Common Printing Questions/Issues
If it is not empty then the likely cause is that the firmware on your HP printer has been updated automatically.
HP update their firmware to lock you into buying their cartridges. Some of their printers have the option to disable this feature, letting you print with compatible cartridges – this is usually called HP Cartridge Protection. The option is found under different settings depending on the printer, so you will either have to Google how to disable this feature for your printer, or bring the printer in to us (we don’t charge for helping you with this).
If the feature can’t be disabled, you can always return the cartridge and we will issue a replacement. You can find all of our contact info here.
A driver is a piece of software that allows your printer and computer to interface with each other. You can get the proper drivers for your computer from the manufacturer’s website. We offer links below to popular manufacturers, you can simply Google drivers for your printer from your printer’s manufacturer if the manufacturer is not listed below.
All inkjet printers come with this facility, and you perform it if you notice the quality of your prints deteriorating prematurely.
To perform a head clean, navigate to the settings section on your printer screen, then the maintenance tab, then perform a nozzle check. If the nozzle check is not printing as it should, perform a head clean by following the instructions on the screen.
If you don’t have a screen on your printer then the maintenance tab can be accessed via your printer properties on your computer. For Windows, click on the Windows Icon on the bottom left hand corner of your computer screen, then click on Settings (looks like a cog or gear two items up) > Devices > Printers and Scanners. Select your printer, click manage, then click on printer properties. You will find the maintenance tab at the end.
If there is no maintenance tab in your printer properties then your printer was most likely installed onto your computer automatically by Windows when you connected the printer to your computer initially. You will need to download the drivers (see the FAQ on downloading drivers) or use the CD that came with the printer and reinstall your printer drivers.
If you’re not successful in performing the head clean, you can contact us and we will help.
See the FAQ on performing a printer head clean. If this doesn’t work, feel free to contact us with the issue and we will advise you.
There are usually no diagnostic tools/settings available with laser printers. If you are having an issue with your laserjet printer, contact us with the issue and we will advise.
Original printer cartridges are the printer cartridges you can buy directly from your printer’s manufacturer. Compatible and remanufactured cartridges are a more cost-effective and ecological option to original printer cartridges.
While some people use the two words ‘compatible’ and ‘remanufactured’ interchangeably, remanufactured and compatible cartridges are in fact two completely different types of cartridge.
Compatible cartridges are cartridges that were manufactured to function in the same way as their original counterpart, usually with a higher capacity if the cartridge is an ink cartridge. Their quality and reliability can depend greatly on who manufactured the compatible cartridge, some compatible cartridges are no different to their original counterpart at all and can be relied upon just as much as the original from our experience. We don’t remanufacture ink cartridges ourselves, we simply supply compatibles from manufacturers we trust.
Remanufactured cartridges are in fact original cartridges that we have re-manufactured – we replace any parts that are worn (springs, cogs, etc.), and replace/refill the toner inside the cartridge, giving you multiple uses out of your cartridge and saving you from throwing out your cartridge when it goes empty. Our remanufacturing process:
- Allows you to get multiple uses out of your original cartridge;
- Saves you from throwing out your entire cartridge when it was simply empty, which is a much more ecological solution to the original cartridge cycle;
- Gives you piece of mind in the fact that you’re still using an original cartridge;
To put it into an analogy, when you come to us to buy a remanufactured toner cartridge, it is equivalent to going to a dealership to buy a second-hand version of a card you want, fully-serviced. When you buy a compatible cartridge, it is equivalent to buying a car that is a different make and model to the original car, made in a different factory, which can usually do the same thing as the original car.
Compatible printer cartridges from good manufacturers are fine to use with your printer. Remanufactured cartridges are a better option, allowing you to get multiple uses out of an original cartridge, keeping the reliability of original cartridges without having to throw them out when they’re empty, and at a greater level allowing for a more sustainable approach to printing.
All empty ink cartridges and toner cartridges can be returned to us; we recycle all printer cartridges. You can find our contact information, location & opening hours here.
It is especially important that you return empty toner cartridges in their original packaging, without marking the packaging. Our toner cartridge remanufacturing process relies upon receiving back used and empty toner cartridges in good condition, as well as receiving back the cartridge boxes they came in so they can be reused to reduce waste.
If you can, store your cartridges in your printer. Outside of a printer, ink cartridges can begin to dry out. If the printer uses a separate ink cartridge and printhead, the printhead can degrade if ink cartridges are not installed.
