No color printing

[Logson]

My printer won't print color even when there are new color cartridges installed

[Raj_05]

Hi @Logson,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

If your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 All-in-One Printer isn't printing in color despite having new color cartridges installed, here are some troubleshooting steps you can try.

Check Printer Settings:

• Ensure that the printer is set to print in color. Sometimes, it might be set to "Black & White" or "Grayscale" by default.
• On your computer, go to the printer settings/preferences and confirm that "Color" is selected.

Run a Print Quality Diagnostic Report:

• From the printer's control panel, go to Setup > Reports > Print Quality Report. This will show if the printer is detecting and using the color cartridges correctly.
• Check the report for any missing colors or print quality issues.

Clean the Printhead:

• Inkjet printers can experience clogs in the printhead, which can prevent color ink from flowing properly.
• Go to the printer's control panel, select Setup > Tools > Clean Printhead. The printer will run a cleaning cycle.
• After cleaning, try printing a test page to see if the color issue is resolved.

Check Cartridge Installation:

• Ensure that the color cartridges are correctly installed in the printer.
• Remove the cartridges, inspect them for any protective tape or packaging that might not have been removed, and then reinstall them securely.

Check Ink Levels:

• Even if the cartridges are new, verify the ink levels via the printer's control panel or the HP Smart app.
• If the printer indicates low ink levels, despite the cartridges being new, try reseating them or consider performing a cartridge alignment.

Update Printer Firmware:

• Sometimes, updating the printer's firmware can resolve issues with cartridge recognition or printing problems.
• Check for firmware updates on HP's website or through the HP Smart app.

Reset the Printer:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source for about a minute.
• Plug it back in and turn it on. This can sometimes reset the printer's settings and resolve printing issues.

[Raj_05]

Perform a Hard Reset:

• Unplug the printer while it is turned on, and wait 60 seconds before plugging it back in.
• This can help reset any issues related to the printer’s internal software.

Test with a Different Document:

• Sometimes, the issue may be with the document or application you are printing from.
• Try printing a different document to see if the issue persists.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support