Error message and WiFi problem

[Kira777]

After months of not using, I plug my printer back in and the first thing that pops up is an error message saying incompatible cartridges which I don’t understand because it only saying that for the black cartridge and not the tri color and they are both 61. I replaced the cartridge with a new one and the same message. I reset the printer and the same thing. I tried to reset the firmware through the HP smart app and I can’t because the printer is not connected to the WiFi and I can’t connect it because the error message won’t move no matter what button I press or how many times I restart it.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Kira777 , Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Nothing like a printer holding a grudge after a long nap! Let’s coax it back to life and get that ‘incompatible cartridge’ drama sorted out.

Since you've already replaced the cartridge and reset the printer, try these steps:

1. Hard Reset the Printer

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from power.
2. Remove both cartridges.
3. Wait 10 minutes.
4. Plug the printer back in and turn it on (without the cartridges).
5. It will ask for cartridges—insert them one at a time (first color, then black).
6. Check if the error clears.

2. Clean the Cartridge & Printer Contacts

1. Turn off the printer and remove the black cartridge.
2. Take a lint-free cloth (or cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol).
3. Gently clean the gold contacts on the cartridge.
4. Clean the corresponding contacts inside the printer.
5. Let it dry for 1-2 minutes, reinstall, and restart.

3. Try Another Black Cartridge

Even though the cartridge is new, sometimes a batch can be faulty. Try:

• A different HP 61 black cartridge (if available).
• Genuine HP cartridges only (non-HP ones can trigger errors).

4. Bypass the Error (Temporary Workaround)

If you need to print in color:

1. Remove only the black cartridge.
2. Restart the printer.
3. Try printing—it should allow printing in color only.

 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

5. Semi-Full Reset (Factory Reset)

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Press and hold # and 3 while turning it back on.
3. If that doesn’t work, try # and 6 instead.
4. This resets settings but keeps user data.

6. Firmware Update via USB

If the printer won’t connect to Wi-Fi:

1. Download the latest HP firmware for macOS Big Sur from HP's website.
2. Connect the printer to your Mac via USB cable.
3. Run the firmware update and restart.

If none of this work, the printer might have a damaged cartridge sensor. Let me know what happens! 😊

Your printer might be stubborn, but we’re more determined. Let’s get it back on track so it can do what it was made to do, print, not protest!

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,