Replacing the toner cartridge in your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw printer is a simple and straightforward task that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can ensure that your printer continues to operate smoothly and efficiently.
To begin, locate the toner cartridge door on the front of the printer. Once you have found the door, gently pull it down to open it. Next, grasp the old toner cartridge by its handle and pull it straight out of the printer. Be careful not to touch the green imaging drum on the bottom of the cartridge, as this can damage the printer.
Now, unpack the new toner cartridge and remove all of the protective packaging. Once the cartridge is unpacked, gently rock it from side to side to distribute the toner evenly. Next, insert the new cartridge into the printer, aligning it with the tracks inside the printer. Once the cartridge is in place, gently push it down until it clicks into place. Finally, close the toner cartridge door and your printer is ready to use.
Removing the Old Cartridge
Before replacing the old cartridge, ensure that the printer is turned off and unplugged. Locate the toner cartridge access door on the front of the printer. It typically has a small lever or latch that you need to release.
Once the door is open, grip the old cartridge by its handle and gently pull it straight out. Avoid touching the green imaging drum inside the cartridge, as this can damage it. If the cartridge does not come out easily, slightly rock it back and forth while pulling to dislodge it.
Detailed Steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Unplug the printer and locate the toner cartridge access door. |
| 2 | Release the lever or latch on the door and open it. |
| 3 | Grip the old cartridge by the handle and pull it straight out. |
| 4 | Avoid touching the green imaging drum inside the cartridge. |
| 5 | If the cartridge is stuck, gently rock it back and forth while pulling. |
Unpacking the New Cartridge
To unpack the new cartridge, carefully open the package and remove the cartridge. Be sure to handle the cartridge carefully, as it is a delicate piece of equipment. Once you have removed the cartridge from the packaging, inspect it for any damage. If you notice any damage, do not install the cartridge and contact HP support.
Removing the Protective Shield
The new cartridge will have a protective shield covering the toner. This shield is designed to protect the toner from damage during shipping. To remove the protective shield, gently pull on the tab at the end of the shield. Be careful not to touch the toner, as it can be harmful if ingested. Once you have removed the protective shield, the cartridge is ready to be installed.
Inserting the Cartridge
To insert the cartridge, open the front cover of the printer and pull out the old cartridge. Be careful not to touch the toner, as it can be harmful if ingested. Once you have removed the old cartridge, insert the new cartridge into the printer. Be sure to insert the cartridge correctly, as it will not work if it is not inserted correctly. Once the cartridge is inserted, close the front cover of the printer.
Removing the Protective Material
To ensure optimal printer performance, it’s crucial to remove the protective material from the new cartridge before installation. This protective material is designed to safeguard the cartridge during shipping and handling, but it must be removed to allow the cartridge to function properly.
Steps to Remove the Protective Material:
- Unpack the Cartridge: Carefully remove the cartridge from its packaging and packaging materials.
- Locate the Protective Tape: Examine the cartridge for a yellow or orange plastic tape covering the side of the cartridge. This tape protects the cartridge’s electrical contacts.
- Remove the Protective Tape: Gently pull the protective tape straight up and away from the cartridge, taking care not to tear or damage it.
- Inspect the Cartridge: Once the protective tape is removed, inspect the cartridge for any remaining protective materials or packaging. Ensure that all packaging materials and protective coverings are removed before proceeding with the installation.
Tips for Removing the Protective Material:
- Use Tweezers: For a more precise removal, use a pair of tweezers to gently lift and remove the protective tape.
- Avoid Touching Electrical Contacts: Be careful not to touch the cartridge’s electrical contacts. Contact with bare hands can damage the cartridge or cause printing issues.
- If Material Sticks: If any of the protective material remains stuck to the cartridge, gently rub it off using a clean, lint-free cloth. Do not use abrasive materials or solvents that could damage the cartridge.
Inserting the New Cartridge
Once you have removed the old cartridge as described in the previous step, you can now proceed to install the new one. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Remove the Packaging
Take the new cartridge out of its packaging. Be careful not to touch the green imaging drum on the bottom of the cartridge. Any fingerprints or smudges on the drum can affect the print quality.
2. Shake the Cartridge
Hold the cartridge vertically and gently shake it from side to side several times. This helps to distribute the toner evenly within the cartridge.
3. Remove the Protective Cover
Pull the protective cover straight out of the cartridge. You may hear a snapping sound, which is normal.
