Medium severity Hardware Code: Cartridge Not Recognized

Ink or toner cartridge not recognized

The printer says a cartridge is missing, incompatible, or can't be detected — common after installing a new or third-party cartridge.

Symptoms

  • "Cartridge missing or not detected"
  • "Incompatible cartridge"
  • A color won't register

Likely causes

  • Protective tape left on contacts
  • Dirty or bent contacts
  • Cartridge not fully seated
  • Firmware blocking third-party chips

How to fix it — step by step

Work through these in order; most people are fixed by the first two or three.

Remove all tape and reseat

Take the cartridge out, remove any plastic tape over the contacts/nozzles, and reinstall until it clicks firmly.

Clean the contacts

Gently wipe the gold/copper contacts on the cartridge and carriage with a dry lint-free cloth.

Try one cartridge at a time

Install one new cartridge, confirm it's read, then the next — this isolates a single faulty unit.

Use genuine or compatible chips

A firmware update can reject some third-party chips. Use cartridges advertised for your current firmware, or fit a genuine one to confirm the slot works.

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Still not fixed? For hardware faults still under warranty, contact the manufacturer's official support. This is an independent guide — always confirm steps for your exact model in its manual.

Printers this affects

Canon PIXMA TS3520

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