• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
Experiencing 'Printer Blocked' or 'Printer Error' message? Click here for more information.
Check some of the most frequent questions about Instant Ink: HP INSTANT INK, HP+ PLANS: INK AND TONER.


Check out our Black or Color Ink Not Printing, Other Print Quality Issues info about: Print quality and Cartridge Issues.
HP Recommended
hp desktop 3520
Microsoft Windows 8.1 (64-bit)

its been a few years sinve ive used my computer and i been trying to print something and my printer wont print dark at all...like a very light grey color. i was told to update my drivers....which i dont really know whsat this means lol so im here for help please/??

hp desktop 3520 is what it says by my printer in the computer

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

@pnunz,

 

Welcome to our HP Community forum!

 

It sounds like you are referring to an HP DeskJet 3520 or HP Photosmart 3520 printer rather than a desktop. The issue (printing too light or faded text) is likely caused by one of the following:

 

Steps to Fix the Faded Printing Issue:

 

1. Check Ink Levels

  • On the printer, navigate to Setup > Tools > Estimated Ink Levels
  • If the black ink is low or empty, replace the cartridge.

2. Perform a Printhead Cleaning

  • On the printer, go to Setup > Tools > Clean Printhead
  • Run the cleaning process up to 3 times if necessary.

3. Use the Correct Paper Type and Quality Settings

  • In Printer Preferences, check that:
    • Paper type matches what they’re using.
    • Print quality is set to "Best" (not "Draft" mode).

4. Update the Printer Driver (If Needed)

Since you mentioned being unsure about drivers, here's how to update:

  • Go to HP’s websiteHP Drivers
  • Search for HP DeskJet 3520 or Photosmart 3520
  • Download & install the latest driver for Windows 8.1 (64-bit)

5. Try a Hard Reset

  • Turn off the printer, unplug it for 2 minutes, then plug it back in and power it on.

 

If none of these steps work, the printhead might be clogged or defective.

 

Let me know if you need further troubleshooting!

 

Kind Regards,

 

NonSequitur777


† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.