Printer HP Deskjet 3700 error

[JE94]

Had my printer in storage for sometime, no paper or ink cartridges in. Turned it on and E flashing power, wifi, and paper buttons. Doesn't turn on properly, ink cartridge not moving to center for ink cartridges to be installed 

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @JE94 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

The flashing “E” with power, Wi-Fi, and paper lights on your HP DeskJet 3700 indicates a startup error, often caused by missing cartridges or a stalled carriage. 

Let’s walk through steps to reset the printer and restore normal operation.

Step 1: Perform a Full Power Reset

1. Turn off the printer using the power button.
2. Unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall outlet.
3. Wait for 60 seconds.
4. Plug the power cord directly into a wall outlet (avoid surge protectors).
5. Turn the printer back on and observe the control panel.

This helps clear internal memory and reinitialize the carriage mechanism.

 

Step 2: Check for Obstructions and Cartridge Access

1. Open the cartridge access door.
2. If the carriage doesn’t move to the center:
   • Gently slide it manually if it’s stuck.
   • Check for any packing materials, debris, or dried ink buildup.
3. Once centered, install both black and tri-color cartridges—the printer requires both to initialize.

If you don’t have cartridges installed, the printer will remain in error mode.

 

Step 3: Load Paper and Confirm Alignment

1. Load plain paper into the input tray.
2. Close the access door securely.
3. The printer may attempt to print an alignment page—allow it to complete.

 

Step 4: Reset Network Settings (if Wi-Fi light continues flashing)

1. Press and hold the Wi-Fi and Cancel buttons together for 5 seconds.
2. This restores wireless defaults and may clear the flashing Wi-Fi light.

 

Step 5: Use the HP App for Setup and Status

Download the HP App from:
https://www.hp.com/in-en/shop/apps/hp-app.html

Open the app and add your printer.

Check for firmware updates and complete setup steps.

For reference, here’s the official guide for blinking lights on the DeskJet 3700 series:
https://support.hp.com/lv-en/document/ish_5744761-5744862-16

Let me know how it goes after these steps. You’re doing everything right—let’s bring your printer back to life and get it ready to print again.

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye