The HP CE390A (90A) is a high-capacity toner cartridge designed for heavy-duty printing in HP LaserJet Enterprise 600 M601, M602, and M603 series. Due to its large toner hopper and robust components, refilling this cartridge is an excellent way to maintain low operational costs without sacrificing print volume or quality.
Technical Video Walkthrough
Required Tools for the Repair
To perform a professional refill and ensure no leaks occur, prepare the following tools:
- Flat-head Screwdriver – For prying clips and removing side covers.
- Phillips Screwdriver – For removing the doctor blade and wiper blade screws.
- Toner Vacuum – Essential for cleaning the large waste toner section.
- New Compatible HP CE390A Toner Cartridge
- Original HP CE390A Toner Cartridge
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Step-by-Step Module Replacement & Maintenance
1. Splitting the Cartridge
The HP 90A is held together by two sturdy metal pins. Using a punch and hammer, carefully push the pins from the outside in to separate the waste hopper from the supply section. This technique is a fundamental skill in laser printer maintenance, much like the steps required to refill an HP 83A (CF283A) toner cartridge.
2. Cleaning the Waste Section
Given the high yield of the HP 90A, the waste toner hopper can accumulate a significant amount of residual powder. Remove the Wiper Blade and use a toner vacuum to clean the entire compartment. Ensuring the waste section is spotless is critical to prevent streaks, a process also detailed in our Xerox Phaser 3020 and WorkCentre 3025 toner guide.
3. Servicing the Magnetic Roller
Clean the Magnetic Roller with a lint-free cloth. If the print density is uneven, inspect the Doctor Blade for toner buildup. Proper cleaning of these components is vital for large cartridges to maintain consistent black levels throughout their life cycle.
4. Refilling and Chip Update
Add high-quality monochrome toner specifically designed for the HP 600 series. The HP 90A requires a reset chip to accurately track the remaining toner. Replace the chip located on the side of the cartridge to clear any “Toner Low” messages on the printer control panel.
Professional Advice: Because the HP 90A is a heavy cartridge, ensure the tension springs between the two halves are correctly seated during reassembly. If these springs are loose or missing, the print will appear faint or completely blank on one side.