Cartridges not communicating with printer

[Elisabeth60]

Printer is fine.  Cartridges not communicating with printer is the message coming from the printer

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Elisabeth60,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

If your printer is displaying a message that the cartridges are not communicating with the printer, it suggests there might be an issue with the connection between the cartridges and the printer. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and resolve this issue:

1. Check and Reinstall Cartridges

Power Off and Unplug:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.

Open the Cartridge Access Door:

• Open the door to access the ink cartridges.

Remove Cartridges:

• Carefully remove the ink cartridges from the printer.

Inspect the Cartridges:

• Check for any visible damage, ink leaks, or debris on the cartridges.

Clean Cartridge Contacts:

• Use a lint-free cloth or cotton swab lightly moistened with distilled water to clean the copper contacts on the cartridges and inside the printer. Avoid using alcohol or abrasive materials.

Reinstall Cartridges:

• Reinstall the cartridges carefully, ensuring they are properly seated and clicked into place.

Close the Cartridge Access Door:

• Close the door and plug the printer back in. Turn it on and check if the issue is resolved.

2. Check for Cartridge Compatibility

Verify Cartridge Model:

• Ensure that the cartridges are the correct model for your printer. Incompatible or non-genuine cartridges can cause communication errors.

Check Cartridge Expiry:

• Make sure the cartridges are not expired or damaged.

3. Perform a Printer Reset

Power Cycle the Printer:

• Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, wait for 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on.

Factory Reset (if necessary):

• If power cycling does not resolve the issue, consider performing a factory reset. Refer to your printer’s manual or the HP Support website for instructions on how to perform a factory reset.

4. Update Printer Firmware and Drivers

Update Firmware:

• Visit the HP Support website and check for any available firmware updates for your printer model. Install any updates as instructed.

Update Printer Drivers:

• Ensure that you have the latest drivers installed for your printer. Download and install them from the HP Support website if needed.

5. Check for Mechanical Issues

Inspect Cartridge Slot:

• Look for any obstructions or damage in the cartridge slot area.

Check Printhead:

• If your printer has a removable printhead, inspect it for any visible damage or blockages. Clean it carefully if needed.

6. Run Printer Diagnostics

Use HP Smart App or Printer Utility:

• Open the HP Smart app or your printer’s utility software and run any diagnostic or troubleshooting tools available.

Print a Test Page:

• Try printing a test page to see if the issue persists after diagnostics.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support