Please keep in mind that there are various styles of clips and that the clip we are removing in this video may not be identical to the one on your cartridge. Clips will vary in color, size and shape depending on the cartridge model and supplier of your remanufactured inkjet.
After you remove the clip, please make sure that you are installing your cartridge into the correct location in the printer. Please consult your printer’s user manual to learn how to correctly install your remanufactured inkjet cartridge.
If you are trying to install the cartridge in the correct location, the cartridge may have been mislabeled and should be returned to the place of purchase.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing"
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
Some remanufactured cartridges come with a clip that protects the printhead and helps to preserve and maintain the quality of the cartridge.
To remove this clip, place the cartridge on a solid surface. Holding the clip with one hand, press down on the cartridge with the other hand and pull back on the clip.
You may also find it helpful to think of the clip as the tab on a soda can. Place the cartridge on a solid surface with the clip at the top. Hold the cartridge in one hand and "peel" the clip back with the other.
Some resistance is normal so don't be alarmed.
You may notice some residual ink on the pad or some ink on the printhead of the cartridge. This is also normal as some clips serve to prime the cartridge in order to allow it to function properly.
Once the clip has been removed, you may install the cartridge into your printer as normal.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing"
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
If you encounter an error message stating that the cartridge cannot be recognized, is an incompatible cartridge, the wrong cartridge is installed or if your printer has blinking lights, there may be a simple solution to fix this.
This solution should also be attempted if you receive a message stating that your printer is printing in Single Cartridge Mode.
Confirm that the cartridge pictured matches the cartridge you have in your hand or installed in your machine.
Confirm that the printer you are using is listed in the printer compatibility table as a compatible printer for the cartridge you are trying to install.
If ONE of these TWO criteria do NOT match, you have most likely received the incorrect cartridge for your printer. Please visit our PRINTER COMPATIBILITY page in order to determine what cartridge you need for your machine.
Once you have confirmed you have the correct cartridge for your printer, open the cover on the printer and remove the cartridge.
Upon removing the cartridge, you will need to locate the copper contacts. If the copper strip is missing, the cartridge will not function and will need to be replaced.
If the copper strip is intact, you may need to clean the contacts from any type of obstruction or debris as this may be the cause of the error.
You may use a pencil eraser to clean the contacts. Gently brush the copper strip with the pencil eraser to remove any potential obstruction or debris. You may also use any type of lint free cloth or a coffee filter. Again, gently wipe the copper strip with the lint free cloth removing any type of obstruction or debris.
Once this is complete, replace the cartridge in the cradle, close the lid and then follow any on screen prompts that may appear.
If the problem persists after returning the cartridge to its cradle, you will want to reset your printer.
This can be done by turning off your computer and your printer with the cartridges installed.
Unplug your printer and leave your machines off for 2 minutes.
Restart the printer and your computer, and attempt your print again.
If you have attempted both of these procedures and you encounter the same error, there is most likely an electrical problem with the cartridge, and you should return the cartridge to the place of purchase.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing".
If you notice that the ink gauge displays a low or no ink level, please look at the back of your cartridge. If your cartridge contains a patch over the copper contacts as shown above, you may be able to allow the printer to read the ink levels by cleaning the electrical patch. Simply use a lint free cloth (such as a coffee filter) or a pencil eraser to gently clean the contacts from any obstruction or debris. Reinstall the cartridge and follow any on-screen prompts.
If the problem persists, reset your printer by turning off your computer and the printer (with the cartridges installed). Leave your machines off for 2 minutes, and then restart. If neither of these troubleshooting tips help, your cartridge should be returned to the place of purchase.
However, if your cartridge does not have a patch over the contacts, DO NOT be alarmed.
A low/empty ink message is very common because you are using a remanufactured inkjet.
The ink gauge on your printer will no longer read the ink levels correctly because it does not recognize your cartridge as “new”. This message can be bypassed easily when necessary and will not affect your printing performance.
Keep in mind that the ink gauges on printers only serve as an ESTIMATE of how much ink may be remaining in the cartridge.
