Printer Cartridge Recognition Issues: A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide

Are you grappling with printer cartridge recognition problems on your XP-720? Look no further. This informative guide delves into a user's experience and the subsequent solution to a challenging issue with non-OEM cartridges. We'll provide step-by-step insights into troubleshooting and resolving similar complications.

The Initial Challenge

User posted about encountering difficulties with non-OEM cartridges on an XP-720 printer. After cleaning, drying, and performing a trial reset with WIC, the user faced a peculiar situation. While conducting test prints, it became evident that the printer wasn't recognizing the photo black cartridge, and the waste ink counter was consistently full.

The Diagnostic Steps

1. Print Head Inspection and Cleaning After obtaining a reset key, the user decided to remove the print head for a thorough cleaning. Notably, the previous owner had never knowingly used the photo black cartridge. This step was crucial in understanding the root cause of the recognition issue.
2. Recognition Woes Despite the cleaning efforts, a new challenge emerged. The printer only acknowledged the original dye black cartridge that came with the printer. Cartridges from the same or different makes, including other dye black cartridges, were not recognized. The user even received cartridges without chips and instructions to mount chips, complicating the situation further.
3. Cartridge Recognition Solution Through trial and error, it was discovered that one specific dye black cartridge was consistently recognized by the printer. This provided a breakthrough in understanding the recognition issue.

Community Input

User received input from another user, emphasizing the importance of taking the initial cartridges out of the bin, cleaning them, and then placing them in the printer. This method successfully recognized all cartridges. Subsequently, the user could replace them with other cartridges that were previously unrecognized.

Potential Print Head Issues

However, the journey didn't end there. The user observed that the print head might be mostly clogged again, possibly due to recent inactivity or mishandling during cleaning. Only one pigment black channel was printing, raising concerns about potential damage during the cleaning process.

Troubleshooting and Future Considerations

1. Cartridge Recognition Steps If you face cartridge recognition issues, consider taking out the initial cartridges, cleaning them, and placing them back. This method proved successful for Chakonari.
2. Print Head Concerns If print head issues persist, carefully inspect for clogs and damage. The user experienced challenges with pigment black channels, possibly indicating a need for further cleaning or potential print head replacement.

Community Support

User expressed satisfaction with solving the mystery of cartridge recognition, signaling confidence in dealing with the remaining challenges. The community's input and collaborative problem-solving spirit played a pivotal role in resolving the complex issue.

For more insightful tech tips and troubleshooting guides, be sure to follow our YouTube channel BCH Technologies and explore our tech blog. If you're in the Greensboro, North Carolina area, feel free to visit us locally for hands-on assistance.

Wishing you a successful and glitch-free printing experience in the New Year!