Officejet pro 8153e setup ink communication error

[Vadaspuci212]

There is a warning message that I cannot get past while trying to set up my new HP Officejet Pro 8135.  The screen on the printer is saying that the cyan starter ink cartridge not communicating correctly.  I have tried checking the placement, making sure no packaging remained, and a hard reset. What can I do?

[Meghana_10]

Hi @Vadaspuci212,
 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help.
 

We understand how frustrating it is to encounter an "Ink cartridge not communicating correctly" error while setting up your new HP Officejet Pro 8153e. Since you have already confirmed the cartridge is properly installed, removed all packaging, and performed a hard reset, the issue is likely related to the cartridge's electrical connection, cartridge alignment, firmware, or the starter cartridge itself.
 

The "starter ink cartridge not communicating correctly" message indicates that the printer is unable to establish communication with the installed cyan ink cartridge. This can occur if the cartridge contacts are dirty, the cartridge is not fully seated, or the printer needs to refresh its hardware or firmware during the initial setup.
 

1. Power Cycle the Printer

A complete power cycle refreshes the printer hardware and can resolve temporary communication issues between the printer and the ink cartridge.

1. Turn the printer off.
2. Wait approximately 60 seconds.
3. Turn the printer back on and check if the error message has cleared.

2. Reseat the Cyan Ink Cartridge

Reseating the cartridge ensures it is correctly positioned and making proper electrical contact with the printer.

1. Open the cartridge access door.
2. Gently press down on the cyan cartridge to release it, then remove it.
3. Verify that all protective tape and packaging have been removed from the cartridge.
4. Reinsert the cartridge firmly until it clicks securely into place.
5. Close the cartridge access door.

3. Inspect and Clean the Cartridge Contacts

The printer communicates with the cartridge through small electrical contacts. Dust, ink residue, or fingerprints can interrupt this connection.

• Inspect the copper-colored electrical contacts on both the cyan cartridge and inside the printer.
• If needed, gently clean the contacts using a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water.
• Allow the contacts to dry completely before reinstalling the cartridge.

4. Verify Cartridge Alignment

A cartridge that is slightly tilted or not fully locked into position may not communicate correctly with the printer.

• Confirm that the cyan cartridge sits evenly in its slot.
• Ensure it is fully seated and securely locked in place.

5. Restart the Printer Again

After reseating the cartridge and updating the firmware, restart the printer one more time to allow it to detect the cartridge with the latest settings.
 

Once these steps are completed, the printer should recognize the cyan starter ink cartridge and allow you to continue the initial setup without displaying the communication error.
 

If the "ink cartridge not communicating correctly" message still appears after completing all the steps above, the cyan starter cartridge may be defective or there may be an issue with the printer's cartridge detection hardware.
 

To help us narrow down the cause, please let us know:

• Is the error displayed only for the cyan cartridge, or does it occur with any other cartridge?
• Is this the original HP starter cartridge that came with the printer?
• If possible, share a photo of the printer display showing the exact error message.

Have a great day!