Black stripes on test page - 5101 HP

[coastalmama]

Trying to set up my printer.  When I ran a test print it came out in huge black stripes.  There are no troubleshooting articles for something like this.  Assuming it's the printheads, but they are installed correctly.  Thoughts?

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @coastalmama 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

It sounds like your HP Smart Tank 5101 is experiencing a print quality issue, possibly related to the printheads or ink flow. Here are some steps to troubleshoot:

1. Clean the Printheads

• Open the HP Smart app and go to Printer Maintenance.
• Select Clean Printheads and follow the on-screen instructions.
• If the issue persists, try a second-level cleaning.

 

2. Perform a Printhead Alignment

• Load plain paper into the printer.
• Open HP Smart > Printer Settings > Printhead Alignment.
• Print and scan the alignment page.

 

3. Check Ink Levels & Flow

• Ensure ink tanks are filled properly and there are no air bubbles in the ink tubes.
• If ink levels are low, refill them and run a printhead cleaning cycle.

 

4. Reset the Printer

• Turn off the printer and unplug it for 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in and restart.

 

Let me know if you need further assistance! 😊

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

[coastalmama]

Thx I will try these ideas!

[Hawks_Eye]

@coastalmama 

You're very welcome! 

I hope one of those solutions helps clear up the black stripes on your test pages. 

If it persists after trying them, let me know, and we can explore other fixes. 

Wishing you crisp, clean prints ahead! 😊

Thanks,

Hawks_Eye