-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- Print Cartridge Error: Refer to Printer Documentation

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
10-01-2012 04:10 PM
I am also getting the error message: ! Print Cartridges "Refer to printer documentation" I too have tried your solution but with no success. I have also replaced the color cartridge because I thought it was low, but that made no difference. At one point I removed both cartridges to inspect the electrical contacts. They looked all right, but I did notice a build up of ink (and possibly grease) below the area where the print heads come to rest. I didn't know if it was normal to have some ink residue there after 3 years of use or not, or how much would be normal. When I do reset the printer, it first displays the message: "load paper..." for a second, then immediately goes to the "...printer documentation" message. Is there any hope for this or is it time for a new printer?
10-07-2012 12:17 AM
Yes, it worked! Thank you!: smileyhappy: (have no clue how emoticons work ... )
Just spent $300 ordering new printer, inks, Excedrin --- should have found you last week! (Well, I'll have a replacement on the shelf when I need it.)
NOW ... I'll see how it prints!
Thanks -- from PatsyBF
10-07-2012 09:29 PM
I spoke too soon. Did not solve the ultimate problem (getting color out of the cartridge onto the page).
But at least the black ink works. The malfunctioning color cartridge prevented ANY printing.
It tested OK once, then reverted to a shadow of the color.
If your printer is kept from printing BLACK, here's what to do:
Unload both black and color cartridges and carefully put them aside.
Pull both plugs from the back of the printer.
Go have a beer.
Come back in 5 minutes.
Re-plug the two cords into the back of the printer,
Re-load the cartridges you took out.
Follow instructions on the itty-bitty screen (OK, etc.)
Hope it works for you.
FYI it seems that the pattern is that this is caused by using an XL black cartridge.
Unfortunately XL is all I buy, but I'm buying a regular size tomorrow, to test this theory.
10-08-2012 10:01 AM
Hi,
In UR case, Black ink cartridge was working. Im my case both are not working. But both caretridges are original HP 21 and 22. I tried UR suggested method except a small change, ( I took a cup of hot tea instead of cold beer).
The problem still remains..Sorry.
Rao
10-16-2012 03:07 PM
My 5550 all in one printer displays a message Cartridge not intended for use in printer. Replace. This color cartridge is fairly new and is expensive, I have used it only for a short time. Is there any recourse for me other than losing $40 buying a new one. It is an HP product.