Software of the Month Club 1996 August/Software of the Month Club 1996 August.iso/pc/dos/dtp/inkjet/inkjet.fil

Text File | 1996-02-02 | 42.9 KB | 1,041 lines


  43907,  7,  381
"INKJET.HI!",    319,  11025
"INKJET.FAQ",  11028,  27472
"INKJET.FL1",  27475,  30068
"INKJET.GEN",  30071,  36789
"INKJET.LO1",  36792,  39718
"INKJET.LO2",  39721,  42555
"INKJET.SAV",  42558,  43904


               The D-Jet Survival Kit

     This program was put together for owners of Hewlett-
Packard Deskjet series printers.

     Having owned a DeskJet printer since 1991, we have
gathered together much information and tips on how to
make a DeskJet printer more productive and affordable to
operate.  We remember the days when DeskJets were $700-
$800.  Today, you can buy an equivalent DeskJet printer
for under $300!  Many things have changed.  The printers
have become faster, they are engineered with more
internal fonts and memory, and even support color.

     DeskJets are very quiet, use very little power, and
are very reliable.  The only 2 complaints that I have
heard over the years are: 1) the DeskJet's inability to
support tractor feed paper and labels; and 2) the waste
of discarding an empty ink print cartridge.

     It was a result of this latter shortcoming that
motivated us to put together The D-Jet Survival Kit.  It
did not take long for us to discover the unpleasant need
to purchase new ink cartridges at $20.00 each when we
first purchased our DeskJet in 1991.  Since we did alot
of printing back then, and still do, we did not like the
idea of having to buy a new ink cartridge monthly.

     If you have owned your inkjet printer for more than
a few months then you have probably discovered that the
ink cartridge eventually runs out of ink.  Unlike dot
matrix printer ribbons, which are produced by an array of
companies, the replacement ink cartridge for the
Deskjet/Deskwriter printer is manufactured solely by
Hewlett-Packard.  In one respect this is good.  Since the
circuitry built into each cartridge is quite complex, you
want to be sure that the new replacement cartridge will
work when installed - and Hewlett-Packard is known for
quality products.  The disadvantage to a sole
manufacturer, however, is that there is no competition,
and thus the price of the cartridge is dictated by the
manufacturer.

     The price of a new replacement black cartridge (part
number 51626A) for the Deskjet series printer is $31.95
(as of Spring 1994).  This is the cost if obtained
directly from Hewlett-Packard.  If you own a Deskjet/
Deskwriter series printer and think nothing about
spending this amount every time you run out of ink, this
document will probably be of little interest to you.  But
for those who would like to save $20-$30 when replacing
their empty inkjet cartridge, then read on.

     For some, $31.95 may not sound like much to a
computer user, but it starts to add up if you use your
printer on a daily basis.  In fact, if you subtract the
cost of the printer itself, the price per printed page
produced by a inkjet printer is HIGHER than the cost of
a similar page produced on a laser printer.  The cost of
the replacement ink cartridge is what makes this so.

     But think for a minute next time you replace that
ink cartridge, "If the only thing wrong with the
cartridge is that it has run out of ink, then why can I
not refill it with more ink?"

     The cartridge itself can last a long time after it
has run out of ink.  In fact, if refilled, it is not
unusual for one cartridge to accept over a half dozen
refills before giving up the ghost.  By that time you
will have saved over $150!

     If saving money is not of interest to you, then
consider another aspect of this issue - the environment.
In the U.S.A. we are producing garbage at an enormous
rate.  The 1990's have become the decade of recycling and
environmental awareness.  To throw away an empty
cartridge when it can still be used seems wasteful.  Is
not refilling an empty but reusable cartridge a good
idea?  You save money, and decrease the amount of trash
created - what could be wrong with that?  If laser
printer owners are now recycling their used toner
cartridges, then why can't inkjet owners reuse their
empty ink cartridges?

     With these thoughts in mind, it is rather
disappointing to discover that our favorite printer
manufacturer disapproves of the refilling concept, and
hence does not provide customers with the necessary
components to refill their empty cartridges.

     Many companies have come to our rescue, however.
Inkjet refill kits are now available through a variety of
channels.  The only drawback is that many of these kits
are not cheap.  Although you still come out ahead by
refilling your empty inkjet cartridges by using the
commercial kits, you would save much more money if you
could obtain the ink and syringe locally.

     For the do-it-yourselfer, the ink and syringe(s) can
be obtained locally at a very small cost, normally under
$6.00.  By the way, you are not limited to refilling your
empty cartridge with just black ink.  You can refill your
empty cartridges with colored ink, if you so choose.

