I have a f4480 hp printer. Used it about 3 times in last 6 mos. It was not printing with the black ink so I just bought #74 & #75 ink from Staples. Now the yellow light on the front of the printer blinks and will not print. unplugged and tried again to no avail. What might this be.

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

When you get an HP integrated ink cartridge refilled (i.e. HP 60, 61, 74, 75, 901, 92-98....currently offered at Costco today) or if you buy a remanufactured/compatible HP ink cartridge, the ink levels cannot be reset (HP has a smart chip embedded within the nozzle plate at base of ink cartridge which counts the drops and then registers as empty).....so you'll just need to live with it and ignore 'ink low', 'non-genuine', 'counterfeit' messages and similar while you are using these types of aftermarket supplies. The first video below provides an overview of the 'low ink' phenomena, the 2nd video provides suggested cartridge prep/handling instructions when you return the cartridge for refilling:

HP 74, 75, 74XL, 75XL Cartridges - Solving Errors & Warnings:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5ISTGyScWU

Ink Refilling & Cartridge Care Tips - Everything you need to know: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnXoDIblpdU

If the new (or refilled/reman/compatible) HP 74, 75, 74XL, or 75XL ink cartridge refuses to complete the printer alignment following cartridge installation, then the ink cartridge either has a connectivity issue with the flexible printed circuit cable (inside unit where cartridge mates with cable), rear cartridge contacts or cable contacts are dirty with ink residue, or the cartridge is suffering from marginal internal electrical performance. If you run into a problem where the ink cartridge is performing marginally and blocks printing (via the Red X), you can bypass the error message (usually only 1 time per clearing action):

HP Photosmart 4200-4500 5200-5500 Printers -Cartridge Error Bypass (HP 74-75 Cartridges):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDxRkAGOJaI

HP Officejet J5700/J6400 Printers -Cartridge Error Bypass (HP 74-75 Cartridges):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3X3_D90SSq4

These types of severe cartridge errors (i.e. "refer to documentation" / "incompatible cartridges", "print cartridge(s) problem", etc.) typically indicates the internal micro-electronics of the HP #74/75 cartridge are damaged. The cartridge's 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 electrical failure. You can also run a 'Tap 41' diagnostic test to check cartridges electrical health (this is a forced test).....go to www.inkjet411.com for more information on your specific printer model.

Hy. I have found a different solution for c4480 "incopatible cartrige". it worked for me so i hope it works for you to

Steps:

1. Press X+power at the same time
2. Press BLUE, GREEN, GRAY
3. press BLUE until you see "INFORMATION MENU"
4. press OK
5. Press Blue until you see "CHECKSUM FOR RELOCK DATA INPUT"
6. OK
7. Press X until you exit all menius
8. When promted for aliement cancel it with X.
It should bypass the error

By using refilled cartridges you will always have this problem. Each cartridge has a chip that lets the printer know when it is full or empty. By pressing the ok button you may be able to clear this message. However, most of the time you can still be able to print and ignore the message.

Take out the print cartridge. Clean the points on the cartridge with cotton swab and try using it again.

I own one of these printers and refill cartridges for a living. When you get this problem its best to return the cartridge for another, thats what I do for my customers.

When buying re-manufactured cartridges its best to buy from a local store and ask about there return policy before making your first purchase.

If you are buying from a reputable re-manufacturer then this will be a very rare problem. It happens with genuine HPs too.

BTW this printer uses HP 74 & 75 inks. when buying re-manufactured buy the HP 74xl which gives (according to HP) 750 printers compared to 200 from the HP74. Remanufactured HP75s are fill to HP75xl capacity.

had the same problem
I just kept putting it in and taking it out until the msg stopped.
also sometimes when you see this msg you can push the ok button and the printer will go to correct mode.

Hi,
when you refill the cardtridge, you can not reset the ink level... because refilling doesn't show the ink levels.. you no need to worry. if ink is there in the carttridge it will print...
Shouldn't worry about it. They are only a rough guide. The only time to worry about it is when the printer stops working and it has told you it's run out of ink! Thank you.......

These types of severe cartridge errors (i.e. "refer to documentation" / "incompatible cartridges", "print cartridge(s) problem", etc.) typically indicates the internal micro-electronics of the HP #74 / 75 (or 74XL/75XL) cartridge(s) are damaged. The cartridge's 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 electrical failure. I suggest you first run a 'Tap 41' diagnostic test to check cartridges electrical health (this is a forced test); you may also bypass the error (temporarily) on most models which use HP 74/75 cartridges. Refer to Inkjet411 youtube videos below:

HP 74, 75, 74XL, 75XL Cartridges - Solving Errors & Warnings: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5ISTGyScWU

HP Photosmart C4200-C4500 and C5200-C5500a Printers - Diagnostic Tap 41 Test: (verifies electrical health of ink cartridges): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fE-IM4AVMc

HP Photosmart 4200-4500 5200-5500 Printers -Cartridge Error Bypass (HP 74-75 Cartridges):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDxRkAGOJaI

HP Officejet J5700/J6400 Printers -Cartridge Error Bypass (HP 74-75 Cartridges):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3X3_D90SSq4

Ink Refilling & Cartridge Care Tips - Everything you need to know: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnXoDIblpdU

Try to get your printer to recognize the new cartridge; go to start - printer and faxes -right click on printer - preferences (printing preferences) -settings -load factory settings. Print test page Ctrl+P

Please post if that worked.