Resolving Canon Ink Bleeding Issues: A Comprehensive Overview
- By Jee Comendador
- On Oct 06, 2023
- Comment 0
Introduction
Print quality is a critical concern for anyone using inkjet printers, and it becomes especially important when working with photo or color-intensive documents. A discussion on the Alotofthings.com forum highlights the challenges faced by Canon i860 printer users in terms of ink bleeding, particularly when printing in bi-directional (Plain Paper) settings. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the conversation and offers solutions to the ink bleeding problem.
Understanding the Issue
Several users on the forum reported ink bleeding, where black ink seeped into adjacent colors, notably yellow, when printing in bi-directional mode. This issue raised concerns about the compatibility of non-OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) ink cartridges with Canon printers. It's essential to note that even some Canon OEM inks exhibited this problem, although it seemed more pronounced with non-OEM alternatives.
The Impact of Printing Settings
One user shared that changing the printer settings from bi-directional to mono-directional (by using the "photo paper" setting) helped reduce ink bleeding significantly. Mono-directional printing allows for more drying time between passes, resulting in improved print quality. Users also noted that this change in settings positively affected the performance of non-OEM ink cartridges, particularly the "Arrow" brand.
Comparing OEM and Non-OEM Inks
To assess the issue comprehensively, users conducted tests with both Canon OEM and non-OEM ink cartridges, particularly the "Arrow" brand. In these tests, it was observed that the black ink from the "Arrow" cartridge exhibited slightly more bleeding compared to Canon OEM ink. However, this difference was most noticeable when black ink was printed adjacent to other colors.
Exploring Alternative Ink Suppliers
The conversation led to discussions about alternative ink suppliers such as "Inkgrabber," "MIS" (Microtech Ink Systems), and "Color Friends." Users expressed interest in testing these suppliers' products to determine whether they could address the ink bleeding issue effectively.
Adjusting Printer Settings for Improved Results
Some users recommended adjusting printer quality settings to enhance print quality and reduce ink bleeding. Switching to the "FINE" quality setting was suggested to sharpen fine edges and potentially improve color accuracy. Others reported success in reducing ink bleeding by manually adjusting color settings, particularly reducing magenta and black ink levels.
Quality of Ink and Cartridge Compatibility
One user confessed to using mismatched and aged ink cartridges, leading to questions about the quality of ink and cartridge compatibility. The forum discussion emphasized the importance of using the correct ink for the printer model and being cautious with "universal ink" solutions. However, some users, despite using unconventional ink sources, reported satisfactory results in terms of print quality.
Alternative Cartridge Plugs
The conversation briefly touched on cartridge plugs, highlighting variations in design and functionality among different suppliers. Users discussed various types of cartridge plugs, including those from "MIS," which are known for their ease of use and effectiveness in preventing ink leakage during refilling.
Mono-Directional Printing Mode for Glossy Paper
Users also noted that Canon printers switch from bi-directional to mono-directional printing when using glossy paper. This feature allows the ink more drying time between passes, which can reduce ink bleeding on glossy paper.
Future Improvements and Questions
The discussion raised questions about whether suppliers like Alotofthings.com planned to improve their black ink to address the bleeding issue. Additionally, users inquired whether the bleeding problem occurred only when printing in non-photo modes.
Conclusion
Addressing ink bleeding issues when using Canon i860 printers involves a combination of adjusting printer settings, selecting compatible ink cartridges, and potentially exploring alternative ink suppliers. Users in the forum provided valuable insights and shared their experiences, demonstrating the importance of careful ink selection and printer settings adjustment for optimal print quality. To stay updated on such discussions and more tech-related topics, consider following our YouTube channel [insert YouTube channel link], our tech blog, or visiting us in Greensboro, North Carolina.