To continue printing, click ok or continue through any printer prompts, if applicable, to allow the printer to finish printing.
Or you may press ok on your printer’s LCD screen, if it has one.
If your printer has an LCD screen but you do not see an option to bypass the low ink message (or if pressing "OK" does not eliminate the error), please click here for an example of what to look for on your printer.
If you notice that the ink gauge displays a low or no ink level, please look at the back of your cartridge. If your cartridge contains a patch over the copper contacts as shown above, you may be able to allow the printer to read the ink levels by cleaning the electrical patch. Simply use a lint free cloth (such as a coffee filter) or a pencil eraser to gently clean the contacts from any obstruction or debris. Reinstall the cartridge and follow any on-screen prompts.
If the problem persists, reset your printer by turning off your computer and the printer (with the cartridges installed). Leave your machines off for 2 minutes, and then restart. If neither of these troubleshooting tips help, your cartridge should be returned to the place of purchase.
However, if your cartridge does not have a patch over the contacts, DO NOT be alarmed.
A low/empty ink message is very common because you are using a remanufactured inkjet.
The ink gauge on your printer will no longer read the ink levels correctly because it does not recognize your cartridge as “new”. This message can be bypassed easily when necessary and will not affect your printing performance.
Keep in mind that the ink gauges on printers only serve as an ESTIMATE of how much ink may be remaining in the cartridge.
To continue printing, click ok or continue through any printer prompts, if applicable, to allow the printer to finish printing.
Or you may press ok on your printer’s LCD screen, if it has one.
If your printer has an LCD screen but you do not see an option to bypass the low ink message (or if pressing "OK" does not eliminate the error), please click here for an example of what to look for on your printer.
If you notice that the ink gauge displays a low or no ink level, please look at the back of your cartridge. If your cartridge contains a patch over the copper contacts as shown above, you may be able to allow the printer to read the ink levels by cleaning the electrical patch. Simply use a lint free cloth (such as a coffee filter) or a pencil eraser to gently clean the contacts from any obstruction or debris. Reinstall the cartridge and follow any on-screen prompts.
If the problem persists, reset your printer by turning off your computer and the printer (with the cartridges installed). Leave your machines off for 2 minutes, and then restart. If neither of these troubleshooting tips help, your cartridge should be returned to the place of purchase.
However, if your cartridge does not have a patch over the contacts, DO NOT be alarmed.
A low/empty ink message is very common because you are using a remanufactured inkjet.
The ink gauge on your printer will no longer read the ink levels correctly because it does not recognize your cartridge as “new”. This message can be bypassed easily when necessary and will not affect your printing performance.
Keep in mind that the ink gauges on printers only serve as an ESTIMATE of how much ink may be remaining in the cartridge.
To continue printing, click ok or continue through any printer prompts, if applicable, to allow the printer to finish printing.
Or you may press ok on your printer’s LCD screen, if it has one.
If your printer has an LCD screen but you do not see an option to bypass the low ink message (or if pressing "OK" does not eliminate the error), please click here for an example of what to look for on your printer.
If you encounter a pop-up screen containing information about HP's Cartridge Protection Feature asking you if you would like to discourage theft and counterfeiting by protecting your HP cartridge, select "No".
If you selected “Yes” in error, you may see a second screen asking you to enable or disable HP Cartridge Protection.
Select “Disable HP Cartridge Protection” then “Save Setting” and close.
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
You may encounter an error stating that "HP's ink cartridge and printer warranties do not cover repairs or service due to the use of non-HP cartridges or non-HP ink" or an error stating "Counterfeit Cartridge Advisory".
It is important to note that most remanufactured inkjet cartridges are 100% guaranteed. Most manufacturers warrant against any damage to your printer.
In order to continue or begin using your printer, click OK or Continue to dismiss the printer prompts that appear on your screen after installing the remanufactured cartridges. Do not click "Cancel".
This message may reappear prior to the depletion of your cartridge. Please follow the same procedure to dismiss the message if this does occur.
If you did click "Cancel", click here for more information.
Your rights as a consumer are protected under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Federal Trade Commission Improvement Act, Subparagraph C, Section 101.