     For those readers who think that The D-Jet Survival
Kit is some sort of gimmick, a joke, a scam or a rip-off,
here is a letter from a DJSK registrant from Nigeria,
AFRICA (of all places!).  The registrant followed the
tips and used an ink that we suggested in the database
provided by The D-Jet Survival Kit:



2 September 1992

Philip Kapusta
P O Box 5423
Falmouth, Va. 22403

Dear Philip Kapusta

As human beings, some authors appreciate
hearing from users who are impressed with
their products.  That is why I am writing to
thank you for developing the D-JET SURVIVAL
KIT.

The name of your product is very appropriate.
The problem here [Nigeria, AFRICA] is the
availability of the print cartridge and not
the cost.  At $40 per piece (you won't believe
this), one is happy to buy one when available.
But often, it is not in stock in computer
shops.

The beauty of the kit is that the refill ink
(------ -----, brand name withheld), is
available in most bookshops and disposable
syringes are available in most chemists.  I
had to go back to my dot-matrix while waiting
for the order of the cartridge to arrive.  I
was still waiting while the [D-Jet Survival]
kit arrived and within a couple of hours I was
back using the DeskJet again!

Thanks, once again.

Sincerely,

B.S.O.

P.S. This letter is printed with my newly
refilled cartridge.  Although there aren't
many DeskJet users here yet, I would like to
spread the good news if I can get an
unregistered copy.




     If you would like to learn how to refill your empty
Deskjet/Deskwriter ink cartridges then proceed on to the
"Refill tips/notes" file (selection 2 from the Main
Menu).


But that's not all!:

     Although the issue of refilling cartridges is what
sparked the original thought behind this program, The D-
Jet Survival Kit is more than just a tutorial on
refilling.

     We have put together a collection of utilities that
will make your DeskJet more productive.  An address
grabber, a micro-print text utility, printer ESC code
utilities, and more.  All of these utilities are fully
functional in the shareware evaluation copy.  The only
things that have been withheld from the UNregistered
evaluation copy is the database of supplies and sources,
and instructions on how to refill the 51626A and 51625A
cartridges.  We have had a small number of users complain
about this (i.e., why we withhold this information until
registration is received)...actually only 2 complaints
over a period of 5 years, but we feel that we are not
being unreasonable.

     First, the database of supplies is large, and is
subject to changes and updates.  We felt that it was
needful to insure an up-to-date database, and providing
it with the registered copy was one way to guarantee that
the information contained in the database would be
current.

     Secondly, concerning instructions on refilling the
51626A and 51625A cartridges...  We have withheld this
information to encourage registration.  Even a cynic can
see that quite a bit of time has gone into the
development of this program.  The D-Jet Survival Kit is
more than a bunch of text files slapped together.  Some
of the utilities included with TDJSK could stand by
themselves.  We have spent hundreds of dollars testing
inks, papers, labels, not to mention the cost of several
printers, and dozens of hours in order to bring this
information to you.  We do not feel that it is
unreasonable to expect compensation for our labors.  If
we could have obtained all the valuable tips and
information in this program back in 1991 for under $20,
we would have jumped at such an offer in a flash.

     If you still have fears about registering, and need
to talk to us, or if you need us to answer any questions,
you can reach the author at our BBS at [phone] or
via the Internet: [e-mail]

     One last comment, while we are on this topic.
Whenever Hewlett-Packard comes out with a new DeskJet
model, it never fails that someone writes us to ask
whether The D-Jet Survival Kit will support the new
printer model.  Our answer is normally, "We don't know."
Very few people realize that during the past 6 years
Hewlett-Packard has come out with 13 models of the
DeskJet line: DeskJet 1200, DeskJet 850C, DeskJet 660C,
DeskJet 600C, DeskJet 560C, DeskJet 550C, DeskJet 540C,
DeskJet 500C, DeskJet 520, DeskJet 500, DeskJet 320,
DeskJet Plus, and the original DeskJet, not to mention
H/P's plain paper fax machine that uses an ink cartridge.
If we had to purchase one of each of the printers above,
we would have spent over $6500!  We cannot afford to run
out and buy the latest DeskJet every 6 months.  We are
always interested in hearing if the program does not work
with a new model, and we will attempt to find a solution,
however do not send us hate mail if the program will not
work with your brand new printer.  If you have a question
as to compatibility, and wish a response, do us the
courtesy of supplying a self-addressed stamped envelope,
or leave a message on our BBS.  Thank you.


Registration:

     This utility is being distributed as shareware
software.  We ask that you register this utility with the
author.  Upon receipt of your registration you will be
sent the current version of this utility which includes
a useful database listing what inks to use in the refill
process.  This database also includes:

     1) Recommended paper to use with inkjet printers
(not all paper is created equal).

