How to Identify and Fix Common printer Problems ?
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Why does the machine have two black ink tanks? There are two kinds of black ink in the machine: dye ink (BK) and pigment ink (PGBK). The dye ink is used mainly for printing photos, illustration, etc., and the pigment ink is used for text-based documents.
BK ink is intended for photographs, it`s richer. The printer defaults to PGBK for text, lines etc – unless it thinks they are part of a photo. So, you can force a Canon printer to use BK ink instead of PGBK by telling it that you are printing a photo onto plain paper.
Definition: PGBK
(PaGe BlacK or PiGmented BlacK) The black ink in Canon inkjet printers used for regular printed documents. The PGBK pigmented ink does not adhere well to coated stock. In contrast, the BK cartridge is used for photos.
How to Reset Canon Pixma Ink Cartridge. In many cases, you can press and hold the “ok” or “resume” button on the front of the printer for about 10 seconds. This prompts resetting Canon ink cartridge and should allow you to continue printing.
You can only install two black ink cartridges if your printer uses two different types of black ink. If you are trying to install a black ink cartridge in a color cartridge slot, your printer will not function and you could potentially cause damage to the machine.
If your Canon printer isn`t recognising a compatible ink cartridge, this may be because the data on the cartridge chip is stamped with an empty status before it was remanufactured. Hold down the stop / cancel button for 5 seconds to bypass the `ink has run out` message and your cartridge should work.
It`s usually because the printhead inside your printer is clogged or dried out. Like with most printers, Canon printheads can clog due to ink or dust drying up and collecting in the nozzle.
Some Canon printers use a black and tri-color cartridge and some use individual ink cartridges. Both types of cartridges deliver the same high print quality that you expect from Canon, but many consumers prefer individual ink cartridges since they offer more flexibility and a better long-term savings.
Verify the ink cartridge(s) is inserted properly. Some cartridges snap in place, and if they are not inserted fully, the printer won`t print anything. If a lever is moved from its original position to allow for installation of ink cartridges, ensure it is returned to its original position.
It is usually situated above the metal contacts, right in the center. Please note that the button is very small and almost unnoticeable, so don`t miss it! Use the end of a paper clip to press the button, hold it for about 10 minutes, and voila — you have just reset an Epson ink cartridge with a paper clip like a pro!
Verify the ink cartridge(s) is inserted properly. Some cartridges snap in place, and if they are not inserted fully, the printer won`t print anything. If a lever is moved from its original position to allow for installation of ink cartridges, ensure it is returned to its original position.
This error message is usually the result of a cartridge that is not firmly seated in its designated slot. To troubleshoot the problem, begin by completely removing the cartridge from its port. Reinstall the cartridge by positioning it so that it snaps into place and is securely fastened in its slot.
The easiest remedy for this is to open the box and stand the cartridge upside down for a few minutes before using. Next, get a damp paper towel, fold it into quarters and the set cartridge print head down onto it, holding it there for three minutes. This will help to prime the print head and pull the ink out.