Replace print cartridges
When buying print cartridges, look for the print cartridge selection number.
You can find the selection number in three places:
● Selection number label: Look at the label on the print cartridge that you are
replacing.
1 Selection number label
● Printer documentation: For a list of print cartridge selection numbers, see the
reference guide that came with the printer.
● HP Printer Utility: Open the HP Printer Utility, and then select the Supplies
Status pane.
If a print cartridge runs out of ink, the printer can operate in ink-backup mode.
For information about installing a replacement print cartridge, see the print cartridge
installation page.
Ink-backup mode
Use the ink-backup mode to operate the printer with only one print cartridge. The ink-
backup mode is initiated when a print cartridge is removed from the print cartridge
cradle.
Ink-backup mode output
Printing in ink-backup mode slows the printer and affects the quality of printouts.
Installed print
cartridge
Result
Black print cartridge Colors print as grayscale.
Tri-color print cartridge Colors print but black is grayed and is not a true black.
Photo print cartridge Colors print as grayscale.
Note HP does not recommend using the photo print cartridge for ink-backup
mode.
Chapter 3
14 HP Deskjet 5900 series
