How to bypass SETUP Cartridge code OfficeJetPro 8210

[sandyfam1]

I was given an OfficeJet Pro 8210, but it’s missing the yellow SETUP cartridge. Is it possible to bypass the SETUP Cartridge process and just use a set of new 952xl cartridges?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @sandyfam1,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your OfficeJet Pro 8210 is missing the yellow SETUP cartridge and you want to bypass the setup process so you can use a new set of 952/952XL cartridges. Let’s go through a few steps to check what could be causing this and what to try.

    a. Verify Cartridge Compatibility
        • Confirm the replacement cartridges you have are genuine HP 952 / 952XL (not third‑party or refilled).
        • Some printers will allow standard 952 cartridges to complete setup; others insist on the original SETUP cartridge that came with the printer.

    b. Install the New 952/952XL Cartridges Properly
        • Power the printer ON.
        • Open the cartridge access door and install all required cartridges (including the missing yellow).
        • Close the door and let the printer attempt initialization — allow several minutes for the printer to recognize cartridges.

    c. Power Cycle & Retry
        • If the printer still complains about the setup cartridge, power off, unplug the printer for 60 seconds, then plug back in and power on.
        • Re-open/close the access door once after power-on to force cartridge detection.

    d. Run Cartridge/Printhead Maintenance
        • From the control panel or HP software, run Printhead Cleaning and then Alignment.
        • Print a Printer Status or Diagnostic Page to check whether the yellow channel is functioning.

    e. Check Firmware & Software Behavior
        • If possible, connect the printer to a PC and use HP Smart / Embedded Web Server to check for firmware updates — updated firmware affects cartridge validation.
        • Note: newer firmware may block some non‑OEM cartridges; genuine HP 952 is safest.

    f. Attempt a Cartridge Reset Sequence
        • Remove all cartridges, power the printer off, wait 1 minute, then install only the missing yellow cartridge and power on — sometimes installing the missing colour first forces initialization.
        • Add the remaining cartridges one at a time, allowing recognition after each install.

    g. If the Printer Still Requires a SETUP Cartridge
        • Some OfficeJet units require the original SETUP starter cartridge because it contains initialization ink and an initial firmware handshake — in that case a regular new 952XL may not be accepted as a direct substitute.
        • A reliable workaround is to purchase a single genuine HP 952 (yellow) cartridge (not refilled) and install it to complete setup, then replace with 952XL if you prefer XL after setup.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[sandyfam1]

*deleted this reply, please see other reply*

[sandyfam1]

Hi Kuroi_Kenshi;

I was able to complete steps A, B, C, E, F, and G with genuine HP 952 color and 952XL black Cartridges. 

I could not complete step D (printhead cleaning/alignment) due to the SETUP error preventing that step.

After all of the completed steps, the printer is still showing the error stating "Use SETUP cartridges that came with your printer. (Y)" [or if I remove the C, M, and B SETUP cartridges to put 4 genuine HP 952/952XL cartridges, I get "Use SETUP cartridges that came with your printer. (C, M, Y, B)"] and it does not allow me to complete any further task.

Please advise how to bypass the SETUP process so I can use this printer. I’ve spent almost $250 on just ink cartridges to just “try” these fix-it steps you’ve suggested, but it still does not work . I just want to bypass the error message to use the printer.

Thank you.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @sandyfam1,

Thank you for getting back.

To bypass the message on the printer the only option left is to perform an OOBE reset and re-initialize the printer. 

The reset instructions are specific for your printer and performing those steps on a different printer may brick the device. 

I've sent you a private message with reset instructions, follow the reset instruction to perform a full reset and re-initialize the printer. 

In order to access your private messages, click the private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your profile Name or simply click on this link. 

Let me know if this helps. 

Please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,