     2) Distributors of inkjet refill kits.

     3) Refill services for those who do not wish to
refill their own cartridges, yet would still like to save
money and recycle their empty cartridges.



■

Frequently asked questions:

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: My DeskJet print is connected to LPT2 port instead of
LPT1.  How do I get your programs to work with my
printer?

A: If your printer is attached to LPT2, and not LPT1 then
add the "LPT2" parameter to your command line when
starting the program.  For example, when you start TDJSK
next time from the DOS prompt, enter:  INKJET LPT2  then
press [ENTER].  This will instruct the program to send
all output through the LPT2 printer port.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: I really don't think refilling ink cartridges is a
good idea.  Hewlett-Packard warns you not to refill a
cartridge, and I am afraid I might ruin my printer if I
make a mistake refilling.

A: Refilling may not be for everyone.  We fully
understand the apprehension that you might feel towards
refilling an ink cartridge, especially in the light of
Hewlett-Packard's warnings.  We have a solution that will
make you feel better, however.  Rather than refill your
empty ink cartridges, donate them to a worthy cause.
Mail them to us at: 406 Monroe Avenue, Falmouth, VA
22405.  We will be happy to take them off your hands for
you.  Now, doesn't that make you feel better?

P.S. We are serious.  Rather than toss that empty
cartridge into the landfill, recycle your cartridges.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: Can any of the refill kits themselves be refilled?

A: All refill kits that third party vendors sell can be
refilled.  The simplest example can be illustrated with
the "Graphic Utilities" kit.  Their "kit" for inludes an
accordion-style squeeze bottle that can be refilled by
compressing it between your fingers while inserting the
needle tube into a bottle of ink, and then releasing.
The release action will draw ink back into the accordian
pump. Then you can use that ink to refill an empty
cartridge.  Personally I prefer a hypodermic syringe,
which obviously can be reused over and over again.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: What do you think of these "refill stations" and
"reinking carousels" that are appearing on the market?

A: Our response to this question ties into the previous
answer as you will see in a second.  The "refill
stations" and "carousels" that first appeared in 1995 do
indeed work, however, they are not necessary if you
follow the instructions included in this program.  These
kits sell for $16 to $30, and for those users who do not
feel confident with a bottle of ink and a syringe, these
"refill systems" are good alternatives.  However, since
each "refill station" itself requires a custom,
proprietary ink capsule or tank, you will be limited to
one supplier, and the price per capsule will be much
higher than if you refilled your own cartridges using a
syringe and the instructions provided herein.

The "refill stations" and "carousels" which do use
proprietary ink tanks and capsules can themselves be
refilled, preventing you from having to buy capsules and
tanks at $8-$15 each.  However why would you want to
refill a refill station?  If you did attempt to refill a
"refill station", you would have to use a syringe and
bottle of ink.  And if you use a syringe to refill the
"refill station" tank, then why not just directly inject
the ink into the empty HP cartridge instead of the
"refill station" tank?  It would appear to us that you
are wasting more time in refilling the tank than if just
instead refilled the empty cartridge directly.  Why not
just toss the tank and "refill station" into the trash
can and inject the ink directly into your cartridge?

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: Can I refill the "refill tank" that comes with Graphic
Utilities' "KleanHands Refill System"?

A: Yes, you can.  Graphic Utilities' "KleanHands Refill
System" comes with a refill tank, which is placed over
top of their custom refill station.  A needle pierces a
rubber plug at the bottom of the refill tank, which then
causes the ink in the tank to flow down into the waiting
cartridge below.  Once the refill tank is empty, the tank
itself can be refilled by using a syringe, and inserting
the syringe into the scar mark in the rubber plug at the
base of the tank.  The rubber plug is flexible enough to
cover over the previous pierce hole, preventing ink from
flowing back out.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: If I have any questions or problems with the program,
how can I contact you?

A: You can contact the author via Compuserve.  Our user
ID is 74170,3550.  If you are using the Internet, you may
address mail to: [e-mail].  If you want to
receive a quicker response, leaving a message on our BBS
is best.  Our BBS can be connected at N-8-1 at (540) 372-
9680.  Leave a message posted to SYSOP.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: It appears that the micro-print utility does not print
a full page of text when using landscape mode.

A: The reason for this is due to the attempt to support
A4 (European) paper sizes.  We do receive many
registrations from overseas, where 8½" x 11" paper is not
found, but rather A4 (which is longer and NARROWER than
our American paper).  Since the A4 paper is narrower, it
requires that the number of lines be reduced when
printing in landscape mode.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: What is "The Paper Saver"?

