I want to scan a document to a desktop. Printer screen only shows Ink Cartridges Problem

[Larry3579]

HP Photosmart 6520. No new software. 

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Larry3579 ,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are getting the "Ink Cartridges Problem"  error message on your HP Photosmart 6520 printer is preventing it from functioning, including scanning. Here’s how to address the issue so you can scan to your desktop:

Step 1: Check the Ink Cartridges

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Open the cartridge access door and carefully remove the cartridges.
3. Inspect the cartridges for:
   • Damaged electrical contacts.
   • Leaking ink.
   • Low or empty ink levels (though this shouldn't impact scanning).
4. Clean the contacts gently with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.
5. Reinstall the cartridges and ensure they click into place.

Step 2: Restart the Printer

1. Close the cartridge access door.
2. Turn the printer back on.
3. Check if the error persists.

Step 3: Bypass the Cartridge Check

If scanning is urgent and the error persists, you can sometimes bypass the cartridge check:

1. On the printer’s control panel, navigate to Settings (if accessible).
2. Look for options to disable cartridge warnings (if available).
3. Alternatively, try initiating the scan from the HP software on your computer:
   • Open HP Printer Assistant or HP Solution Center on your desktop.
   • Navigate to the scan options.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall the Printer Software

1. Download the latest software for the HP Photosmart 6520 from the HP Support website.
2. Reinstall the software to ensure communication between your printer and computer is functioning correctly.

Step 5: Test Scanning

1. Place the document on the scanner bed.
2. Initiate a scan from your computer:
   • Use the HP scanning software.
   • Alternatively, use the built-in Windows Fax and Scan tool:
     • Search for Windows Fax and Scan in the Windows Start menu.
     • Select New Scan and follow the prompts.

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!

[Larry778]

Thanks for trying. I accomplished items 1,2,4 and 5. Printer is still locked up. I couldn't do item 3 because the printer screen has the low ink warning and NOTHING else. Time for the junk pile.  

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Larry3579 ,

Thank you for your response, I appreciate your efforts. As the issue persists, I am sorry to hear that I'm sending out a private message to assist you with the next course of action. 

Please check your Private -icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile Next, to your profile Name, you should see a little blue envelope, please click on it or simply click on this link.

I hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.

Please click “Accept as 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!