Firmware Updates and Remanufactured Cartridges

WARNING!

Firmware Updates related to using Remanufactured Ink Cartridges:

When it comes to firmware, updating to the latest version can sometimes make things worse.

This is most common in the printer industry, where firmware is used to limit the use of third

party ink cartridges. However, if you use third party or remanufactured ink cartridges, you may

want to avoid updating your firmware. We advise to thoroughly read any update information

and on screen information before confirming any updates. Once you accept the update, only

original ink cartridges will work with your printer.

What is firmware?

Firmware is usually put into a printer with the intention of not being removed for the duration of

the printer's lifetime. On the other hand, software is much more flexible in terms of user 

customization preferences. Also, if a piece of hardware loses power, the firmware does not lose

its memory whereas software does.

What's the difference between firmware and printer drivers?

Whereas firmware is installed directly to your printer or ink cartridge when manufactured, drivers are installed on your PC by the user. Printer drivers help your printer and PC communicate. These updates are not critical to how you can use your printer.

What does updating firmware mean for my ink cartridges?

Manufacturers often release regular firmware updates for their devices in order to make sure hardware is kept up to date with new technologies. In the case of printers, the firmware update locks the ink cartridge meaning it cannot be used again, stopping the cartridge from being recycled and generating more waste to be put in landfills. Usually when an ink cartridge is empty, the cartridge can be remanufactured and turned into a usable compatible ink cartridge. With new updates however, cartridges can no longer be reused.

How do I know if my ink cartridges have been locked?

Once the firmware update has been done and the cartridges are locked, you’ll see messages such as: "Cartridges locked to another printer", "Cartridges failed" or "Cartridges cannot be recognized".

How can I avoid this update?

We advise to thoroughly read any update information and on screen information before confirming an update. Once you accept the update, only original ink cartridges will work with your printer.

Troubleshooting Tips

How do I disable cartridge protection?

Press the wireless button (or menu option Settings/Wireless) to view status. If the wireless

connection is active the wireless light will be solid blue. If wireless is disabled see user manual

for connection instructions. Note the IP address at the top of screen (example: IP 192.168.1.999)

and type this into address field on browser. This will bring up printers configuration page. On

settings tab select Cartridge Protection and choose Disable Cartridge Protection, then click apply.

You also need to disable updates to prevent recurrences this will be under web services tab.

Select product updates and choose off and apply.

How do I disable this feature?

To disable this feature to be able to use remanufactured or refilled cartridges please use the

following steps.

1. Click the START button, and click DEVICES and PRINTERS.

2. Find your printer in the list and double-click it to open the settings page.

3. Find the Printer Assistant tab and double-click it.

4. Click the text for Estimated Ink Levels under the heading of SHOPPING RESOURCES. This

will open the Toolbox window.

5. Click the tab for CARTRIDGE PROTECTION.

6. Click the radio button next to the DISABLE CARTRIDGE PROTECTION.

7. Click the SAVE SETTINGS button to save your new setting. Then close the window.

8. You may need to remove and reinstall the cartridges for them to be recognized properly.

What if I already did the firmware update?

Uninstall your printer and reinstall it. When reinstalling your printer it gives you an

installation agreement. Under the installation agreement you have the option for more info.

Under this section you can uncheck Internet Connection Usage and uncheck Auto Software

Update. This will stop the automatic updates to your printer.