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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- “aligning cartridge please wait” message continuing

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Check some of the most frequent questions about Instant Ink: HP INSTANT INK, HP+ PLANS: INK AND TONER.
Check out our Black or Color Ink Not Printing, Other Print Quality Issues info about: Print quality and Cartridge Issues.
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1 REPLY 1
06-21-2023 06:53 PM
Hi @Charlie17237,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If your HP Photosmart 5520 e-All-in-One Printer is displaying a "Aligning cartridge, please wait" message that persists for an extended period, there are a few steps you can try to resolve the issue.
- Check for any error messages: Look for any error messages or specific instructions displayed on the printer's control panel. It may provide additional information about the problem.
- Check ink levels: Ensure that the ink cartridges have sufficient ink levels. Low ink levels can sometimes cause alignment issues. Replace any cartridges that are low or empty.
- Clean the cartridges: Print a self-test report to check if there are any issues with the print quality. If the report shows streaks, smears, or other print quality issues, clean the cartridges. Refer to the printer's user manual or HP's support website for instructions on how to clean the cartridges.
- Reset the printer: Turn off the printer, unplug the power cord from the back, and wait for about 60 seconds. Plug the power cord back in and turn on the printer. This reset can often resolve minor glitches or errors.
- Update printer firmware: Visit the HP support website and check if there is any updated firmware available for your printer model. Download and install any firmware updates to ensure your printer is running the latest software.
- Reinstall cartridges: Remove the ink cartridges from the printer, turn off the printer, and unplug the power cord. Wait for a few minutes, then reconnect the power cord and turn on the printer. Reinstall the cartridges carefully and ensure they are properly seated.
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!
Alden4
HP Support
Raj_05
HP Support Community Moderator
HP Support Community Moderator
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