Test page shows there is ink, but when I attempt to print a document it is barely the ink is not dark at all

Higher end ink jet units also give you the option to flush print heads. Flushing a print head uses more ink to attempt to resolve a clogged print head, but can unclog a print head. See if your unit has a print head flushing option and try that. If that doesn't do the trick, the next option is to see if you can purchase a magenta print head and replace the clogged magenta print head that is in your wp4530. Once again some ink jet units have user replaceable print heads and others don't. Good luck.

These types of severe HP 74 black or HP 75 color ink cartridge errors (i.e. refer to documentation / incompatible cartridges, print cartridge(s) problem, etc.) typically indicate the internal micro electronics of the respective HP 74 black or HP 75 color cartridge are damaged. The cartridges electrical wire runs at rear and lower side of the ink cartridge, are very delicate and are somewhat susceptible to ink attack over time, which can lead to premature failures. In addition, the older the cartridge the higher the chance of an internal micro electronics failure. I suggest you first run a Tap 41 diagnostic test to check cartridges electrical health (this is a special forced service test, refer to video so you understand how to read the print out). You may also bypass the error (temporarily) on most models which use HP 74/75 cartridges.

NOTE: Unfortunately, alignment pages and internal self test prints will usually print Ok even if the cartridge is internally electrically damaged. Do not use these test pages as a proxy for determining whether a cartridge is good or bad, only the 'Tap 41/43' diagnostic test report can yield this information.


CONTACT CLEANING / SERVICE TEST DIAGNOSTICS:

A. Ensure BOTH carriage/flex cables and BOTH ink cartridge contacts are thoroughly clean before proceeding: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519

B. Print Self Test Page:

1. Press and hold the CANCEL button.
2. Press the COLOR COPY button. Release both buttons.
3. The self test page should print. The printed pattern will verify printer is generally functional

--- The self test page is a 'forced' test print whether the ink cartridges are good or bad. Inspect color bars to verify proper nozzle/jetting health. If normal/regular printing is still not permitted then the problem is with either one, or both, of the ink cartridges. Activate Tap 41 test to confirm which cartridge is causing the issue.

C. Validate the cartridge's electrical health by running the 'Tap 41' diagnostics test. Refer to video procedure or .pdf document at the following links on how to activate and read the service test report: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=536

1. Load Letter/A4-size paper into paper feed tray.
2. If any lights are blinking, first press Cancel to attempt to clear.
3. Press and HOLD the Cancel button, press Ok button once.
4. At 'Mfg Commands' menu, click Right Arrow once until 'uiaux service' menu is displayed.
5. At 'uiaux service' menu, click the Right Arrow until Special Reports menu is displayed.
6. Select Ok, then click Right Arrow until the 'print-mech button tap' menu is displayed.
7. Select Ok (Code = 0 will be displayed); click and hold Right Arrow until 'code = 41' is displayed. Use the Left Arrow if you need to decrease numerical count.
8. Select Ok. Within one minute the Tap 41 diagnostic test report should be initiated and print (whether ink cartridges are good or not, i.e. this is a forced print test). See following 4 paragraphs (or video) on how to interpret diagnostic report.....

NOTE: You may also refer to this document for specific printer model 'Tap 41' diagnostic & 'Cartridge Error Bypass' step-by-step instructions: http://inkjet411.retailinkjet.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/HP-74-75-Problem-Resolution_v10.pdf

--- Providing the color cartridge is partially functioning the Tap 41 diagnostic test print will be printed (this is a forced service print test which is mainly used for the evaluation of ink cartridge electrical health). A good HP 75/75XL color cartridge should display 600 good nozzles, while a good HP 74/74XL black ink cartridge should show 672 good nozzles. If the results yield anything different then the ink cartridge is likely damaged and will need to be replaced. Refer to video on how to read the printout.

---- If the printer attempts to print the diagnostic test pattern (1 page) then the printer is generally considered operational and functional, if nothing is printed, but the printer attempts to print the pattern, then the tri-color ink cartridge is either empty, clogged or severely electrically damaged (black ink cartridge is not used). You can remove the tri-color cartridge, reactivate the tap 41 test and the printer will print the diagnostic test print in black ink.

