Dell says printers will become cheaper

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review ^ | Thursday, October 10, 2002 | The Associated Press

[js1138]

Can't do that on a networked printer or one used for any serious business purpose, or one that's being backed up on a schedule. I don't hink the cartridges will time ou before they're used, but it can inhibit refilling.

I do prefer HP printers over most others, because they allow you to replace the print head -- usually as part of the cartridge. They're also among the easiest to refill. If you're in business the cost of ink is trivial compared to having a printer down due to worn out or plugged up print heads.

[general_re]

I thought of that, but I think it's an electrical sensor, and it's inside the cartridge itself, which means prying it apart to find it. Anyway, shaking it seems to work very well - low-tech methods to defeat high-tech schemes ;) - but as js has been pointing out, that Stylus 860 is probably of the last generation of printers that you'll be able to do things like that.

BTW, other folks have mentioned just getting a new, cheap printer instead of buying new cartridges - the printer companies have already figured that one out. The latest trend is to sell new printers with cartridges that are less than half-full to begin with. I'm sure it's only a matter of time before they include carts that are only good for about 5 pages of printing before they need to be replaced. Or they'll unbundle ink and printers altogether...

[js1138]

Yes, but it's not worth the trouble.

That is your point of view. If you print images, you can use up a cartridge in a few days. If it's too much trouble, look for a brand where it's easier.