This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through each step needed to resolve the “HP printer keep asking to reset ink cartridges” issue effectively.
Table of Contents
Why Does Your HP Printer Keep Asking to Reset Ink Cartridges?
Before diving into solutions, it’s beneficial to understand why your HP printer keeps asking to reset ink cartridges. There are several reasons:
Outdated Firmware: Old firmware can lead to compatibility issues.
Incompatible Cartridges: Using non-HP or refilled cartridges can trigger errors.
Communication Errors: Sometimes, the printer and computer just aren’t speaking the same language.
Prerequisites: What You Will Need
Before you start, make sure you have the following:
An HP printer: Obviously, the printer is the main component.
Ink cartridges: Preferably, these should be genuine HP ink cartridges to minimize the chances of compatibility issues.
A computer with internet access: You’ll need this to download drivers or firmware.
‘HP Printer Keep Asking to Reset Ink Cartridges’ Solutions
To fix the “HP printer keep asking to reset ink cartridges” problem, do the following solutions:
Check for Genuine HP Ink Cartridges
The first step to resolving the issue is confirming that you are using genuine HP ink cartridges. Non-authentic or third-party cartridges may not align well with the HP printer’s technical configurations, leading to prompts like ‘reset ink cartridges.’ Here’s how you can check:
Inspect the Cartridge Packaging: Genuine HP ink cartridges like this HP 63 Black ink cartridge available at Walmart come in official HP packaging, complete with HP branding and holographic security features.
Check for Certification: Look for quality assurance certifications on the packaging, which are usually present on genuine products.
Online Validation: Some HP cartridges come with a security label that you can check online on HP’s official website to verify their authenticity.
Update the Printer Firmware
Outdated printer firmware can lead to several issues, including cartridge-related errors. Here’s a detailed guide on how to update the firmware:
Visit the HP Website: Open your web browser and go to the official HP website.
Navigate to Support: On the top menu, look for the ‘Support & Drivers’ section and click it.
Enter Printer Model: A search box will appear. Enter your printer’s model number and press ‘Search.’
Select Software and Drivers: Click on the ‘Software and Drivers’ option and then choose your operating system.
Download and Install: Find the latest firmware update, download it, and then run the installation process by following the on-screen instructions.
Reset the Printer
Resetting your printer can help in clearing temporary settings or glitches that may be causing the error. Here’s how to do it:
Turn Off the Printer: Use the power button to turn off your printer.
Unplug the Power Cord: Physically unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
Wait: Wait for at least 60 seconds. This waiting period allows the printer to fully lose any ‘memory’ of its previous state.
Reconnect and Turn On: Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet and turn on the printer using the power button.
Check out these other articles…
HP Printer Asking Me to Scan Paper for Best Quality: Fixed
Why Does My HP Printer Ask Me to Select the Scan Device?
HP Printer Send Fax Didn’t Ask: 2 Proven Solutions
When I Try to Print to My HP Printer It Asks Me to Fax
HP Printer Asking for Username and Password: 3 Easy Fixes
Clean the Cartridge Contacts
Dirty or oily cartridge contacts can prevent proper communication between the printer and the cartridge. Here’s how to clean them:
Turn Off the Printer: Always turn off your printer before you start the cleaning process to avoid any electrical issues.
Open Access Door: Open the cartridge access door usually located at the front of your printer.
Remove Cartridges: Gently remove the ink cartridges from their slots.
Wipe Contacts: Use a lint-free cloth to gently wipe the gold-colored contacts on the cartridges. Do not touch the ink nozzles.
Reinsert Cartridges: Place the cartridges back into their respective slots, ensuring they click into place.
Close Door and Restart: Close the cartridge access door and restart your printer.
Reinstall the Printer Drivers
If the issue persists, outdated or corrupted drivers might be the culprit. To reinstall:
Go to Control Panel: Open the Control Panel on your computer.
Find Uninstall Option: Locate the ‘Uninstall a Program’ option and click it.
Uninstall HP Software: Scroll through the list to find your HP printer software, select it, and click ‘Uninstall.’
Restart Computer: Once the uninstallation is complete, restart your computer.
Download Latest Drivers: Go back to the HP website’s ‘Support & Drivers’ section, find the latest drivers for your printer model, and download them.
Install: Run the downloaded file and follow the installation prompts to complete the process.
