Printer has long delay when printing in single cartridge mode

[EDDIE_MURILLO33]

My HP Envy aio printer won't print immediately in single cartridge mode. There is a very long delay. I sometimes have to turn it off and on a couple times before it finally printers. I really don't feel like spending money on a color cartridge because I rarely print in color. Any suggestions?

[EDDIE_MURILLO33]

I forgot to mention my printer is a 5660 series HP Envy aio

[Sneha_01]

Hi @EDDIE_MURILLO33,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP Envy 5660 printer is experiencing long delays when printing in single cartridge mode, it could be related to how the printer is managing the print queue, the settings, or potentially the hardware itself. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this issue:

1. Check Printer Settings

Single Cartridge Mode:

• Make sure your printer is properly set to operate in single cartridge mode. Sometimes, incorrect settings or a misconfigured printer can cause delays.
• On your printer's control panel, go to Settings.
• Look for Printer Maintenance or Printer Settings.
• Select Single Cartridge Mode or similar option.

2. Update Firmware and Drivers

Update Firmware:

• Visit the HP Support website and check if there are any firmware updates available for your printer model. Updating the firmware can sometimes resolve performance issues.

Update Drivers:

• Ensure you have the latest drivers installed for your printer. Download the latest drivers from the HP Support website and install them on your computer.

3. Perform a Printer Reset

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source. Wait for about 30 seconds before plugging it back in and turning it on.
• If the issue persists, consider performing a factory reset to restore the printer to its default settings. This option can usually be found in Settings > Printer Maintenance > Restore Factory Settings.

4. Check the Print Queue

• Clear Print Queue:
  • On your computer, go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
  • Find your HP Envy 5660 printer, right-click it, and select See what’s printing.
  • Cancel any pending print jobs that might be causing delays.

5. Inspect the Ink Cartridges

• Ensure the single cartridge is properly installed. Remove and reinstall it to make sure it’s seated correctly.
• Turn off the printer and remove the cartridge. Gently clean the contacts on the cartridge and in the printer using a lint-free cloth and a small amount of distilled water or isopropyl alcohol.

6. Check Paper and Print Quality Settings

• Ensure that the paper type selected in the printer settings matches the paper loaded in the printer.
• Adjust print quality settings if needed. Sometimes, setting the printer to a higher quality mode can cause delays. Adjusting to a standard or draft mode might improve performance.

7. Test with a Color Cartridge

• Insert a Color Cartridge:
  • If you have access to a color cartridge, try inserting it to see if the printer performs better with both cartridges installed. This can help determine if the issue is related to single cartridge mode specifically.

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