A: We realize that the micro-print utility found within
The DJet Survival Kit is not as flexible as it could be.
When we were confronted with how to make everybody happy,
we decided rather to start from scratch and write a new
program that does nothing but micro-printing.  Our "spin-
off" micro-print utility is the solution to most of our
user's complaints.  The new program is called
appropriately "The Paper Saver", and can be found either
on this disk or from our BBS at [phone].

The Paper Saver provides more flexibility via a
configuration panel/menu, so that European users and
American users can customize their output to their
liking.  If you do alot of ASCII text printing, we
strongly recommend that you look at The Paper Saver as a
solution to your problem.

As a way of saying thanks to our "DJet Survival Kit"
customers, we make the following offer...  If you have
registered TDJSK in the past 30 days, you can take half
price off the normal registration cost of "The Paper
Saver".

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: When using the micro-print feature in 2-page landscape
mode, the program does not prompt me prior to printing as
to whether I want the file name printed on the output.

A: This shortcoming has been addressed in "The Paper
Saver" program (see note above).

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: Can I have the date printed on the micro-print output?

A: No, but this feature is available in "The Paper Saver"
program (see note above).

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: Can I modify or add to the existing database files
that accompany the program?

A: The files with an extension of .DBF are dBase III
compatible, and records inside the .DBF file can be
modified by any program that supports the dBase III
format (like Alpha 4, FoxPro, etc.)  Feel free to expand
upon the provided database of supplies and vendors.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q:  The ALT+E hot key combination that is used to
activate the address grabber TSR utility is already being
used by my word processor.

A: There is an alternative hot-key that you can used,
instead.  When you start the DJ_GRAB utility from the DOS
prompt next time, add the command line parameter ALTG
(one word, no spaces).  Example --> DJ_GRAB ALTG  press
[ENTER].  This will enable the hot-key ALT+G combination
instead of the default ALT+E.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: Can the graphic illustrations showing how to refill
empty ink cartridges be printed?

A: Unfortunately they cannot be printed.  The graphic
illustrations are available only "on-screen".  The
accompanying text tutorials CAN be printed out, but not
the graphics.

This brings up a related question concerning copyrights.
The graphics, text and the program itself is not to be
redistributed to others.  This information and program is
copyrighted, and cannot be distributed or resold without
prior approval from the author.  You surely can share the
knowledge that you have gained with others as a result of
using The DJet Survival Kit, but to copy the text or
graphics that accompanies this program would be a
violation of U.S. copyright laws.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: Can the older 51626A high-capacity black cartridges be
used in the newer 600C and 660C DeskJets?

A: No.  For all practical purposes, both the black and
tri-color cartridges that are used in the 500 series can
NOT be used in the newer 600 series DeskJets.  Although
the cartridges look almost identical, and internally they
are, the outside shrouds (tops) are physically different
and the circuitry is different.

You can tell the difference between the older and newer
cartridges by the colored covers on top of the cartridge.
The 51626A (black) and 51625A (color) cartridges which
are used in the 500 series both have green tops, whereas
the 51649A (color) and 51629A (black) cartridges have
blueish gray tops.

Obviously the color of the tops do not prevent you from
using an older (green) cartridge in a 600 series printer,
or vice versa.  What will prevent you from swapping
cartridges from the 500 to 600 series are the printer
cradle, cartridge shrouds and circuitry.  The newer 600
series cartridges have a physical plastic tab or
protrusion that prevents their placement into a 500 or
earlier series printer.  Likewise, the cradle on a 600
series DeskJet has a matching tab or protrusion that
prevents older cartridges from snapping into it.  And
lastly, even if you were to modify the cradles in the
600's (we actually tried this), the 600 series can detect
when a "foreign" cartridge has been installed via the
circuit ribbon on the cartridge face, and will refuse to
print.

So to make it perfectly clear, I repeat...the 51626A and
51625A 500 series ink cartridges will NOT work in any 600
series printer.  However, now for the good news...

If you have a 500 series DeskJet, you can REFILL and use
the 600 series ink cartridges with a DJ+, 500, 550C and
560C printer.  Here's how...

Remember that from the above details that the "tabs" or
"protrusions" prevent the newer 600 series cartridges
from snapping into the 500 series printer cradle.  If one
could just remove the "tabs" on the cartridges then one
could use a 600 series cartridge in an older 500 series
printer.

For instance, if you wanted to use a 51649A (color)
cartridge in a 500 series printer, all you would have to
do is use a rasp file and file down the tab which
protrudes from the cartridge shroud.  That's it!  You can
accomplish this in less than 5 minutes.  Once the tab is
removed, you can proceed to refill the 51649A as per the
instructions included in this program.

