-
×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
- I put a new HP Black ink 301 XL cartridge and it is too old...

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
Your account also allows you to connect with HP support faster, access a personal dashboard to manage all of your devices in one place, view warranty information, case status and more.
Check some of the most frequent questions about Instant Ink: HP INSTANT INK, HP+ PLANS: INK AND TONER.
Check out our Black or Color Ink Not Printing, Other Print Quality Issues info about: Print quality and Cartridge Issues.
It has been a while since anyone has replied. Simply ask a new question if you would like to start the discussion again.
1 REPLY 1
07-12-2024 10:06 AM
Hi @KatyKent ,
Welcome to The HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
I understand you've encountered compatibility issues with a new HP Black ink 301 XL cartridge in your Deskjet 2540 printer, there are a few steps you can take to address this:
- Verify Cartridge Compatibility: Double-check if the HP 301 XL cartridge is indeed compatible with your Deskjet 2540 printer model. Sometimes, incorrect cartridge models can cause issues.
- Clean Cartridge Contacts: Turn off your printer and carefully remove the new cartridge. Check the contacts (the copper-colored area) on both the cartridge and inside the printer. If they are dirty or dusty, gently clean them with a lint-free cloth.
- Reinstall Cartridge: After cleaning, reinstall the cartridge firmly into the printer until it clicks into place securely.
- Update Printer Firmware: Sometimes, updating your printer's firmware can resolve compatibility issues with newer cartridges. Check HP's official website for any available updates for your Deskjet 2540 printer model. Update the firmware on an HP printer
Refer to this document: HP Deskjet 2540 All-in-One Printer series User manual
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.
A_Gayathri
HP Support Community Administrator.
Be alert for scammers posting fake support phone numbers and/or email addresses on the community.
If you think you have received a fake HP Support message, please report it to us by clicking on "Flag Post".
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the Terms of Use and Rules of Participation.
Didn't find what you were looking for?
Ask the community
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.