offline printer use

[Ladybugshan]

I have had this HP OfficeJet Pro 6968 for maybe 8 years now and have been paying for the subscription ink.  Last week we decided to discontinue the subscription while we were away on a trip.  I am now home and trying to print, however the error that keeps coming up says "Cartridge cannot be used until printer is enrolled in HP Instant Ink".  Is there any way I can just use the printer w/o being enrolled in the subscription ink?  I would like to buy ink at the store when I need it.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Ladybugshan 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Yes, you can use your HP OfficeJet Pro 6968 without an HP Instant Ink subscription, but you’ll need to replace the Instant Ink cartridges with standard retail cartridges.

Steps to Use Your Printer Without HP Instant Ink

Remove the Instant Ink Cartridges

• Open the printer’s cartridge access door.
• Take out the Instant Ink subscription cartridges.

Purchase Standard HP Ink Cartridges

• Buy genuine HP 902 or 902XL cartridges from a store or online.
• Make sure they are not Instant Ink cartridges.

Install the New Cartridges

• Insert the new cartridges into their respective slots.
• Close the cartridge access door.

Restart the Printer

• Turn off the printer and unplug it for 30 seconds.
• Plug it back in and turn it on.

Check for Firmware Updates

• Go to HP’s support page and download the latest firmware update for your printer.
• Install the update to ensure compatibility with standard cartridges.

Steps to Fix HP OfficeJet Pro 6968 Offline Mode on macOS Monterey

1. Restart Everything

• Turn off your printer, Mac, and Wi-Fi router.
• Wait 30 seconds, then turn them back on.

2. Check Printer Connection

• If using Wi-Fi, ensure the printer is connected to the same network as your Mac.
• If using USB, unplug and reconnect the cable.

3. Reset the Printing System

• Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
• Right-click your printer and select Reset Printing System.
• Re-add the printer by clicking Add Printer.

4. Set Printer to Online Mode

• Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
• Select your printer and click Open Print Queue.
• If you see "Use Printer Offline", uncheck it.

5. Update Printer Firmware

• Visit HP’s support page and download the latest firmware update for your printer.

6. Run HP Smart’s Diagnose & Fix Tool

• Open the HP Smart app on your Mac.
• Click Diagnose & Fix to troubleshoot offline issues.

Let me know if you need further assistance! 🚀

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye