HP deskjet 6122 prints test page but everything else doesn't print

Regarding your recent inquiry about the HP 45/78 printer error condition (i.e. improper print quality, etc'), it sounds like your cartridge's internal micro-electronics are either clogged or have electrically failed and will need to be replaced. NOTE: The HP 45/78/78+ ink cartridges are extremely robust (compared to many of the newer versions found in market today) and can typically be refilled 8+ times, on average, before suffering a hard internal electronic failure. To verify the electrical health of the ink cartridge, please perform the diagnostic checks below or refer to our HP printer diagnostics document: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1813

In some cases the ink cartridges just need to be FIRMLY re-seated into the carriage assembly (also check the cartridge restraining mechanism/arms if present - sometimes these mechanical restraints/arms become loose over time...please double-check these if applicable). We also suggest that you ensure the printer carriage/flex cables (where the cartridge interfaces to the carriage inside the printer) and ink cartridge rear electrical contacts are thoroughly clean to rule out poor connectivity as root cause: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519

Cartridge & Printer maintenance should be evaluated:

Ensure both ink cartridges and flex cable contact surfaces (where the cartridge interfaces to the carriage inside the printer) are thoroughly clean: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519

1) Gently blot the cartridge Nozzle Plate with a damp lint-free towel/wipe - a small amount of ink should be dispensed, and be visible, on the towel (all 3 colors should be present for a Tri-color cartridge).

2) If no ink is dispersed from nozzle plate (i.e. visible on towel) or ink cartridge completely fails to print on paper after installed in printer, then more drastic cartridge and printer cleaning steps will likely need to be performed to recover ink cartridge (NOTE: foam inside cartridge can dry out and become very hard - the foam must be moist with ink to function correctly (i.e. ink flows and wets the nozzle plate). Refer to 'clogged ink cartridge recovery' video here: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=2818

Providing the ink cartridges are clean, the problem may be caused by a dirty wiper blade or poor seal in the service station (capping station where the ink cartridges park when not in use) and this is causing the poor jetting / print performance issue you are observing. Remove the ink cartridges and thoroughly clean the wipers and seals: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519



DIAGNOSTIC TESTS FOR HP Officejet and LX, Officejet 300 series, 700 series, T series, D series, K series, G series, V series, 4100 series, 5100 series, 6100 series, 7100 series PRINTER (HP 45/78 ink cartridges):

Perform Self Test Print: http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?cc=us&lc=en&dlc=en&docname=bpu00734
1. On the front panel of the product, press Menu (or Setup).
2. Press the Right Arrow until Print Reports displays, and then press Enter, Start, or OK.
3. Press the Right Arrow until Self-Test Report displays, and then press Enter, Start, or OK.

NOTE: Unfortunately, alignment pages and internal self test prints will usually print Ok even if the cartridge is internally electrically damaged.

Perform Printer Error Reset:
1. Open the printer/cover as if replacing the cartridge and allow the carriage assembly to move to the cartridges access/loading position.
2. Unplug the power cable from the rear of printer and close the printer's cover.
3. While depressing the power button, plug in the power cable. Keep the power button pressed for about 10-15 seconds, allowing the error flag to reset.
4. After printer powers on, cycle printer power once again and allow printer to fully initialize (may take ~5 minutes for the message/error condition to disappear).
NOTE: If ink cartridge error persists then replace ink cartridge.

If procedure above does not work, then refer to HP.com to print a HP Self-Test Report (older HP printer models) - click here for instructions & sample prints: http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?cc=us&lc=en&dlc=en&docname=bpu00734

*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. Typically the ink cartridge's nozzle plate suffers a break at one of the flexible circuit lines within the base of the cartridge nozzle plate...refer to photo at bottom of this page: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=509

However, if your printer works routinely after inserting a brand new HP 45 black or HP 78 color ink cartridge in it, this will confirm the root cause of failure.

We trust this detailed technical information provides you some additional insight into the issue you have endured.

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

HP 45/78 Ink Refilling Services & Additional Cautions:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7Q8t2pr2WA

If you need to purchase a new ink cartridge, we suggest you try a remanufactured HP 45/78/78+ ink cartridge from http://www.inkplicity.com/ as their ink cartridges typically have the lowest cost in the USA and reportedly have a high reliability rating (plus free shipping for all orders above $20).

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

-Thank you