-
×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
- Installing new cartridge & pulled orange tab/ribbon too far

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
09-02-2024 12:04 PM
Hi @Thay12345,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If you've accidentally pulled the orange tab or ribbon out of your new ink cartridge, it’s important to handle the situation carefully to avoid damaging the cartridge. Here’s what you should do:
1. Do Not Attempt to Rewind or Cut the Ribbon:
- Avoid Cutting or Rewinding:
- Cutting or rewinding the ribbons yourself can damage the cartridge and potentially render it unusable. These ribbons are designed to protect the cartridge and are part of its sealing mechanism.
2. Inspect the Cartridge:
- Check the Cartridge:
- Examine the cartridge for any visible damage. Ensure that the ink ports and contacts are clean and undamaged.
3. Reinstall the Cartridge:
- Install Carefully:
- If the cartridge appears undamaged and the ribbons do not obstruct the ink ports or contacts, reinstall it into your printer.
- Open the printer’s cartridge access door, insert the cartridge into its slot, and press it firmly until it clicks into place.
4. Test the Cartridge:
- Run a Test Print:
- After installation, run a test print or print a calibration page to check if the printer recognizes the cartridge and if it prints correctly.
5. If Problems Persist:
Reinstall Cartridge:
- If the cartridge does not work properly, try reinstalling it. Ensure that it is inserted correctly and that there are no obstructions.
Check for Error Messages:
- Monitor your printer for any error messages related to the cartridge. Follow any prompts or instructions provided by the printer.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Rachel571
HP Support
Sneha_01- HP support
09-10-2024 08:53 AM
Thanks for your reply. This does not work however - there is about a 20inch ribbon coming out of the cartridge. I didn't cut it off and tried to thread it in a way that I could still close the cartridge door. I could do that but it's obviously not how it's supposed to be and the printer doesn't recognize that the cartridge is there. Other than the ribbon this is a brand new cartridge that hasn't been touched - how can I exchange it for another one?
09-10-2024 04:36 PM
Hi @Thay12345
I'm sending out a private message to assist you with the next course of action. 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.
Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Rachel571
HP Support
Sneha_01- HP support
09-10-2024 10:33 PM
If this is a laser printer, the toner dam tape, which you pulled on, starts out clear and the end of it will be black due to contact with toner. It sometimes takes a bit of force to remove the tape fully.
I am a volunteer, offering my knowledge to support fellow users, I do not work for HP nor speak for HP.