New Printer Advice Needed (C410a)

[PsyckoSama]

I just picked up an HP Photosmart C410a for 50% off and am considering a Refillable/CIS solution. I'd like some opinions and advice because I'm not even sure which questions I should be asking at this point.

 

[ThrillaMozilla]

That is similar to the C309a and uses HP564 and HP564XL cartridges, I think. The ink usage is outrageous, in my opinion.

Here's what I have assembled on refilling these printers:
http://www.nifty-stuff.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=6345
http://www.nifty-stuff.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=6247
http://www.nifty-stuff.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=6192
http://www.nifty-stuff.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=4715
http://www.nifty-stuff.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=6481

For refilling the XL cartridges there are two methods: topfilling and the German durchstich method (which might better be called "unterstich" as some people practice it). They both work. Each has advantages and disadvantages, although the majority probably prefer the German method. Since the cartridges are opaque, you will have to be a little bit clever to deduce the liquid level as you are refilling, without seeing it. This part is easier with the topfilling method, but there may be more chance of the cartridge leaking.

The problem with using OEM ink is that you will need a second mortgage if you print much. The problem with refilling is that the cartridges are opaque, and you will probably lose ink monitoring (and will want to turn it off since it becomes a nuisance). Keep a good page count. You can also get a page count when you do a test print, I think.

If you can figure out how to reset ink monitoring (rather than just turning it off), let us all know. There are reports that it may be possible if you can accumulate 3 sets of cartridges. It is said that the printer can only remember two, so by making three changes, it will forget and automatically be reset. However, the memory may well be in the chip instead of the printer. If you figure out anything, let us know.

Good luck, and keep us posted.

 

[PsyckoSama]

I'm actually just thinking of buying refillable carts or a CIS for it. If I'm going to spend that kind of money I'm not buying some OEM carts that won't last more than a dozen prints.

And what are the methods you're talking about?

 

[PsyckoSama]

Looked at the links in detail. Thanks Thrilla. I've done more research and I think I'll be getting a CIS. Though I'm going to be turning monitoring off on that for sure. Will also allow me to avoid buying any new carts. I'll just use the chips off the starters.

 

[ThrillaMozilla]

The usual story on this forum is that it's easier to refill than to use a CIS, unless you do a LOT of printing. A CIS tends to have problems with leaks and air bubbles. I suppose the repetitive motion takes its toll. Also, the usual recommendation on this forum is to use a CIS for Epson but to refill Canon. HP is similar to Canon. On the other hand, that other guy who bought the CIS for HP seems to be happy with it, and there's no reason why it shouldn't work if all the seals are good, no bubbles are introduced, and negative pressure is maintained (liquid level below the print head).

Also, Canon printers, with a thermal head, are reportedly subject to damage from running dry. HP printers are quite similar, although the directions say you can safely run the cartridges until printing ceases. Beats me. I'm thinking my strategy will be to refill before the cartridges are empty (and to measure the ink level when I refill). I did buy one set of OEM XP cartridges, which I plan to reuse indefinitely as soon as they are nearly empty.

 

[PsyckoSama]

I've looked at this model and it seems very... friendly to CIS systems. I was able to remove the right lifting handle and it has a perfectly sized gap for fitting in a CIS... which is very convincing for the CIS.

If I go refillable I'm not going OEM. Just going to use the starter chips and put them on a chip board...

 

[Brother LC-61BK]

I am using a printer with another brand and I strongly suggest that you should be particular about your ink choice and settle for a remanufactured brand that will allow you to save on costs.