If your ink cartridges cannot be stored in your printer, please store them in an airtight plastic container, making sure to keep the nozzles upright. Make sure nothing touches the nozzles. Don’t store them in a bag as you risk damaging the nozzles. Ink cartridges can be stored at temperatures between -15°C and 35°C (5°F and 95°F).
If your toner cartridges cannot be stored in your printer, please store them horizontally in the original packaging they came in and seal the packaging as much as you can. Toner cartridges are much easier to store than ink cartridges as you don’t have to worry about ink or alcohol, and if stored correctly can last years on a shelf.
If you wish to return your printer cartridge, please refer to this FAQ.
Today’s printer consumables manufacturers produce original ink cartridges with a fraction of the ink their cartridges used to contain a decade ago. Printer manufacturers make their money off of their cartridges today, not the printer. Original ink cartridges used to be see through so that you could see the amount of ink in the cartridge, although today this isn’t the case. This is why your original cartridges don’t last long.
We do not remanufacture ink cartridges ourselves, although we do supply compatible ink cartridges from manufacturers we trust.
Ink cartridge remanufacturing and toner cartridge remanufacturing are two completely different fields, requiring totally different skills, experience and equipment. In the future we may expand our remanufacturing operations into ink cartridges, but not for now.
We currently do not test any of the ink cartridges we sell. The validity of an ink cartridge can vary greatly from printer to printer, so even if we did test ink cartridges before we supplied them, there’s a good chance they would still work differently with your printer. It is almost never the fault of the ink cartridge in these situations, but usually the printer itself.
If you have an ink cartridge that doesn’t work with your printer, or a faulty printer, feel free to contact us. We can take a look at your printer and cartridges for you, and will happily reissue an ink cartridge if we supplied you with one that did not work with your printer.
There are only a few guidelines you can follow to get more out of your ink cartridges.
Firstly, buy compatible ink cartridges you can trust. Today’s original ink cartridges contain only a fraction of the ink in their tank that they can hold, and are more expensive than prices for equivalent ink cartridges in previous years. It’s much more cost-effective and ecological to buy good quality compatible ink cartridges that will last longer naturally, than to buy original ink cartridges.
Secondly, store them correctly. If you can, store your cartridges in your printer. Outside of a printer, ink cartridges can begin to dry out. If your ink cartridges cannot be stored in your printer, please store them in an airtight plastic container, making sure to keep the nozzles upright. Make sure nothing touches the nozzles. Don’t store them in a bag as you risk damaging the nozzles. Ink cartridges can be stored at temperatures between -15°C and 35°C (5°F and 95°F).
Thirdly (and most importantly), make sure to print with your ink cartridges at least once a month, preferably twice a month. This is to keep them from drying out. After a month with no use, you unfortunately can’t guarantee that your ink cartridges won’t be dried out.
It is more cost-effective and ecological to use compatible ink cartridges and recycle them with us. Today’s original ink cartridges contain a fraction of the amount of ink they can hold, and at the same time are priced higher than they previously were when they contained a full tank of ink. Compatible ink cartridges are more cost-effective than originals in this regard, and are more ecological than originals when you return them empty to us, as we recycle them properly.
You can read more about the differences between original, compatible and remanufactured cartridges here.
It is far more cost-effective and ecological to use our remanufactured toner cartridges in your printer than to use originals. Our remanufactured cartridges are in fact original cartridges that we have remanufactured ourselves, so the cartridge doesn’t go to waste after one use. Parts are replaced (cogs, springs, etc.) and toner is refilled, giving a toner cartridge 4+ more uses depending on the cartridge.
This means that when you buy a remanufactured toner cartridge from us, you are not paying for a whole new cartridge, while still getting a fully functioning original cartridge. It also means that for the cartridges we remanufacture, they get more uses than one out of them instead of simply being wasted when they go empty.
You can read more about our remanufacturing process here, and you can read about the difference between original, compatible and remanufactured cartridges here.
If you’re a business, we recommend getting an actual IT technician to do this. Printers and networking are both tricky, so you’re better off getting someone on your site to do it as there can be many variables involved in both that require being in-person to fix.
Wireless printing requires a network, a computer connected to the network and a printer that can connect to a network. Sometimes a driver is required, so download your drivers and store them somewhere you can find them before proceeding.
Your printer may have either an Ethernet port on the back or may be capable of WiFi connections. A quick Google will tell you if you’re unsure. Most printers have an Ethernet port on the back.
Ordinarily, when your printer is plugged into your computer and you print something, the data gets sent over the USB cable that is connected to the printer and computer. The computer is aware of the printer and can send data to it because of this cable.