You can also test general printer performance by running the 'Tap 10' diagnostic test, use same procedure above and enter "code = 10". Both the 'Tap 41' and 'Tap 10' tests are 'forced print tests' - the printer will make every attempt to print the pattern whether the ink cartridges are good or bad...the patterns should be utilized to diagnose cartridge health. If 'regular' printing is still not possible then one or both of the ink cartridges is damaged.


ERROR BYPASS OPTION (TEMPORARY ONLY):

NOTE: It is possible to 'temporarily' bypass the cartridge error message (for emergency printing purposes only), please refer to link above/below for video/documentation instructions: http://inkjet411.retailinkjet.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/HP-74-75-Problem-Resolution_v10.pdf

However, if the cartridge is determined to be electrically damaged, largely dependent on the 'Tap 41' diagnostic test results, the cartridge will eventually need to be replaced with a new one. With a marginally performing ink cartridge, this typically results in allowing 1 entire print job to be printed at a time. If this does not permit any print operations then the cartridge has severe internal electrical damage and will need to be replaced.

------------------------

*Many cartridges eventually do encounter problems or failures, especially after their original ink is gone and they are re-used, and this is often unrelated to the refill process. The "Incompatible Print Cartridge(s)" / "Print Cartridge(s) Problem" / "Refer to printer documentation" / "Cartridge Error: Cartridge must be replaced" / "Cartridge in left/right slot is not intended for use in this printer" / "Now printing alignment page" error messages are typically indicative of failed micro-electronics internal to the ink cartridge(s). Also note that it is common to have a marginally performing ink cartridge (which was performing ok before) in the adjacent slot (i.e. color), then when a marginally performing cartridge is installed into the other slot (i.e. black), both of the ink cartridge(s) then get flagged with electrical errors. Running the 'Tap 41' cartridge health diagnostics test will confirm the active electrical state of both cartridges.

For additional printer diagnostics information please visit: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1813

NOTE: If you are interested in the top 'refill friendly inkjet printer models', our suggested list is posted on-line and our internal labs have verified there are no issues (with ink compatibility or color output/richness) with all of these models: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=3585

---
CAUTION: Be advised, the use of compatible/clone cartridges (i.e. sold thru the internet from overseas) are known to be problematic and may cause printer errors. We do NOT suggest refilling these types of ink cartridges.....refilling of HP 74/75 original/genuine ink cartridges is only suggested!

HP 74/75 Ink Refilling Services & Additional Cautions:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqnHRFpbo0w
---

If you ever need to purchase a new HP 74/75 ink cartridge(s), we suggest you try a remanufactured ink cartridge from http://www.inkplicity.com/ as their ink cartridges typically have the lowest cost in the USA, have a high reliability rating and provide a 1-year warranty and free shipping over $20 (products available to US residents only).

HP 74 Cartridges:
https://inkplicity.com/shop/?slug=advanced_search_result&keywords=HP%2074

HP 75 Cartridges:
https://inkplicity.com/shop/?slug=advanced_search_result&keywords=HP%2075

---
For any additional questions please contact us directly: [email protected]

-Thank you

Regarding your recent inquiry about the HP 74, 75, 74XL or 75XL ink cartridge error message ("Cartridges Not Aligned" or similar printer alert condition) and inability to print with your HP OJ J578 printer, this type of error is normally associated to an electrical connection issue between the printer and the cartridge, or more likely, an internal micro-electronic failure inside one of the ink cartridges (.....it is very rare for both cartridges to fail at the same time). An electronic failure of the cartridge would be unrelated to the ink cartridge refill process; these same failures can (and frequently do) occur with brand new ink cartridges.* To help identify the root cause, and to confirm/determine which of the two ink cartridges is causing the failure condition, please run the 'Tap 41' cartridge's electrical diagnostic test below (refer to C.)

Please first verify the age of the ink cartridge(s)....look at imprinted date on front of ink cartridge. If this 'warranty expiration date' has expired, then potential internal electrical cartridge failures can occur due to internal corrosion, etc.

NOTE: Unfortunately, alignment pages and internal self test prints will usually print Ok even if the cartridge is internally electrically damaged. Do not use these test pages as a proxy for determining whether a cartridge is good or bad, only the 'Tap 41/43' diagnostic test report can yield this information.