If you wanted to use a 600 series 51629A (black)
cartridge in a 500 series printer, you must be more
careful.  The engineers at HP knew that someone would try
to file down the protruding tab on the newer cartridges.
As a result, they made the task more challenging.  If you
were to file down the tab on a BRAND NEW 51629A
cartridge, you would quickly find black ink emerging from
under your rasp file.  Yes, the tab is hollow, and filing
down the tab will cause the cartridge to leak.  This
surprise "hole" applies to the black cartridges only.
The 51649A color cartridges do not have this problem.

Getting back to the 600 series black cartridge...what do
we do with this hole that we discovered upon filing off
the tab?  The solution is easy.  First, NEVER attempt to
file down the tab on a NEW or partially filled 51629A
black cartridge.  Rather, wait until the 51629A cartridge
is empty, THEN when you are ready to refill the
cartridge, only THEN proceed to file down the tab.  This
will prevent ink from leaking out the hole.  What does
one do with the hole that is created?  Simple...just use
a drop of fast-drying epoxy or "super glue" to close the
hole.  Make sure you use some quick drying epoxy (the
thicker the better) so that the epoxy does not fall
through the hole before it has a chance to "set".  Also,
the quick drying epoxy will reduce the amount of time you
leave the print head exposed.  If at all possible, place
the cartridge in a parking garage or station to keep the
print head from drying out.  Once the epoxy has set or
dried, refill the cartridge as shown in the accompanying
illustration for the 51626A/51629A (method #1).  Once
refilled in this manner, the 600 series 51629A (black)
cartridge can be used in a DeskJet Plus, 500, 550, 550C
or 560C printer.

Why would anyone want to interchange 600 series
cartridges with 500's?  It may be that you have a friend
or employer that uses 600 series cartridges with their
printers, but they don't want to bother refilling them.
Rather than see them discard empty cartridges, you can
ask your friend or employer for the empty 600 series
cartridges, and you take them home where you have a 500
series printer.  You modify and refill the 600 series
cartridges according to the instructions above, and
presto! you have just saved $25 per cartridge!

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: My eyes have a difficult time with the default screen
colors of white on blue.

A: We have provided an alternative color layout which
should solve your problem.  Start the program next time
from the DOS prompt: INKJET BLACK  then press [ENTER].
This will force the background from blue to black, which
should result in better contrast with the foreground
text.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: Do you have any information on how to refil Canon
BubbleJet ink cartridges?

A: We realize that the DeskJet is not the only inkjet
printer on the market.  Canon, Kodak and even Panasonic
have their own line of inkjet printers.  Unfortunately
this program was written specifically for the DeskJet
series of printers.  You may find that some of the
functions also work with other non-HP printers, however
we cannot guarantee 100% compatibility.

Also, we receive frequent queries concerning refilling
techniques and sources for ink for non-HP cartridges.
Nearly all of the ink suppliers listed in the database
also carry inks for Canon, Epson and Kodak cartridges.
Although this program was written for the DeskJet series
printers, owners of other printers still may find some
use for the program as a result of this database source
for ink suppliers.

--------------------------------------------------------

Q: It is difficult for me living overseas to secure a
money order to pay the registration fee.

A: A frequent question that is asked by our "overseas"
customers concerns the registration payment.  If you have
access to Compuserve, you can register "The DJet Survival
Kit" via their shareware registration service (GO SWREG).
There is an additional processing fee of 15% when using
this service, however, since Compuserve takes a slice of
the registration fee out for adminstrative purposes.

An alternative is to use an American Express credit card.
Currently this is the only credit card we are accepting.
Add a 5% processing fee to your order when using American
Express.

Lastly, if obtaining an international money order is too
expensive, you may choose to pay by CASH in your native
currency.  There is a risk in mailing cash in the mail,
but this form of payment is acceptable if you wish to
take the risk.  This option is only valid if you live in
Canada, Europe, The United Kingdom or Australia.

--------------------------------------------------------


(C) Copyright 1991-96 by Philip P. Kapusta
■

     These tips are for those who are interested in using
a color other than black in the original low-capacity
inkjet cartridge (HP 51608A) and its replacement HP
51633A now found in the DeskJet 320 portable printers.

     Unlike its PaintJet cousin, the DeskJet, DeskJet
Plus, and DeskJet 500 use only a black ink cartridge.  Up
until the introduction of the DeskJet 500C, color was not
available on a DeskJet series printer.  The 500C was the
first DeskJet that allowed you to print with colors.  If
you do not own a 500C, 550C, or 560C, however, printing
with colors is still a possibility.

