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×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
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×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
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05-09-2025 09:05 AM
I have the Smart Tank 5000/5100. During setup I keep getting an error ! with the Printerheads related issue. I have taken them out and reinstalled them and turned power off and back on and still getting the same error.
05-10-2025 07:33 AM
Hi @Waynesanderz,
Welcome to the HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.
Thanks for the info during the setup of HP Smart Tank 5000/5100 printers on Windows 11, especially with printhead initialization errors. If you've already reseated the printheads and rebooted the printer, here's a full advanced troubleshooting sequence that should help resolve the issue:
1. Verify Printhead Installation
HP indicates that improper installation of printheads can trigger errors.
- Power on the printer.
- Open the front door to access the printhead carriage.
- Wait for the carriage to move to the center.
- Remove both the black and tri-color printheads.
- Inspect for any protective tape or packaging materials; remove them if present.
- Reinsert the printheads firmly until they click into place.
- Close the front door and check if the error persists.
2. Ensure Ink Levels Are Adequate
Low ink levels can sometimes cause printhead errors.
- Check that all ink tanks are at least half full.
- Refill any tanks that are low on ink.
3. Clean Printhead Contacts
Dirty or ink-covered contacts can lead to communication issues between the printheads and the printer.
- Turn off the printer and unplug it.
- Remove the printheads.
- Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to gently clean the electrical contacts on the printheads and the corresponding contacts inside the printer.
- Allow the contacts to dry completely.
- Reinstall the printheads, plug in the printer, and power it on.
4. Reset the Printer
A reset can clear error states and restore normal functionality.
- With the printer on, unplug the power cord from the back of the printer.
- Wait for 60 seconds.
- Plug the power cord back into the printer.
- Turn on the printer and check if the error is resolved.
4. Update Printer Firmware
Outdated firmware can cause various issues, including printhead errors.
- Visit the HP Software & Driver Downloads page.
- Download and install the latest firmware update available for your printer.
- HP Smart Tank 5000/5100 All-in-One Printer Software and Driver Downloads | HP® Support
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, as it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!
VikramTheGreat
HP Support
05-10-2025 07:37 AM
Hi @Waynesanderz,
Welcome to the HP Support Community.
I would request you to please try the steps shared above, and let me know if this helps to resolve the issue. Keep me posted.
Take care and have a good day.
Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, as it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!
VikramTheGreat
HP Support