"The use of a non-HP ink cartridge or a refilled ink cartridge does not affect either the warranty to the customer or any HP support contract with the customer."
Please click here for more information How to respond to Warranty messages
Upon installing an HP 61 or 61XL inkjet, you may encounter an error stating that the cartridge you have installed is an older generation cartridge.
Some of the latest printer models will only accept newly released cartridges. You may also encounter this same message when using an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) cartridge (click here for more information).
At this time, the only printers affected by this change are:
Please note that "old generation" cartridges will work in these printers as long as you HAVE NOT accepted firmware updates from the OEM. If you have accepted this update, you will need to purchase a "new generation" cartridge.
The OEM has put expiration dates on these cartridges so there is an easy way to tell which generation you have. Look at the back of the cartridge – stamped on the cartridge next to the OEM logo is a date that will have a year, month and a day.
If you encounter the “older generation” error message and the date on your cartridge is 2014/03/31 or earlier, you will need to contact the supplier of your remanufactured cartridge for a new version replacement.
If the date on the cartridge is 2014/04/01 or later, the cartridge should be accepted by your printer.
Please note, you may need to remove a sticker or label to see the date on the cartridge. If you do remove anything from the cartridge, be sure to reapply it after you confirm the cartridge generation to ensure that you receive credit if necessary.
If the cartridge is not accepted by your printer and the date is after 2014/04/01, please follow the instructions for an unrecognized cartridge: "Cartridge indicates missing/damaged/incompatible/ incorrect/unsupported/has a problem"
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
If you encounter an error message stating that the cartridge cannot be recognized, is an incompatible cartridge, the wrong cartridge is installed or if your printer has blinking lights, there may be a simple solution to fix this.
This solution should also be attempted if you receive a message stating that your printer is printing in Single Cartridge Mode.
Confirm that the cartridge pictured matches the cartridge you have in your hand or installed in your machine.
Confirm that the printer you are using is listed in the printer compatibility table as a compatible printer for the cartridge you are trying to install.
If ONE of these TWO criteria do NOT match, you have most likely received the incorrect cartridge for your printer. Please visit our PRINTER COMPATIBILITY page in order to determine what cartridge you need for your machine.
Once you have confirmed you have the correct cartridge for your printer, open the cover on the printer and remove the cartridge.
Upon removing the cartridge, you will need to locate the copper contacts. If the copper strip is missing, the cartridge will not function and will need to be replaced.
If the copper strip is intact, you may need to clean the contacts from any type of obstruction or debris as this may be the cause of the error.
You may use a pencil eraser to clean the contacts. Gently brush the copper strip with the pencil eraser to remove any potential obstruction or debris. You may also use any type of lint free cloth or a coffee filter. Again, gently wipe the copper strip with the lint free cloth removing any type of obstruction or debris.
Once this is complete, replace the cartridge in the cradle, close the lid and then follow any on screen prompts that may appear.
If the problem persists after returning the cartridge to its cradle, you will want to reset your printer.
This can be done by turning off your computer and your printer with the cartridges installed.
Unplug your printer and leave your machines off for 2 minutes.
Restart the printer and your computer, and attempt your print again.
If you have attempted both of these procedures and you encounter the same error, there is most likely an electrical problem with the cartridge, and you should return the cartridge to the place of purchase.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing".
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
If you have tried all the possible troubleshooting solutions for the error you are experiencing but need to print before you are able to get a replacement cartridge, please attempt the following procedure in order to continue printing with your non-defective cartridge.
Your printer should have the option to print in either "color only" or "black and white only". This is usually located in the printer toolbox either under Printer Settings or Advanced Settings. Please consult your printer's user manual to determine where this feature is located for your model.
Choosing the option to print in only one color may allow you to print until you are able to get a replacement cartridge.
Please remember to change your printer setting back to allow for printing in all colors once you have replaced your cartridge.
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
If you have printed a document and are unsatisfied with the print quality, you may need to clean your cartridge printhead in order to improve the quality of your print. Please attempt the following procedures in order to do so.
