NEW PRINTER AND THE COLORS ESPECIALLY BLACK COMES OUT FADED LOOKING

[DenineB]

I just purchased the new printer and installed everything without a problem, I NEED HELP WITH PRINT QUALITY my black is faded looking and my photo glossy comes out super wet and the ink smudges and the paper is instant dry. PLEASE HELP

[Garp_senchau]

@DenineB, Welcome to HP Support Community,

Thank you for posting your query; I’m here to help by guiding you through steps to resolve this issue

Here are some potential solutions to address the issues you are experiencing with print quality on your HP Smart Tank 5101 All-in-One Printer:

1. Low Black Ink:

• Check Ink Levels: Ensure that the ink levels are sufficient. Low ink levels can lead to faded prints. You can verify the ink levels through the printer software on your computer or via the printer's control panel.
• Refill Ink Tanks: If the ink levels are low, refill the black ink tank with the corresponding HP ink.

2. Poor Photo Paper Performance:

• Paper Compatibility: Confirm that the photo paper being used is compatible with your HP printer. The HP Premium Plus Photo Paper is recommended. Ensure the paper is placed correctly in the tray with the print side facing down.
• Ink Drying Time: Adjust the drying time settings in the printer software. Consider selecting a paper type setting for the specific photo paper type to allow for optimal drying.

3. Printhead Maintenance:

• Printhead Cleaning: Your printer software often includes a maintenance section. Run the "Printhead Cleaning" procedure to clear any blockages that might be causing print inconsistencies.
• Alignment: Run a printhead alignment through the printer settings. This can improve the print quality significantly.

4. Paper Handling:

• Use the Correct Setting: Ensure that the printer settings match the paper type being used. For glossy paper, ensure the setting is set to "glossy" to help manage the ink application accurately.

Steps using HP Software:

1. Access HP Smart App: Use the HP Smart app on your desktop or mobile device. It provides tools to check ink levels, maintenance tasks, and other troubleshooting options.
2. Printer Software Settings:
   • Go to your computer’s control panel, find "Printers," right-click on your printer, and select "Printing Preferences." Here you can adjust quality settings to improve results.

Reference: HP Smart Tank 5000 and 5100 series printers - Color or black ink not printing, other print quality i...

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reply here if you have any questions or if you need further clarification on any of the steps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

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Regards,