DIAGNOSTIC STEPS:

A.Ensure BOTH carriage/flex cables and BOTH ink cartridge contacts are thoroughly clean before proceeding: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519

B.Print Extended Self Test:

1.Press CANCEL + OK buttons at the same time.
2.The extended self test page should print.
--- Verify all colors and all stair-step nozzles are firing (i.e. no missing horizontal lines should be visible in the stair-step grid patterns). (NOTE: the self test page is a 'forced' test print whether the ink cartridges are good or bad). Inspect color bars to verify proper nozzle/jetting health. If normal/regular printing is still not permitted then the problem is with either one, or both, of the ink cartridges. Activate Tap 41 test to confirm which cartridge is causing the issue.

C.Validate the cartridge's electrical health by running the 'Tap 41' diagnostics test. Refer to video procedure (or .pdf document) at the following links on how to activate and read the service test:
http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=544


1.Press the * and # keys simultaneously.
2.Enter 124 (or 123) at keypad.
3.Use the arrow keys to navigate to the System Menu. Select Ok.
4.Use the arrow keys to navigate to the 'print-mech tap test'. Select Ok. Should display 'code = 0'.
5.Use the arrow keys to enter 'code = 41' (or just enter 41 on keypad). Select Ok. The Tap 41 diagnostic test pattern should begin to print.
NOTE 1: The 'Tap 10' (extended self test) can also be activated by pressing CANCEL + OK buttons at the same time. Whether ink cartridges are good or not, i.e. this is a forced print test). Refer to following 4 paragraphs (or video) on how to interpret diagnostic report.....

NOTE 2: You may also refer to this document for specific printer model 'Tap 41' diagnostic & 'Cartridge Error Bypass' step-by-step instructions: http://inkjet411.retailinkjet.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/HP-74-75-Problem-Resolution_v10.pdf

--- Providing the color cartridge is partially functioning the Tap 41 diagnostic test print will be printed (this is a forced service print test which is mainly used for the evaluation of ink cartridge electrical health). A good HP 75/75XL color cartridge should display 600 good nozzles, while a good HP 74/74XL black ink cartridge should show 672 good nozzles. If the results yield anything different then the ink cartridge is likely damaged and will need to be replaced. Refer to video on how to read the printout.

---- If the printer attempts to print the diagnostic test pattern (1 page) then the printer is generally considered operational and functional, if nothing is printed, but the printer attempts to print the pattern, then the tri-color ink cartridge is either empty, clogged or severely electrically damaged (black ink cartridge is not used). You can remove the tri-color cartridge, reactivate the tap 41 test and the printer will print the diagnostic test print in black ink.

You can also test general printer performance by running the 'Tap 10' diagnostic test, use same procedure above and enter "code = 10". Both the 'Tap 41' and 'Tap 10' tests are 'forced print tests' - the printer will make every attempt to print the pattern whether the ink cartridges are good or bad...the patterns should be utilized to diagnose cartridge health. If 'regular' printing is still not possible then one or both of the ink cartridges is damaged.

NOTE 3: It is possible to 'temporarily' bypass the cartridge error message (for emergency printing purposes only), please refer to link above/below for video/documentation instructions. However, if the cartridge is determined to be electrically damaged, largely dependent on the 'Tap 41' diagnostic test results, the cartridge will eventually need to be replaced with a new one. With a marginally performing ink cartridge, this typically results in allowing 1 entire print job to be printed at a time. If this does not permit any print operations then the cartridge has severe internal electrical damage and will need to be replaced:
http://inkjet411.retailinkjet.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/HP-74-75-Problem-Resolution_v10.pdf

D. Cartridge Error Bypass ( Emergency Printing Only - http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=544 ):
1. Press the * and # keys simultaneously.
2. Enter 123 (or 124) at keypad. The 'Underware' menu should be displayed.
3. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the Information Menu. Select Ok.
4. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the 'checksum for relock data input'. Select Ok. LCD should display a 5-digit number after a few seconds.
5. Attempt to send a print job to printer
NOTE: with a marginally performing ink cartridge, this typically results in allowing 1 entire print job to be printed at a time. If this does not permit any print operations then the cartridge has severe internal electrical damage and will need to be replaced.

