Installed several new Cyan cartridges, but error message keeps saying damaged.

[Les0225]

HP Officejet 8600

[Max3Aj]

@Les0225, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
If your HP Officejet Pro 8600 Plus (N911g) keeps showing a "damaged cartridge" error—even after you've installed multiple new cyan cartridges—here’s a complete troubleshooting guide to help you fix the issue:

🔁 Step 1: Basic Checks

• Cartridge Authenticity: Ensure you're using genuine HP 950/951 ink cartridges. Third-party cartridges often trigger “damaged” or “missing” errors.
• Correct Slot: Confirm the cyan cartridge is in the correct slot (usually the 2nd from the left). Press down to ensure it's properly seated.

🧹 Step 2: Clean Cartridge & Electrical Contacts

Sometimes residue or bad contact causes this error.

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
2. Remove the cyan cartridge.
3. Use a lint-free cloth lightly moistened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol to gently clean:
   • The copper/gold electrical contacts on the cartridge.
   • The corresponding contacts inside the printer’s carriage.
4. Let everything dry fully before reinserting the cartridge.

🔄 Step 3: Hard Reset the Printer

This clears temporary memory errors.

1. Remove all ink cartridges.
2. Unplug the power cable from the back of the printer while it is ON.
3. Wait for 60 seconds.
4. Plug it back in and turn it on.
5. Reinsert the cartridges one at a time, starting with cyan.

🧪 Step 4: Try Another Cyan Cartridge

Even if the cartridges are new, it's possible a batch is defective or expired. Try a different cyan cartridge, preferably from a different box or vendor.

🧰 Step 5: Update Firmware

Sometimes outdated firmware causes cartridge recognition issues.

1. Connect the printer to Wi-Fi or USB.
2. Go to the HP support page and search for "HP Officejet Pro 8600 Plus N911g."
3. Install any available firmware updates.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

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Max3Aj

HP Support