For networked printing, the network acts as the cable. Your network is whatever you connect to in order to browse the internet. Your computer and your printer must be connected to the same network in order to see each other, so your computer can send data to the printer.
The first step is to make sure your computer is connected to your network. Go to any webpage to test this. When your computer is connected to your network, you need to go to your printer and connect it to the same network. When your printer is connected to the same network, you go to your computer and look for printer settings. For Windows, Linux and macOS this differs, but usually you can search your computer settings for ‘print setup’. You wish to scan for new devices and add the printer.
Connecting WiFi-enabled printers to the network:
If your printer is capable of WiFi you can use its WiFi function to connect to your network without plugging anything into your printer. For most printers, the process takes place in the ‘Network Settings’ part of the printer’s menu. The exact location and name of this differs for each printer, but is often called ‘Network Settings’ or is in ‘Settings’ and called ‘Network’, ‘Network Setup’ or ‘Network Configuration’. In the network settings of the printer, try to find your network (usually in a ‘scan for networks’, ‘connect to network’ or ‘find network’ section). When you’ve found your network, make sure it is the same network your computer is connected to. Then enter the correct password for your network and let it connect. Your printer should now be connected to your network.
Connecting non-WiFi-enabled printers to the network:
If your printer is not capable of WiFi and has an Ethernet port on the back, you simply plug this cable into your router (internet box). Your printer should now be connected to your network.
Once your computer and printer are connected to the same network, you have to now connect the computer to the printer. For this, you go to your printer settings, scan for new devices, and add your printer. Sometimes you are asked for the drivers for the printer – simply locate the drivers you downloaded and install them. There are guides below for each popular operating system.
Setting up a printer for networking is a tricky operation so if you haven’t managed to get it working for you, don’t be hard on yourself. Reach out to someone that is tech-savvy, or give us a call. Our area of expertise is more printers than it is networking, so if you can get someone that knows computers then do, as they’ve a better understanding on networking than we do.
Networking is a tricky trade, and many things can be at fault with a networked printer and a computer not connecting anymore. The main suspects would be either that your computer or printer is not connected to the same network as the other, your router is acting up, or your computer is looking for an IP address that the printer no longer uses. If nothing on your network or printer has changed, this can be difficult to diagnose without a technician.
First, try to assess if your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network. If they are, then go to your computer and try to scan for new printers/devices. If you’ve found your printer then connect to it.
If your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network but you couldn’t find your printer when scanning for it, then you can try assigning a static IP address to your printer.
Go to your printer’s network settings and give it a static IP address. You can choose the right one by going to your router’s web page. Your router’s web page can be accessed usually by visiting 192.168.1.254 in your browser (although if this doesn’t work, look at the back of your router and there should be instructions). Your login should be the same as your wireless password. If it isn’t, and others are using the network, then ask them what the password for the router’s web page is.
On the router’s web page you can view what IP addresses are being used. This is important, because you want to give your printer an IP address that is NOT being used. Sometimes the styles of the IP address differs between households – some have 192.168.1.XYZ, others have 192.168.6.XYZ. Look at the style of the IP addresses being used so you can match them, and then in the network settings of your printer, give the printer a static IP address that matches the style of IP address being used by other devices on your network but change the last three digits to something that is not used. Any three digit number between 1 and 253 that is not already an IP address of another device should work for the last three digits of the IP address you wish to assign to the printer.
When you have inputted a static IP address into your printer and it has accepted it, you can go to your computer and connect to your printer. Having a static IP address means that your printer will always ask for this address when it is connected to your network, so there should be no reason in future for your computer to not be able to find your printer on your network. First, try to assess if your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network.
Now try scanning for new printers/devices on your computer. If you’ve found your printer, connect to it.
If you weren’t successful or don’t feel confident in diagnosing the issue, feel free to contact us and we will help you.
HP
If it is not empty then the likely cause is that the firmware on your HP printer has been updated automatically.
HP update their firmware to lock you into buying their cartridges. Some of their printers have the option to disable this feature, letting you print with compatible cartridges – this is usually called HP Cartridge Protection. The option is found under different settings depending on the printer, so you will either have to Google how to disable this feature for your printer, or bring the printer in to us (we don’t charge for helping you with this).
If the feature can’t be disabled, you can always return the cartridge and we will issue a replacement. You can find all of our contact info here.
Payments, Delivery & Returns
You can use cash on collection in-store, PayPal, Visa/Mastercard debit and credit. We offer free delivery for orders over €70.
For orders placed before 3PM, we endeavour to despatch same day, to be with you the next day or the day after that.
You can view our full refund and returns policy here.
