Well, I've search this site and to the end of the web. The problem is my HP photosmart C-5180 printer won't recognize some new "compatible" cartridges (HP 02).

AFTER I bought them, THEN the seller tells me that "after they researched it, other customers are reporting problems w/ compatible carts & C-5100 / 6100 series printers. Other retailers have now also told me the same.:mad:

I'm looking for a workaround. My problem is that the printer won't recognize the new cart, NOT that it says it is empty. Error message is "cartridge(s) is missing or damaged." Obviously, HP has rigged this printer & the HP 02 cart so generic carts won't work.

I went through all the steps that the inkseller suggested to "trick" the printer into recognizing the compatible carts. HA! But, just like everything else, there must be a hack for this.

Suggestions or links would be appreciated.

You won't believe what I did to get my printer up and running without having to purchase a new card.

I had the 2 temporary cards that the printer came with. One black, one color. Went out and bought the ink kit for cheap at Wal-Mart. Then the fun began. In order to put the ink in, you have to be able to open it. I figured it would just pop open with a little play. Oh no. I had to get out razor blades and tools. I think I even broke one blade.

I remember I had ink everywhere. That stuff will definately stain your fingers, so beware. In the end, the color card worked fine, but the black one didn't. Go figure.