*Many cartridges eventually do encounter problems or failures, especially after their original ink is gone and they are re-used, and this is often unrelated to the refill process. The "Incompatible Print Cartridge(s)" / "Print Cartridge(s) Problem" / "Refer to printer documentation" / "Cartridge Error: Cartridge must be replaced" / "Cartridge in left/right slot is not intended for use in this printer" / "Now printing alignment page" error messages are typically indicative of failed micro-electronics internal to the ink cartridge(s). Also note that it is common to have a marginally performing ink cartridge (which was performing ok before) in the adjacent slot (i.e. color), then when a marginally performing cartridge is installed into the other slot (i.e. black), both of the ink cartridge(s) then get flagged with electrical errors. Running the 'Tap 41' cartridge health diagnostics test will confirm the active state of both cartridges.

For reference, the following page provides a complete review of the majority of cartridge error messages you may observe on your printer at one point or another:
http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=509

However, if your printer works routinely after inserting a brand new HP 74 and/or HP 75 ink cartridge in it, then this will confirm root cause of failure as being limited to one of the ink cartridges.

For additional HP OJ5700 printer series diagnostics information please visit: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1813

---
CAUTION: Be advised, the use of compatible/clone cartridges (i.e. sold thru the internet from overseas) are known to be problematic and may cause printer errors. We do NOT suggest refilling these types of ink cartridges.....refilling of HP 74/75 original/genuine ink cartridges is only suggested!

HP 74/75 Ink Refilling Services & Additional Cautions:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqnHRFpbo0w
---

If you need to purchase a new HP 74/75 ink cartridge(s), we suggest you try a remanufactured ink cartridge from http://www.inkplicity.com/ as their ink cartridges typically have the lowest cost in the USA, have a high reliability rating and provide a 1-year warranty (remanufactured ink cartridges which have been thoroughly tested; purchases are only available by USA residents).

For any additional questions please contact us directly: [email protected]

Regarding your recent inquiry about the HP Photosmart C5280 printer which uses HP 74 & HP 75 cartridges, and error message ("Refer to Device Documentation") and inability to print, this type of error is normally associated to an electrical connection issue between the printer and the cartridge, or more likely, an internal micro-electronic failure inside one of the cartridges (please note is very rare for both ink cartridges to electrically fail at the same time....activate diagnostics below to confirm which cartridge is causing the error condition)....or refer to the Inkjet411 website and select you printer model (...the Inkjet411 site is primarily a self-service sitelet which provides over 85 technical videos and do-it-yourself printer remedies and corrections): http://inkjet411.com/

An electronic failure of the cartridge would be unrelated to the ink cartridge refill process; these same failures can (and frequently do!) occur with brand new ink cartridges and normally occur over time due to natural degradation of the internal micro-electronics.* To help identify the root cause, and to confirm which of the two ink cartridges is causing the failure condition, please run the 'Tap 41' cartridge's electrical diagnostic test below (refer to PROCEDURE C.)
NOTE 1: Your Photosmart printer model must have two (2) good ink cartridges installed to operate/print (unlike all HP Deskjet printer models which may operate using only one (1) ink cartridge).

IMPORTANT: First verify the age of the ink cartridge(s)....look at imprinted date on front of ink cartridge. If this 'warranty expiration date' has expired, then potential internal electrical cartridge failures can (and frequently do) occur due to prolonged internal corrosion of cartridge micro-circuits, etc.

NOTE 2: Unfortunately, alignment pages and internal self test prints will usually print Ok even if the cartridge is internally electrically damaged. Do not use these test pages as a proxy for determining whether a cartridge is good or bad, only the 'Tap 41/43' diagnostic test report can yield this information.


CONTACT CLEANING / SERVICE TEST DIAGNOSTICS:

A. Ensure BOTH carriage/flex cables and BOTH ink cartridge contacts are thoroughly clean before proceeding: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519

B. Print Self Test Page:

1. Press and hold the CANCEL button.
2. Press the COLOR COPY button. Release both buttons.
3. The self test page should print. The printed pattern will verify printer is generally functional

--- The self test page is a 'forced' test print whether the ink cartridges are good or bad. Inspect color bars to verify proper nozzle/jetting health. If normal/regular printing is still not permitted then the problem is with either one, or both, of the ink cartridges. Activate Tap 41 test to confirm which cartridge is causing the issue.

