Smart Tank 6001 ink status does not match visual ink status on device

[gjmhome]

I have a HP Smart Tank 6001 hardwired to my Dell Windows11 desktop.  I do not want to connect the printer for wireless use.  Here's my question, when I check ink status using the printer it show all tanks Full but the visual inspection of the tanks on the front of the printer show ~70% (my best guess).  Also, when I check the Ink status thru HP Smart Tank while logged-on to the desktop with the printer connected and powered-on, the status show all tanks full.  What is the proper way to get the correct ink status so I can be prepared to get replacement ink before I have an empty tank?  My desktop and printer are not powered-on all of the time and I do not do much printing.  However, the printer is powered-on whenever the desktop is powered-on.

[Raj_05]

Hi @gjmhome,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

The discrepancy between the reported ink levels and the visual inspection on your HP Smart Tank 6001 may occur due to the following reasons.

How Ink Levels are Monitored

• Ink Monitoring in HP Smart App or Printer Interface: The ink levels shown in the printer's interface and the HP Smart app are estimates based on usage tracking, not physical measurement. They may not account for evaporation or other factors if the printer isn't frequently powered on.
• Visual Inspection of Ink Tanks: This is the most accurate method for determining the actual ink levels, as it directly reflects the amount of ink left.

Possible Causes of the Discrepancy

• Usage Tracking Reset: If the printer or app was reset, the ink tracking could revert to showing full tanks unless the tracking system adjusts over time based on usage.
• Software Synchronization Issue: The software might not have synchronized with the printer's actual status due to intermittent power cycles.

Recommendations for Accurate Ink Monitoring

Prioritize Visual Inspection:

• Since the tanks are visible on the Smart Tank series, rely on this physical check for the most accurate ink level.
• Make it a habit to visually inspect the tanks monthly if your printing volume is low.

Sync Ink Status Regularly:

• Turn on your printer and desktop simultaneously and let the HP Smart app or the printer’s firmware update its usage-based estimates. This ensures the software tracking is as accurate as possible.

Consider Printing a Diagnostic Report:

• On the printer control panel, print a diagnostic page. Sometimes, the diagnostic page includes a summary of ink levels, which may be more accurate than the app or interface alone.

Stock Replacement Ink in Advance:

• To avoid running out, keep replacement ink on hand, especially if the tanks are already at 70% and you don’t print frequently. The Smart Tank series ink is known for its longevity.

Check for Firmware Updates:

• Ensure your printer firmware and HP Smart app are up-to-date to minimize synchronization errors. HP often releases updates to improve functionality and fix discrepancies.

Calibrate the Ink Levels (Optional):

• If you believe the software is consistently incorrect, perform an ink system initialization or calibration. Consult your printer's manual or settings for details, as this can sometimes reset usage-based estimates.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support