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Checking Ink Levels

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Introduction

Checking the ink levels in the cartridges helps you know when the cartridges need to be replaced. If the ink level in a cartridge is low or the cartridge is empty, replace the cartridge.
There are three ways to check the ink levels in the four cartridges inside the product. This document explains how to use each method for checking the ink level.

Check ink levels

NOTE:The ink levels displayed are estimates only. The actual ink levels may be different from the estimate. If using a refilled or remanufactured ink cartridge or a cartridge that has been used in another printer, the ink level indicator will be inaccurate or unavailable.
To check the ink levels, you can print a self-test page, use the product Toolbox, or use the Embedded Web Server. Select one of these methods and follow the steps to check the ink levels.

Method one: Use the self-test page to check the ink levels

Video of printing a test page

The following video demonstrates how to print a printer status report.
NOTE:This video shows the HP Officejet Pro 8000 Printer series (A809), but the steps are the same for your printer.
If you have trouble viewing the video or to view the video in a different size, click here to play the video on YouTube .
  1. Press and hold the Cancel button ( ) for 3 seconds.
    The self-test page prints.
    NOTE:If the product is connected to a network, the network configuration page or the wireless configuration page also prints. This is normal.
  2. The ink levels appear as gauges in the Ink Cartridge Status section of the self-test page.
    Figure 1: Self-test page

Method two: Use the printer Toolbox to check the ink levels

  1. Depending on the operating system installed on the computer, use one of these steps to open HP Solution Center:
    • Windows Vista: On the Windows toolbar, click the Windows icon ( ), click Programs , click HP , and then click HP Solution Center .
    • Windows XP: Click Start , click All Programs , click HP , and then click HP Solution Center .
  2. Click Settings , click Print Settings , and then select Printer Toolbox .
    The product Toolbox appears.
  3. Click the Estimated Ink Levels tab to see the ink level in each cartridge.

Method three: Use the Embedded Web Server (EWS) to print a self-test page

NOTE:To open the Embedded Web Server (EWS), the product must be connected to a network and must have an IP address.When opening the EWS, you might receive a message stating that the certificate is invalid. Accept the link to open the EWS.
  1. Use one of the following instructions to open the EWS:
    • Windows XP taskbar: Right-click the HP Digital Imaging Monitor icon ( ) in the notification bar in the lower-right corner of the computer, point to the product you want to view, and then click Network Settings (EWS) .
    • Windows Vista: On the Windows toolbar, click the Windows icon ( ), click Printers , right-click the icon for the printer you want to view, and then select Device Web Page .
    • Web browser, any operating system: In the address bar of a Web browser window, type the IP address or hostname that has been assigned to the product.
      For example, if the IP address of the product is 123.123.123.123, type http://123.123.123.123 in the address bar.
      NOTE:To find the IP address or hostname assigned to the product, press the Wireless button ( ) or the Network button ( ) on the control panel to print a network test report. The IP address is located in the Configuration Summary section of the network test report.
  2. Click the Information tab. The ink levels appear on this page.