C. Validate the cartridge's electrical health by running the 'Tap 41' diagnostics test. Refer to video procedure or .pdf document at the following links on how to activate and read the service test report: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=536

1. Load Letter/A4-size paper into paper feed tray.
2. If any lights are blinking, first press Cancel to attempt to clear.
3. Press and HOLD the Cancel button, press Ok button once.
4. At 'Mfg Commands' menu, click Right Arrow once until 'uiaux service' menu is displayed.
5. At 'uiaux service' menu, click the Right Arrow until Special Reports menu is displayed.
6. Select Ok, then click Right Arrow until the 'print-mech button tap' menu is displayed.
7. Select Ok (Code = 0 will be displayed); click and hold Right Arrow until 'code = 41' is displayed. Use the Left Arrow if you need to decrease numerical count.
8. Select Ok. Within one minute the Tap 41 diagnostic test report should be initiated and print (whether ink cartridges are good or not, i.e. this is a forced print test). See following 4 paragraphs (or video) on how to interpret diagnostic report.....

NOTE: You may also refer to this document for specific printer model 'Tap 41' diagnostic & 'Cartridge Error Bypass' step-by-step instructions: http://inkjet411.retailinkjet.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/HP-74-75-Problem-Resolution_v10.pdf

--- Providing the color cartridge is partially functioning the Tap 41 diagnostic test print will be printed (this is a forced service print test which is mainly used for the evaluation of ink cartridge electrical health). A good HP 75/75XL color cartridge should display 600 good nozzles, while a good HP 74/74XL black ink cartridge should show 672 good nozzles. If the results yield anything different then the ink cartridge is likely damaged and will need to be replaced. Refer to video on how to read the printout.

---- If the printer attempts to print the diagnostic test pattern (1 page) then the printer is generally considered operational and functional, if nothing is printed, but the printer attempts to print the pattern, then the tri-color ink cartridge is either empty, clogged or severely electrically damaged (black ink cartridge is not used). You can remove the tri-color cartridge, reactivate the tap 41 test and the printer will print the diagnostic test print in black ink.

You can also test general printer performance by running the 'Tap 10' diagnostic test, use same procedure above and enter "code = 10". Both the 'Tap 41' and 'Tap 10' tests are 'forced print tests' - the printer will make every attempt to print the pattern whether the ink cartridges are good or bad...the patterns should be utilized to diagnose cartridge health. If 'regular' printing is still not possible then one or both of the ink cartridges is damaged.


ERROR BYPASS OPTION (TEMPORARY ONLY):

NOTE: It is possible to 'temporarily' bypass the cartridge error message (for emergency printing purposes only), please refer to link above/below for video/documentation instructions: http://inkjet411.retailinkjet.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/HP-74-75-Problem-Resolution_v10.pdf

However, if the cartridge is determined to be electrically damaged, largely dependent on the 'Tap 41' diagnostic test results, the cartridge will eventually need to be replaced with a new one. With a marginally performing ink cartridge, this typically results in allowing 1 entire print job to be printed at a time. If this does not permit any print operations then the cartridge has severe internal electrical damage and will need to be replaced.

------------------------

* The "Incompatible Print Cartridge(s)" / "Print Cartridge(s) Problem" / "Refer to printer documentation" / "Cartridge Error: Cartridge must be replaced" / "Cartridge in left/right slot is not intended for use in this printer" / "Now printing alignment page" error messages are typically indicative of failed micro-electronics internal to the ink cartridge(s). Also note that it is common to have a marginally performing ink cartridge (which was performing ok before) in the adjacent slot (i.e. color), then when a marginally performing cartridge is installed into the other slot (i.e. black), both of the ink cartridge(s) then get flagged with electrical errors. Running the 'Tap 41' cartridge health diagnostics test will confirm the active electrical state of both cartridges.

