Digital BW, The Print

Thanks Paul,

Well I know you're supposed to remove the vent plug, tape, whatever... but what threw me was that the plug had a small hole right in the center. Turns out it did not go all the way through, probably had something to do with the way they molded the plastic. So then I simply removed it.

Yes, the plastic shield at the export vent was pierced... I'll check and see how thoroughly they were pierced. As for the chip not making contact... I'll try giving the carts a nudge from the back. Mathew did suggest that if just one or two carts were not being recognized.

As for the OEM Claria carts, yes, I installed those right away to make sure the printer was working, and I got perfect color prints. It's been my understanding it's best to give the printer a shake-down cruise with the OEM carts because if it's not working the first thing Epson will ask is if you're using their carts. If I say no, the return warranty is not honored.

I'll try some of the tweaks we've talked about tomorrow morning when I'm fresh. It would be wonderful to find a simple solution at my end and not have to go through the hassle of returning them. These carts are extremely snug and very difficult to remove - which tells me this might have something to do with the chip not making contact. I could also give the chips a swab with some cleaning fluid. Maybe we're on to something.

Thanks so much,

Paul