Setup Ink Cartridges HP Officejet Pro 8210e

[SkilledAust1]

A client has bought a printer to me to repair. It is a HP OfficeJet Pro 8210e, initially the issue was that it was not recognizing new ink cartridges, but the client factory reset the printer before bringing it to me and it is asking for Setup cartridges (Use Setup - Use SETUP cartridges that came with your printer). They have already bought three sets of genuine cartridges for this printer while doing their own troubleshooting and I am loathe to suggest that they go out and buy Setup cartridges (If that is even possible).

Does anyone know how to bypass the Setup cartridge requirement on this printer so I can get back to diagnosing the original issue?

Why on earth does a factory reset put the printer back into setup mode anyway?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @SkilledAust1,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query!  

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8210e requires HP Setup cartridges after a factory reset because HP ties the initial setup process to these cartridges for printer activation. Unfortunately, this cannot be bypassed easily, as HP's firmware locks the printer until it's initialized with Setup cartridges.

Possible Workarounds to Try:

1. Check if the Printer is Truly in Setup Mode

• If the message is "Use Setup Cartridges," it confirms that the printer has been reset to factory mode.
• If it still allows menu access, go to:
  • Settings > Printer Maintenance > Restore Defaults
  • Try a second power cycle after restoring defaults.

2. Try a Semi-Full Reset (Might Skip Setup Mode)

This process resets printer NVRAM and may allow standard cartridges:

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Press & Hold the "Resume" (⚠️) and Power button at the same time.
3. Release the Power button, but keep holding Resume (⚠️) for 10 seconds.
4. Wait for the printer to restart.
5. Try inserting standard cartridges.

Note: Success varies—this may still require Setup cartridges.

3. Check Printer Region Lock

• If the original Setup cartridges were from a different region, and the standard cartridges are from another, the printer will reject them.
• You can try a regional reset, let me know if you need help with that.

 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

4. Acquire Setup Cartridges

• If the printer was never set up before, you must use the Setup cartridges that originally came with it.

Why Does a Factory Reset Require Setup Cartridges?

HP’s firmware locks activation to Setup cartridges to prevent tampering, unauthorized refills, or using non-genuine ink. A factory reset returns the printer to an "out-of-the-box" state, which requires Setup cartridges before it can recognize regular ones.

Final Recommendation

If a hard reset doesn’t work, you will need Setup cartridges to proceed.

Let me know if any of these step's work or if you need further troubleshooting! 😊

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?"—your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,