Please keep in mind that this process may vary by printer and that you may also consult your printer’s user manual for instructions on performing a cleaning cycle.
Select the HP Solution Center link on your desktop. You may also find this by going to the Start Menu on your PC.
Select All Programs
Select HP from the menu that appears.
Select HP Solution Center from the menu
Next, select Settings.
Then choose Printer Tool Box located under the printer settings category.
Next, you will select “clean print heads”
Select Clean
You will observe your printer performing a cleaning cycle.
Once the cycle is complete, your printer will print a test page.
Once the test page has been printed you may select DONE, or you can also perform another cleaning cycle if you are not satisfied with your test page.
Please be aware that cleaning your printhead does consume ink and therefore, should only be completed when necessary.
If the print on your test page is satisfactory, you may return to the document you wish to print and resume printing.
If you are still not satisfied with the print, the next step is to try blotting the cartridge in order to make sure that the printhead nozzles are not clogged with dry ink.
You will want to use a lint free towel such as a coffee filter. Fold the filter in half.
We also suggest using a paper towel or other absorbent material to place under the lint free cloth to protect your surface from the ink as it may stain your underlying surface.
Remove your cartridge from the printer.
Locate the printhead. This is on the bottom of the cartridge. Do not touch the printhead or bottom of your cartridge as this can damage the cartridge.
Hold the cartridge with the printhead facing downward.
Simply press the printhead of the cartridge onto the coffee filter and hold for 3 seconds.
Upon lifting the cartridge back up, 3 colors should appear on the lint free cloth.
If a good blot does appear on the cloth, reinstall your cartridge and attempt your print again.
If your cartridge does not provide a good blot, it is possible that the ink has all been consumed; and you should replace your cartridge.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing"
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
You may encounter an error stating that the original HP ink in your cartridge has been depleted and a question asking if the cartridge was sold to you as a new, genuine HP-branded cartridge. If you encounter this message, please click "No" to continue printing.
You may also encounter an error stating that "HP's ink cartridge and printer warranties do not cover repairs or service due to the use of non-HP cartridges or non-HP ink".
It is important to note that most remanufactured inkjet cartridges are 100% guaranteed. Most manufacturers warrant against any damage to your printer.
In order to continue or begin using your printer, click OK (or Continue) to dismiss the printer prompts that appear on your screen after installing the remanufactured cartridges. You may also press OK on your printer's LCD screen if it has one. Do not press Cancel. If you pressed Cancel and receive a message about Cartridge Protection, please click here for more information.
This message may reappear prior to the depletion of your cartridge. Please follow the same procedure to dismiss the message if this does occur.
Your rights as a consumer are protected under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Federal Trade Commission Improvement Act, Subparagraph C, Section 101.
"The use of a non-HP ink cartridge or a refilled ink cartridge does not affect either the warranty to the customer or any HP support contract with the customer."
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
If you have printed a document and are unsatisfied with the print quality, you may need to perform a cleaning cycle in order to improve the quality of your print.
This video will show you an example of how to perform a cleaning cycle through your printer's control panel. If your printer does not have a control panel, please select the troubleshooting for "Performing a Cleaning Cycle from your Computer" for further assistance.
Please keep in mind that this process may vary by printer and that you may also consult your printer's user manual for instructions on performing a cleaning cycle.
Press the wrench icon on your printer
Scroll to Tools and press OK
Scroll to Clean Printhead and press OK
When the cleaning cycle is complete, your printer will print a test page.
If the quality on the test page is satisfactory, press OK to exit the cleaning cycle. You may return to the document you wish to print and resume printing.
Or you may also perform another cleaning cycle if you are not satisfied with your test page.
Please be aware that cleaning your printhead does consume ink; and therefore, should only be completed when necessary.
If the print on your test page is satisfactory, you may return to the document you wish to print and resume printing.
If you are still not satisfied with the print, the next step is to try blotting the cartridge in order to make sure that the printhead nozzles are not clogged with dry ink.
You will want to use a lint free towel such as a coffee filter. Fold the filter in half.
