Summary: use the procedure on this page if your printer gives you a “Wrong Cartridge,” or similar error message.
EPSON 9000 - Universal cartridges have had all but one of the plastic “keys” (tabs) removed, allowing them to be inserted in any cartridge slot in the printer. If your printer rejects these cartridges, follow the procedure below to allow your printer to accept universal cartridges.
EPSON 9500 - This printer has sensors that detect a black square on the label of each cartridge. Piezography cartridges do not have special patches printed on them. If your printer rejects your Piezography cartridges, follow the procedure below to allow your printer to accept cartridges without patches.
Whether you have a 9000 or 9500 printer, the procedure to disable the detectors is the same:
Instructions for disabling key (tab) and patch sensors on 9000 and 9500 printers.
1. Turn the printer OFF.
2. Turn the printer back on while holding down the following three buttons:
"Paper source"
"Paper feed -"
"Cut/Eject".
3. Release the three buttons when the LCD panel on the printer displays "Init All = EXEC". DO NOT PRESS THE ENTER BUTTON: pressing the ENTER button will reset all settings related to ink levels, print head life, waste pad fill level, etc.
4. Toggle through this menu by pressing the "Paper Source" button until you see "DETECT INK LABEL = ON".
5. Press either the "Paper feed +” button until you see "DETECT INK LABEL = OFF".
6. Press "Enter" to confirm this change.
7. Restart the printer to exit the “Init” menu.