Ink system failure error 0xc18a050a. error when trying to print. printer boots up ok. the ink cartridges are brand new

Regarding your recent inquiry about the HP 74, 75, 74XL or 75XL ink cartridge error message ("Cartridges Not Aligned" or similar printer alert condition) and inability to print with your HP OJ J578 printer, this type of error is normally associated to an electrical connection issue between the printer and the cartridge, or more likely, an internal micro-electronic failure inside one of the ink cartridges (.....it is very rare for both cartridges to fail at the same time). An electronic failure of the cartridge would be unrelated to the ink cartridge refill process; these same failures can (and frequently do) occur with brand new ink cartridges.* To help identify the root cause, and to confirm/determine which of the two ink cartridges is causing the failure condition, please run the 'Tap 41' cartridge's electrical diagnostic test below (refer to C.)

Please first verify the age of the ink cartridge(s)....look at imprinted date on front of ink cartridge. If this 'warranty expiration date' has expired, then potential internal electrical cartridge failures can occur due to internal corrosion, etc.

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.


DIAGNOSTIC STEPS:

A.Ensure BOTH carriage/flex cables and BOTH ink cartridge contacts are thoroughly clean before proceeding: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519

B.Print Extended Self Test:

1.Press CANCEL + OK buttons at the same time.
2.The extended self test page should print.
--- Verify all colors and all stair-step nozzles are firing (i.e. no missing horizontal lines should be visible in the stair-step grid patterns). (NOTE: 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:
http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=544


1.Press the * and # keys simultaneously.
2.Enter 124 (or 123) at keypad.
3.Use the arrow keys to navigate to the System Menu. Select Ok.
4.Use the arrow keys to navigate to the 'print-mech tap test'. Select Ok. Should display 'code = 0'.
5.Use the arrow keys to enter 'code = 41' (or just enter 41 on keypad). Select Ok. The Tap 41 diagnostic test pattern should begin to print.
NOTE 1: The 'Tap 10' (extended self test) can also be activated by pressing CANCEL + OK buttons at the same time. Whether ink cartridges are good or not, i.e. this is a forced print test). Refer to following 4 paragraphs (or video) on how to interpret diagnostic report.....

NOTE 2: 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.

NOTE 3: 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. 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:
http://inkjet411.retailinkjet.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/HP-74-75-Problem-Resolution_v10.pdf

D. Cartridge Error Bypass ( Emergency Printing Only - http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=544 ):
1. Press the * and # keys simultaneously.
2. Enter 123 (or 124) at keypad. The 'Underware' menu should be displayed.
3. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the Information Menu. Select Ok.
4. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the 'checksum for relock data input'. Select Ok. LCD should display a 5-digit number after a few seconds.
5. Attempt to send a print job to printer
NOTE: 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 state of both cartridges.

For reference, the following page provides a complete review of the majority of cartridge error messages you may observe on your printer at one point or another:
http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=509

However, if your printer works routinely after inserting a brand new HP 74 and/or HP 75 ink cartridge in it, then this will confirm root cause of failure as being limited to one of the ink cartridges.

For additional HP OJ5700 printer series diagnostics information please visit: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1813

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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 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 (remanufactured ink cartridges which have been thoroughly tested; purchases are only available by USA residents).

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

This type of HP 901 ink cartridge error ("Refer to Device Documentation", etc.) condition is likely an internal micro-electronic failure inside the HP 901 (or 901XL) black ink cartridge. These failures typically occur due to natural degradation of internal micro-electronics over time and can occur with brand new ink cartridges.

To confirm root cause and check the internal electrical condition of both black and color ink cartridges, please execute the 'Tap 41' cartridge's electrical diagnostic test below (refer to procedure B).

CAUTION: Be advised, the use of remanufactured ink cartridges is considered somewhat unreliable since the cartridges are already on their 3rd life when purchased new (off the internet or at select retailer stores). As well, the use of compatible/clone cartridges (i.e. sold thru the internet from China) are known to be problematic and may cause printer errors.

NOTE 1: 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.

DIAGNOSTIC CHECKS:

A. Ensure BOTH carriage/flex cables and BOTH ink cartridge contacts are thoroughly clean before proceeding: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1519

B. Validate the cartridge's electrical health by running the 'Tap 41' diagnostics test. Refer to 2nd video procedure at the following link on how to activate and read the service test: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=620

a. Load Letter/A4-size paper into paper feed tray.
b. If any lights are blinking, first press Cancel to attempt to clear.
c. Press the * and # keys simultaneously.
d. Enter 124 at keypad. The 'Underware' menu should be displayed.
e. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the System Menu. Select Ok.
f. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the 'print-mech tap test'. Select Ok. Printer screen should display "code = 0".
g. Use the arrow keys to enter "code = 41" (or just enter 41 on keypad). Select Ok. The Tap 41 diagnostic test pattern prints.

