Ink level...

[ClickHere2Surf.com]

I asked an inkjet refill company how my HP PhotoSmart printer would know the cartridge has been refilled because it shows the ink levels of each cartridge. They told me the printer mesures the ink level by the weight of the ink cartridge!

Any, I'm almost sure it mesures it by counting the ink drops it shoots out. Does any one know how the HP PhotoSmart P1100 printer calculates ink levels? Also, if I refill a cartridge, how do I tell the printer the cartridge is full?

Thanks

[Papa Smurf]

I always thought that HP printers estimated the ink levels left in the cartridge by work done etc.

In my opionion I would not recommend refilling ink carts or even buy reconditioned, I seen too many problems caused by users saving a few pounds and buying a refil only to have it leak in the printer. I have also found that they tend to dry up a lot faster and have a poorer print output as well for some reason.

[furlong47]

I agree that I wouldn't bother with refilling the ink cartridges or buying them recycled. My roomate didn't listen to me, and ended up buying a new printer when they leaked inside it. Saving a couple bucks just isn't worth it

[DonJ]

Just for grins, go here to HP's website for your PhotoSmart. Notice links there for FAQ's, Solve a Problem, etc. Also, notice the link for Manuals...your User's Guide is available for download.

Also, read up on HP Photosmart P1000, P1100, and P1100xi Printers - Warranty and Service Information. Basically, it says:

"For HP printer products, the use of a non-HP ink cartridge or a refilled ink cartridge does not affect either the warranty to the customer or any HP support contract with the customer. However, if printer failure or damage is attributable to the use of a non-HP or refilled ink cartridge, HP will charge its standard time and materials charges to service the printer for the particular failure or damage."

Also, go here for HP Photosmart P1000, P1100, and 1000 Series Printers - Using the HP Toolbox. There are procedures there for estimating the cartridge ink levels. I don't know how they do it but I don't believe that it is done by weight. Your User's Guide might talk more about it.

Anyway, let us know how it goes...Good Luck!
Don

[http://forums.windrivers.com/cgi-bin/forum1/noncgi]

Keep in mind that if you refill an Epson inkjet, that DOES void the warranty. Because the print heads are permanently installed on the Epson, if they get clogged, you have to send the whole thing in for repair. The heads are easily replacable on Cannon & HP printers, so refilling the carts isn't that big of a deal, but refilling an Epson is REALLY asking for trouble.

[Spaceman Spiff]

The same goes for refurbished laser cartridges. My business partner bought a recycled one for 2/3 the price of a new one and it leaves lengthwise dark streaks in printout. He wouldn't listen to me... <IMG SRC="smilies/frown.gif" border="0">

[Quiet Thunder]

I've come to realize the statement "You get what you pay for" comes into play more and more in this industry. If you want quality, you'll have to pay for it. It's like that new commercial "Mr. Johnson, you can either have your brain surgery by this world renouned (SP?) doctor, or by your next door neighbor for a few bucks cheaper." Mr. Johnson- "Well it's only my brain, it's not like I use it a lot." <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0"> <IMG SRC="smilies/biggrin.gif" border="0">

[ClickHere2Surf.com]

Just to let you know I got and used the refills for my photosmart printer and they're GREAT! Quality is just like an original cartridge and you get $1000+ worth of ink for $19!

[http://forums.windrivers.com/cgi-bin/forum1/noncgi]

[USGyrene]

Had a friend buy a new lexmark printer at Best Buy. The clerk told him that he better buy new ink cartridges with the printer because the cartridges that come with new printers are only half full.