-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Have a hp Smart Tank 5100 Series

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
06-21-2025 01:41 PM
My fairly new hp Smart Tank 5101 has printed some pages. Now it has a flashing ! and a flashing icon of the black ink cartridge. I have filled the tank. How do I get it to print now? Everything still flashing.
06-23-2025 11:17 AM
Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.
The blinking ! and black ink cartridge icons on your HP Smart Tank 5101 printer indicate that there might be an issue related to the black ink or the printhead. Please follow these steps to resolve the problem:
Check Ink Levels and Fill Appropriately:
- Verify that the ink tank is filled with sufficient black ink. Sometimes filling the tank partially might not resolve the alert.
- Ensure the tank's cover is securely closed.
Reset the Printer:
- Turn off the printer.
- Unplug the power cord from the printer.
- Wait for about 60 seconds.
- Plug the power cord back in and turn on the printer.
Clean the Printhead:
- Open the printer’s ink access door.
- Wait until the printhead stops moving.
- Carefully remove the printhead according to the instructions provided in the user manual.
- Use a lint-free cloth and distilled water to gently clean the area around the printhead, as they may be clogged.
Align Printheads:
- If your printer has a printhead alignment procedure, initiate that alignment process from the printer's control panel or the HP software.
Check Printer Software:
- Make sure that the printer software and drivers are up to date. You can get the latest updates from the HP support website.
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