Printhead issue

[GarryWaite]

The printer is showing printhead problem - the printhead appears to be missing or incorrectly installed

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @GarryWaite 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for sharing that—it’s understandably frustrating when a printhead error stops everything in its tracks. 

Let’s walk through a few steps that can help resolve the “printhead appears to be missing or incorrectly installed” message on your HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e.

1. Reset the Printer

A full power reset can clear temporary memory faults:

• Turn off the printer.
• Disconnect the power cord from both the printer and the wall outlet.
• Wait at least 60 seconds.
• Plug the power cord directly into a wall outlet (avoid surge protectors).
• Turn the printer back on and check if the error clears.

2. Reseat the Printhead

If your model has a removable printhead:

• Open the cartridge access door and wait for the carriage to stop moving.
• Remove all ink cartridges.
• Lift the latch securing the printhead and gently remove it.
• Inspect the electrical contacts for ink buildup or debris.
• Clean the contacts with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water.
• Reinsert the printhead firmly, lower the latch, reinstall cartridges, and close the door.

If your printer does not have a removable printhead, skip this step and proceed to firmware update.

3. Update Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware can cause detection issues:

• Visit the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e driver and software page.
• Download and install the latest Firmware listed for Windows 11.
• Follow the on-screen instructions and avoid powering off during the update.

4. Try a Different Genuine HP Cartridge

Sometimes a faulty cartridge can trigger printhead errors:

• Replace the affected cartridge with a new, genuine HP cartridge.
• Make sure it matches the printer’s supported cartridge series.

You can confirm cartridge compatibility on the HP Supplies page.

5.  Use HP’s Diagnose & Fix Tool

• In the HP Smart app, click Printer Settings > Diagnose & Fix.
• Let it run a scan—it will automatically fix common connection issues.
  You can also access this tool on HP’s support page if needed.

If the error persists after these steps, the printhead may be damaged or the printer may require servicing. 

Let me know how things go—I’ll be here to help you interpret results or guide you further. You're handling this with care and persistence, and that’s exactly the right approach.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye