"cartridge incorrect" message

Where do you put the cartridge in the lexmark?

With reference to solution #1, you need to to get a firmware upgrade file named "CartErr Test.exe". Contact Lexmark.

My best guess would be incompatibility between cartridge and printer. I'm in touch with Lexmark regarding the "Cartridge incorrect" problem. They came up with the idea of cleaning cartridge as well as the connection points inside the cartridge holder despite the fact that my X3470 is brand new and never printed out a page! First installed with the start cartridge and later by a replacement cartridge with the part no. 18C0781E. The carton claims compatibility between this cartridge and X3470. The cartridge have benn tested on my other Lexmark Z735 printer without any problems.

Never throw out any receipts!!! A lesson my dear mum taught me a long time ago. You need to pay attention to what the printer is telling you. Incorrect cartridge error message could mean a clogged printhead, most people think they have cleaned properly but did you do it with proper cleaning solution. Was it a refilled cartridge or new one? Are you certain you did not accidentally touch the gold areas (printer points) as this can put oils and dirt or residue on the cartidge. Gently wipe both heads on cartridge very softly with a non perfumed baby wipe! Yes a baby wipe (people laugh at me until they see their printer go again!!!) Now try printing again. You can get rid of error message only when you fix the problem. If nothing helps, try uninstalling the printer and reinstalling with original operating disc. And yes, the printer cartridges can be faulty. Never dispose of your old receipts until you are virtually replacing the next cartridge. I keep all receipts for all costly items in a clear slip folder, or staple to original barcodes of box they came in. Did you try disconnecting usb cables to printer and reconnecting to reset it.