Why You Should Avoid Firmware Updates When Using Refillable Cartridges
When using refillable ink cartridges or refilling original ones, it’s important to be cautious about firmware updates released by your printer manufacturer. While these updates often claim to improve printer performance or fix minor bugs, they can also introduce restrictions that block refilled or third-party cartridges, leaving your printer inoperable with anything but brand-name ink.
This is especially true for brands like HP and Epson which have a history of using firmware updates to enforce proprietary control over consumables. These updates can be automatic, making it even easier for users to unknowingly lose access to their refillable printing setup.
How Firmware Updates Cause Lockouts
Firmware is the internal software that controls how your printer communicates with its components and cartridges. Manufacturers can use firmware to:
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Detect non-original cartridges
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Block one-time-use chips from functioning after refill
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Reset chip compatibility with refilled cartridges
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Disable auto-reset chips
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Display cartridge errors or warnings, even if the ink is full and functioning
Once a firmware update is installed, these changes are usually permanent and cannot be undone. In many cases, your printer will refuse to recognize refilled or aftermarket cartridges that previously worked without any issues.
Why Manufacturers Do This
Printer companies make a significant portion of their profits not from the printers themselves, but from selling genuine ink cartridges. By limiting the use of third-party or refilled cartridges, they retain control of the ink supply and keep customers dependent on their expensive consumables.
Firmware updates are a convenient and stealthy way to enforce this control under the guise of routine maintenance or performance improvements.
How to Protect Yourself
To avoid these problems, it’s best to disable automatic firmware updates. Most printers allow you to do this through the printer’s control panel or software on your computer. Turning off these updates ensures that your refillable or third-party cartridges will continue to work reliably without being blocked.
Here are a few steps you can take:
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Check update settings in your printer’s software and disable automatic updates.
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Do not accept updates prompted on your printer screen unless you are sure they won’t affect cartridge compatibility.
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Avoid installing updates from manufacturer websites unless absolutely necessary.
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Consult your ink supplier (such as InkProducts Inc) before applying any firmware update.
InkProducts Inc Helps You Stay In Control
At InkProducts Inc, we specialize in ink refill kits and refillable cartridge systems that work with many popular printers. We monitor firmware updates across major brands and alert our customers when an update could cause problems.
We also recommend printer models that are known to be refill-friendly and less likely to be affected by firmware lockouts. Our goal is to help you maintain your ability to print affordably without being forced into costly brand-name ink contracts.
Final Thoughts
If you're refilling cartridges or using refillable systems, firmware updates can be your biggest enemy. They often bring no benefit and can permanently disable your cartridge setup. By avoiding updates and staying informed, you can continue saving money and reducing waste—without compromising your printer’s performance.
