Expert: Karl Zick - 12/2/2009

Question
Hi Karl,
Don't know if you can help, but my 'Brother MFC 3240C' all in one printer wpn't print the black ink (color is ok).
I followed the instructions in the manual & called tech support, but nothing helps.
They suggested that I take it to a repairman (who chatges $0 just to look), I'm not sure if it's worth it.
I suspect the problem is because I used a generic black ink cartridge & it affected the memory. Is there anyway I can correct the problem myself ?
Thanks !!

Answer
Hi John,

You have probably already found your problem.  Lots of printer manufacturers have fixed their hardware so they either will not print with generic cartridges or the generics damage the print heads.  Have you tried a `genuine' Brother cartridge to see what happens?  Also, try the head cleaning feature in the printer maintenance software.

If you wind up shopping for a new printer, I highly recomment Canon.  I recently found a new Canon all-in-one (except fax) at Wal-Mart for $29 (inclusing ink).  I haven't seen a deal like that since, but the whole range of Canon's are hard to beat for print speed and quality.