Everything you need to get your printer running — plus quick fixes for the handful of things people occasionally run into. Most issues here are solved in a couple of minutes, without calling anyone.
Everything else you need to start is included: the printer, a quick-start guide, and a prepaid return label.
Your printer takes a standard 3-prong AC power cord — technically an IEC 320 C13 to NEMA 5-15P cable. That's the exact same cord a desktop computer or a monitor uses, so there's a good chance you already have a spare in a drawer.
If you don't, they're just a few dollars. Search “computer power cord C13” on Amazon, or pick one up at any electronics store — any of them will fit.
The printer ships without toner so you can buy affordable compatible cartridges instead of pricey originals. Compatible toner for this model is sold as HP 218A-compatible (standard yield) or HP 218X-compatible (high yield). A full set runs around $60.
Compatible cartridges usually come with a small chip tool and instructions (some brands include a little USB-style device and a phone app). If the instructions say to activate or upgrade the chip first, do that before you put the cartridges in the printer.
Why it matters: once the printer reads a cartridge, its chip can't always be reset. Installing first is the single most common reason a compatible cartridge gets rejected. Two minutes up front saves the hassle.
This is the most common message people see, and it almost always means the compatible toner went in before its chip was activated. The printer itself is fine. Here's how to sort it:
Tip if you use compatible toner: turn off automatic firmware updates on the printer (in the printer's settings / embedded web server). Manufacturer firmware updates can re-block third-party cartridges, so leaving auto-updates off avoids a working setup breaking later.
Check the power cord — remember, one isn't included. Make sure it's firmly seated at both ends and the outlet works.
Use the free HP Smart app to run guided setup, keep the printer near the router during setup, and restart your router if it won't find the network. Make sure you're on a 2.4GHz network if given the choice.
Reseat the toner cartridges, then run the printer's built-in cleaning/calibration routine from the touchscreen or HP Smart. Streaks or gaps on a brand-new compatible cartridge usually clear after a few pages.
Compatible chips sometimes report levels inaccurately. It's typically cosmetic — the cartridge will keep printing normally. You can dismiss the message and carry on.
Power off, open the front and rear doors, and gently pull any paper in the direction it feeds — slowly, to avoid tearing. Remove the paper tray to check for a sheet caught underneath.
Email us at [email protected] and we'll point you in the right direction. We're happy to help you get printing.