Troubleshooting Tips: Tips on Inkjet Printer/Ink

Below is more information on diagnosing and solving the most common inkjet printing problems:

1. Tiny White Lines Appearing in the Print.

Example:

Cause: Inkjet nozzles are not squirting ink onto the paper.

Reasons: Clogged nozzles due to dried ink, dirt or debris.
— The circuitry on the printer may be dirty.
— The storage station for the cartridge may be dirty.
Solutions:
3. Gently wipe the underneath of the cartridge with a soft towel or tissue moistened with water.
4. Gently wipe the cartridge and printer circuitry clean with a soft towel or tissue.
5. Use the printer service software to run at least three cleaning cycles.
6. If another cartridge fails, the printer may need to be analyzed by a professional.



2. The Printer does not "Recognize" the Replacement Cartridge or the Cartridge does not Appear to Fit.

Cause: The printer or the computer is not recognizing the cartridge.

Reasons:
— The tape covering the printhead is still on the cartridge and has not been removed.
— The printer may need to be turned off and on before the cartridge is installed.
— The contacts on the cartridge or printer may have dirt or debris on them.
— A clip on the cartridge is preventing the circuitry from contacting.

Solutions:
4. Ensure the tape has been removed from the cartridge.
5. Gently wipe the circuitry on cartridge and printer with a soft towel or tissue to remove debris.
6. Remove the clip that was placed on the cartridge to prevent leakage during storage.
7. If another cartridge fails, the printer may need to be cleaned by a professional.
8. Turn the printer off and then back on before installing cartridge.


3. Ink Does not Appear to be Flowing from the Cartridge.

Cause: No ink is being delivered to the paper.

Reasons:
— The nozzles are being obstructed from the outside.
— The nozzles are being obstructed from the inside.
— The ink is not feeding to the printhead.

Solutions:
3. Ensure the tape or clip covering the cartridge has been removed.
4. Gently wipe the underneath of the cartridge with a soft towel or tissue moistened with water.
5. Use the printer service software to run at least three cleaning cycles.


4. Dark Streaks and/or Print Smudging.

Example:


Cause: Debris is being dragged through the wet ink as it is being printed.

Reasons:
— Dirt or debris is clinging to the cartridge or cartridge holding carriage.
Solutions:
1. Gently wipe the underneath of the cartridge with a soft towel or tissue moistened with water.
2. Gently wipe the underneath of the cartridge holding carriage with a towel.
3. The printer may need to be analyzed by a professional.