     Obviously, the first thing that must be done is to
remove as much black ink residue from your empty
51608A/51633A ink cartridge as possible.  The removal
process involves flushing a cartridge that has been
filled with distilled water.  Hence, these tips have been
placed in the "Flush ink cartridge" category in the "DJet
Survival Kit" Main Menu.

     Buy yourself a jug of distilled water, and then fill
your EMPTY inkjet cartridge with the water (tap water is
not recommended due to the chemical contents of drinking
water).  Insert the cartridge into your printer, and
start the "DJet Survival Kit" program.  From the program,
select the "3) Flush ink cartridge" option, and choose
"2) Heavy flush" which will produce a solid color
printout.  Insert 40 pages of scrap 8.5" x 11" paper (you
do recycle your paper, don't you?).  I use the back side
of used copier paper I bring home from the office.  Run
the flush program for approximately 6 pages of output.
Stop the process, remove the cartridge, refill it again
with distilled water, reinsert the cartridge, and use the
heavy flush option again from the program.  Repeat this
cycle until you have printed 36 sheets of output.  You
should notice that the output color becomes lighter and
lighter.  It may take three refills of distilled water
until you get clear output.  When you are satisfied that
all the black has been removed, refill the cartridge with
a colored ink.  Once refilled with your new color, you
still should flush the cartridge for 6-10 pages until a
deep color appears.

     Yellow is the hardest color to prepare an empty
cartridge for, but it can be done.  Personally, I prefer
using an empty HP51626A high capacity cartridge for color
ink refills, but for those who find refilling the high
capacity cartridge too tricky, these tips have been
provided.

--------------------------------------------------------

(C) Copyright 1991-96 by Philip P. Kapusta

■


General tips on ink refilling:

The following tips and notes apply to all of the DeskJet
series printers (unless otherwise indicated).  Please
read them completely prior to refilling any cartridge.

1. Be careful with the ink you use for refilling.  If the
refill ink becomes contaminated with dust or foreign
particles, the jet nozzles may plug up.

2. Never touch the bottom of the cartridge with your
fingers - the jet nozzles are quite delicate.

3. The ink that you use must have specific
characteristics: namely, it must be filtered to the point
that there are no particulates, it must contain no
contaminants, no chemicals that may react with the jet
nozzles, and it must have anti-coagulant characteristics.
A water-based ink best fits these requirements.  See "The
DJet Survival Kit" database for recommended inks.

4. Most inks on the market are NOT water-proof.  They may
boast to be water-proof, but from experience we have
found that they are not.  The most that can be said of
the inks are that they are "indelible", meaning that it
will be impossible to remove the ink from the paper to
which it has been applied.  But an ink can be indelible
(i.e., being unable to erase) and yet not be water-proof.
One of the vendors in the "Special inks" database has a
"pigmented" ink, which comes as close to a water-proof
ink that you will be able to purchase.

5. If you plan not to use the refilled cartridge in your
printer for several weeks or months, the cartridge should
be protected and totally covered to reduce the ink from
drying in the nozzles and through the vent hole.  Do not
use tape with adhesive, NOR floppy disk write-protect
tabs to cover the jet nozzle area - for the adhesive will
clog the nozzles.  You can purchase a cartridge garage
from HP Parts Dept. for approximately $30 that will house
two cartridges (one color, one black).  A less expensive
method ($4-$10) is to purchase a refill stand/holder from
one the suppliers mentioned in "The DJet Survival Kit"
database.  A real CHEAP solution is to use clear plastic
wrap (like Saran Wrap, the thicker the better) and wrap
it tightly around the entire cartridge.  Using an 8"x8"
sheet of plastic, place the cartridge in the middle of
it, nozzle head down, and pull the corners of the wrap
upward around the cartridge.  Twist the wrap at the top
of the cartridge until all slack is removed.  Fasten with
a wire tie.

6. The life of a low capacity or color ink cartridge
depends on how cleanly the cartridge is maintained and on
whether or not you let the sponge material dry out inside
the cartridge.  A completely dried out cartridge may
accumulate particles near the jet nozzles and recovery
may be difficult.  The worst thing you can do to a ink
cartridge is to just let it sit in your printer for long
extended periods of time.

7. Refilling a cartridge BEFORE it runs out of ink
extends the life of the cartridge because it prevents the
jet nozzles (which are miniature electrical heaters) from
overheating with no ink.

8. If a jet aperture (hole) becomes clogged, put a drop
of rubbing alcohol or denatured alcohol on the nozzle
area and let it soak for a few minutes before wiping off.
You can also place a small amount of the alcohol in a
shallow dish or cup, and place the cartridge nozzle end
down into it for a few minutes.

