POS Printer - wont let me print with black ink only b/c color is depleted

[cls1313]

HP office Jet Pro 9010 series wont let me print because color cartridges depleted but black cartridge is brand new and only want to print with black ink.  How can I print this document now and what does it matter if color cartridges are depleted when I'm not printing in color?

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @cls1313,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand the HP OfficeJet Pro 9010 series, like many modern printers, is designed to use a combination of black and color inks for optimal print quality, even when printing in grayscale. This is partly due to technical reasons (e.g., preventing printhead damage) and partly to ensure proper color mixing for certain grayscale tones. Unfortunately, this often means the printer won't function if one or more cartridges are depleted.

Steps to Print with Black Ink Only:

Enable "Single-Cartridge Mode" (if supported):

• Remove the depleted color cartridges, leaving only the black cartridge installed.
• Some HP printers can enter single-cartridge mode, allowing printing with just one cartridge.

Override Settings via Printer Menu:

• Go to your printer's control panel.
• Navigate to Settings > Preferences > Print Quality.
• Look for an option to print in Black Ink Only or Grayscale.

Change Print Settings on the Computer:

• In the print dialog box (when you press Ctrl+P or File > Print):
  • Select your printer.
  • Open Printer Preferences or Printer Properties.
  • Choose Black and White or Grayscale.
  • Confirm and print.

Disable Cartridge Checking (if available):

• Some HP printers have a setting to disable ink level monitoring.
• Check the printer menu or HP Smart app for this option.

Why Depleted Color Cartridges Matter:

1. Preventing Printhead Damage: Inkjet printers use ink to cool and lubricate the printheads. If a cartridge is empty, printing might damage the hardware.
2. Mixed Grayscale: Even black-and-white documents sometimes use small amounts of color ink for smoother gradients or richer black tones.
3. Ink Drying Prevention: Regular ink usage helps prevent the nozzles from drying out.

Workarounds if the Above Fails:

Replace Color Cartridges:

• Install new or refilled color cartridges, even if you don’t plan to use them for color printing.

Use HP Instant Ink Subscription:

• If cost is an issue, consider HP Instant Ink, which provides replacement cartridges based on usage.

Print to PDF and Use a Different Printer:

• Save the document as a PDF.
• Transfer it to another printer that allows black-ink-only printing.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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