>>Hi,
>>
>>Recently I started having a problem where whatever I print to the DeskJet 712C printer (in black), some parts of the page (more often top of the page) is smudged or smeared (don't know a better way to describe it). I change the cartridge to a new one, aligned it. But still the problem does not go away. And as I print more, the problem becomes worse.
>>
>>I thought maybe I have to clean the printerhead? I have never done it to a printer. And I through away user manual long ago.
>>
>>Does anybody know if the printer head of this type of printer should be cleaned? With alcohol?
>>
>>Thank you in advance for any suggestions.
>
>http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=bpd04727&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&product=58747&lang=en
>
>If that doesn't work, you should probably figure out if it's even worth trying to fix it. That model is pretty old now, you can get new ones that are faster and better at amazingly low prices.

Thank you for the link on cleaning. I have had many printers over the years and never they "broke" before I threw them away because I bought a newer printer. I guess this one may be outlived its useful life and need to be dumped. I know that on Apple site they now offer a nice wireless printer with $100. rebate. I will look into that.

Thank you for your help.