9. Make sure not to touch or get ink on the electrical
circuit contacts on the side of the cartridge.  Use
tissue soaked with rubbing alcohol to clean the contacts
before reinstalling the cartridge into the printer.

10. Even in states where hypodermic needles are
prescription items, most people can obtain syringes and
needles from a doctor or veterinarian.  If you live in
the country, a farm and tack supply is also an excellent
and hassle-free source for syringes and needles.

11. The sharp tip of the syringe needle can be filed down
to reduce the risk of accidental injury.

12. After refilling, do not rinse the syringe under tap
water unless you can insure that the syringe is
completely dried before reusing.

13. Be safe.  Keep all ink, hypodermic needles and
syringes out of the reach of small children.

14. It does not hurt to wear a pair of latex gloves
during the refill process, especially if you are prone to
clumsiness.  Be careful where you attempt to refill your
cartridge.  You don't want ink all over your desk,
computer, pants and carpet should you knock over your
bottle of refill ink.

15. If your attempt to refill a cartridge results in
fuzzy output when printing, and priming the cartridge
does not solve the problem, try using a different brand
of paper.  The type of paper you use can make a big
difference in the quality of output.  See "The DJet
Survival Kit" database for recommended paper brands.

16. After you have injected all the ink necessary into
your empty cartridge, wipe any excess ink from the
cartridge jets.  Use a soft tissue or paper towel wadded
up.  Brush the surface lightly with the tissue  Do not
try to remove all the ink from the surface of the jets.
The idea is to remove excess ink.  If ink continues to
leak from the jets, then you have done something wrong.
Go back over the refilling instructions.  Never install
a leaking cartridge back into your printer.

17. It would be wise to have a new unused cartridge
available when refilling just in case the refilled
cartridge is damaged.

18. If your refilled cartridge becomes partially or
totally clogged, try the alcohol soaking tip above.
Also, try cleaning the cartridge and cradle electrical
contacts with alcohol.  If this doesn't help, try gently
blowing into the cartridge vent hole (low capacity
cartridges ONLY!).  Watch out when blowing into a
cartridge - ink will drip out the jet nozzles in the
process, but this usually gets the ink flowing again.  If
all this fails to produce acceptable print, it may be
that your cartridge should be discarded.  Cartridges do
eventually wear out or become defective.

19. Do not inject ink too quickly into an empty
cartridge, else you may increase internal pressure to
levels that can damage the jets.

20. Be aware that Hewlett-Packard does not approve of
refilling an empty ink cartridge.  They strongly
discourage the use of refill kits.  They go as far as
stating that your printer's warranty may be voided if you
attempt to refill an empty ink cartridge.

(C) Copyright 1991-96 by Philip P. Kapusta

───────────────────────────────────────────────────────

     Disclaimer: We will not be held legally responsible
for any damages that may arise due to the refilling
process.
■

Refilling the HP 51608A low-capacity cartridge:

     The following is a list of tips/notes on re-inking
the original HP Deskjet/Deskwriter HP 51608A (low
capacity) cartridges.

     A full Deskjet/Deskwriter 51608A cartridge holds
approximately 0.5 ounce of ink.  If the cartridge is
empty, inject approximately 15 cc (0.5 oz.) of ink.  This
may vary depending upon the method you choose to refill
your cartridge.  If the cartridge is upright (vertical),
you will be able to inject more ink into the cartridge
before the ink begins to back out of the vent hole.  If
you choose to lay the cartridge down in a horizontal
position when refilling, then less ink should be used.

     Do not drill a hole into the top of the cartridge -
you run the risk of introducing plastic shavings into the
cartridge chamber.  The original vent hole at the top of
the cartridge is more than large enough through which to
inject ink.

     The suggested method of refilling an empty ink
cartridge is to use a syringe with a hypodermic needle to
inject the ink directly into the foam retainer pad inside
the cartridge.

     Use a 20 cc syringe with a 1.5"-2" long needle (#16,
18 or 20 gauge) - the longer the better.  Insert the
needle through the vent hole on top of the cartridge (the
1/16" hole in the molded arrow).  SLOWLY inject the ink.
If you inject the ink too quickly, it will bubble out of
the vent hole.

     The preferred method of refilling is to place the
cartridge at a 45° position, and insert needle and
syringe into the vent hole, and slowly depress the
syringe plunger (see graphic illustration).

     Stop the injection process at any sign of ink
leaking from the bottom of the cartridge.  If leakage
continues, place the cartridge somewhere where the excess
ink can drip out without causing too much of a mess.
Don't leave it alone too long, else the jet nozzles may
dry up with ink.

