Using the Epson Adjustment Program: Sequential Mode vs. Particular Adjustment for Waste Ink Pad Reset

Question:
I watched your YouTube video about the Epson Adjustment Program and have a couple of questions. You mentioned using the sequential adjustment first to select whether the waste ink pad is removed or replaced, and then using the particular adjustment mode to reset the waste ink counter. What happens if I skip sequential mode and just go straight to the particular adjustment mode to reset the counter? Also, if I don't touch the waste ink pad but instead use an external waste ink tank, how do I use the adjustment program?

Answer:

Sequential Mode vs. Particular Adjustment Mode

  • Sequential Adjustment Mode:
    This mode is a step-by-step guide built into the Epson Adjustment Program. It is designed for Epson's service technicians and walks you through multiple service procedures in a specific order-such as replacing mechanical parts, performing cleanings, resetting counters, and other diagnostics. In theory, it ensures nothing is overlooked during repair.

  • Particular Adjustment Mode:
    This is a direct-access option that lets you choose exactly what function you want to perform-such as resetting the waste ink pad counter-without going through the full guided sequence. This is the option most independent technicians and DIY users prefer, because it saves time and avoids unnecessary steps.

If you skip sequential mode and just go straight into particular adjustment mode to reset the waste ink counter, nothing harmful happens to your printer. You'll simply bypass Epson's guided checklist and perform only the reset function. This is why many technicians-including myself-rarely bother with sequential mode unless they want the structured procedure for more complex repairs.

Using an External Waste Ink Tank

When the waste ink pad fills, the printer is programmed to lock itself and require a reset. If you install an external waste ink tank instead of replacing the internal pads, you still need to reset the waste ink counter to unlock the printer. Here's how it fits together:

  1. Leave the internal pads untouched but reroute the waste ink tube into your external container.

  2. Use the Particular Adjustment Mode in the Epson Adjustment Program to reset the waste ink pad counter.

  3. The reset tells the printer that the "pads" have been serviced, even if they physically haven't been replaced. Since your waste ink is now diverted outside, this is perfectly fine.

The most important part is to monitor your external waste tank. Make sure it doesn't overflow, as excess ink can cause messy leaks and even damage your work surface or printer internals if it backs up.

Final Note

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair because of the hands-on nature of the problems. For this reason, we can't provide remote troubleshooting, detailed repair instructions, or support for service programs. However, we do provide an in-person evaluation and repair service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service), which operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It may take a few weeks before we can take in your printer due to high demand. We offer both complete printer repair and part-specific service with clear instructions on how to proceed. That said, we recognize our rates are not the lowest, so we also encourage users to research self-help options. A great place to start is our YouTube channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search function near the "About" section to find videos, or explore suggested content from other channels that may also guide you.

Thank you once again for your thoughtful question. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to helping you and others make the most of your Epson printers.