Printer Networking
If you’re a business, we recommend getting an actual IT technician to do this. Printers and networking are both tricky, so you’re better off getting someone on your site to do it as there can be many variables involved in both that require being in-person to fix.
Wireless printing requires a network, a computer connected to the network and a printer that can connect to a network. Sometimes a driver is required, so download your drivers and store them somewhere you can find them before proceeding.
Your printer may have either an Ethernet port on the back or may be capable of WiFi connections. A quick Google will tell you if you’re unsure. Most printers have an Ethernet port on the back.
Ordinarily, when your printer is plugged into your computer and you print something, the data gets sent over the USB cable that is connected to the printer and computer. The computer is aware of the printer and can send data to it because of this cable.
For networked printing, the network acts as the cable. Your network is whatever you connect to in order to browse the internet. Your computer and your printer must be connected to the same network in order to see each other, so your computer can send data to the printer.
The first step is to make sure your computer is connected to your network. Go to any webpage to test this. When your computer is connected to your network, you need to go to your printer and connect it to the same network. When your printer is connected to the same network, you go to your computer and look for printer settings. For Windows, Linux and macOS this differs, but usually you can search your computer settings for ‘print setup’. You wish to scan for new devices and add the printer.
Connecting WiFi-enabled printers to the network:
If your printer is capable of WiFi you can use its WiFi function to connect to your network without plugging anything into your printer. For most printers, the process takes place in the ‘Network Settings’ part of the printer’s menu. The exact location and name of this differs for each printer, but is often called ‘Network Settings’ or is in ‘Settings’ and called ‘Network’, ‘Network Setup’ or ‘Network Configuration’. In the network settings of the printer, try to find your network (usually in a ‘scan for networks’, ‘connect to network’ or ‘find network’ section). When you’ve found your network, make sure it is the same network your computer is connected to. Then enter the correct password for your network and let it connect. Your printer should now be connected to your network.
Connecting non-WiFi-enabled printers to the network:
If your printer is not capable of WiFi and has an Ethernet port on the back, you simply plug this cable into your router (internet box). Your printer should now be connected to your network.
Once your computer and printer are connected to the same network, you have to now connect the computer to the printer. For this, you go to your printer settings, scan for new devices, and add your printer. Sometimes you are asked for the drivers for the printer – simply locate the drivers you downloaded and install them. There are guides below for each popular operating system.
Setting up a printer for networking is a tricky operation so if you haven’t managed to get it working for you, don’t be hard on yourself. Reach out to someone that is tech-savvy, or give us a call. Our area of expertise is more printers than it is networking, so if you can get someone that knows computers then do, as they’ve a better understanding on networking than we do.
Networking is a tricky trade, and many things can be at fault with a networked printer and a computer not connecting anymore. The main suspects would be either that your computer or printer is not connected to the same network as the other, your router is acting up, or your computer is looking for an IP address that the printer no longer uses. If nothing on your network or printer has changed, this can be difficult to diagnose without a technician.
First, try to assess if your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network. If they are, then go to your computer and try to scan for new printers/devices. If you’ve found your printer then connect to it.
If your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network but you couldn’t find your printer when scanning for it, then you can try assigning a static IP address to your printer.
Go to your printer’s network settings and give it a static IP address. You can choose the right one by going to your router’s web page. Your router’s web page can be accessed usually by visiting 192.168.1.254 in your browser (although if this doesn’t work, look at the back of your router and there should be instructions). Your login should be the same as your wireless password. If it isn’t, and others are using the network, then ask them what the password for the router’s web page is.
On the router’s web page you can view what IP addresses are being used. This is important, because you want to give your printer an IP address that is NOT being used. Sometimes the styles of the IP address differs between households – some have 192.168.1.XYZ, others have 192.168.6.XYZ. Look at the style of the IP addresses being used so you can match them, and then in the network settings of your printer, give the printer a static IP address that matches the style of IP address being used by other devices on your network but change the last three digits to something that is not used. Any three digit number between 1 and 253 that is not already an IP address of another device should work for the last three digits of the IP address you wish to assign to the printer.
When you have inputted a static IP address into your printer and it has accepted it, you can go to your computer and connect to your printer. Having a static IP address means that your printer will always ask for this address when it is connected to your network, so there should be no reason in future for your computer to not be able to find your printer on your network. First, try to assess if your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network.
Now try scanning for new printers/devices on your computer. If you’ve found your printer, connect to it.
If you weren’t successful or don’t feel confident in diagnosing the issue, feel free to contact us and we will help you.