We also suggest using a paper towel or other absorbent material to place under the lint free cloth to protect your surface from the ink as it may stain your underlying surface.
Remove your cartridge from the printer.
Locate the printhead. This is on the bottom of the cartridge. Do not touch the printhead or bottom of your cartridge as this can damage the cartridge.
Hold the cartridge with the printhead facing downward.
Simply press the printhead of the cartridge onto the coffee filter and hold for 3 seconds.
Upon lifting the cartridge back up, three (3) colors should appear on the lint free cloth.
If a good blot does appear on the cloth, reinstall your cartridge and attempt your print again.
If your cartridge does not provide a good blot, it is possible that the ink has all been consumed; and you should replace your cartridge.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing"
The cartridge and printer used in this video may not look identical to yours, but the same
procedures used in this video may be used for the cartridge you have chosen to troubleshoot.
If you have printed a document and are unsatisfied with the print quality, you may need to perform a cleaning cycle in order to improve the quality of your print.
This video will show you an example of how to perform a cleaning cycle through your printer's control panel. If your printer does not have a control panel, please select the troubleshooting for "Performing a Cleaning Cycle from your Computer" for further assistance.
Please keep in mind that this process may vary by printer and that you may also consult your printer's user manual for instructions on performing a cleaning cycle.
Press the wrench icon on your printer
Scroll to Tools and press OK
Scroll to Clean Printhead and press OK
When the cleaning cycle is complete, your printer will print a test page.
If the quality on the test page is satisfactory, press OK to exit the cleaning cycle. You may return to the document you wish to print and resume printing.
Or you may also perform another cleaning cycle if you are not satisfied with your test page.
Please be aware that cleaning your printhead does consume ink; and therefore, should only be completed when necessary.
If the print on your test page is satisfactory, you may return to the document you wish to print and resume printing.
If you are still not satisfied with the print, the next step is to try blotting the cartridge in order to make sure that the printhead nozzles are not clogged with dry ink.
You will want to use a lint free towel such as a coffee filter. Fold the filter in half.
We also suggest using a paper towel or other absorbent material to place under the lint free cloth to protect your surface from the ink as it may stain your underlying surface.
Remove your cartridge from the printer.
Locate the printhead. This is on the bottom of the cartridge. Do not touch the printhead or bottom of your cartridge as this can damage the cartridge.
Hold the cartridge with the printhead facing downward.
Simply press the printhead of the cartridge onto the coffee filter and hold for 3 seconds.
Upon lifting the cartridge back up, three (3) colors should appear on the lint free cloth.
If a good blot does appear on the cloth, reinstall your cartridge and attempt your print again.
If your cartridge does not provide a good blot, it is possible that the ink has all been consumed; and you should replace your cartridge.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing"
You may encounter an error stating that you have a Previously used genuine cartridge installed.
If you encounter this message, please click "Continue" to continue printing.
You may also encounter an error stating that "The original HP ink in one or more cartridges has been depleted. If they were sold to you as new, genuine HP cartridges, they might be counterfeit".
In order to continue or begin using your printer, click OK.
If you encounter an error message stating "User Intervention Required", there may be a simple solution to fix this.
Restart both your printer and computer and attempt your print again
If that does not resolve the error, please try to clear the Print Spooler:
Search Windows for Services, and then click Services in the list of results. (The Search Bar can be found by clicking the Windows button in the lower left corner of the screen.)
Select Print Spooler from the alphabetical list.
Right-click Print Spooler and choose "Stop".
Next close the Services window and use Windows Explorer to go to C:\Windows\System32\Spool\PRINTERS.
Open Windows Explorer (the icon that looks like a file folder).
Select the (C:) drive in the left pane under "Computer".
Double-click the Windows folder.
Scroll down and open the "System32" folder.
Open the "spool" folder and delete all files inside the PRINTERS folder.
Restart your computer and attempt your print again
If you have attempted both of these procedures and you encounter the same error, there is most likely an electrical problem with the cartridge, and you should return the cartridge to the place of purchase.
If you need to print right away and this troubleshooting did not solve the problem with your cartridge, please select the option entitled "One Cartridge Printing".
