Introduction
Are you facing the “Ink Box Full” or “Ink Absorber Full” error on your Brother DCP-T500W printer? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! This common issue arises when the printer’s internal ink absorber pad, responsible for collecting waste ink, reaches its capacity. While this error may seem alarming, it’s a routine maintenance task for inkjet printers.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through fixing this error without the need to disassemble your printer. By following these simple steps, you can reset your printer’s settings and get it working perfectly again.
What Causes the Error?
The error occurs when the printer’s internal waste ink absorber pad becomes saturated. Each time you print or clean the printer’s nozzles, small amounts of ink are discarded into this pad. Over time, the pad fills up, triggering the “Ink Box Full” or “Ink Absorber Full” error to prevent ink overflow and potential damage.
How to Fix the Error (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Unplug and Reconnect Your Printer
- Turn off your printer by unplugging the power cord.
- While holding the Menu button, plug the printer back into the power source.
- Continue holding the Menu button until “Machine Error 46” appears on the screen.
Step 2: Access Maintenance Mode
- Wait for 2–3 seconds.
- Use the arrow buttons to select the number 8 and press OK.
- Once the screen shows “Maintenance 8,” select 0 using the arrow buttons and press OK.
- This action takes you into Maintenance 80 Mode, a technician mode for troubleshooting and resetting printer components.
Step 3: Reset the Purge Counter
- Look at the screen and use the Mono button to adjust the displayed value.
- Change the value until you see Purge: 09068.
- To reset the counter, follow these steps:
- Use the arrow buttons to select 2 and press OK.
- Then, select 7 and press OK.
- Next, select 8 and press OK.
- Finally, select 3 and press OK.
Step 4: Exit Maintenance Mode
- Use the arrow buttons to select 9 and press OK.
- Repeat the process to select 9 again and press OK.
- This initiates Maintenance 99 Mode, exiting the service menu and restarting the printer.
What to Do Next?
Once the printer restarts, it should be back in normal operating condition without the error message. If the issue persists, double-check each step carefully or consult a professional technician.
FAQs
Q1: Is this process safe for my printer?
Yes, as long as you follow the instructions carefully, this process is safe and commonly used by technicians.
Q2: How often will this error occur?
The error typically occurs after extended use. It depends on your printing volume and maintenance habits.
Q3: What happens if I don’t fix the error?
If left unresolved, the printer won’t function, as the waste ink pad is full and may overflow.
Conclusion
With these simple steps, you can easily fix the “Ink Box Full” or “Ink Absorber Full” error on your Brother DCP-T500W printer without disassembling it. Save yourself the cost of professional repairs and keep your printer running smoothly.