Common Printing Questions/Issues
If it is not empty then the likely cause is that the firmware on your HP printer has been updated automatically.
HP update their firmware to lock you into buying their cartridges. Some of their printers have the option to disable this feature, letting you print with compatible cartridges – this is usually called HP Cartridge Protection. The option is found under different settings depending on the printer, so you will either have to Google how to disable this feature for your printer, or bring the printer in to us (we don’t charge for helping you with this).
If the feature can’t be disabled, you can always return the cartridge and we will issue a replacement. You can find all of our contact info here.
A driver is a piece of software that allows your printer and computer to interface with each other. You can get the proper drivers for your computer from the manufacturer’s website. We offer links below to popular manufacturers, you can simply Google drivers for your printer from your printer’s manufacturer if the manufacturer is not listed below.
All inkjet printers come with this facility, and you perform it if you notice the quality of your prints deteriorating prematurely.
To perform a head clean, navigate to the settings section on your printer screen, then the maintenance tab, then perform a nozzle check. If the nozzle check is not printing as it should, perform a head clean by following the instructions on the screen.
If you don’t have a screen on your printer then the maintenance tab can be accessed via your printer properties on your computer. For Windows, click on the Windows Icon on the bottom left hand corner of your computer screen, then click on Settings (looks like a cog or gear two items up) > Devices > Printers and Scanners. Select your printer, click manage, then click on printer properties. You will find the maintenance tab at the end.
If there is no maintenance tab in your printer properties then your printer was most likely installed onto your computer automatically by Windows when you connected the printer to your computer initially. You will need to download the drivers (see the FAQ on downloading drivers) or use the CD that came with the printer and reinstall your printer drivers.
If you’re not successful in performing the head clean, you can contact us and we will help.
See the FAQ on performing a printer head clean. If this doesn’t work, feel free to contact us with the issue and we will advise you.
There are usually no diagnostic tools/settings available with laser printers. If you are having an issue with your laserjet printer, contact us with the issue and we will advise.
Original printer cartridges are the printer cartridges you can buy directly from your printer’s manufacturer. Compatible and remanufactured cartridges are a more cost-effective and ecological option to original printer cartridges.
While some people use the two words ‘compatible’ and ‘remanufactured’ interchangeably, remanufactured and compatible cartridges are in fact two completely different types of cartridge.
Compatible cartridges are cartridges that were manufactured to function in the same way as their original counterpart, usually with a higher capacity if the cartridge is an ink cartridge. Their quality and reliability can depend greatly on who manufactured the compatible cartridge, some compatible cartridges are no different to their original counterpart at all and can be relied upon just as much as the original from our experience. We don’t remanufacture ink cartridges ourselves, we simply supply compatibles from manufacturers we trust.
Remanufactured cartridges are in fact original cartridges that we have re-manufactured – we replace any parts that are worn (springs, cogs, etc.), and replace/refill the toner inside the cartridge, giving you multiple uses out of your cartridge and saving you from throwing out your cartridge when it goes empty. Our remanufacturing process:
- Allows you to get multiple uses out of your original cartridge;
- Saves you from throwing out your entire cartridge when it was simply empty, which is a much more ecological solution to the original cartridge cycle;
- Gives you piece of mind in the fact that you’re still using an original cartridge;
To put it into an analogy, when you come to us to buy a remanufactured toner cartridge, it is equivalent to going to a dealership to buy a second-hand version of a card you want, fully-serviced. When you buy a compatible cartridge, it is equivalent to buying a car that is a different make and model to the original car, made in a different factory, which can usually do the same thing as the original car.
Compatible printer cartridges from good manufacturers are fine to use with your printer. Remanufactured cartridges are a better option, allowing you to get multiple uses out of an original cartridge, keeping the reliability of original cartridges without having to throw them out when they’re empty, and at a greater level allowing for a more sustainable approach to printing.
All empty ink cartridges and toner cartridges can be returned to us; we recycle all printer cartridges. You can find our contact information, location & opening hours here.
It is especially important that you return empty toner cartridges in their original packaging, without marking the packaging. Our toner cartridge remanufacturing process relies upon receiving back used and empty toner cartridges in good condition, as well as receiving back the cartridge boxes they came in so they can be reused to reduce waste.
If you can, store your cartridges in your printer. Outside of a printer, ink cartridges can begin to dry out. If the printer uses a separate ink cartridge and printhead, the printhead can degrade if ink cartridges are not installed.
