ErrorCodeDoctor
HP · Printer (OfficeJet)

HP Printer (OfficeJet) Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error code

Difficulty: Easy · Cost: $0–$40 · Duration: 10–15m

Ink cartridge error messages on HP OfficeJet printers cover several conditions — a cartridge that is missing, not detected, incompatible with the printer, counterfeit, previously used in another printer, or not seated correctly. The Use SETUP Cartridges message specifically appears on new printers that require the included setup cartridges for first-time ink system priming.

Common causes

  • A cartridge is not seated correctly in its slot
  • Protective tape was not removed from a new cartridge
  • The cartridge is not compatible with this specific OfficeJet model
  • A counterfeit or previously used cartridge was installed
  • The printer requires the original SETUP cartridges for first-time initialisation
  • The copper-coloured contacts on the cartridge or in the carriage are dirty

How to fix it

  1. 1

    Open the cartridge access door and remove all cartridges

  2. 2

    Check that all protective tape has been removed from the contacts and nozzles of each cartridge

  3. 3

    Verify each cartridge number matches the compatible number for your OfficeJet model

  4. 4

    For new printers make sure you are using the SETUP cartridges included in the box — do not use regular replacement cartridges for first-time setup

  5. 5

    Reinsert each cartridge firmly into its colour-coded slot until it clicks

  6. 6

    If the error persists clean the copper contacts on the cartridge and inside the carriage with a lint-free cloth and distilled water

  7. 7

    Wait 10 minutes for contacts to dry then reinsert the cartridges

  8. 8

    Replace any incompatible or counterfeit cartridge with a genuine HP cartridge

  9. 9

    If the error continues contact a qualified technician

Related HP Printer (OfficeJet) error codes

1

Paper Jam / 0x6100004a

Paper is jammed inside the printer or the print carriage is blocked

easy
2

Printer Failure / 0x610000ff

A general printer failure was detected — the printer needs to be reset

easy
3

Ink System Failure / Print System Problem / 0xc19a0003 / 0xc19a0020

A problem was detected with the ink system or printhead

medium
4

Printhead Problem / Printhead Missing or Failed / 0xc19a0003

The printer cannot detect or initialize the printhead

medium

Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error — frequently asked questions

What does the Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error mean on a HP printer (officejet)?

A cartridge is missing, incompatible, previously used, or needs to be reseated

What causes the Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error?

The Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error is usually caused by: A cartridge is not seated correctly in its slot; Protective tape was not removed from a new cartridge; The cartridge is not compatible with this specific OfficeJet model; A counterfeit or previously used cartridge was installed; The printer requires the original SETUP cartridges for first-time initialisation; The copper-coloured contacts on the cartridge or in the carriage are dirty.

Can I fix the Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error myself?

Yes — this is rated an easy fix that most people can do themselves, typically in 10–15m.

How much does it cost to fix the Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error?

Fixing the Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error on a HP printer (officejet) typically costs $0–$40, depending on parts and whether you do it yourself or hire a technician.

Is it safe to keep using my printer (officejet) with the Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error?

In most cases yes, but it's best to address the Ink Cartridge Problem / Incompatible Ink Cartridge / Use SETUP Cartridges error soon — see the fix steps below to resolve it.