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Re: Stylewriter original
In <1169523144.142502.293060@l53g2000cwa.googlegroups.com> mdj wrote:
>
> Some of the newer printers carry a small IC within the cartridge which
> implements trivial encryption - the net result being nobody else can
> manufacture a compatible cartridge without violating the DMCA
>
> I'd recommend anyone in the market for a printer carefully check the
> aftermarket compatibility of the device. You'll save a fortune on
> cartridges, and will avoid contributing to used printer cartridge
> landfill.
>
> Matt
At work we recently replaced our old Minolta laser printer. For about
the price of two toner catridges for the old printer we bought a new
Brother printer. It's much, much faster, has an Ethernet connection, and
duplex printing. As is common now it came with a half-filled toner
cartridge rated for about 3500 pages. After a few months the printer
stopped printing with a 'toner empty' error light. The printer had
probably only done about 2000 pages and had never shown the slightest
hint of a reduction in print quality, although the low toner light had
occasionally turned on for a second when the printer started.
Assuming that the toner detection system must be faulty I removed and
examined the cartridge. At each end of it is a small clear window. It
seems that the printer checks the toner level by shining a light through
the cartridge. If the light is detected at the other end it decides that
the cartridge is empty and stops printing. I placed a small peice of
black tape across one of the windows and the toner cartridge has done at
least another 1000 pages and is still printing perfectly.
Who would design a printer that stops instantly when it thinks the toner
is low instead of just giving a warning? Someone who doesn't want a
repeat customer.
--
* Roger Johnstone, Invercargill, New Zealand -> http://roger.geek.nz
* PS/2 Mouse Adapter for vintage Apple II or Mac
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