Downgrading the firmware on an HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 to bypass "cartridge error" messages requires finding an older firmware version (like FDP1CN1910AR or similar) and flashing it via USB, as HP officially discourages downgrades. Important Pre-requisites:
Use a Windows PC: This process is generally more reliable on Windows.
USB Connection: You must connect the printer via USB cable to the computer, not Wi-Fi.
Disable Updates: Before beginning, go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Update the Printer > Automatic Updates and turn them off to prevent it from re-updating. Steps to Downgrade (General Method)
Locate Old Firmware: Find an older firmware file (e.g., OJP8620_1910A.exe or OJP8620_1834A.exe). These are often found on third-party ink seller sites (like CompAndSave) or specialized forums (like r/printers) rather than the official HP site.
Remove New Cartridges: Some users report that 3rd party cartridges must be removed and replaced with empty or original HP cartridges to allow the firmware to flash without showing a "cartridge error" during the process. Run the Firmware: Double-click the downloaded .exe file.
Select Printer: The tool will search for your 8620. When it lists the printer, check the box and click Update. hp officejet pro 8620 firmware downgrade
Wait: The process takes about 2 minutes. The printer should restart. Do not turn off the printer during this time.
Verify: After it restarts, check the Printer Status Report to confirm the version has changed. Alternative Method: USB Drive (Flash Drive) If the .exe file doesn't work: Obtain the .ful firmware file.
Place the .ful file on a USB flash drive formatted to FAT32. Insert the USB stick into the front port of the printer.
The printer should detect the "upgrade" (actually a downgrade in this case) and prompt you to install it.
Note: While many users have successfully restored functionality to use third-party ink, some reports indicate that recent firmware FDP1CN2022AR and later are very difficult or impossible to roll back, resulting in error 83C00006. To help narrow down the best approach for you:
What is the current firmware version installed? (Found in Printer Status Report) Downgrading the firmware on an HP OfficeJet Pro
Are you currently getting a specific error code (like 83C00006)? Are you using third-party cartridges? Officejet Pro 8620 Downgrade firmware blocked by hp ?
Downgrading the HP Officejet Pro 8620 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
firmware is primarily used to bypass Dynamic Security blocks that prevent the use of third-party or refilled ink cartridges. Phase 1: Preparation
Check Current Firmware: On the printer's control panel, go to Setup > Reports > Printer Status Report. Versions ending in 2022AR or higher typically block non-HP chips.
Enable Downgrading: On the printer screen, navigate to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Update Printer > Manage Updates. Ensure Allow Downgrade is set to Yes.
Disable Auto-Updates: In the same menu, set Check Automatically to Off to prevent the printer from re-updating itself immediately after the downgrade. Phase 2: Obtaining Old Firmware Part 4: Step-by-Step HP OfficeJet Pro 8620 Firmware
HP does not officially host older firmware. You must find a version that predates the security lockout (such as 1416AR or 1640A) from reliable third-party archives or community threads.
Version R1547A and R1640A are common targets for restoration.
Caution: Only download from reputable sources, as third-party firmware files can carry risks. Phase 3: Executing the Downgrade Method A: Windows Utility (Easiest) HP Printer Firmware Downgrade Guide - CompAndSave
Follow these steps precisely. The entire process takes about 10–15 minutes.
Note: HP does not usually provide official downgrade utilities; Method A often unavailable. Methods B–D are increasingly risky and may require specialized knowledge.
Do not enroll in HP Instant Ink or HP ePrint. These services will force a firmware validation check.
Before we dive into the technical steps, understanding the why is crucial. HP uses a security feature called Dynamic Security. This feature prevents printers from using cartridges that contain a non-HP chip.