The HP Q2612A (12A) is perhaps the most famous toner cartridge ever made. It powers the legendary HP LaserJet 1018, 1020, and 3050 series. Known for its extreme durability and high-quality prints, the 12A is a favorite for home users and small offices. Refilling this cartridge is straightforward and can save you a significant amount of money over time.
In this guide, we will show you how to perform a professional refill. However, if your cartridge housing is worn out, we recommend replacing it with a high-quality ready-to-use unit to maintain crisp black text.
Disassembly and Refill Steps
- Removing the Side Screws: First, remove the screws on the side cover to separate the two main sections of the cartridge. Our video demonstrates the correct way to pull the pins at [01:35].
- Cleaning the Waste Toner: Subsequently, it is mandatory to empty the waste toner compartment. This prevents vertical lines and ensures that the cleaning blade functions correctly.
- Inspecting the OPC Drum: Check the green drum surface for wear. Since these cartridges can be refilled many times, the drum is usually the first part to fail. Replacing it will instantly restore print quality.
- Refilling the Hopper: Pour in the specialized 12A monochrome toner powder. Consequently, ensure the magnetic roller is clean and free from old toner clumps.
- Reassembly: Finally, join the sections and secure the side pins and screws. One of the best things about the 12A is that it does not require a chip, making it the easiest cartridge to maintain.
Recommended 12A Supplies & Hardware
To keep your legacy LaserJet running like new, we suggest these parts:
- Premium Replacement (HP): HP Q2612A (12A) Genuine Black Toner – Original reliability for the most demanding users.
- Canon Equivalent: Canon 703 Black Toner Cartridge – The official replacement for Canon LBP-2900/3000 users.
- Modern Successor: HP LaserJet Printers – If your 1020 is finally retiring, here you can find, compact wireless equivalent.
Expert Tip: The “No-Chip” Advantage
The HP 12A is one of the last great cartridges that doesn’t use a smart chip. Furthermore, because it’s so robust, the magnetic roller can often last through 5 or 10 refills. If you experience light print, cleaning the doctor blade with a cotton swab is usually the fix.
Check out our other guides on HP 85A Refills or Kyocera DK-1150 Maintenance.
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