Question:
My HP 805 ink cartridges suddenly stopped communicating with my printer. Could they still be saved, or does this mean they've reached the end of their life?
Answer:
Now, let's talk about what might be happening with your HP 805 cartridges and what you can do about it.
Understanding the "Cartridge Not Communicating" Error
When your HP printer displays a "cartridge not recognized" or "incompatible cartridge" message, it doesn't always mean the cartridge is dead. This error generally indicates that the electrical contacts between the cartridge and the printer are not reading properly. It can be caused by:
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Dirty or Oxidized Contacts:
Over time, ink mist, oil from your fingers, or oxidation can build up on the gold contacts of the cartridge or inside the carriage slot, preventing proper data transfer. -
Expired or Locked Chip:
HP cartridges like the 805 series include a microchip that communicates ink level and usage information to the printer. Once the chip reaches its programmed usage limit or becomes corrupted, the printer may block communication. -
Cross-Contaminated Contacts or Moisture:
Cleaning fluid or condensation from refilling can occasionally short the chip contacts. -
Printer Firmware Update:
HP frequently releases firmware updates that disable refilled or third-party cartridges. After an update, your printer may suddenly reject a cartridge that previously worked fine.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
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Clean the Electrical Contacts
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Turn off the printer and unplug it.
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Remove the cartridge.
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Gently wipe the gold contacts on the cartridge and the printer's carriage slot using a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher).
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Allow everything to dry for at least 5 minutes before reinstalling.
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Restart the printer and check if communication is restored.
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Try a Hard Reset
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Unplug the power cord while the printer is still on.
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Wait 60 seconds.
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Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
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Reinsert the cartridges one by one.
This process forces the printer to reinitialize the cartridge recognition system.
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Inspect the Chip for Damage
Check the tiny gold contacts or the black chip area for scratches, cracks, or burn marks. If damaged, the chip may no longer be readable and will require replacement. -
Avoid Mixing Cartridges Between Printers
HP 805 cartridges "marry" to the printer they are first installed in. If you insert them into another printer, communication errors are very likely. -
Check for Firmware Updates (and Disable Automatic Updates)
If the problem began after a firmware update, it's possible that HP's update blocked non-original or refilled cartridges. In the printer's settings, disable automatic updates to prevent future lockouts. -
Chip Reset or Replacement
If you've refilled your cartridge multiple times, the chip may have reached its page count limit. Some refill suppliers sell reset chips or replacement chips compatible with HP 805. Installing a new chip can often restore full functionality.
When the Cartridge Truly Reaches the End of Life
If the cartridge has been refilled several times and the printhead itself shows wear - streaks, missing nozzles, or physical damage - it may no longer be worth reviving. Ink residue can dry inside the printhead nozzles, and electrical resistance may increase beyond recovery. In such cases, replacement is the best solution.
For guidance on prolonging cartridge life and avoiding these issues, you can also check our video "3 Ink Cartridge Mistakes That Cost You Money" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kx3bGFiMTxI).
When to Seek Professional Help
Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer in-person evaluation and repair services (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) at our local diagnostic facility. Due to high demand, service is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, and it might take a few weeks before you can drop off your printer.
Our service options cover both full printer repairs and individual component fixes, depending on your needs. However, we understand that our rates might not be the most economical. That's why we always recommend exploring self-help options first. You can start by searching on YouTube (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) using the search icon next to "About" to find videos on HP cartridge communication errors or refilling tips. With over nine years of educational videos, there's a good chance you'll find the exact guide you need - and possibly even related tutorials from other helpful creators.
Thank you again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies. Your curiosity and engagement not only help us grow but also contribute to improving the collective knowledge of the printing community.