Printer Cartridges and Compatability

Date: February 11, 2010

New York, NY -- Anyone who uses a printer consistently undoubtedly knows how expensive printer ink can be. In the same vein, they know how expensive a new printer can be. Not every cartridge can go with every printer, despite the seeming universality of the technology. Yet, that doesn’t stop people from trying it. The “guts” of printers are made differently, and that is why it is important to make sure to always use the right cartridge to go with your printer. That does not mean you have to buy the precise (and potentially more expensive) cartridge manufactured by the same company that made your printer.

Ink cartridges are made differently as well. Some are made with print heads, while for others the print head is in the printer. On a more basic level, printer cartridges and the cartridge bay in the printer can be different shapes too. Each cartridge has in a chip, specific to that type of printer, that ensures that the cartridge is compatible and will print. Basically, you can not expect your Dell cartridge to work in a Lexmark printer. In some cases, installing the wrong type of cartridge can cause damage to your device.

What is the solution then? If you don’t want to pay the money for a new cartridge, consider buying a refurbished cartridge. You could also invest in a cartridge refilling kit, but if you don’t do it right, that may be an expensive mistake. Finally, you can investigate places like Castle Ink, where you can find an OEM or other compatible cartridge.

BY ADAM HAIGH, Editor