A small electrical patch containing contacts which stores information for interaction between the cartridge and the printer. Not all inkjet cartridges have a chip. Most inkjet cartridges contain a flexible ribbon (called a "flex ribbon") that contains the information for interaction with the printer.
A plastic part used to protect the contacts and nozzle plate during transportation and before use.
A cartridge that is made entirely of new components to resemble the OEM. Sometimes the cartridge only resembles the OEM on the exterior however most cases resemble the OEM both internally and externally.
A series of copper squares that makes contact and communicates with the printer.
The portion of the printer where the inkjet cartridges are installed. This device also carries the inkjet cartridges back and forth across the page creating the desired image.
Prints blue shades
Dye based inks are typically found in color cartridges; however, there are some cases where black cartridges are dye based (photo blacks are dye based). Dye based inks are not water proof or water resistant. They are available in a variety of shades which aids in the color matching to the OEM.
A cartridge that contains foam in one or more areas of the cartridge. The foam acts as a sponge holding the ink in the cartridge however adequately releasing the ink as needed when the space becomes available in the ink reservoir.
An integrated inkjet cartridge has a nozzle plate (printhead) installed on the cartridge along with an electric flexible ribbon connecting the nozzle plate to the electrical contact that interact with the printer.
Prints red shades
A non-integrated inkjet cartridge does not have a nozzle plate included on the cartridge. The nozzle plate for these types of cartridges is included in the printer. The printhead is a consumable item; in some cases, however, in others the printhead is not replaceable. In most cases the chip can be replaced on these style cartridges allowing them to respond to the printers exactly like the original.
Consists of a series of tiny holes that eject ink to form an image or text when instructed to do so by the computer through communication of the chip or flex ribbon.
Original Equipment Manufacturer; the brand new product produced by the company that produced the printer (i.e. HP, Lexmark, Dell, etc)
At times, OEM manufacturers make updates to ink cartridges and/or printer firmware that will cause printers to produce an error message that states “older generation” upon the installation of a cartridge. This firmware update requires that a customer purchase an OEM for their printer or insert a “newer generation” cartridge in order for the printer to function properly. This affects OEM as well as remanufactured cartridges. Inkjet remanufacturers are able to stay on top of these updates and begin producing the “newer generation” cartridges as soon as possible. For more information on these updates, click here for the HP 61 series or click here for the HP 950/951 series.
Lighter shades of black which allows for more color combinations and more "life-like" photographs.
Lighter shades of blue which allows for more color combinations and more "life-like" photographs [i.e. better flesh tones]
Lighter shades of red which allows for more color combinations and more "life-like" photographs [i.e. better flesh tones]
To pull ink from the foam or ink reservoir down to the nozzles preparing them for printing. This is a regular operation performed by the printer, but can also be manually performed to aid in producing an acceptable print.
A cartridge that has no foam inside and consists either of a bag/lining or a series of channels and canals. Both of these mechanisms adequately dispense the ink at the correct rate.
Pigment based inks are typically found in black cartridges; however, there are some cases where color cartridges are pigment based (some Epson, Kodak, and some wide format printer applications). Pigment based inks are water resistant and fade resistant; however, they do not come in many shades so color matching to the OEM is difficult. Pigment based inks also have a higher cost associated with them than do the dye based inks.
An inkjet spittoon is a component in inkjet printers that collects the ink that is removed from the cartridge when the inkjet is primed. This spittoon (sometimes called a reservior) can be either a plastic tray or a piece of foam that absorbs the excess ink. Some of the ink can dry (which makes the foam not absorb as well), and the ink that isn’t absorbed sits in the bottom of the printer. This is how ALL inkjet printers work, which is why it is never a good idea to move an inkjet printer as there will more than likely be ink in the bottom (especially older printers or printers that are used a lot).
A cartridge that is foam based and contains 3 different colors of ink in one cartridge. Typically these colors of ink are Cyan/Magenta/Yellow however there are photo cartridges that contain Photo Cyan/Photo Magenta/Photo Black.