For additional HP printer diagnostics information please visit: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1813

Please let us know if you have any additional questions regarding procedures outlined above and/or questions relating to the provided technical information. If you are interested in the top 'refill friendly inkjet printer models', our suggested list is posted on-line and our Inkjet411 internal labs have verified there are no issues (in ink compatibility or color output) with all of these models: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=3585

---
INK CARTRIDGE REFILL SERVICES:
Costco USA (464+ stores): http://www.costcoinkjetrefill.com
Costco Canada (62+ stores, more coming soon): http://www.ca.costcoinkjetrefill.com
Costco United Kingdom (7 stores):http://uk.costcoinkjetrefill.com/
Costco Mexico (35+ stores): http://es.costcoinkjetrefill.com/
Fry's Electronics (34 stores): http://www.frys.com/ads/page195
Best Buy Canada (13 stores): www.geeksquad.ca/inkrefill/
10 Major Universities in USA & Canada
Ink Cartridge Refill Store Map Locator: http://www.go2ris.com/

Alternatively, if you need to purchase a new HP 74/75 ink cartridge(s), we suggest you try a remanufactured ink cartridge from http://www.inkplicity.com/ as their ink cartridges typically have the lowest cost in the USA, have a high reliability rating and provide a 1-year warranty and free shipping over $20 (products available to US residents only).
---

For any additional questions please contact us directly: [email protected]

-Thank you
Inkjet411 Team Member

Are the ink cartridges installed in the correct colour order?
Have you printed a test page through the printer's own control panel? What was the result?
Open a new document, using the default settings. Key in some test text. Try printing. What is printed?

We suggest you contact 'Parts Here' as they provide most parts for the C5280 printer, including carriage assembly parts, along with the C5280 service manual: http://www.partshere.com/models/hpprinters.asp?printer=Q8330A

C5280 CONTACT CLEANING / SERVICE TEST DIAGNOSTICS:

A. Ensure BOTH carriage/flex cables and BOTH ink cartridge contacts are thoroughly clean before proceeding - refer to Inkjet411's support page: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519

B. Print Self Test Page:

1. Press and hold the CANCEL button.
2. Press the COLOR COPY button. Release both buttons.
3. The self test page should print. The printed pattern will verify printer is generally functional

--- The self test page is a 'forced' test print whether the ink cartridges are good or bad. Inspect color bars to verify proper nozzle/jetting health. If normal/regular printing is still not permitted then the problem is with either one, or both, of the ink cartridges. Activate Tap 41 test to confirm which cartridge is causing the issue.

C. Validate the cartridge's electrical health by running the 'Tap 41' diagnostics test. Refer to video procedure or .pdf document at the following links on how to activate and read the service test report: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=536

1. Load Letter/A4-size paper into paper feed tray.
2. If any lights are blinking, first press Cancel to attempt to clear.
3. Press and HOLD the Cancel button, press Ok button once.
4. At 'Mfg Commands' menu, click Right Arrow once until 'uiaux service' menu is displayed.
5. At 'uiaux service' menu, click the Right Arrow until Special Reports menu is displayed.
6. Select Ok, then click Right Arrow until the 'print-mech button tap' menu is displayed.
7. Select Ok (Code = 0 will be displayed); click and hold Right Arrow until 'code = 41' is displayed. Use the Left Arrow if you need to decrease numerical count.
8. Select Ok. Within one minute the Tap 41 diagnostic test report should be initiated and print (whether ink cartridges are good or not, i.e. this is a forced print test). See following 4 paragraphs (or video) on how to interpret diagnostic report.....

--- Providing the color cartridge is partially functioning the Tap 41 diagnostic test print will be printed (this is a forced service print test which is mainly used for the evaluation of ink cartridge electrical health). A good HP 75/75XL color cartridge should display 600 good nozzles, while a good HP 74/74XL black ink cartridge should show 672 good nozzles. If the results yield anything different then the ink cartridge is likely damaged and will need to be replaced. Refer to video on how to read the printout.

---- If the printer attempts to print the diagnostic test pattern (1 page) then the printer is generally considered operational and functional, if nothing is printed, but the printer attempts to print the pattern, then the tri-color ink cartridge is either empty, clogged or severely electrically damaged (black ink cartridge is not used). You can remove the tri-color cartridge, reactivate the tap 41 test and the printer will print the diagnostic test print in black ink.