     When refilling ink cartridges, some residual ink may
build up on the nose area around the jet apertures.  You
can use rubbing alcohol or distilled water to clean the
area to prevent ink streaks on the printed output.  Be
very careful and gentle when cleaning this area.  Pat dry
with a clean and soft tissue.

     Prime the refilled cartridge in the printer as you
would a new cartridge before using.  Some people
experience an airlock with low-capacity cartridges after
refilling, which can be worked out by repeated priming.
The early DeskJet series had a "PRIME" button on the
front printer panel.  This was later replaced with a
"CLEAN" button on the color DeskJets, and unfortunately
removed altogether with the 540 model.

(C) Copyright 1991-95 by Philip P. Kapusta

───────────────────────────────────────────────────────

     Disclaimer: We will not be held legally responsible
for any damages that may arise due to the refilling
process.


■

Refilling the HP51633A low-capacity cartridge:

     The following is a list of tips/notes on re-inking
the HP Deskjet/Deskwriter HP51633A (low capacity)
cartridges, found most commonly in the DeskJet 320
portable printers.

     1. A full Deskjet/Deskwriter 51633A cartridge holds
about 0.5 ounces of ink.  If the cartridge is empty,
inject approximately 15 cc (0.5 oz.) of ink.  This may
vary depending upon the method you choose to refill your
cartridge.  If the cartridge is upright (vertical), you
will be able to inject more ink into the cartridge before
the ink begins to back out of the refill hole.  If you
choose to lay the cartridge down in a horizontal position
when refilling, then less ink should be used.

     2. Do not drill a hole into the top of the cartridge
- you run the risk of introducing plastic shavings into
the cartridge chamber.  The original vent hole at the top
of the cartridge is more than large enough through which
to inject ink.

     3. The suggested method of refilling an empty ink
cartridge is to use a syringe with a hypodermic needle to
inject the ink directly into the foam retainer pad inside
the cartridge.

     4. Before refilling the 51633A cartridge, the white
plastic plug that is located in the top of the green
cover must be removed.  Use a knife blade to pry the
white plug out of its hole.  Once removed, keep the plug
in a safe place, for you will need to reinstall it once
the cartridge has been refilled.

     5. Use a 20 cc syringe with a 1.5"-2" long needle
(#16, 18 or 20 gauge) - the longer the better.  Insert
the needle through the vent hole on top of the cartridge
(the 1/16" hole in the molded arrow).  SLOWLY inject the
ink.  If you inject the ink too quickly, it will bubble
out of the vent hole.

     6. The preferred method of refilling is to place the
cartridge at a 45° position, and insert needle and
syringe into the vent hole, and slowly depress the
syringe plunger (see graphic illustration).

     7. Stop the injection process at any sign of ink
leaking from the bottom of the cartridge.  If leakage
continues, place the cartridge somewhere where the excess
ink can drip out without causing too much of a mess.
Don't leave it alone too long, else the jet nozzles may
dry up with ink.

     8. Once the cartridge has been filled with ink,
place the white plastic plug that was removed in step 4
back into the refill hole.  The plug is necessary to keep
the proper equilibrium inside the cartridge when the
printer is used at high altitudes (like in airplanes).

(C) Copyright 1991-95 by Philip P. Kapusta

───────────────────────────────────────────────────────

     Disclaimer: We will not be held legally responsible
for any damages that may arise due to the refilling
process.


■

The Paper Saver

Please forgive the sales pitch, but...  We also have a
"spin-off" program called "The Paper Saver" that may be
of interest to you IF your primary interest in "The DJet
Survival Kit" program is the micro-printing feature.

"The Paper Saver" is a super-deluxe version of the micro-
print 2/4/8 page on 1 sheet utility that is found within
"The DJet Survival Kit".  "The Paper Saver" has a
complete drive/directory/file menu listing that is much
easier to navigate (similar to DOSSHELL and Windows' File
Manager).  "The Paper Saver" and can print in many more
combinations of page formats than "The DJet Survival
Kit".  You can customize the header, footer, margins,
font height, lines per page and draft/letter quality
print modes.  "The Paper Saver" can even print center-
stapled booklets and can be run from the DOS command
line.  The program also has support for laser printers.
Totally menu driven, with an uncluttered attractive
interface.

If you are interested in test-driving a fully functional
demo of "The Paper Saver", you can download a copy from
our BBS (540-372-9680  N-8-1).  The file can be
downloaded quickly as "SAVER*.ZIP".  If you use "The DJet
Survival Kit" solely for the micro-print utility feature,
then it definitely will be worth your time to check out
"The Paper Saver".
■