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Recently my HP printer upgraded its firmware and now my HP print cartridge is not being recognized as a real HP print cartridge. Prior to the firmware upgrade the printer was recognizing all the print cartridges as being real and was printing fine. It looks like there is a bug in the latest firmware upgrade. How do I resolve this issue so I can start using my printer again

1 REPLY 1
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Hi @ndd811818 

 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

 

I understand how frustrating it feels to have cartridges suddenly stop being recognized after a firmware update, especially when everything was working smoothly before. Thank you for the effort you’ve already put in—it shows real persistence. 

 

Let’s go step by step to help restore printing.

 

Power reset with cartridges removed

  • Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
  • Open the cartridge access door and remove all cartridges.
  • Leave the printer unplugged for at least 2 minutes.
  • Plug it back in, power on, and wait until the printer asks for cartridges.
  • Reinstall the cartridges one by one, ensuring each clicks firmly into place.

 

Clean cartridge contacts

  • Remove each cartridge again and gently wipe the copper contacts with a lint‑free cloth slightly moistened with distilled water.
  • Allow them to dry completely before reinstalling.
  • This helps clear any misread signals that can cause recognition errors.

 

Reinstall firmware

  • On your Windows PC, open the HP App.
  • Go to Printer Settings → Printer Update.
  • Reinstall the latest firmware package even if it shows as current.
  • This refreshes the printer’s recognition logic.

 

Check cartridge type

  • Ensure the cartridges are Original HP retail cartridges.
  • Subscription cartridges (such as Instant Ink) will only work with an active plan.
  • If you’ve cancelled a plan, make sure you are using standard retail cartridges.

 

Run diagnostics

  • In the HP App, select your printer → Diagnose & Fix.
  • Run the tool to check for cartridge or system issues.
  • Follow any on‑screen guidance to complete the process.

 

Test with a single cartridge

  • Insert only the black cartridge and power on.
  • If the printer passes the startup screen, add the color cartridges one at a time.
  • This helps identify if a single cartridge is triggering the error.

 

You’ve already shown great care in troubleshooting. Refreshing the firmware and ensuring the printer is linked with retail cartridges usually resolves this type of issue. 

 

 

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

 

Take care, and have an amazing day!

 

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

 

I am an HP Employee.
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.