HP DeskJet 1120C Review

Reasons for User Issues

The HP DeskJet 1120C is an inkjet printer that made its debut in the late 1990s, targeting users who required wide-format color printing at an affordable price. Despite its durability and straightforward design, owners encounter a range of problems over time. These issues largely stem from both the printer’s age and limitations in compatibility with current technology.

• Outdated Hardware: The hardware itself is outdated. Modern operating systems such as Windows 10 and 11, and macOS, often do not provide built-in drivers for legacy printers like the DeskJet 1120C. Users upgrading their computers or transitioning to newer systems frequently find that the printer is no longer recognized, or its advanced features are inaccessible. Connectivity is also a concern: the 1120C depends on parallel or early USB interfaces, which are rare on newer computers, creating yet another barrier to use.
• Consumables Availability: Ink cartridges compatible with the DeskJet 1120C, specifically the HP 45 (black) and HP 23 (color), have become more difficult and sometimes expensive to source. Third-party alternatives exist but their reliability and print quality can vary dramatically, leading to inconsistent prints or even damage to the printer's ink delivery system.
• Mechanical Wear: With many units still in operation after over two decades, common mechanical failures include clogged or dried-up ink nozzles, worn paper feed rollers, and aging print heads. These issues can lead to paper jams, streaky or faded prints, and overall lower image quality.
• Operational Efficiency: The DeskJet 1120C was not designed for the energy efficiency or noise reduction expected from current machines. Extended use may result in noticeable operational noise and higher energy consumption, which can be problematic for users sensitive to office ambiance or electricity costs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Resolving Issues

Despite the potential for frustration when using a classic like the HP DeskJet 1120C, many issues can be managed with patience and resourcefulness. Here’s how to tackle the most common problems and get the most out of your vintage printer.

1. Dealing with Driver and Compatibility Issues:
   • Identify your operating system and check if legacy drivers for the 1120C are available. HP’s official support site occasionally maintains older drivers for Windows XP or Vista, which may run in compatibility mode on newer Windows versions. For macOS, consider using open-source solutions like Gutenprint.
   • If direct driver support is unavailable, consider connecting the 1120C to an older computer, such as a Windows XP or Windows 7 machine, and sharing the printer over your home network. This allows newer devices to print through the network using basic shared printing protocols.
2. Connectivity Solutions:
   • If your modern computer lacks a parallel port, USB-to-parallel adaptors are available and can help you connect the DeskJet 1120C to a USB port. Select a high-quality adapter.
   • Alternatively, hardware print servers that support legacy parallel printers can make the DeskJet 1120C available to multiple machines over Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
3. Sourcing Ink Cartridges:
   • Look for reputable suppliers specializing in legacy printer consumables. Avoid ultra-cheap no-brand cartridges to prevent leaks or damage.
   • If possible, use genuine HP cartridges or high-quality remanufactured ones with positive feedback.
   • To extend cartridge life, always turn off the printer using its power button to ensure the print head is properly parked and reduce drying.
4. Mechanical Maintenance:
   • Clean the print heads using the printer’s built-in cleaning utility (accessible through printer properties under Windows). Repeat as needed until prints improve.
   • If automatic cleaning fails, manually clean the print heads by dampening a lint-free cloth with distilled water and gently wiping dried ink from the print head surface.
   • For paper feeding issues, inspect the rollers inside the printer. Wipe them with a slightly moistened cloth. If rollers are cracked or heavily worn, seek replacements from specialty suppliers or online marketplaces.
   • Keep the printer's firmware and software utilities current, where possible.
5. Noise and Power Consumption:
   • Place the printer on a stable surface to minimize rattling.
   • Use a smart plug to cut off power when not in use, reducing energy drain and extending the lifespan of internal power supplies.

Conclusion

The HP DeskJet 1120C remains a testament to the durability and reliability of classic inkjet technology. Its ability to handle large-format documents and deliver solid print quality has made it a favorite for architects, designers, and anyone needing to print above the standard A4 size—qualities that keep the 1120C relevant decades after its introduction.

However, its age brings with it a unique set of challenges. Modern compatibility issues, sourcing ink and parts, and mechanical maintenance require extra effort and ingenuity, but are often outweighed by the benefits for those who value robust build quality and specific print features. With careful upkeep and a willingness to find workarounds, the DeskJet 1120C can continue to serve users well into the present era.

If you are considering a DeskJet 1120C for your own work or reviving an old unit, weigh these factors carefully. For those with the patience and passion to maintain classic hardware, the 1120C stands as not just a printer, but a piece of printing history that remains surprisingly functional today.