Unable to print black on multiple printers.

[Smiller7657]

I am unable to print black on my HP5510 printer,  I have tried cleaning the cartridge, running the utilities for cleaning the head and have tried different print cartridges.  I purchased two different used printers (HP5510  and HP5520) and can not print black on those also.  The print cartridges I am using are not genuine HP cartridges but I have never had this problem before.

Does anyone have any advice

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Smiller7657,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you're encountering issues with printing black across multiple HP printers, even after trying non-genuine cartridges. 

Here are a few troubleshooting steps that may help:

1. Check the Ink Cartridges

• Compatibility: Verify that the non-genuine cartridges are compatible with your HP Photosmart 5510 and 5520 printers. Sometimes, non-genuine cartridges may work temporarily, but over time they could cause issues like not printing specific colors.
• Cartridge Quality: Even though non-genuine cartridges have worked for you in the past, some batches can be defective. Try a new set of black cartridges from a different supplier.

2. Run Additional Printhead Cleanings

• Re-run the printhead cleaning utility several times in a row. Sometimes one or two cleanings may not be enough to clear blockages in the black ink printhead.
• You can run this utility through your printer’s control panel or via the HP printer software on your computer.

3. Check for Printhead Blockages

• Manual Cleaning: If the cleaning utilities don’t work, you can manually clean the printhead. Remove the printhead from the printer, then use a lint-free cloth with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol to clean the contacts and the nozzles.
• Soak the Printhead: If manual cleaning doesn’t work, try soaking the printhead in warm water for about 10 minutes to dissolve any dried ink. Let it air dry completely before reinstalling it.

4. Check for Firmware Updates Update the firmware on an HP printer

• Firmware Check: HP releases firmware updates that may impact cartridge recognition or print quality. Ensure that your printers have the latest firmware installed, especially if you're using non-genuine cartridges, as firmware updates sometimes improve compatibility.
• You can check for updates via the HP Smart app or directly on HP’s support website.

5. Use Genuine HP Cartridges

• Genuine Cartridges: Even though you’ve had success with non-genuine cartridges before, HP printers are optimized for use with genuine HP cartridges, and some features may not work correctly with third-party cartridges. Try using a genuine HP black ink cartridge to see if the issue persists.

6. Reset the Printer

• Factory Reset: Perform a factory reset on your printers. This can sometimes clear firmware issues or incorrect settings that might be causing the black ink not to print.
  • Turn off the printer, unplug it for about 60 seconds, and then plug it back in and turn it on.

7. Test Print on Different Media

• Print Test: If possible, print on different types of media, such as photo paper or glossy paper, to see if the black ink works on those surfaces. This can help determine if the problem is with the media settings or ink delivery.

Refer to this document: HP Photosmart 5510 e-All-in-One Printer series - B111 User manual

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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