ink cartridge Error message

[don357]

Tried replacing HP61 tri-color cartridge with HP61XL. I get error message saying the cartridge must be replaced. I went through all the troubleshooting steps and still have the problem. I put the NON-XL cartridge back and the message goes away. Is the XL tri-color cartidge not compatible with my older OfficeJet 4635?

[Sneha_01]

Hi @don357 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It seems like you're encountering an issue with the HP 61XL tri-color cartridge not being recognized properly in your HP OfficeJet 4635 printer. Let's go over some possible explanations and solutions to resolve the issue.

1. Compatibility of the HP 61XL Cartridge with Your Printer

The HP 61XL cartridge is compatible with the HP OfficeJet 4635 printer. Both the standard HP 61 and the HP 61XL cartridges are designed to work with several HP printers, including the OfficeJet 4635. The difference between the two is the amount of ink they contain — the HP 61XL has more ink and offers a higher page yield than the standard HP 61 cartridge.

However, even though the cartridge is supposed to be compatible, there could still be issues with the recognition of the XL cartridge. Here's what you can try to fix it:

2. Check the Cartridge and Contacts

Sometimes, ink cartridges can fail to be recognized properly due to issues with the cartridge contacts or printer connections:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it.
• Remove the HP 61XL cartridge and inspect the metal contacts on both the cartridge and the printer.
• Clean the contacts gently with a lint-free cloth or a cotton swab lightly dampened with distilled water.
• Allow the contacts to dry completely before reinserting the cartridge.

3. Reset the Printer

Sometimes, resetting the printer can resolve issues with cartridge recognition:

• Turn off the printer.
• Unplug it from the power source.
• Wait 60 seconds, then plug the printer back in and turn it on again.

4. Ensure the Cartridge is Installed Correctly

Ensure that the HP 61XL cartridge is properly seated in the correct slot. The contacts inside the printer must align properly with the cartridge's metal contacts to ensure it is recognized.

5. Try the Cartridge in Another Printer (if possible)

If you have access to another HP printer that uses the HP 61 or HP 61XL cartridge, you can try inserting the HP 61XL cartridge into that printer. This will help you determine if the issue is specific to your OfficeJet 4635 or if there's a problem with the cartridge itself.

6. Check for Firmware Updates

HP printers sometimes require a firmware update to correctly recognize new or third-party cartridges, including XL versions:

• Check the HP Smart app or the HP website for any available firmware updates for your printer.
• Updating the firmware might help resolve issues related to cartridge compatibility.

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