Printhead missing or not detected

[christonabike]

Bought new Printhead for my aging OfficeJet Pro 8715 printer. Now showing that it appears to be missing or not detected.

Printer had what looks to be a 2015 printhead and I've just installed what looks to be 2017 version.

I reinstalled the old one to check it wasn't crap contacts and it was detected fine....!

Anyone got any tips for me before kick this machine all the way to the recycling centre?

(I've tried waggling and all software is up to date - no effect)

Big love to anyone who can give me the right answer

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @christonabike 

Thanks for stopping by the HP community. A very good day to you.  I reviewed the post. I will be delighted to assist you here.

Superb description and stupendous diagnosis of the issue before posting. Kudos to you for that.  😊 

It sounds like you're having trouble with printhead detection after installing a newer version. Here are some steps to help you resolve this issue:

1. Check Compatibility

Action: Confirm the part number of the new printhead matches one of these series:

HP 952 / 953 / 954 / 955 cartridges (depends on region)

Compatible printhead part: HP CN643A or similar, depending on your market

How: Check the box or invoice from where you bought the printhead. If you're unsure, you can search your part number on HP PartSurfer.

2. Inspect and Clean the Contacts

Tools: Use a lint-free cloth (or microfiber cloth) and distilled water

Steps:

Turn off the printer and unplug it.

Open the access door and remove the printhead.

Gently dab (not scrub) the gold/copper-colored contacts on the printhead and the corresponding contacts inside the carriage.

Let all parts dry completely (about 10 minutes).

Reinstall the printhead and close the access door.

⚠️ Avoid alcohol — this can damage sensitive materials.

3. Reset the Printer

Steps:

Power off the printer.

Unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall outlet.

Wait at least 60 seconds.

Plug it back in directly to the wall (not a surge protector).

Turn the printer back on and wait for it to fully boot up.

4. Firmware Update

Steps:

Go to the HP OfficeJet Pro 8715 Drivers Page.

Download the latest firmware for your operating system.

Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.

After updating, restart the printer and retry the new printhead.

5. Reinstall the Printhead Properly

Steps:

Open the cartridge access door with the printer powered on — wait for the carriage to center.

Remove the cartridges carefully.

Lift the latch that holds the printhead and remove it.

Insert the new printhead carefully and ensure it sits flush in the carriage.

Lower and secure the latch until it clicks.

Reinstall the cartridges and close the access door.

The printer may take a few minutes to initialize.

Let me know how far you get with these. You're definitely covering all the right ground here.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye