Frequently Asked Questions
[+] General
Do Nukote products come with a quality guarantee?
Yes, complete satisfaction is guaranteed on all Nukote brand products. All supplies are guaranteed to be free from defect in material and workmanship and will perform to complete satisfaction under normal use and storage. If you are dissatisfied with one of our products, please contact Nukote Customer Service.
Can I purchase supplies directly from Nukote?
We are authorized to sell product for resale only. If you are interested in carrying a line of Nukote products, please contact Nukote Customer Service.
Where can I purchase your products?
You can purchase Nukote brand products at a variety of businesses that carry office supplies, including Sam’s Club. Locate a Nukote dealer in your area.
Which of your products can be recycled?
Nukote offers collection programs for both OEM and remanufactured ink jet and laser toner empties within the United States, in retail stores and through other channels. To learn more about these programs, please email us or call 866.527.0650.
Which machines are Nukote brand products compatible with?
Nukote brand products are compatible with a variety of machines. Please use our Product Finder Tool for a complete listing. For additional assistance, please contact Nukote Customer Service.
What are my rights if a service technician threatens to charge for a service call or void my warranty for using a different brand of printer supply?
It is illegal for a printer manufacturer to require you to use or purchase a particular brand of supply, just as it is illegal for a car dealer to require original parts to fix your car. To enforce such a policy is in violation of federal law. Don’t be afraid to present this information to anyone who inhibits your right to choose a supply source.
How can I get more information on Nukote?
Please contact Nukote Customer Service.
What are your Customer Service hours?
Customer Service is available to assist you Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–7:00 p.m. EST. After business hours, please leave a voicemail at 800.448.1422, or email us. We will return your message the next business day.
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[+] Ink Jet Cartridges
How do Nukote brand ink jet products compare in quality to original manufacturer cartridges?
All Nukote brand ink jet products are manufactured according to the strictest guidelines, using only premium grade inks and components. This ensures every product will produce crisp, clear print and bold, brilliant colors. View our 12 Step Remanufacturing Process.
Will my Nukote cartridge provide as many pages as the original equipment manufacturer?
Yes, Nukote cartridges are guaranteed to match or exceed the OEM page yield. If you are dissatisfied with one of our products for any reason, please contact Nukote Customer Service.
How long will my cartridge last before the ink dries up?
This should not be an issue. If you are having problems getting your cartridge to print, please see our troubleshooting tips below. If the problem persists, please contact Nukote Customer Service for assistance.
What should I do if I have difficulty getting my remanufactured ink jet cartridge to print?
First, make sure the tape has been properly removed from the cartridge printhead. If you are still having difficulty, try to loosen potentially clogged nozzles by dabbing the printhead on a warm, water-soaked paper towel. If the problem persists, please contact Nukote Customer Service for assistance.
Does Nukote collect empty ink jet cartridges for recycling?
Yes, Nukote is one of the largest collectors of ink jet and laser cartridges in the world. We offer a variety of collection programs for both OEM and remanufactured empties within the United States, in retail stores and through other channels. To learn more about these programs, please email us or call 866.527.0650.
What options are available to me as a reseller of Nukote ink jet cartridges?
Nukote ink jet cartridges are available in Nukote brand packaging. Private brand and bulk products are also available.
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[+] Refill Kits
When should I refill my printer cartridge?
As soon as the printer driver indicates that the cartridge is low on ink or needs to be replaced.
Where is the vent hole located on my cartridge?
The location of the vent hole is indicated in the instruction booklet. In some cases, the cartridge image shown in the instructions may not match the cartridge you are refilling. You will find the vent hole located very close to the location indicated in the illustration.
How do I use the drill tool?
Insert the drill tool as shown in the instruction book. Push down on the drill as you turn it clockwise.
How do I use the cracker tool?
Insert the cartridge into the cracker tool as shown in the instruction book. Using force, push the cartridge in the direction shown. Don’t hesitate to increase force until the top of the cartridge comes off.
Is the ink supposed to leak?
It’s normal to see a small amount of ink at the nozzle after filling. If the ink continues to flow it is an indication of overfilling and the cartridge should be placed on a folded paper towel until leaking subsides. Once ink has stopped flowing, gently wipe the nozzle with a moistened towel.
How do I properly use the squeeze bottle(s)?
Follow the instructions listed in the instruction book. If you experience difficulty, squeeze the bottle and slightly withdraw the needle no more than 1/8 of an inch.
The illustrations don’t match my cartridge. Should I continue?
Yes, make sure that you’ve located the page in the instruction book that corresponds with your specific cartridge and follow the steps as outlined. The illustration may not match your cartridge exactly, but will closely represent the location of the cartridge features.
When inserting the needle, how do I know where to punch the holes through the printer cartridge label?
Follow the instructions listed in the instruction book closely. You may have to remove the cartridge label. If you require additional assistance, please contact Nukote Customer Service.
Where do I put the tape on the cartridge when I’m done?
For cartridges requiring an adhesive strip to reattach the cap follow the instructions listed in the instruction book.
If I made a mistake with the tape, can I use household tape?
Yes, you may use a piece of standard clear tape if a mistake is made.
HP 25/49 and LX 1980/15M – Adhere the tape to the side of the cartridge, pull it across the top of the cartridge and adhere it to the opposite side. Do not go front to back (label side to contact side.)
LX 10N0026/Dell T0530 – Adhere the tape to the side of the cartridge, pull it across the top of the cartridge and adhere it to the opposite side. Make sure not to cover the tiny vent hole on the top. Do not go front to back (label side to contact side.)
I inserted the needle into the cartridge, but the ink will not go in. What am I doing wrong?
Follow the instructions listed in the instruction book. If you are experience difficulty, squeeze the bottle and slightly withdraw the needle no more than 1/8 of an inch.
Why are my ink bottles not full?
An ink jet cartridge holds only a small amount of ink. Each refill kit bottle contains enough ink to perform multiple refills.
Available Refill Kits and Quick Tips >
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[+] Laser Toner Cartridges
What are the advantages of using Nukote brand remanufactured laser toner cartridges?
Nukote’s Earth-friendly, remanufactured laser cartridges deliver premium quality performance and significant cost savings over national brand cartridges. By buying remanufactured print cartridges, you can reduce the amount of waste in landfills, conserve natural resources, reduce energy consumption and save money.
How long should I expect my cartridge to last?
Your Nukote brand cartridge is designed to last as long as the national brand cartridge would last. View our 20 Step Remanufacturing Process.
What causes white areas on my printed copy?
The machine corona wire may need cleaning, or the transportation seal may not be completely pulled out, or the toner needs to be distributed more evenly by rocking the cartridge back and forth. Also, the cartridge could be empty.
What causes my machine or cartridge to produce a bad odor?
Some possibilities are particles of paper or other debris burning in the machine. The ozone filter may also need to be changed. Refer to your machine manual for proper maintenance of your machine.
What causes black marks on the back of my paper?
Dirty pickup claws may need to be cleaned as part of the normal machine maintenance.
What causes the print to look blurred or too dark?
Try adjusting the density dial. If that doesn’t correct the issue, the mirror in the printer may require cleaning.
What causes random, solid black vertical lines or droplets on my printed copy?
The cartridge corona wire may need cleaning.
What causes consistent vertical, thin, black lines on my printed copy?
The fuser assembly claws may need cleaning, or the fuser roller may have reached its end of life and need to be replaced as part of the normal machine maintenance. If changing the cartridge corrects the situation, the cartridge may be defective. In that case, please contact Customer Service.
What could cause random spotting on my printed copy?
You may need to change the fuser roller wand. If changing the cartridge corrects the situation, the cartridge may be defective. In that case, please contact Customer Service.
What options are available to me as a reseller of Nukote laser cartridges?
Nukote laser cartridges are available in a variety of packaging and private label/private brand options. Cartridges are also available in bulk.
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[+] Ribbons, Ink Rollers, & Lift-Off Tapes
What is the difference between a correctable and a multistrike ribbon?
A correctable ribbon releases the ink completely onto the paper. The ribbon cannot be reused and corrections must be made using a liftoff tape. A multistrike ribbon is made of film whereas every available space is utilized by advancing only partial characters. Corrections can be made with a cover-up tape.
What is the difference between matrix ink fabric and high density fabric?
Matrix inks are especially designed and used for all dot matrix applications. High density fabric is used for dot matrix applications where high pin count print heads are used (i.e. 24 pin vs. 9 pin print heads) or where cartridge/printer design dictates a short fabric length (i.e. re-inking cartridges with seamless loop fabric). High density fabric has a greater thread count per inch along and across the fabric making it able to endure print head impact for longer than the designated print life of the cartridge.
What can cause small black particles to fall off a film ribbon into my machine?
It could be that you are experiencing “flaking” which means the coating separates from the base of the film. If it persists, please contact Customer Service.
Do you make indelible ink?
Yes. All of our ribbon ink is indelible and fade/run resistant.
What is a ribbon re-inking system?
Some ribbons are designed with a built-in ink reserve. As the fabric cycles through the cartridge, additional ink is applied assuring quality print throughout the life of the cartridge. A re-inking ribbon design is required when machine design dictates a small cartridge and a seamless loop ribbon must be utilized.
What does the 0-1-2-3 dial on a cartridge indicate?
The dial increases the darkness of the print–the higher the digit, the darker the print quality. However, it is subjective to the specific cartridge. Please contact Customer Service for more information about your specific product.
What is the shelf life of your ribbons?
We recommend one year from the date of purchase.
Do you offer ribbons in any other colors besides black?
Yes, but products are machine specific. Please use our Product Finder Tool for a complete listing.
What should I do if my ribbon won’t advance once installed in my printer?
Check to be sure it is seated properly in the machine. If the problem persists after you’ve verified it is seated properly, please contact Customer Service. There may be an issue with the printer driver mechanism or the ribbon may be jammed.
Is there anything I can do to darken the print when I install a new ribbon in my machine?
You can usually adjust the print head. Refer to the instructions in your machine manual.
What is the difference between a tacky and a tackless liftoff?
Tacky liftoff refers to the stickiness of the coating. Our 86L is a tacky liftoff tape. Tackless liftoff is not as sticky as the tacky liftoff. This product is also referred to as “low tack” or “tackfree.”
What can cause a liftoff tapes to not correct a mistake?
Make sure the shiny side of the tape is facing you and the dull side is toward the paper.
What is a seamless loop ribbon?
In a seamless loop ribbon, a proper width loop of fabric is slit from tube woven fabric (much like a sock or stocking.) This eliminates having a weld in the ribbon which would be a weak point over time and after many passes through the print head. Seamless loop ribbons are utilized where machine design dictates a small cartridge and a shorter length of ribbon. Seamless loop ribbons have additional ink applied within the cartridge throughout life.
Why does the cloth look like an accordion when I open it up?
The fabric is fan folded and inserted into the cartridge in a predetermined “S” pattern causing it to have this appearance.
What is a ribbon eyelet?
It is the device attached to the end of the cloth which triggers the ribbon to reverse for more use.
Do you have a universal calculator spool?
Yes, our universal calculator spool ribbon is our BR80C.
Does it matter if my ribbons in the past had one color advancing knob and now have another color (blue vs. black, etc.)?
No, as long as you confirmed that you have the correct compatible ribbon for your machine.
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[+] Copier Toner
Do I have to match my copier toner to my developer?
Yes, make sure you only use copier toner and developer designed specifically for your machine.
Does Nukote sell developer?
Yes, for some machines. Please use our Product Finder Tool for a complete listing.
What causes dirty corona wires?
Usage over time will cause build up of any brand of toner.
What can I do if changing the toner does not improve the quality of my print?
Follow the preventive maintenance steps suggested in your owner’s manual. You may need to perform the manufacturer’s suggested routine maintenance with an authorized technician.
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[+] Thermal Fax Ribbons
How does a thermal fax ribbon work?
Thermal fax ribbons use heat to melt an ink coating. The melted ink is then transferred to the paper. The ink cools and solidifies which bonds it to the paper to form an image.
How do I install a cartridge ribbon into my fax machine?
If you have purchased a Nukote compatible cartridge (B390, B392, B398 or B402), it fits into the machine the same as an OEM cartridge would.
How do I install refills into my fax machine?
