Horizontal lines on print

[kg46]

I have inquired about this before and I am still having the same problem after following the advice given in several HP replies.

It seems that many are having the same problem and it is very disappointing that HP cannot solve this problem.

I've attached an image showing what I am faced with after cleaning the rollers, running the blue configuration card through, and making sure the firmware is up to date. As I said, very disappointing.

[Max3Aj]

@kg46, Welcome to the HP Support Community – it’s great to have you here!

I appreciate you taking the time to share your question. I'm more than happy to assist with this and provide a solution that works for you.

Thanks for reaching out again and sharing the image, it's clear that the horizontal banding you're experiencing on your HP Sprocket Photo Printer is persistent and frustrating. Let's walk through a more targeted troubleshooting approach to help resolve this.

Use Only HP ZINK Photo Paper

Ensure you're using genuine HP ZINK photo paper. Third-party paper often causes print quality issues like banding. Look for the HP logo on the back of the paper.

• Buy HP ZINK paper from HP Store

Clean the Printer Rollers Thoroughly

Even if you've done this before, try again using the blue Smartsheet that comes with each pack of HP ZINK paper.

• Load the Smartsheet face down (barcode side down) with the photo paper.
• It calibrates the printer and cleans the rollers.

Tip: Run the Smartsheet after every 10 prints for best results.

Update Firmware via HP Sprocket App

Make sure your printer is running the latest firmware:

• Open the HP Sprocket app on your phone.
• Go to Menu > Sprocket > Printers > Your Printer > Printer Settings > Firmware Update.

If an update is available, install it and restart the printer.

Reset the Printer

A factory reset can sometimes resolve persistent issues:

• Turn off the printer.
• Press and hold the Power button for 7 seconds until the LED flashes red.
• Release the button and wait for the printer to restart.

Check Environmental Conditions

HP ZINK paper is sensitive to temperature and humidity. Avoid printing in very hot, cold, or humid environments.

Try a Different Pack of Paper

Sometimes a defective batch of ZINK paper can cause banding. Try printing with a new pack from a different lot.
 

I hope your issue is now resolved. If not, feel free to reply and we’ll continue helping until everything’s sorted!

If the post helped, please click “Accepted Solution” to help other users easily find it. And if you’d like to say thanks, just tap the “Yes” button!

Cheers,

Max3Aj

HP Support