Canon IP4000 Pixma Cartridge query

[Guest]

Archived from groups: rec.photo.digital (More info?)

We recently got this printer and we like it. We are new to digital
cameras/printing, so we have some elementary questions:

Question: how will we know when one of the cartridges is empty? Will the
printer flash and indicate which cartridge? Will it indicate on the
computer?

Also, when replacing the cartridge, I see there are 2 black cartridges:
BCI-3EBK and BCI-6BK. What are the differences between the two. I assume if
one goes, we have to replace it with the same cartridge. Correct?

Finally, any thoughts on replacement brands. Should we use the far cheaper
compatibles or stay with the Canon brand?

MB

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: rec.photo.digital (More info?)

MB_ wrote:
> We recently got this printer and we like it. We are new to digital
> cameras/printing, so we have some elementary questions:
>
> Question: how will we know when one of the cartridges is empty? Will
> the printer flash and indicate which cartridge? Will it indicate on
> the computer?

Eash time you print a print status window appears and there in lower left
side you have drawn carts and full situation. When any of carts will be
empty, exclamation mark will appear above it. There is no middle indication
of real ink status, though. But, when warning appears, you can safely end
your prnt job. Canon printers have no middle status, like 90% left, 80%
left...because this system normally base on drop count and is not very
accurate. Canon carts have a prism at the bottom of each cart and a LED
which "sees" when ink is actually out. So, when a warning appears, there's
no ink left in front container, but there's still some left in a sponge.
But, if you plan to refill (which is BTW child easy), always refill before
front container is empty to avoid air pockets.

>
> Also, when replacing the cartridge, I see there are 2 black
> cartridges: BCI-3EBK and BCI-6BK. What are the differences between
> the two. I assume if one goes, we have to replace it with the same
> cartridge. Correct?

3Ebk is pigmented ink for text printing - pigmented ink is more durable. 6BK
is for photo printing, it's dye type. Since color carts are dye, dye black
will mix better with them and so reproduce better quality photos. Also dye
black produces more pure black color. That extra photo black is main reason
for outstanding photos - try them on Canon's Photo Paper Pro paper and see
for yourself!
>
> Finally, any thoughts on replacement brands. Should we use the far
> cheaper compatibles or stay with the Canon brand?
>

I refilled my ex i550 for a year and half when head died. Why---noone
knows...but,in this time i saved for brand new ip4000 and more.
But, i suggest you stay away from very cheapest inks...i bet some guys here
will post some good links. My advice is get one quality refill set and
you're good. It takes less than one minute to refill cart (drill a hole,
squeeze ink, seal a hole...voila!)

> MB