4. Insert the Cartridge into the Printer
Open the front cover of the printer by pressing the button on the left side. Grasp the cartridge by its handles and align it with the tracks inside the printer. Gently slide the cartridge forward until it clicks into place. Close the front cover.
| Cartridge Type | Cartridge Number | Image |
|---|---|---|
| Black | CF218A |  |
5. Wait for Printer Initialization
Wait for the printer to initialize the new cartridge. This may take a few minutes. Once the initialization is complete, the printer is ready to use.
Locking the Cartridge into Place
Step 4: Removing the Orange Tab from the Cartridge
Locate the small tab on the left side of the cartridge, covered with orange protective tape.
- Grasp the tab’s edge and peel it back slowly towards the bottom of the cartridge.
- Remove the entire tab by pulling it straight out.
Notice: Do not touch the green roller on the cartridge’s bottom.
Step 5: Inserting the Cartridge into the Printer
Gently insert the toner cartridge into the designated slot inside the printer.
Detailed Insertion Guide:
| Insertion Steps | Image |
|---|---|
| Align the cartridge with the slot in the printer. |  |
| Tilt the cartridge slightly upward and insert the front edge into the slot. |  |
| Push the cartridge forward until it snaps into place. |  |
| Close the printer’s front cover. |  |
Note: If the cartridge is not properly inserted, the printer may not function correctly. Ensure it is securely locked into place to prevent any issues.
Closing the Toner Door
With the toner cartridge securely inserted, it’s time to close the toner door. Closing it properly ensures that the toner cartridge stays in place and that the printer can operate smoothly.
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Locate the Toner Door: The toner door is typically located on the front or side of the printer. It may be marked with an image of a toner cartridge or have the word “toner” printed on it.
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Gently Close the Door: Once you have located the toner door, grip it firmly and carefully close it. Avoid using excessive force, as this could damage the door or the printer itself.
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Check the Door’s Position: After closing the door, ensure that it is securely closed and fits snugly against the printer. If the door is not properly closed, it may cause toner spills or printing problems.
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Confirm Closure: To ensure that the toner door is closed correctly, grab it and gently shake it. If the door does not move or rattle, it is likely closed securely.
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Reset the Printer: Once the toner door is closed, it is recommended to reset the printer by turning it off and then back on. This will allow the printer to recognize the new toner cartridge and resume printing operations.
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Print a Test Page: After resetting the printer, print a test page to verify that the toner cartridge is functioning correctly. The test page should display clear, legible text and images. If the test page is satisfactory, you have successfully closed the toner door and installed the toner cartridge.
Installing the Imaging Drum
Step 1: Open the Printer
• Lift the scanner assembly until it locks into the open position.
Step 2: Remove the Used Imaging Drum
• Grasp the blue handles on the sides of the imaging drum.
• Pull the imaging drum straight up and out of the printer.
Step 3: Unpack the New Imaging Drum
• Remove the new imaging drum from its packaging.
• Hold the imaging drum by its sides, avoiding touching the green surface.
Step 4: Install the New Imaging Drum
• Align the imaging drum with the tracks inside the printer.
• Lower the imaging drum into place until it snaps into position.
Step 5: Close the Printer
• Lower the scanner assembly.
Step 6: Print a Test Page
• From the printer’s control panel, press the “Setup” button.
• Select “Reports” and then “Print Quality Report”.
• Check the test page to ensure that the image quality is satisfactory.
Step 7: Troubleshooting
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Blurry or faded prints | Inspect the imaging drum for damage or contamination. Clean the imaging drum if necessary. |
| Streaks or lines on prints | Inspect the imaging drum and printer for debris or damage. Clean the imaging drum and printer. |
| Blank pages | Check if the imaging drum is properly installed. Make sure the printer is connected to the computer and has sufficient power. |
Printing a Test Page
To verify that the cartridge is installed correctly and working properly, it is recommended to print a test page. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 8: Printing the Test Page
A test page will provide you with valuable information about your printer’s status and the installed cartridge. Follow the detailed steps below to print a test page:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. | Ensure that the printer is powered on and connected to a computer. |
| 2. | Touch the “Setup” button on the printer’s control panel. |
| 3. | Use the arrow keys to navigate to “Reports” and press “OK.” |
| 4. | Select “Configuration Report” or “Printer Status Report” from the list and press “OK.” |
| 5. | The printer will start printing the test page, which will include information such as the printer model, serial number, firmware version, and cartridge status. |
By analyzing the information provided on the test page, you can verify whether the cartridge has been successfully installed and is functioning correctly. If you encounter any issues or errors, refer to the printer’s user manual or contact HP support for assistance.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Printer Not Recognizing Cartridge
Ensure the cartridge is properly inserted, aligned, and not damaged. Clean the electrical contacts on both the cartridge and printer using a dry, lint-free cloth.
