Problem changing printer cartridge

[novicesurfer]

Hi,

I need to change the colour cartridge in my HP 3822 deskjet printer. When I turn the power on and open the top, the cartridges should slide along nicely to the middle, so they can be replaced. However, they are not moving and I can't change the cartridge, or print anything. I have tried the troubleshooting options with no luck.

Can anybody help please?
Alan

[Miz]

The HPs I've had and messed with won't cooperate unless they think the cartridges need changing. If the "empty ink" light is flashing when you turn it on, press it to bring the cartridges to the center.

It may also be a software solution. Open Control Panel>Printers, right click the icon for the HP, left click Properties. Poke around there to see if there's anything there about changing cartridges.

[Miz]

Most of the HP's I've messed with move the cartridges immediately after they're turned on. Even if you turn it off immediately, it'll move the cartridges back over out of reach before actually shutting down.

So I turn them on with one hand on the plug in the outlet. As soon as the cartridges are within reach, I pull the plug out of the outlet. They can move pretty fast so it can take a couple of tries to get the timing right.

It's not very elegant but it works.

[novicesurfer]

Hi again,

Unfortunately the cartridges don't move at all at any time - no attempt whatsoever to slide along nicely to the centre of the unit.

Still it does make a nice whirring sound as various rollers spin round, giving the impression that any second the cartridges are going to appear in view.

Getting seriously p'd off now. The printer is in danger of flying out the window and meeting the first snow of winter!!!

thanks again
Alan