cartridges during copying

[DJ77771]

Hi, I have several issues.
     Our 8720 printer was printing correctly, but only from the wired connection to our desktop Windows computer. The computer is more than 8 years old. 
         The printer stopped working a few weeks ago whenever I was just trying to make a copy using the printer by itself.
           Part of the problem is that the printer cartridges would slide all the way to the right, then stop.
     The white flexible strip that you can see just below the glass where you put originals to copy looks different than the same strip we have on our other HP printer. The one for my 8720 printer looks slightly less "folded" when it is in home position.

          At one point, the copier started to work but only copied half of a page.
           I updated firmware. I used the HP print doctor and any other HP tools I could find online. 
           I have uninstalled the printer from our desktop, but am unable to reinstall it. 
         Thanks in advance!          

[Sneha_01]

Hi @DJ77771,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like you're facing multiple issues with your HP 8720 printer, both with copying and connectivity. Let’s break down the troubleshooting steps:

Step 1: Check the Cartridges

Remove and Reinstall Cartridges:

• Open the printer and gently remove the cartridges.
• Check for any protective tape that may not have been removed and ensure they are seated correctly when reinstalled.

Inspect for Damage:

• Check the cartridges for any visible damage or ink leakage.

Step 2: Examine the White Flexible Strip

• Inspect the Strip:
  • Ensure that the white flexible strip (also known as the encoder strip) is clean and not damaged. If it appears different from your other printer, it may need realignment or replacement.

Step 3: Reset the Printer

1. Power Cycle:
   • Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, and wait for about 60 seconds.
   • Plug it back in and turn it on.

Step 4: Perform a Printer Self-Test

• Print a Test Page:
  • If the printer is operational, print a self-test page to check if it prints correctly.

Step 5: Troubleshoot Copy Function

Clean the Glass Surface:

• Ensure that the scanner glass is clean and free of smudges or debris. Use a lint-free cloth with glass cleaner if necessary.

Check for Obstructions:

• Make sure there are no obstructions in the paper path and that the paper is loaded correctly.

Copy Settings:

• If possible, reset any copy settings to default to see if that resolves the issue.

Step 6: Reinstall Printer on Desktop

Uninstall Previous Drivers:

• Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers, right-click on the printer, and choose Remove device.
• Also, uninstall any related software from Control Panel > Programs and Features.

Download Latest Drivers:

• Visit the HP support website and download the latest drivers for the HP 8720.

Install the Printer:

• Follow the installation instructions provided by HP, and make sure to choose the correct connection type (USB or network).

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support