If your ink cartridges cannot be stored in your printer, please store them in an airtight plastic container, making sure to keep the nozzles upright. Make sure nothing touches the nozzles. Don’t store them in a bag as you risk damaging the nozzles. Ink cartridges can be stored at temperatures between -15°C and 35°C (5°F and 95°F).
If your toner cartridges cannot be stored in your printer, please store them horizontally in the original packaging they came in and seal the packaging as much as you can. Toner cartridges are much easier to store than ink cartridges as you don’t have to worry about ink or alcohol, and if stored correctly can last years on a shelf.
If you wish to return your printer cartridge, please refer to this FAQ.
Today’s printer consumables manufacturers produce original ink cartridges with a fraction of the ink their cartridges used to contain a decade ago. Printer manufacturers make their money off of their cartridges today, not the printer. Original ink cartridges used to be see through so that you could see the amount of ink in the cartridge, although today this isn’t the case. This is why your original cartridges don’t last long.
We do not remanufacture ink cartridges ourselves, although we do supply compatible ink cartridges from manufacturers we trust.
Ink cartridge remanufacturing and toner cartridge remanufacturing are two completely different fields, requiring totally different skills, experience and equipment. In the future we may expand our remanufacturing operations into ink cartridges, but not for now.
We currently do not test any of the ink cartridges we sell. The validity of an ink cartridge can vary greatly from printer to printer, so even if we did test ink cartridges before we supplied them, there’s a good chance they would still work differently with your printer. It is almost never the fault of the ink cartridge in these situations, but usually the printer itself.
If you have an ink cartridge that doesn’t work with your printer, or a faulty printer, feel free to contact us. We can take a look at your printer and cartridges for you, and will happily reissue an ink cartridge if we supplied you with one that did not work with your printer.
There are only a few guidelines you can follow to get more out of your ink cartridges.
Firstly, buy compatible ink cartridges you can trust. Today’s original ink cartridges contain only a fraction of the ink in their tank that they can hold, and are more expensive than prices for equivalent ink cartridges in previous years. It’s much more cost-effective and ecological to buy good quality compatible ink cartridges that will last longer naturally, than to buy original ink cartridges.
Secondly, store them correctly. If you can, store your cartridges in your printer. Outside of a printer, ink cartridges can begin to dry out. If your ink cartridges cannot be stored in your printer, please store them in an airtight plastic container, making sure to keep the nozzles upright. Make sure nothing touches the nozzles. Don’t store them in a bag as you risk damaging the nozzles. Ink cartridges can be stored at temperatures between -15°C and 35°C (5°F and 95°F).
Thirdly (and most importantly), make sure to print with your ink cartridges at least once a month, preferably twice a month. This is to keep them from drying out. After a month with no use, you unfortunately can’t guarantee that your ink cartridges won’t be dried out.
It is more cost-effective and ecological to use compatible ink cartridges and recycle them with us. Today’s original ink cartridges contain a fraction of the amount of ink they can hold, and at the same time are priced higher than they previously were when they contained a full tank of ink. Compatible ink cartridges are more cost-effective than originals in this regard, and are more ecological than originals when you return them empty to us, as we recycle them properly.
You can read more about the differences between original, compatible and remanufactured cartridges here.
It is far more cost-effective and ecological to use our remanufactured toner cartridges in your printer than to use originals. Our remanufactured cartridges are in fact original cartridges that we have remanufactured ourselves, so the cartridge doesn’t go to waste after one use. Parts are replaced (cogs, springs, etc.) and toner is refilled, giving a toner cartridge 4+ more uses depending on the cartridge.
This means that when you buy a remanufactured toner cartridge from us, you are not paying for a whole new cartridge, while still getting a fully functioning original cartridge. It also means that for the cartridges we remanufacture, they get more uses than one out of them instead of simply being wasted when they go empty.
You can read more about our remanufacturing process here, and you can read about the difference between original, compatible and remanufactured cartridges here.
If you’re a business, we recommend getting an actual IT technician to do this. Printers and networking are both tricky, so you’re better off getting someone on your site to do it as there can be many variables involved in both that require being in-person to fix.
Wireless printing requires a network, a computer connected to the network and a printer that can connect to a network. Sometimes a driver is required, so download your drivers and store them somewhere you can find them before proceeding.
Your printer may have either an Ethernet port on the back or may be capable of WiFi connections. A quick Google will tell you if you’re unsure. Most printers have an Ethernet port on the back.
Ordinarily, when your printer is plugged into your computer and you print something, the data gets sent over the USB cable that is connected to the printer and computer. The computer is aware of the printer and can send data to it because of this cable.
