how to identify damaged cartridge

[Gimbe]

I just installed new HP cartridges and an error message says one of the cartridges is defective or damaged. How do I determine which one it is? They are all brand new. I have cleaned the contacts, reinserted, downloaded latest software - to no avail. Thanks for any help you can give me.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Gimbe,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your printer!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

Try these steps:

Remove the Cartridge:

• Turn on the printer and open the cartridge access door. Wait for the print carriage to move to the center.
• Remove the cartridge indicated in the error message. If the error message does not specify which cartridge, remove all the cartridges one by one.

Check the Cartridge Light Indicator:

• Close the cartridge access door after removing each cartridge and observe the behavior of the printer.
• If the "On" button light blinks quickly after removing a specific cartridge, that is the defective one.

Test Each Cartridge Individually:

• Insert one cartridge at a time to see if the error persists. This helps identify the specific cartridge causing the problem.

Clean the Cartridge Contacts:

In addition to the steps above, here's how to clean the cartridge contacts in case they were not cleaned thoroughly:

Turn Off the Printer:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it. Wait for a few moments before proceeding.

Remove the Cartridges:

• Open the cartridge access door and remove all the ink cartridges.

Clean the Contacts:

• Hold the cartridge by its sides with the bottom pointing up. Locate the electrical contacts (small gold-colored dots).
• Use a dry, lint-free cloth or a swab to gently clean the contacts. Be careful not to smear any ink or debris on other parts of the cartridge.

Clean the Printer Contacts:

• Inside the printer, locate the cartridge contacts (gold-colored bumps).
• Use a dry, lint-free cloth or a swab to gently clean these contacts as well.

Reinsert the Cartridges:

• Reinsert one cartridge at a time. Ensure proper seating and alignment.

Restart the Printer:

• Close the cartridge access door and turn on the printer. Check if the error message is resolved.I hope this helps.

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Best regards,