Printer only acknowledges color cartridge

[Maeve7]

My HP OfficeJet 5745 has always worked beautifully until I recently replaced the black cartridge (HP).  Since then, it only prints using the color cartridge, not acknowledging the black cartridge.  When I've taken the color cartridge out, it prints in black.  Help!

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Maeve7,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your HP OfficeJet 5745 is having difficulty recognizing or utilizing the newly installed black ink cartridge. This issue can stem from various causes, but there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and hopefully resolve the problem. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you:

Check the Cartridge Installation: Ensure the black cartridge is correctly installed in its slot. It should click into place securely. Double-check that you've removed any protective tape or packaging from the cartridge contacts and nozzles.

Clean the Cartridge Contacts: Sometimes, ink residue or debris on the cartridge contacts can prevent proper detection. To clean:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Gently remove the black ink cartridge from its slot.
• Use a soft, lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water to clean the gold-colored contacts on the cartridge and the contacts within the printer where the cartridge seats.
• Allow everything to dry completely before reinstalling the cartridge and turning the printer back on.

Reset the Printer: A simple reset can often clear errors. To reset:

• Remove the ink cartridges from the printer.
• With the printer turned on, disconnect the power cord from the rear of the printer and from the wall outlet.
• Wait at least 60 seconds.
• Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet and then back into the printer, turning the printer on if it doesn't do so automatically. Reinstall the ink cartridges when prompted.

Update Printer Firmware: Sometimes, an outdated firmware can cause issues with cartridge recognition. Check for firmware updates by accessing the printer's control panel or the HP website for your specific model.

Check for Protective Tape: This might sound basic, but it’s easy to overlook. Ensure that all protective tapes or plastic covers are removed from the new cartridge before installation.

Try Another Black Cartridge: If possible, try installing another new black cartridge. This can help determine if the issue is with the cartridge itself.

Examine Cartridge Compatibility: Confirm that the black ink cartridge is compatible with your HP OfficeJet 5745 printer. Using non-HP or refilled cartridges can sometimes lead to recognition issues.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Rachel571 

HP Support

[Maeve7]

I tried the applicable suggestions, but my printer continues to print only in the color red.  I tried taking out the color cartridge to see if that would allow the use of the black cartridge and it did.  When I put the color cartridge back in, only red.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Maeve7 ,

We apologize for the inconvenience, but it seems that the issue needs a hardware repair.

Unfortunately, there are no further actions we can take through this channel. I recommend reaching out to our phone support for further assistance.

They can help you with the unit repair or part replacement.

I request you talk to HP Phone Support and they will help you to sort it out as it requires advance support or repair.

1. Click on this link -  https://support.hp.com/us-en

2. Select the country.

3. Enter the serial number of your device.

4. Select the country from the drop-down.

5. Click on "Show Options".

6. Fill out the web form. A case number and phone number will now populate for you.

Please feel free to contact us here anytime you need any further assistance.

Have a great day!

Rachel571 

HP Support