-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
03-31-2025 03:13 PM
I have an HP Photosmart C4280 printer. I replaced the BW cartridge (because it was empty) by a new genuine HP cartridge.
Now I get the message 'print cartridge(s) incorrectly installed'. Removing and replacing the cassette doesn't help, nor does switching the printer off and back on.
04-02-2025 07:14 AM
@Buddy4444, Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your HP Photosmart C4280 printer!
We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.
If your HP Photosmart C4280 printer displays the message "print cartridge(s) incorrectly installed" after replacing a black-and-white cartridge, you can follow these steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:
Remove and Reinsert Ink Cartridge:
- Open the printer cover.
- Remove the ink cartridge from the printer.
- Check for any debris or tape that may be covering the cartridge contacts.
- Reinsert the ink cartridge into the printer.
Power Cycle the Printer:
- Turn off the printer.
- Unplug the power cord from the printer.
- Wait for about 10 seconds.
- Plug the power cord back in and turn the printer on.
Check the Cartridge Contacts:
- Inspect the electrical contacts on the cartridge and inside the printer.
- Clean the contacts gently with a lint-free cloth moistened with distilled water.
Reset the Printer:
- Disconnect any USB cables or other peripheral connections.
- With the printer powered on, disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer.
- Wait 10-15 seconds before reconnecting the power cord.
- Turn the printer back on.
Check for Correct Cartridge:
- Ensure the replaced cartridge is a genuine HP cartridge and is compatible with the HP Photosmart C4280 model.
Hope this helps!
Take care, and have an amazing day!
Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!
Regards,
ZOEY7886
I am an HP Employee
04-02-2025 02:10 PM
thanks Zoey,
I had previously found this same solution after extensive searches. I did follow these steps very closely 2 or 3 times. This solution did not work. An additional thing I did discover, when I use one of HP's diagnostics app to clean the print heads and one to align the print heads, I click on print test page after each test and the printer successfully prints excellent quality pages. After this, the printer reverts back to showing the error message and the power-on button flashes.
How can I do a factory reset on my printer?
04-03-2025 01:45 PM
Hi @Buddy4444,
Since Zoey is not available at the moment, I'll be assisting you further.
Kindly refer to the steps on this link to restore factory defaults.
I hope this helps.
I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨
Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀
Best regards,
Kuroi_Kenshi
I am an HP Employee