Simple and short troubleshooting tips for inkjet printers on Windows 11, 10, 8.1, ... and MS Server 2019, 2016, ...!
These tips can also be interesting for MAC-OS, Linux and Android users after a Print.Test.Page.OK !
Printer prints garbage!
This usually happens because the wrong printer driver is installed .
No response from the printer computer gives an error message!
Check that the cables are properly connected and look for an online or select button to press the printer. Many PC printers require a cable that is different from the standard bidirectional parallel cable. Likewise, printers for older Macs either require a serial cable or consult your manual to find out which cabling you need.
The printhead cannot cover the entire horizontal distance!
Open the cover and make sure that nothing is blocking the movement of the print head. Obstacles can occur if you have not removed part of the packaging or if there is a paper jam. If this is a new printer, keep in mind that you need to remove the security tape that is attached to prevent the printhead from bouncing while printing.
It behaves like printing, but does not put ink on the page
No ink cartridge is installed. In many cases, this is a separate element from the printhead assembly that is already installed in the printer at the factory.
Text has incorrect print attributes (e.g. bold text that is not printed in bold)
This usually happens because the wrong printer driver is installed. See information above for drivers.
Parts of characters are missing or characters are not the correct color
The ink cartridge is either clogged or out of ink. Run the software cleaning utility (almost always accessible from the printer) to clear the clog. Replace the ink cartridge if the clog cannot be cleared or if the cartridge is almost empty.
Text is hidden
One or more of the ink cartridges in the print cartridge are almost empty. If you cannot refill individual colors in your printer's ink cartridge, you usually need to replace the entire cartridge.
Expression is smeared
The paper does not match the paper setting for the printer. For example, if you are using high quality photo paper, set printer output for that paper. Do not use the
plain paper setting.
Paper jams
The feed tray or the input tray might be overloaded. Remove some paper. Excessive humidity can cause pages to stick together. In this case, remove all leaves and use only as much as necessary. The paper may have already passed through the printer. The feeding process tends to warp and thicken portions of the page by bundling. Do not use paper that has already been fed through the printer.
Here are some other points and information that may be relevant for troubleshooting inkjet printers:
1. Improve print quality:
- Check ink levels and clean nozzles if necessary.
- Perform a printhead alignment to ensure the printhead is correctly aligned.
- Use high quality printer paper to achieve better results.
2. Fix driver issues:
- Update the printer driver to the latest version to fix compatibility issues.
- Uninstall old or unused printer drivers that may cause conflicts.
►► Remove Printer in Windows
3. Network Printer Problems:
- Make sure the printer is properly connected to the network and using the correct network settings.
- Check the firewall settings to ensure the printer can communicate.
4. Printer Maintenance:
- Clean the printer regularly, especially the print rollers and paper feeder, to avoid paper jams.
- Check the ink cartridges for expiration dates and replace them if necessary.
5. Use printer diagnostic tools:
- Many printers have built-in diagnostic tools that can help troubleshoot problems. Check the printer manual to find out how to access these tools.
6. Update Firmware:
- Check regularly for firmware updates for your printer to fix bugs and improve performance.
7. Operating System Compatibility:
- Make sure the printer is compatible with the operating system being used and all required drivers are available.
8. Technical Support:
- If all other measures fail, contact the printer manufacturer's technical support for further help and assistance.
