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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- unreadable impressed text since cartridge change

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12-31-2023 04:05 AM
Since I changed the black cartridge with a genuine HP 301, the impressed text is unreable : less than a letter hight all along a line, blured letters, bold on the first line.
What Can I do, except buy a new printer ? ;=)
thank you for your help.
Serge
01-03-2024 07:55 AM
Hi @Pujoldan,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If you're experiencing print quality issues after changing the black cartridge in your HP printer, there are several steps you can take to try and resolve the problem before considering purchasing a new printer. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can follow.
Check Cartridge Installation:
- Ensure that the black cartridge is properly installed. Make sure it is securely seated in its slot.
- Check if there is any plastic seal or tape on the cartridge that might need to be removed.
Clean the Printhead:
- Most HP printers have a built-in tool for cleaning the printhead. Refer to your printer's manual or settings to find and run the printhead cleaning utility.
Alignment:
- Perform a print head alignment. This ensures that the printer is properly calibrated for optimal print quality. Refer to your printer's manual for instructions on how to do this.
Check for Firmware Updates:
- Make sure your printer has the latest firmware updates installed. You can usually find firmware updates on the official HP website.
Use Genuine HP Cartridges:
- Ensure that you are using genuine HP cartridges. Non-genuine or refilled cartridges may cause print quality issues.
Run Diagnostic Tools:
- Many HP printers have diagnostic tools or utilities that can help identify and fix print quality issues. Check your printer's manual for guidance on running diagnostic tests.
Inspect for Paper Jams:
- Check for any paper jams or debris inside the printer that may be affecting the print quality.
Adjust Print Settings:
- In your print settings on your computer, make sure you have selected the correct paper type and print quality settings.
Try Another Cartridge:
- If possible, try another genuine HP cartridge to see if the issue persists. This can help determine if the problem is with the cartridge itself.
By following these steps, you may be able to identify and resolve the print quality issues without the need to purchase a new printer.
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
HP Support Community Moderator