HP OfficeJet 7740

[Metallix]

Hello, my officejet 7740 recently started to leave while colored sections on my copied documents, and when I scan to via pdf on my Mac book, I’ve tried cleaning all the recommended adf and glass flatbed, I don’t know what else to do

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Metallix 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I understand how frustrating it must feel to see those pale or washed-out colored sections after you’ve already taken the time to clean the ADF and flatbed glass. Thank you for carefully following those steps—your effort makes a real difference in narrowing down the cause. 

Let’s move forward with a few deeper checks that often restore vibrant, consistent output:

 

Step 1: Check Copy Settings

• On the printer’s control panel, when making a copy, ensure the copy quality is set to “Best” instead of “Normal” or “Draft.” Lower settings can cause lighter colors.

 

Step 2: Run Print Quality Diagnostic

• From the printer’s control panel, go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Print Quality Report.
• Review the diagnostic page. If you see faded blocks or streaks, it points to ink delivery issues.

 

Step 3: Align the Printhead

• On the control panel, select Setup > Printer Maintenance > Align Printhead.
• Follow the on-screen instructions. Misalignment can cause uneven or pale color reproduction.

 

Step 4: Clean the Printhead

• From the control panel, go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead.
• Run the cleaning cycle. If colors are still faint, repeat up to two more times, allowing a few minutes between cycles.

 

Step 5: Update Firmware

• On your Windows PC, open the HP App.
• Go to Printer Settings > Advanced Settings > Tools > Firmware Update.
• Keeping firmware current ensures the printer manages color and scanning correctly.

 

Step 6: Scan Settings on Mac

• When scanning to PDF, open the HP App on your Mac.
• Select Scan > Preferences and check that the color mode is set to “Color” and resolution is at least 300 dpi.
• Try scanning at a higher resolution (600 dpi) to see if the colors appear richer.

 

Step 7: Inspect Ink Cartridges

• Open the cartridge access door and check that all cartridges are properly seated.
• Ensure none are low on ink. Replace any that show depleted levels.

These steps should help bring back the full, lively color in your copies and scans. 

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye