Due to supply chain issues causing an ongoing chip shortage, Epson UltraChrome HD and HDX ink cartridges of all sizes will transitioned to a different design with new part numbers.
This change affects the Epson SureColor P6000, P7000, P8000, and P9000 printers worldwide. To use these new cartridges, the printers require new firmware BEFORE installing the new cartridges in the printer or running out of ink in the current cartridges. For that reason, it is critical that all customers update their printer to the latest firmware as soon as possible.
Step by step Instructions:
from a computer that is connected to the printer via ethernet or USB
go to epson.com
select support
select printers
click professional imaging printers or type printer model in search bar (select the correct edition, Commercial Edition or Standard Edition)
select the operating system
click plus sign for Firmware
download Firmware file
double click on download & and Firmware will install automatically
For more information or instructions on how to update your firmware, please visit Epson.com/pseriesink for a brief video reviewing the step by step instructions above.
Please note, there is no chemical or formula difference between the old ink vs. the new ink. However, since the new cartridges do not have a chip, they are less precise in notifying the user when the cartridges is low. So in order to to ensure that the flow of in is uninterrupted, resulting in issues with print performance, the newer tanks are quicker to notify that they need to be replaced. This results in a bit more ink being left in the tank that the previous generation cartridges. To compensate for this potential variance in ink level reporting, Epson America is lowering the end user purchase price.
To recap:
The new firmware enables printers to run any combination of current cartridges, or new versions.
Without the new firmware, new ink cartridges will not be recognized by the printers.
If a customer runs out of ink while utilizing the old firmware, and only has new cartridges available, they will be unable to proceed.
Identical ink chemistry – zero change in formulation. No impact to color, profiles, etc.
Remaining ink levels will be determined by the printer counting droplets fired through the head, instead of the chip on the cartridge counting down.
In many cases, slightly more ink will be left in the new cartridges, when the printer states the cartridge is out/time to change. However pricing of the new cartridges is lower, so this more than evens out on cost per usable ml.
Reminder: Epson ink cartridges have always had ink left in them when they reach the “ink out” level. This ensures a continuous supply of ink through the system to the print head and avoids air being drawn into the lines which can create problems. Cartridges have always been slightly overfilled, beyond the stated volume, to account for this safety precaution.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out! Contact us on our website or call, 646-558-3627.