For networked printing, the network acts as the cable. Your network is whatever you connect to in order to browse the internet. Your computer and your printer must be connected to the same network in order to see each other, so your computer can send data to the printer.
The first step is to make sure your computer is connected to your network. Go to any webpage to test this. When your computer is connected to your network, you need to go to your printer and connect it to the same network. When your printer is connected to the same network, you go to your computer and look for printer settings. For Windows, Linux and macOS this differs, but usually you can search your computer settings for ‘print setup’. You wish to scan for new devices and add the printer.
Connecting WiFi-enabled printers to the network:
If your printer is capable of WiFi you can use its WiFi function to connect to your network without plugging anything into your printer. For most printers, the process takes place in the ‘Network Settings’ part of the printer’s menu. The exact location and name of this differs for each printer, but is often called ‘Network Settings’ or is in ‘Settings’ and called ‘Network’, ‘Network Setup’ or ‘Network Configuration’. In the network settings of the printer, try to find your network (usually in a ‘scan for networks’, ‘connect to network’ or ‘find network’ section). When you’ve found your network, make sure it is the same network your computer is connected to. Then enter the correct password for your network and let it connect. Your printer should now be connected to your network.
Connecting non-WiFi-enabled printers to the network:
If your printer is not capable of WiFi and has an Ethernet port on the back, you simply plug this cable into your router (internet box). Your printer should now be connected to your network.
Once your computer and printer are connected to the same network, you have to now connect the computer to the printer. For this, you go to your printer settings, scan for new devices, and add your printer. Sometimes you are asked for the drivers for the printer – simply locate the drivers you downloaded and install them. There are guides below for each popular operating system.
Setting up a printer for networking is a tricky operation so if you haven’t managed to get it working for you, don’t be hard on yourself. Reach out to someone that is tech-savvy, or give us a call. Our area of expertise is more printers than it is networking, so if you can get someone that knows computers then do, as they’ve a better understanding on networking than we do.
Networking is a tricky trade, and many things can be at fault with a networked printer and a computer not connecting anymore. The main suspects would be either that your computer or printer is not connected to the same network as the other, your router is acting up, or your computer is looking for an IP address that the printer no longer uses. If nothing on your network or printer has changed, this can be difficult to diagnose without a technician.
First, try to assess if your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network. If they are, then go to your computer and try to scan for new printers/devices. If you’ve found your printer then connect to it.
If your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network but you couldn’t find your printer when scanning for it, then you can try assigning a static IP address to your printer.
Go to your printer’s network settings and give it a static IP address. You can choose the right one by going to your router’s web page. Your router’s web page can be accessed usually by visiting 192.168.1.254 in your browser (although if this doesn’t work, look at the back of your router and there should be instructions). Your login should be the same as your wireless password. If it isn’t, and others are using the network, then ask them what the password for the router’s web page is.
On the router’s web page you can view what IP addresses are being used. This is important, because you want to give your printer an IP address that is NOT being used. Sometimes the styles of the IP address differs between households – some have 192.168.1.XYZ, others have 192.168.6.XYZ. Look at the style of the IP addresses being used so you can match them, and then in the network settings of your printer, give the printer a static IP address that matches the style of IP address being used by other devices on your network but change the last three digits to something that is not used. Any three digit number between 1 and 253 that is not already an IP address of another device should work for the last three digits of the IP address you wish to assign to the printer.
When you have inputted a static IP address into your printer and it has accepted it, you can go to your computer and connect to your printer. Having a static IP address means that your printer will always ask for this address when it is connected to your network, so there should be no reason in future for your computer to not be able to find your printer on your network. First, try to assess if your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network.
Now try scanning for new printers/devices on your computer. If you’ve found your printer, connect to it.
If you weren’t successful or don’t feel confident in diagnosing the issue, feel free to contact us and we will help you.
HP
If it is not empty then the likely cause is that the firmware on your HP printer has been updated automatically.
HP update their firmware to lock you into buying their cartridges. Some of their printers have the option to disable this feature, letting you print with compatible cartridges – this is usually called HP Cartridge Protection. The option is found under different settings depending on the printer, so you will either have to Google how to disable this feature for your printer, or bring the printer in to us (we don’t charge for helping you with this).
If the feature can’t be disabled, you can always return the cartridge and we will issue a replacement. You can find all of our contact info here.
Payments, Delivery & Returns
You can use cash on collection in-store, PayPal, Visa/Mastercard debit and credit. We offer free delivery for orders over €70.
For orders placed before 3PM, we endeavour to despatch same day, to be with you the next day or the day after that.
You can view our full refund and returns policy here.
