HP Deskjet D4260 prints faintly.

[A4Skyhawk]

My HP Deskjet D4260 suddenly began printing faintly - as if in "draft".  I have made sure the cartridges are OK.  I set up "preferences" to have a "preview" of each print job.  In the "preview" display, near the bottom of the window, it displays "21 dpi".  This is true no matter what print "quality" that I select.  Perhaps there is a wire or software problem?

[Jay_G24]

Hi @A4Skyhawk,

 I'd like to help!

To better assist you - 

1) Does the copy print out the same way? 

2) What's the application you are trying to print from? Have you tried printing from a different application or devices? 

While you respond to that, let's print a Print Quality Diagnostic page

1. Make sure that plain paper is loaded in the printer.

2. Press and hold the Power button.

3. Press the Resume button, and then release both buttons. The self-test prints.

Post the Print Quality Diagnostic page here so we can help you further. 

You may also refer to this document with steps to fix " Print Quality Issues" issue applicable for your printer -  Print Quality Issues

 Also, try updating the printer's firmware - HP Printers - Updating or Upgrading Printer Firmware 

Hope this helps! Keep me posted. 

And, Welcome to the HP Support Community

Please click “Accept as Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.

Click the “Kudos, Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!