--- Providing the HP 901 (or 901XL) 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 - the printer will attempt to print the diagnostic test print). A good HP 901 color cartridge should display 1248 good nozzles, while a good HP 901/901XL black ink cartridge should show 336 good nozzles. If the results yield anything different then the ink cartridge is likely damaged and will need to be replaced. Refer to 2nd video on how to read the diagnostic test print: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=620

---- 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.

For more diagnostic tests and error bypass procedures, please visit the Inkjet411 support center: http://www.inkjet411.com

Hopefully this helps....

We suggest you first attempt the basic/universal Canon ink level reset procedures before attempting any of the more advanced procedures provided on our Inkjet411 site*

A. Standard Ink Level Reset Procedure (printers without LCD display):
[ Refer to the 1st support video: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=62 ]
1) At computer screen message, select 'Stop'/'Reset', 'OK', or 'Resume'.
....or....
2) Select 'Stop'/'Reset', 'OK' or the 'Resume' button (triangle-circle icon) on your printer for 5-8 seconds:
- Printing may continue under the 'ink out' condition.

B. Standard Ink Level Reset Procedure (printers with LCD display):
[ Refer to the 2nd support video: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=62 ]
1) Install cartridge and start print job.
2) After first message appears, click 'OK' to continue. Printer should start printing.
3) If second message appears and printer's LCD screen displays error code "E", then DO NOT click 'CANCEL PRINTING'.
4) Press and hold down 'Stop'/'Reset' button (triangle-circle icon) on your printer for 5-8 seconds. Printer should start printing.

If you are able to produce a self test print, this is good since it illustrates that the cartridges are electrically stable...if you observe any 'E' or 'V' error states (i.e. E13 or V162 for example), this may indicate there is possibly an internal electrical problem with one of the ink cartridges. Refer to your user guide if E/V error messages are displayed.

*If, after following the suggested ink monitoring/level reset procedures, you still have an error condition which prohibits regular printing, then the ink cartridge probably has internal electrical damage (micro-electronics failure); such a failure is unrelated to the ink cartridge refilling process. Typically, when the cartridge fails the problem is 'masked' by the ink out/empty condition so it can be difficult to distinguish between the two. 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 (i.e. typically ~2 years from original manufacturing date). Refer to picture at bottom of this page: http://inkjet411.com/?page_id=1533

To verify the Canon printer is functional, install a brand new cartridge in it - this will 100% confirm whether your refilled, compatible or remanufactured ink cartridge is faulty or not.


For information on North American Canon ink refill services at a major retailer near you (should you wish to save ~50% on ink costs), general printing problem resolutions or advanced HP printer diagnosis procedures (advanced cartridge diagnostic tests/cartridge error bypass & printer reset methods, etc.), please visit Inkjet411: http://www.inkjet411.com

Hi col_hogan,

The brand and the model of your printer was not provided, however, you may want to try the troubleshooting steps I have below if you have HP Printer that is getting same error or prompt: INK SYSTEM FAILURE.

• Press * and # at the same time
• Press 1, 2, 3 and "support R0632M" should display
• Press > and "information menu" should display
• Press > and "configuration menu" should display
• Press OK and "hardware failure status" should display
• Press OK "failure status: clear". Press OK to clear
• Press CANCEL
• Press CANCEL
• Press CANCEL
• Turn printer off, unplug power cord for 2 minutes, plug cord back in then turn printer back on.

• If the error came back, do the sequence again and the error will be replaced with the usual print cartridge initialization screens. Print a test page to make sure.

If this will not work you may want to reply by sending the specific brand and model of your printer.

Hope it helps.

Thank you for using Fixya.

These printers have been known to have ink system failure errors. This message can also be caused by using compatible or re-manufactured cartridges. We believe the HP Live update software is also responsible for "dobbing" on you if you use any other brand.
A Fix for the ink system failure can be found below Not sure if it will help with your particular error but it wont hurt to try.
http://fix-your-printer.blogspot.com/2009/03/ink-system-failure-on-hp-photosmart.html
Good luck

Hello,

The "Ink system failure" error is caused by air in the ink feed tubes, this happens if you use poorly filled cartridges or allow you cartridge to run all the way out. We have a step by step guide to purge the ink feed tubes posted on our web site at: http://www.ccl-la.com/blog/index.php/category/printer-repair/hp-printer-repair/ This should get your printer back going in about 10 minutes.

I hope this helps, if so please rate our solution.

Buddy
Corporate Computer
www.ccl-la.com

Normal 0 Driver could be corrupt.
Disconnect the printer or at least be sure it is turned off. I'd do both and reinstall the CD software program that came with the printer. When the software program asks you to connect the printer to the USB port, do so and it should again work properly.
Hope this helps. Bud

1. Press the On button to turn the printer off.
2. Unplug the power cord from the back of the printer.
3. Remove all the ink cartridges.
4. Wait two minutes.
5. Plug the power cord into the back of the printer.
6. Press the On button to turn the printer on.
7. Install the ink cartridges when prompted.

If the error code does not display, the issue is resolved.

hp C6188 PRINTER ERROR 0XC18A0106