Printer Networking
If you’re a business, we recommend getting an actual IT technician to do this. Printers and networking are both tricky, so you’re better off getting someone on your site to do it as there can be many variables involved in both that require being in-person to fix.
Wireless printing requires a network, a computer connected to the network and a printer that can connect to a network. Sometimes a driver is required, so download your drivers and store them somewhere you can find them before proceeding.
Your printer may have either an Ethernet port on the back or may be capable of WiFi connections. A quick Google will tell you if you’re unsure. Most printers have an Ethernet port on the back.
Ordinarily, when your printer is plugged into your computer and you print something, the data gets sent over the USB cable that is connected to the printer and computer. The computer is aware of the printer and can send data to it because of this cable.
For networked printing, the network acts as the cable. Your network is whatever you connect to in order to browse the internet. Your computer and your printer must be connected to the same network in order to see each other, so your computer can send data to the printer.
The first step is to make sure your computer is connected to your network. Go to any webpage to test this. When your computer is connected to your network, you need to go to your printer and connect it to the same network. When your printer is connected to the same network, you go to your computer and look for printer settings. For Windows, Linux and macOS this differs, but usually you can search your computer settings for ‘print setup’. You wish to scan for new devices and add the printer.
Connecting WiFi-enabled printers to the network:
If your printer is capable of WiFi you can use its WiFi function to connect to your network without plugging anything into your printer. For most printers, the process takes place in the ‘Network Settings’ part of the printer’s menu. The exact location and name of this differs for each printer, but is often called ‘Network Settings’ or is in ‘Settings’ and called ‘Network’, ‘Network Setup’ or ‘Network Configuration’. In the network settings of the printer, try to find your network (usually in a ‘scan for networks’, ‘connect to network’ or ‘find network’ section). When you’ve found your network, make sure it is the same network your computer is connected to. Then enter the correct password for your network and let it connect. Your printer should now be connected to your network.
Connecting non-WiFi-enabled printers to the network:
If your printer is not capable of WiFi and has an Ethernet port on the back, you simply plug this cable into your router (internet box). Your printer should now be connected to your network.
Once your computer and printer are connected to the same network, you have to now connect the computer to the printer. For this, you go to your printer settings, scan for new devices, and add your printer. Sometimes you are asked for the drivers for the printer – simply locate the drivers you downloaded and install them. There are guides below for each popular operating system.
Setting up a printer for networking is a tricky operation so if you haven’t managed to get it working for you, don’t be hard on yourself. Reach out to someone that is tech-savvy, or give us a call. Our area of expertise is more printers than it is networking, so if you can get someone that knows computers then do, as they’ve a better understanding on networking than we do.
Networking is a tricky trade, and many things can be at fault with a networked printer and a computer not connecting anymore. The main suspects would be either that your computer or printer is not connected to the same network as the other, your router is acting up, or your computer is looking for an IP address that the printer no longer uses. If nothing on your network or printer has changed, this can be difficult to diagnose without a technician.
First, try to assess if your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network. If they are, then go to your computer and try to scan for new printers/devices. If you’ve found your printer then connect to it.
If your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network but you couldn’t find your printer when scanning for it, then you can try assigning a static IP address to your printer.
Go to your printer’s network settings and give it a static IP address. You can choose the right one by going to your router’s web page. Your router’s web page can be accessed usually by visiting 192.168.1.254 in your browser (although if this doesn’t work, look at the back of your router and there should be instructions). Your login should be the same as your wireless password. If it isn’t, and others are using the network, then ask them what the password for the router’s web page is.
On the router’s web page you can view what IP addresses are being used. This is important, because you want to give your printer an IP address that is NOT being used. Sometimes the styles of the IP address differs between households – some have 192.168.1.XYZ, others have 192.168.6.XYZ. Look at the style of the IP addresses being used so you can match them, and then in the network settings of your printer, give the printer a static IP address that matches the style of IP address being used by other devices on your network but change the last three digits to something that is not used. Any three digit number between 1 and 253 that is not already an IP address of another device should work for the last three digits of the IP address you wish to assign to the printer.
When you have inputted a static IP address into your printer and it has accepted it, you can go to your computer and connect to your printer. Having a static IP address means that your printer will always ask for this address when it is connected to your network, so there should be no reason in future for your computer to not be able to find your printer on your network. First, try to assess if your computer and your printer are both connected to the same network.
Now try scanning for new printers/devices on your computer. If you’ve found your printer, connect to it.
If you weren’t successful or don’t feel confident in diagnosing the issue, feel free to contact us and we will help you.