Things You'll Need:
- Internet access
- Photo inkjet printer
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Step 1
Consider the obvious. Make sure the printer is turned on, plugged into a working electrical outlet and all the cables are connected to the computer.
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Step 2
Check the status. Take a look at the status light or the LCD screen on your printer. If it is flashing or displaying an error message, consult the manual. Also go to the "Start" menu on your computer. Under "Settings," select "Printers and Faxes." You can check the status of your printer with this option.
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Step 3
Double check the paper. If you are out of paper or paper is jammed in the printer, it won’t work. Refer to the manual to find the safest way to clear paper jams.
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Step 4
Run a self-test. Many printers have a self-test operation that works without input from the computer. Check your manual.
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Step 5
Print a test page. If your printer does not have a self-test, open up the "Printer Properties" on your computer and print a test page from there.
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Step 6
Examine the test page. If there are white lines, you may need to clean the heads. If it is off center, you need to realign the print heads. If colors are faded or missing, change your ink cartridges.
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Step 7
Clean the printheads. This is done from "Printer Properties." Go to your "Control Panel" and click "Printers and Faxes" and right click your printer and select "Properties." From there, go to the "Maintenance" page and select "Clean Printheads" or "Clean Nozzles."
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Step 8
Change ink cartridges. You’ll usually get an error message when ink is running low. Find out which cartridge is running low and remove it. Write down the part number and go to the store or go online and get a new one.
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Step 9
Update drivers. If the self-test looks good, but the test from the computer does not, try reinstalling the drivers. Use the CD that came with the printer or visit the manufacturer’s Web site.
