HP PhotoSmart printer C5280 error message "Refer to printer documentation"

[Diane166]

This printer is not supported by HP but is in good shape but is not functioning properly, and I keep getting the message "Refer to printer documentation", which is not helpful. I have changed the print cartridges but can't get it to work.

[Raj_05]

Hi @Diane166,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

The "Refer to printer documentation" error message on your HP PhotoSmart C5280 printer can be frustrating. Here are several steps you can take to try and resolve the issue.

Restart the Printer:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait for about 60 seconds before plugging it back in and turning it on.

Check for Paper Jams:

• Open all accessible panels and check for any paper that might be stuck.
• Remove any jammed paper carefully to avoid damaging the printer.

Reset the Printer:

• With the printer on, disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
• Wait at least 60 seconds.
• Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet and then reconnect it to the printer.
• Turn on the printer if it doesn’t turn on automatically.

Reinstall Print Cartridges:

• Open the printer and remove the print cartridges.
• Inspect the cartridges for any protective tape that might still be on the contacts.
• Reinsert the cartridges firmly and close the cartridge access door.

Clean the Cartridge Contacts:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it.
• Remove the print cartridges.
• Use a lint-free cloth lightly moistened with distilled water to clean the electrical contacts on the cartridges and the corresponding contacts in the printer.
• Let the contacts dry for a few minutes before reinserting the cartridges.

[Raj_05]

Check and Clean the Printhead:

• If possible, remove the printhead and clean it with a lint-free cloth and distilled water.
• Allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it.

Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers:

• Ensure that you have the latest drivers installed for your printer. You can find the drivers on the HP website or use the software that came with the printer.
• Sometimes, reinstalling the drivers can resolve the issue.

Perform a Partial Reset:

• With the printer turned on, disconnect the power cord from the printer.
• Press and hold the "#" and "6" buttons on the printer's control panel.
• While holding the buttons, reconnect the power cord.
• Continue holding the buttons until the printer powers on and displays a message indicating a partial reset.

Perform a Full Reset:

• Similar to the partial reset, but instead of holding "#" and "6", hold "#" and "9" to perform a full reset. Note that this will restore the printer to its factory settings, and you might need to set it up again.

Check for Firmware Updates:

• Visit the HP support website to see if there are any firmware updates available for your printer model.

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!

Alden4

HP Support 

[Diane166]

Thank you, Alden4. I tried all of those maneuvers, but I keep getting the same message.

Someone suggested it's a firmware issue, but I am not sure how to update the firmware. Any advice?

[Raj_05]

Hi @Diane166,

Thank you for your response, 

I'm sending a private message to assist you with the next action.

Please check your Private message 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.

Alden4

HP Support