Cartridge not communicating with the printer

[Nick1063]

Hello,

I have a Mac (OS Sonoma 14.6.1) with an HP ENVY Inspire 7200 Series printer and an HP Instant Ink subscription. Out of the blue, the printer reports that there was a "Cartridge Problem" and that the printer was unable to communicate with the black cartridge. After contacting support, they sent me another black cartridge. Unfortunately, this cartridge was damaged by rain from the recent hurricane (package got wet on our porch). After it dried out, I installed it and received the same error. Before calling support again, I bought a cartridge (HP #64 XL black) from Staples and installed that today. Even with this new cartridge, the printer continues with the same error. I suspect that something is wrong with the printer. Has anyone had a similar problem? Would there be a reason why a store-bought cartridge wouldn't work if the printer is enrolled in HP Instant Ink? The warranty is expired, so I think I'd have to get a new printer, unless this could be repaired. Any experience with the new HP printer leasing program? Thanks.

[Raj_05]

Hi @Nick1063,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like you're facing a frustrating issue with your HP ENVY Inspire 7200 printer. Based on what you've described, here are some potential reasons and steps you can try to resolve this issue.

HP Instant Ink and Store-Bought Cartridges Conflict

Since you're enrolled in the HP Instant Ink program, the printer expects to communicate with the cartridges it receives through this service. Using a store-bought cartridge might not work properly because:

• The printer is programmed to only accept Instant Ink cartridges.
• HP Instant Ink cartridges are tracked via the internet for usage and billing, so using a standard store-bought cartridge may trigger an error message.

Solution: Try unenrolling from the HP Instant Ink program temporarily to see if the printer will accept the store-bought cartridge. You can manage this through your HP Instant Ink account or the HP Smart app on your Mac.

Check Cartridge Contact Points

• The error could also be due to a bad connection between the cartridge and the printer.
• Ensure the metal contact points on both the cartridge and inside the printer are clean and dry. Even though the cartridge dried out, residual moisture or dirt might cause connectivity issues.
• You can gently wipe these contact points with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.

Printer Firmware Update

• Sometimes a printer firmware update may resolve issues with cartridge compatibility, especially after using a store-bought cartridge instead of Instant Ink cartridges.
• Make sure your HP ENVY Inspire 7200 is running the latest firmware by checking for updates via the HP Smart app or on the HP support website.

Reset the Printer

• Resetting the printer might clear any temporary communication errors between the printer and the cartridge.
• Steps to reset:
  1. Disconnect the printer from the power source while it is turned on.
  2. Wait for about 60 seconds.
  3. Plug the printer back in and turn it on.

HP Printer Leasing Program

HP has a subscription-based leasing program for printers, which can be an alternative if you continue facing issues and need a replacement. Through this program:

• You pay a monthly fee, and HP sends you a new printer as part of the lease.
• It often includes support, maintenance, and automatic ink delivery (like the Instant Ink program).

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support