Printer says new HP colour cartridge is empty. Shows it is full when printing test page then reverts

[M_N_R]

My printer is an HP 3640 (product code K4T 99B). I have replaced with empty cartridges with genuine HP 302 cartridges from a reputable dealer. The black cartridge is fine and shows full. The colour cartridge shows empty. If you print the test page, the printer prints correctly and both cartridges show 'full'. However, once the test page is completed, the colour cartridge shows empty again. I have tried replacing the new colour cartridge with the old one which just has a little ink in it and that does show it has a little ink left in it. But replacing it with the new one it shows 'empty' again.

I have been through all the help tips I can find but cannot cure this problem. Has anyone any ideas.

Thank you. Malcolm

[Valsimot]

Maybe you have a defective colour ink cartridge, it happens.

[M_N_R]

Thank you for replying. I accept what you say but it seems strange that it will show the cartridge is full when printing the 'test' page. I am loathe to try another 'new' cartridge as they are so expensive if they just get wasted.

Malcolm 

[Valsimot]

If the old ( empty ) cartridge works your new cartridge is defective, there is no other explanation. If both old and new cartridge has the same issues then I would blame it on a printer.

[M_N_R]

Again, thank you for your time and patience. If indeed it is a defective 'new' cartridge why would it work and register as 'full' when doing the test print? I am not disputing your explanation I am just trying to understand what is happening. You have been very helpful. Thank you. Malcolm

[Valsimot · Accepted solution]

It doesn't make sense I agree. If the small printers screen (not the computer) shows the first full and then empty ink cartridge after one page while the old cartridge shows the same empty level all the time doesn't make any sense. It could be a printer issue or cartridge issue I ruled out the printer issue due to the old cartridge working. The only changes were the cartridges replaced prior to the issue starting.

[M_N_R]

Thank you for your help and explanation, I guess I will have to bite the bullet and try another new cartridge! Malcolm