I only need to use the black ink. how can I disconnect the color cartridges

[Frans1151]

I only need to use the black ink. how can I disconnect the color cartridges . HP OfficeJet Pro 7720

[Nal_NR]

Hi @Frans1151,

Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

I'd be glad to help you! 

The HP OfficeJet Pro 7720 and most modern inkjet printers are designed to use all installed ink cartridges, even if you only want to print in black and white. The color cartridges are typically needed for regular maintenance and to prevent the printheads from clogging. However, you can adjust the printer settings to use only black ink for printing.

Here’s how to set your HP OfficeJet Pro 7720 to print using only the black ink:

1. Change Print Settings to Grayscale

On Windows:

1. Open the document you want to print.
2. Go to File > Print.
3. Click on Printer Properties or Preferences.
4. Look for a tab called Paper/Quality or Color.
5. Select Black & White or Grayscale.
6. Click OK and then Print.

On macOS:

1. Open the document you want to print.
2. Go to File > Print.
3. In the print dialog, select Show Details if the settings are hidden.
4. From the dropdown menu, select Quality & Media or Color Options.
5. Choose Grayscale Printing or Black Ink Only.
6. Click Print.

2. Enable "Use Black Ink Only" Mode (If Supported)

Some HP printers have a "Use Black Ink Only" mode:

• Access the printer's control panel or the HP Smart app.
• Go to Settings > Preferences > Ink or Print Options.
• Select Use Black Ink Only if available.

3. Ignore Low Color Ink Warning

Even if you set the printer to use black ink only, the color cartridges still need to be installed and contain some ink. If any of the color cartridges are completely empty, the printer may not function until they are replaced.

4. Regular Maintenance Requirements

Please note that:

• The printer will still periodically use small amounts of color ink for printhead maintenance.
• It’s not recommended to remove the color cartridges, as this could damage the printer.

Important Note:

Disconnecting or removing the color cartridges is not recommended, as it may cause printer errors or damage the printhead. 

HP printers are designed to use both color and black ink cartridges, even when printing in grayscale.

By adjusting the print settings, you can minimize the use of color ink and prioritize black ink for your print jobs.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance

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