msrpiq

Epson has recently introduced a new fancy technology used with some of its inkjet cartridges, namely the Intellidge chip, also known as Integrated Circuit (or IC, for short) chip. It performs a few fairly important functions, such as communicating to the printer and the computer when your ink levels are getting low and it's time to replace the cartridge. It also identifies the cartridge model and ink color to the printer to prevent the use of wrong cartridge. While it is useful, many people have discovered what hassle it can be if you are trying to refill such a cartridge yourself. It's not as intelligent as the name would suggest and seems to think that the cartridge is empty even after it has been refilled, making printing outright difficult, since the software complains that the ink is depleted and may even refuse to print. To circumvent the problem, several companies now manufacture the so-called "inkjet chip resetters", which are used, as the name suggests, to reset the chip on Epson cartridges so that it believes it's full once again.

While there are a couple of different models, they all function pretty much the same way. These resetters are small devices with their own batteries that are really easy to use and only reset the "empty" indicator, so the printer has no way of detecting that the cartridge was refilled. One such resetter, Multi-Model Resetter, model #R168-III, manufactured by Repeat-O-Type sells for $24.95 and can be used to reset the Intellidge chip on any Epson cartridge. Another, Universal Chip Resetter, model number SK168, costs $19.95. That does add significantly to the cost of refilling, but these can be used as many times as you need and will pay for themselves in the long run.

The actual process of resetting the chip is very easy. The resetter has seven prongs that are matched with the chip's holes. Once it is paired with the chip, the LED on top of the resetter will light up in case of the Multi-Model Resetter and after holding it in that position for three seconds, the LED should start flashing, which means the reset is complete. The Universal Chip Resetter works the same way, except the LED does not turn on when you pair the resetter with the cartridge, so you just need to hold it there for three (3) seconds and, again, make sure the LED is flashing upon completion. If that doesn't happen, your inkjet chip resetter has either run out of juice itself, in which case you just need to replace the AA batteries, or the chip is damaged, in which case there isn't much you can do.

Improve the quality of pictures printed using Cannon printer cartridge by visiting http://www.findinkcartridges.com, a popular inkjet cartridge website that provides information on extending the life of Hewlett Packard printer cartridges.

Everyone thinks, it wont happen to me. But what if it does? All your files, pictures and documents gone, in an instant. Sure, you can reach for the disks that came with your computer to reinstall the applications but what about the most important component, your data? Data backup is something too many computer owners ignore.

There are a number of things that can bring down your computer, some of which include a power surge, hard drive crash, careless mistakes, viruses, a fire or theft.

If your system did not come with a recovery disc, you should consider making a backup disc as soon as possible. This is important should you ever need to rebuild your system to its as bought condition.

How often you back up your data varies from person to person. It depends on the volume of data input, frequency of change, and the nature of your data. A general rule of thumb would be to back up anything that would be difficult and time-consuming to re-create.

How to backup data:

If you have Windows XP, it includes backup software; however, if youre running on Home Edition, it isnt installed by default. Once the software is installed, go to the Start menu and choose accessories, then system tools, then backup in order to run the backup wizard. On the final screen, you can press the advanced button which will allow you to automatically schedule recurring backups. The wizard also allows you to create a system recovery disc which will enable you to boot and rescue your data should Windows get damaged. At the end of this article, you will find a list of programs and software that can do the data backup for you.

You may think youd like to back up everything you have in your computer. However, there is no need to back up software and applications since these can be reinstalled with the original discs. Most Windows programs now have a default for storing data within your user profile.

Backup programs:

There are a number of programs that perform data backup for you, some of which are described here. Ghost 9.0 creates full drive images, IBackup copies files to remote databases, and Dantzs Retrospect Professional 6.5 is a traditional backup tool. There is also free software available for data backup. For instance, Backup4 protects your data and features an easy backup wizard that allows you to schedule backups whenever you like. Disk Tools Image Maker is an easy-to-use disk imaging tool which allows you to create exact images of your entire drive. It works directly from within Windows so there is no need to boot from a floppy. Handy Backup is another software which makes an automatic backup of critical data to any type of storage medium.

Backup Tips:

Here are a few tips to keep in mind regarding data backup:

Dont procrastinate. Most people decide to back up their data only after theyve experienced a loss!

Try to find a backup software that can hold twice as much as your hard disk so that youre able to schedule backups when youre not there.

Back up only what is necessary. However, if youre not sure, back it up ... better safe than sorry!

About The Author
Marisa Pellegrino is a freelance writer from Montreal and is the head researcher and content manager for RAID RECOVERY (http://www.raidrecoveryguide.com) and other sites.