How to Fix the “Non-HP Circuitry Detected” Error on HP Printers and Keep Printing Smoothly

Few things are more frustrating than sitting down to print an important document only to be met with a big, bold error message. If you’ve ever seen your HP printer display the dreaded “Non-HP Circuitry Detected” warning, you’re not alone. This happens when the printer detects third-party or refilled cartridges, and HP’s firmware blocks their use. While this is meant to protect print quality, it often leaves users stuck with perfectly good cartridges they can’t use. The good news is there are several workarounds to solve the problem and get your printer working again.

Let’s go step by step through the different methods you can try to fix this issue.

Understanding Why This Error Appears

HP uses something called Dynamic Security in many of its printers. It’s a firmware feature designed to recognize and block ink cartridges that don’t contain an HP-approved chip. The goal, according to HP, is to “protect the printer and ensure the best user experience.” In practice, it means that many third-party or refilled cartridges will trigger the error you’re seeing.

The key point is: your printer still works fine, it’s just the firmware lockout that needs to be handled.

Step 1: Confirm the Cartridge Type

1. Open the printer cover and remove the cartridges showing the error.
2. Inspect the labels. Genuine HP cartridges will have the HP logo, holographic security sticker, and clear part numbers.
3. If your cartridges are refilled or third-party, this error is expected.

If you are using genuine HP cartridges and still get the error, try reseating them and cleaning the contacts with a lint-free cloth. Sometimes it’s just a connection issue.

Step 2: Update or Roll Back Firmware

Many times, this issue pops up after a firmware update that blocks compatible non-HP cartridges. You have two main options:

• Check for an HP firmware update: HP occasionally rolls back restrictions after customer pushback. Go to HP’s official website, search your printer model, and download the latest firmware. Install it and check if the error clears.
• Roll back firmware: If the problem started after a recent update, you may need to revert to an earlier version. HP doesn’t make this easy, but some older firmware installers can still be found on their support site. When you reinstall the older firmware, the lock may be removed.

Step 3: Disable Automatic Firmware Updates

To prevent this issue from happening again:

1. On the printer control panel, go to Setup or Settings.
2. Look for Printer Maintenance or Printer Update.
3. Select Update Printer and turn Automatic Updates to Off.
4. Alternatively, go to your HP Smart app on your computer or phone, and disable automatic updates from there.

This ensures HP won’t push another update that re-blocks your cartridges without your knowledge.

Step 4: Use “HP Protected Cartridges” Settings

Some HP printers include a setting called HP Cartridge Protection. When enabled, cartridges you install will only work with your printer and no other. If you buy refilled or remanufactured ones, this feature often prevents them from working.

To disable it:

1. On the printer’s touchscreen, go to Settings > System > Supply Settings.
2. Locate Cartridge Protection and set it to Off.
3. Save and restart the printer.

Now try reinstalling your cartridges.

Step 5: Try a Chip Reset or Compatible Cartridge

If you are using third-party cartridges:

• Some vendors offer chip resetters that restore compatibility. These are small devices that reset the cartridge’s electronic chip to make the printer accept it again.
• Others sell compatible cartridges with updated chips specifically designed to bypass HP’s restrictions. If your current cartridges cannot be unblocked, you may need to buy these.

Step 6: As a Last Resort, Switch to Genuine HP Ink

If none of the above fixes work and you need urgent printing, you might have no choice but to install genuine HP cartridges. Yes, they cost more, but they will bypass this error immediately and get you running again.

Helpful Tips to Avoid Future Problems

• Always disable automatic firmware updates if you plan to use refilled or third-party cartridges.
• Buy cartridges from reputable third-party suppliers that specifically advertise “works with HP Dynamic Security printers.”
• If you print often, consider enrolling in HP Instant Ink, where HP mails you genuine cartridges at a subscription price. It can sometimes be cheaper than buying them individually.
• Keep older firmware installers saved on your computer in case you need to roll back again.

Final Thoughts

The “Non-HP Circuitry Detected” error feels like a roadblock, but in reality it’s just a firmware lock. With the right steps, disabling updates, adjusting cartridge protection, or rolling back firmware, you can usually get your printer running again without throwing away perfectly good cartridges. If you rely on third-party ink to save costs, taking control of your firmware settings is the best long-term solution.