Problem during setup

[toms123]

Setting up a HP Smart Tank 7308, everything went smoothly I filled up the ink tanks and everything was fine. Until once I closed the ink access door, all of a sudden it showed that the black ink tank was empty (letter K and droplet blinking). Even on my computer showed that one of the ink tanks wasnt full, but I emptied all of the ink bottles into their right tank. Then I thought nothing of it, I wanted to proceed o the next steps, I thought maybe it was just something visual that would go away. Then I went to the next step it wanted me to insert the printheads into the carriage, but once I had opened the ink access door the carriage just wouldnt move to the middle where I have access to it. Now im stuck here in the setup the carriage wont move to the middle and it still just shows that the black ink tank is empty but its not.

[Meghana_10]

Hello @toms123, Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

Since your HP Smart Tank 7308 shows blank ink empty and now the printhead carrier won’t move to the center when you open the door, it’s likely stuck in a firmware lock, mechanical jam, or setup-incomplete state.

Here’s what you can try:

1. Power Cycle the Printer

1. Turn off the printer using the power button.
2. Unplug the power cord from the wall and the printer.
3. Wait 60 seconds.
4. Plug it back in and turn it on.
5. Open the access door again and check if the carrier moves.

2. Check for Obstructions

• Open the access door fully.
• Use a flashlight to inspect the printhead path.
• Look for:
  • Bits of paper
  • Packing material
  • lose cables or clips
• Gently move the carrier left or right if it’s stuck (only if the printer is off).

3. Confirm Setup Completion

If the printer thinks setup isn’t complete, it may lock the carrier:

• Check the display for any setup prompts.
• Use the HP app to confirm setup is complete.
• If prompted, reinstall the printhead and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Update Firmware

• Go to HP Smart Tank 7300 series | HP® Support.
• Enter your model: HP Smart Tank 7300.
• Download and install the latest firmware update.

5. Reset the Printer

If nothing works:

• Press and hold the Cancel + Wireless buttons together for 10 seconds.
• This triggers a soft reset and may unlock the carrier.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!