Poor Print Quality
Check if the cartridge is low on toner or replace it if necessary. Clean the print drum by gently rotating it from both sides. Adjust the printer settings for paper type and print quality.
Smudges or Streaks
Clean the print drum and fuser assembly using a lint-free cloth or brush. Replace the cartridge if the issue persists.
Cartridge Not Printing All Colors
Ensure the cartridge is properly installed and aligned. Clean the electrical contacts on the cartridge and printer. Check if the corresponding color is selected in the printer settings.
Toner Leaking
Remove the cartridge and shake it gently to redistribute the toner. Check if the cartridge is damaged or clogged. Clean the printer’s toner path using a vacuum cleaner.
Paper Jams
Clear any paper jams from the printer, including the input and output trays. Ensure the paper tray is not overloaded or damaged.
Error Messages
Identify the error message and refer to the printer’s user manual for troubleshooting instructions. Some common errors include “Cartridge Not Installed,” “Low Toner,” and “Fuser Error.”
No Power
Check if the power cord is securely connected to both the printer and a power source. Make sure the power switch is turned on.
Slow Printing
Check if multiple tasks are running on the computer, consuming system resources. Adjust the printer settings for faster print speeds, such as using “Fast Draft” mode.
Wireless Connectivity Issues
Ensure the printer is properly connected to a Wi-Fi network and has a strong signal. Reset the printer’s network settings and reconnect it.
Maintaining Optimal Performance
To ensure your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw operates at its best, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Use Genuine HP Toner Cartridges
Genuine HP cartridges guarantee optimal print quality and protect your printer from damage.
2. Avoid Continuous Printing
Allow your printer to cool down after every 10-15 pages to prevent overheating and extend its lifespan.
3. Clean Toner Spills Immediately
Toner spills can hinder print quality. If a spill occurs, clean it up using a dry cloth or vacuum cleaner.
4. Check and Replace the Drum Unit
The drum unit has a limited lifespan. When print quality degrades, consider replacing it.
5. Update Printer Firmware
Regular firmware updates enhance printer functionality and address bugs. Check HP’s website for latest updates.
6. Keep Printer Environment Clean
Accumulated dust and dirt can affect print quality. Clean the printer regularly with a cloth or compressed air.
7. Set Paper Size and Orientation Correctly
Incorrect paper settings can lead to paper jams and poor print quality. Ensure the settings match the paper loaded.
8. Inspect and Remove Paper Jams
Clear paper jams promptly to avoid damaging the printer. Follow the printer’s instructions for removing jams.
9. Avoid Harsh Cleaning Chemicals
Only use recommended cleaning agents. Harsh chemicals can damage your printer.
10. Troubleshooting Print Quality Issues
If you encounter print quality issues, refer to the table below for possible causes and solutions:
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Faded print | Low toner | Replace toner cartridge |
| Streaks or lines on paper | Dirty drum unit | Clean or replace drum unit |
| Paper jams | Incorrect paper size or orientation | Check and reset paper settings |
| Blurry or distorted print | Damaged toner cartridge | Replace toner cartridge |
| Poor paper feed | Dirty rollers | Clean printer rollers |
How to Install a Cartridge in an HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw
To replace the cartridge in an HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw, follow these steps:
- Open the front cover of the printer. The front cover is located on the front of the printer, below the control panel.
- Lift the cartridge door. The cartridge door is located inside the front cover, on the right side.
- Grasp the old cartridge by the handle and pull it straight up to remove it.
- Unpack the new cartridge and remove the protective cap from the bottom of the cartridge.
- Align the new cartridge with the tracks inside the printer and insert it into the printer until it clicks into place.
- Close the cartridge door and then the front cover of the printer.
Your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw is now ready to use.
People Also Ask
How do I know when to replace the cartridge in my HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw?
The printer will display a message on the control panel when the cartridge is low on toner. You can also check the toner level by printing a supplies status page.
What type of cartridge do I need for my HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw?
Your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw uses the HP 80A or 80X toner cartridge.
Where can I buy a replacement cartridge for my HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw?
You can purchase replacement cartridges for your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw from HP.com, Amazon.com, or other online retailers.
