Epson 640 goes through the motions, but...

[galweg]

My Epson 640 goes through the motions of printing, even down to the paper going through and the print head going, but nothing comes out on the paper.

Latest drivers, everything is connected properly, prints fine on another printer. Does anyone have any ideas please?

 

[galweg]

Forgot to mention that I'm running WIndows XP Pro.

 

[KimberTech]

One place to start is the ink. Quite often the print heads get clogged up, and the unit will behave as you have mentioned.

Did the printer sit for a long time before you tried printing and got this problem?
Has the ink been changed lately?

Try using the printer properties to clean the print heads and see if you get any ink at all.

Will the unit print a test page?
If it will...do you get ANY ink at all?

If this isnt the issue I can research more for you.

Let me know how it works out for you
Kimber

The more I learn, the more I realize how much more there is to know!

 

[galweg]

Thanks for your reply

Yes, the printer sat for about 3 months doing nothing. It doesnt print a test page, and several goes at the printer properties to clean the heads has produced nothing.

 

[ANFPS26]

Replace the print cartridge. They dry up when not used. Make sure you remove the protective tape off the new cartridge. A lot of people forget to do this and the printer won't print and they wonder why. "A little knowledge is a dangerous thing....."

 

[KimberTech]

I would have to agree, as I stated in my post, that ink can clog the print heads. Inkjet printers are notorious for dried up ink if you let them sit too long.

Change your ink cartridge/s and give it a go...I think you will have success.

For the Epson Stylus Color 640 you will need
Black Ink Cartridge
S020187
and
Color Ink Cartridge
S020191

If I were you, I would use the EPSON ink for your printer. Some generics are ok but Epsons don't seem to do as well with those.

Let us know how you do, and if you need any more help.
Definitely take off those little tape pieces, there are instructions with the ink that will give you all the information you should need.

Good Luck!!

Kimber

The more I learn, the more I realize how much more there is to know!

 

[galweg]

Sorry for the delay in replying, I've been on holiday.

The initial post was using brand-new cartridges (with the tape removed). I 'always' read the instructions

 

[KimberTech]

Brand new doesn't always mean a good cartridge..unfortunately. If it worked before, and doesnt now, I would try a NEW cartridge. Make sure you buy one that isnt a refill.

Check the inside of the printer also and look for dirt on the bar inside, and for any ink spilled or smudged.

I hope you had a good holiday
Kimber

The more I learn, the more I realize how much more there is to know!