Digital BW, The Print

Hi, I finally got around to buying IP5.6.  I have this question in to tech
support, but they're not open til Monday and I thought many on this list
would know:  Is there any way of checking ink levels in the Epson 2200 (XP)?
Even though I can print nozzle checks from the Epson utility, the Epson
Status Monitor just reports a connection error while trying to check the UC
ink levels.  I don't know enough about IP yet to know if there is any risk
of printing with empty cartridges and damaging the print head.  The manual
and their trouble-shooting guide doesn't reveal anything.  Thanks!

Regards,

  --Ken Carney
    www.kencarney.com