Epson Firmware Update: What Epson Does Not Want You To Know
Most firmware updates for Epson printers make them work better, but this isn't true if you use off-brand Epson ink. To learn more about it and its pros and cons, read on!
What is Epson Firmware Update?
The term “Epson firmware” refers to the pre-installed software in your printer. It has all the information a printer needs to function properly. On average, Epson releases firmware updates every few months to ensure that your printer works as it should.
These updates are designed to fix problems like bugs, improve or add features, and keep you safe from security risks. All of these things help improve performance and make sure that the programs on the machine continue to work as smoothly as possible.
That said, Epson firmware updates are helpful if you are using genuine Epson ink cartridges, but it is entirely a different case for those who are using third-party printer ink. Why? It’s because these firmware updates are also designed to block non-genuine printer ink.
In the second half of 2016 and the beginning of 2017, Epson started releasing firmware updates for its printers to prevent them from being able to recognize ink cartridges made by third-party manufacturers. At the moment, this restriction is still in place to make sure that Epson printer owners only buy real ones.
What will happen if my printer's firmware has been updated?
If you are using the original Epson ink cartridges, then there is nothing to worry about. But if you use remanufactured or generic Epson ink cartridges, you will need to use the original ones because your printer won't recognize the non-Epson ink cartridges unless you go back to the old firmware version of your Epson printer or until a firmware update that allows you to use generic printer ink cartridges becomes available.
How will I know if my printer has been updated?
Epson has an auto-update feature. If not turned off, Epson can automatically update your printer’s firmware without your knowledge. That same feature can sometimes cause more harm than good, especially if you use generic printer ink. You might wake up one day and want to use your printer, only to realize that the remanufactured cartridges installed in it are no longer recognized by the printer.
If you are using off-brand ink cartridges that were working fine the other day but suddenly your printer does not recognize them the next day, there is a high chance your printer’s firmware has been updated. You can check this by checking your printer’s current firmware version, or you can tell by the type of error message your printer prompts.
Check the printer error messages below to see if you are experiencing the same one.
Epson Printer Firmware Update Problems
If you use refilled or generic Epson ink cartridges, you might run into the following error messages:
- “Cartridge is missing or damaged.”
- “Remove and reinstall ink cartridge.”
- “Cartridge not being recognized.”
Epson printer ink cartridge not recognized after firmware update
All of the above error messages mean that your printer doesn't recognize the generic or off-brand cartridges installed after the update. If you’ve tried and failed to resolve the “not recognized” problem with the help of the video above, it’s possible that the most recent update has affected the performance of your printer.
Parting Words
It is important to check everything that pops up on your computer screen before taking action, as it may cause more harm than good. If you wish to continue using cheap but high-quality Epson ink cartridges, turn off or disable the auto-update firmware feature of your printer. If its firmware has already been updated, you can follow the steps on CompAndSave’s Epson printer firmware reset and downgrade instructions page.
We hope you find this article helpful. Enjoy printing and happy saving!
Related Articles
- Epson Printer Firmware Downgrade Instructions
- How to Reset Epson Ink Cartridge?
- Epson Printer Troubleshooting Guide
Thanks for reading! Leave a comment if you have any questions. Looking to save money on your printing projects? Check out www.compandsave.com for some great deals on printer ink and accessories! Remember to follow our blog for more interesting printing related tips and guides.
About the Author
Showerly Sumaylo is a researcher and copywriter for Compandsave.com, Inc. CompAndSave is one of the biggest online stores in the US and Canada that sells printing and office supplies. She writes articles that teach people about printer ink cartridges, toner cartridges, photo papers, printers, and more.
