You may need to replace the ink cartridge when the following condition exist:
§You have been using the cartridge for over one year.
§Your printed output is not crisp and clear, or there are gaps in the characters (missing dots).
§Your output has no ink on it.
If your print quality is not crisp and clear, see Chapter 7, Troubleshooting, for possible solutions. If the problem seems to be your ink cartridge, be sure to clean the print head before determining that you need to replace the cartridge, be sure to clean the print head before determining that you need to replace the cartridge. If you clean the print head several times and your print quality does not improve, you need to replace the cartridge. (The print head cleaning procedure is described later in this chapter.)
Print head cleaning is not a routine maintenance procedure. Only clean the print head if your print quality is inadequate.
The Bubble Jet Printer
Ink Cartridge Guidelines
To avoid spilling ink, follow these precautions:
§Do not attempt to disassemble or refill the ink cartridge.
§Do not vigorously shake the ink cartridge while handling it.
§Do not unpack an ink cartridge until you are ready to install it.
§Do not remove the ink cartridge unless you need to replace it.
§Do not touch the print head on the ink cartridge or the sharp edges around it.
§Do not hold the ink catridge, or place it on a table, with the print head facing down, (except when you are installing it).
If spilled, the ink is difficult to clean. Therefore, it's a good idea to keep the ink cartridges out of children's reach.
Using Ink
Ink formulation is the most critical component of a Bubble Jet printer. The ink you use must meet these guidelines:
