How to Troubleshoot an HP Photosmart 8150

The HP Photosmart 8150 is a high-resolution photo printer that prints at an optimized 4,800 dots per inch. There are memory card slots and there is a front color display for editing without an attached computer. Some of the most common problems with the HP Photosmart 8150 will be related to paper jams and printing quality. The device has a comprehensive error message system, which can help in troubleshooting.

Instructions

1. Check the display if the printer stops printing for no apparent reason. This can be due to a paper jam and the display screen will often confirm this. "Paper Jam. Clear Jam" will be on the display.

2. Push the two latches on the rear-access door toward each other and remove the door. Always clear paper jams on this machine from the back. Clearing them form the front can cause damage.

3. Remove all the paper that's there. Check for any stuck labels from label printing on the rollers. Replace the access door and press the "OK" button.

4. Check for other error messages. They will be pretty self-explanatory like "Out of Paper" or "Card Not Recognized." In the case of an unrecognized card, you should try to re-insert the card. If you continue to get that error, copy the files to a computer and work off the computer. Re-format the card.

5. Check the print quality. White lines or single color streaks will require the print cartridge to be cleaned. You can do it manually, just open the top and allow the cartridges to center. Then unplug the printer, and pull out the cartridges, give them a good wipe with a damp cloth. Just clean the copper strips.

6. Check for wrong or missing colors. It's usually a problem with the cartridge. Run the Service menu on the printer's LCD screen. Scroll to Customer Diagnostic Test and press OK. Examine the print-out. Bars with "E" adjacent to them mean the cartridge is empty.

References

• HP Photosmart 8500: Solve a Problem