I installed new ink in my Compaq A1500 printer, however the printer continues to state" Clear System Err Then Press Clear." The printer is making a strange noise and it does not clear. It appears the cartridges aren't moving. What should I do, Office Max will not take the cartridges back, because they have been opened. Thanks, Elizabeth Scott 760-949-6493

install the printer software again

the driver is in this link.download it and install

While there may be ink in the cartidges, your printer is getting a signal from the cartidge that it's near empty. There is no real workaround for this; you just have to replace the cartridge(s). If you use a LOT of ink, you might consider installing a CIS (continuous ink system) now made for most printers. You will save a lot of money over time.

What you describe is typical.

Users guide for Compaq A1500 All In One printer in pdf format:
http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/bpu80010.pdf

Lexmark made that printer for Compaq. The numbers on the cartridges are a Lexmark number, if you go to a store that sells ink cartridges for Lexmark, ask for a number 50 or 60. Or go to google and search for Compaq A1500 ink and you will get lots of choices to buy from, usually with Lexmark model numbers.

1. Lift the control panel by grabbing the panel along
the top edge.
2. Pull the control panel forward.
3. Lift the ink cartridge access door. For better
access, stow the document input tray away. The
cartridge carriage will move to the center.
4. Remove the new ink cartridge from its
packaging. Hold the ink cartridge by the black
areas or colored top only.
5. Remove the tape covering the print head by
carefully pulling on the yellow tab. Be sure to
remove all of the tape.

First - did you have the printer turned on before installing the software? Printer MUST be ON!
Second - did you install the software before plugging in the usb cable? Printer must be on when cable is plugged in, and should not be plugged in until installation software says to plug it in.
Third - you must completely uninstall any previous printer installations you've done for that printer before attempting another installation. If the printer doesn't work after an install, you must delete the printer under "Printers" in the control panel, and check to see if you need to uninstall the software through the Add/Remove programs portion of the Control Panel. If you do a new install over a bad install, the printer still will NOT work. You must meet ALL these conditions to make the printer work.

Last, but not least, download the printer software from the manufacturer and not from a third part vendor, and make sure you select the correct operating system when you select the software to download.

Did you trying going to printers and setting default printer? Also click online for the Compaq A1500.

The first one try to change the install-directory ( don't install in PROGRAM FILES ) simply make one folder and install it there.

The second one DOWNLOAD those driver.You can make accaunt for free to download those driver!

Let me know if u got help and rate me as fixya please

Dont worry..Here it is..
http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/softwareCategory?lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&product=216826&lang=en&