“Validating… please wait”

[Colt10needshelp]

Says “validation… please wait” after I installed HP 962x that have always worked. Unplugged and reset several times but still doing it after 24 hours 

[Pallipurath]

Hi @Colt10needshelp 

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query.

The message "Validating… please wait" on your HP printer typically indicates an issue with recognizing or validating the ink cartridges. Here are steps you can follow to resolve this issue:

Check Cartridge Compatibility

• Confirm that you are using HP 962/962XL cartridges (or the correct series for your printer model).
• Verify that the cartridges are genuine HP products — non‑HP or refilled cartridges often trigger validation errors.
• If unsure, check the cartridge packaging or HP’s compatibility list online.

Reinstall Ink Cartridges

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Open the cartridge access door.
• Remove all cartridges carefully.
• Re‑insert each cartridge into its correct slot until it clicks into place.
• Close the access door, reconnect power, and turn the printer back on.

Clean Cartridge Contacts

• Power off and unplug the printer.
• Remove the cartridges.
• Use a lint‑free cloth or cotton swab slightly dampened with distilled water.
• Gently clean the gold contacts on the cartridges.
• Also clean the contacts inside the printer where the cartridges connect.
• Let everything dry completely before reinstalling.

Update Printer Firmware

• Visit the HP Support website. https://support.hp.com/au-en/products 
• Enter your printer model.
• Download the latest firmware update available.
• Install the update following the instructions provided.
• Restart the printer and check if validation completes successfully.

Reset the Printer

• Turn off the printer.
• Unplug it from the power source.
• Wait 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in and power on.
• Allow the printer to complete its startup routine.

Perform Printer Calibration

• On the printer’s control panel, go to Settings → Maintenance → Align Printhead
• Follow the on‑screen instructions.
• Print a test page to confirm proper alignment and cartridge recognition.

Hope this helps, Please revert if the issue persists.

Take care and have an amazing day!

[MrsSWhite]

Please could you give instructions for HP Envy 6120e which does not have the physical buttons to press?

The only way I can get to the menu is to power up with the door open so that is gives a warning instead of the Validating.... Please wait.. message. I have yet to find anything on the menu which helps!

[Pallipurath]

Hi @Colt10needshelp,

Thank you for responding.

The message "Validating… please wait" typically appears on the printer's display while it completes the validation process. This process verifies the status of the printer and prepares it for operation. Usually, no user action is needed during this time.

If the message persists for an unusually long time, consider performing a power reset on your printer by following these steps:

Turn off the Printer: Press the power button on your HP Envy 6120e printer to turn it off.

Unplug the Printer: Disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer and from the power outlet.

Wait: Allow the printer to remain unplugged for about 60 seconds.

Reconnect the Power: Plug the power cord back into the printer and the power outlet.

Turn on the Printer: Press the power button to turn the printer on and check if the issue is resolved.

Also I would requset you to please share me the picture of the Error displayed.

Have a good day.