How to: Perform an Ink System Reset

[jason_h]

When troubleshooting ink related issues, be it an ink cartridge error or inability to print a certain/multiple color(s), one of the first steps to try is an Ink System Reset.  This will reinitialize the ink system in the printer and get rid of any false errors.  I will outline the steps below.

Performing an Ink System Reset:

1. While the printer is turned on, remove all ink supplies from the printer.  This includes all cartridges and printhead, if it is removable.
   
   
2. Unplug the printer from the power source while on and no ink supplies in the printer
   
   
3. Get a clean, lint free cloth and clean water
   
   
4. Use the cloth and water to wipe the electrical contacts down of the cartridges, the matching contacts inside the printhead for the cartridges, the contacts on the rear of the printhead that connect to the printer, and the contacts in the printer that connect to the printhead
   
   
5. Wipe the contacts dry to ensure no water is in/on the system
   
   
6. Plug the printer back up to the power source, without ink supplies
   
   
7. Insert the printhead when the printer powers up and indicates the printhead is missing
   
   
8. Insert the print cartridges when the printer indicates the cartridges are missing.  Do so one at a time to ensure the error isn't stemming from one of the cartridges.  Open the top and insert the first cartridge, then close the top.  The front of the printer should, then, indicate that the remaining colors are missing.  Do this individually with all cartridges.
   
   
9. Once the printhead and cartridges are installed, then the printer will attempt to Auto-Align.  Once the alignment is complete, then the ink system reset/reinitialization is complete.

If the error/problem continues, then move to the additional steps of the troubleshooting document for this issue.  This is just the first step to help clear any false errors that may be present.

[jason_h · Accepted solution]

Hope this is helpful to anyone needing to perform this reset.  Happy Printing.