You can also test general printer performance by running the 'Tap 10' diagnostic test, use same procedure above and enter "code = 10". Both the 'Tap 41' and 'Tap 10' tests are 'forced print tests' - the printer will make every attempt to print the pattern whether the ink cartridges are good or bad...the patterns should be utilized to diagnose cartridge health. If 'regular' printing is still not possible then one or both of the ink cartridges is damaged.

NOTE: If you need to purchase a new ink cartridge(s) and are trying to cut costs, we suggest you try a remanufactured ink cartridge from http://www.inkplicity.com/ as their ink cartridges typically have the lowest cost in the USA, have a high reliability rating, come with a 1-year warranty and provide free shipping for all orders above $20 (available for US Residents only).

For any additional questions please contact us directly: [email protected]

-Thank you

This type of HP 901 ink cartridge error ("Refer to Device Documentation", etc.) condition is likely an internal micro-electronic failure inside the HP 901 (or 901XL) black ink cartridge. These failures typically occur due to natural degradation of internal micro-electronics over time and can occur with brand new ink cartridges.

To confirm root cause and check the internal electrical condition of both black and color ink cartridges, please execute the 'Tap 41' cartridge's electrical diagnostic test below (refer to procedure B).

CAUTION: Be advised, the use of remanufactured ink cartridges is considered somewhat unreliable since the cartridges are already on their 3rd life when purchased new (off the internet or at select retailer stores). As well, the use of compatible/clone cartridges (i.e. sold thru the internet from China) are known to be problematic and may cause printer errors.

NOTE 1: Unfortunately, alignment pages and internal self test prints will usually print Ok even if the cartridge is internally electrically damaged. Do not use these test pages as a proxy for determining whether a cartridge is good or bad, only the 'Tap 41/43' diagnostic test report can yield this information.

DIAGNOSTIC CHECKS:

A. Ensure BOTH carriage/flex cables and BOTH ink cartridge contacts are thoroughly clean before proceeding: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519

B. Validate the cartridge's electrical health by running the 'Tap 41' diagnostics test. Refer to 2nd video procedure at the following link on how to activate and read the service test: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=620

a. Load Letter/A4-size paper into paper feed tray.
b. If any lights are blinking, first press Cancel to attempt to clear.
c. Press the * and # keys simultaneously.
d. Enter 124 at keypad. The 'Underware' menu should be displayed.
e. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the System Menu. Select Ok.
f. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the 'print-mech tap test'. Select Ok. Printer screen should display "code = 0".
g. Use the arrow keys to enter "code = 41" (or just enter 41 on keypad). Select Ok. The Tap 41 diagnostic test pattern prints.

--- Providing the HP 901 (or 901XL) color cartridge is partially functioning the Tap 41 diagnostic test print will be printed (this is a forced service print test which is mainly used for the evaluation of ink cartridge electrical health - the printer will attempt to print the diagnostic test print). A good HP 901 color cartridge should display 1248 good nozzles, while a good HP 901/901XL black ink cartridge should show 336 good nozzles. If the results yield anything different then the ink cartridge is likely damaged and will need to be replaced. Refer to 2nd video on how to read the diagnostic test print: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=620

---- If the printer attempts to print the diagnostic test pattern (1 page) then the printer is generally considered operational and functional, if nothing is printed, but the printer attempts to print the pattern, then the tri-color ink cartridge is either empty, clogged or severely electrically damaged (black ink cartridge is not used). You can remove the tri-color cartridge, reactivate the tap 41 test and the printer will print the diagnostic test print in black ink.

For more diagnostic tests and error bypass procedures, please visit the Inkjet411 support center: http://www.inkjet411.com

Hopefully this helps....

First rule of thumb power cycle I had to do that on many electronics even my truck reove the battery terminal
Good for you and good luck in the future

change the print head

Yes, there is a number for Epson printer technical support. Assuming you are in the US or Canada the number is on this web page: http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/support/supDetail.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&category=Products&infoType=Contact&oid=29081&prodoid=37368464 If you?re interested in troubleshooting this further let us know and please don?t forget to rate this posting.