Our refills are designed to fit the same way into an OEM cartridge or a Nukote cartridge. Follow the easy-to-follow installation instructions located on every Nukote package. Also, since these ribbons are compatible with the OEM product, you can follow the installation instructions in the owner’s manual.
Should the “shiny” side of the film be up or down?
The answer to this question varies from one fax machine to another. The thermal print head can be above or below the paper as it travels through the fax machine. Also, on some ribbons, it may be difficult to identify the “shiny” side. If you have followed the installation instructions properly, the machine will print properly. Otherwise, remove the film and install facing the other way.
What can I do if the print quality of my fax is poor?
First, make sure the cartridge is installed properly. Some fax machines have print resolution settings that can be adjusted to improve print quality. Please refer to your owner’s manual to determine how to adjust these settings. You may need to clean the print head on the fax machine. Please refer to your owner’s manual to make sure the cleaning is done properly.
What is a “C” wind or an “S” wind on a ribbon?
This refers to the path the ribbon follows as it unwinds from the supply core to the rewind core. The correct wind must be used when a new ribbon is installed, or the ribbon will not work.
Is there a “universal” thermal fax ribbon?
Due to the differences in core diameters, ribbon diameters, notching patterns, and film attachments to the core, it is not possible to have one ribbon fit all thermal fax machines.
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How do Nukote brand ink jet products compare in quality to original manufacturer cartridges?
All Nukote brand ink jet products are manufactured according to the strictest guidelines, using only premium grade inks and components. This ensures every product will produce crisp, clear print and bold, brilliant colors. View our 12 Step Remanufacturing Process.
Will my Nukote cartridge provide as many pages as the original equipment manufacturer?
Yes, Nukote cartridges are guaranteed to match or exceed the OEM page yield. If you are dissatisfied with one of our products for any reason, please contact Nukote Customer Service.
How long will my cartridge last before the ink dries up?
This should not be an issue. If you are having problems getting your cartridge to print, please see our troubleshooting tips below. If the problem persists, please contact Nukote Customer Service for assistance.
What should I do if I have difficulty getting my remanufactured ink jet cartridge to print?
First, make sure the tape has been properly removed from the cartridge printhead. If you are still having difficulty, try to loosen potentially clogged nozzles by dabbing the printhead on a warm, water-soaked paper towel. If the problem persists, please contact Nukote Customer Service for assistance.
Does Nukote collect empty ink jet cartridges for recycling?
Yes, Nukote is one of the largest collectors of ink jet and laser cartridges in the world. We offer a variety of collection programs for both OEM and remanufactured empties within the United States, in retail stores and through other channels. To learn more about these programs, please email us or call 866.527.0650.
What options are available to me as a reseller of Nukote ink jet cartridges?
Nukote ink jet cartridges are available in Nukote brand packaging. Private brand and bulk products are also available.
[–]
When should I refill my printer cartridge?
As soon as the printer driver indicates that the cartridge is low on ink or needs to be replaced.
Where is the vent hole located on my cartridge?
The location of the vent hole is indicated in the instruction booklet. In some cases, the cartridge image shown in the instructions may not match the cartridge you are refilling. You will find the vent hole located very close to the location indicated in the illustration.
How do I use the drill tool?
Insert the drill tool as shown in the instruction book. Push down on the drill as you turn it clockwise.
How do I use the cracker tool?
Insert the cartridge into the cracker tool as shown in the instruction book. Using force, push the cartridge in the direction shown. Don’t hesitate to increase force until the top of the cartridge comes off.
Is the ink supposed to leak?
It’s normal to see a small amount of ink at the nozzle after filling. If the ink continues to flow it is an indication of overfilling and the cartridge should be placed on a folded paper towel until leaking subsides. Once ink has stopped flowing, gently wipe the nozzle with a moistened towel.
How do I properly use the squeeze bottle(s)?
Follow the instructions listed in the instruction book. If you experience difficulty, squeeze the bottle and slightly withdraw the needle no more than 1/8 of an inch.
The illustrations don’t match my cartridge. Should I continue?
Yes, make sure that you’ve located the page in the instruction book that corresponds with your specific cartridge and follow the steps as outlined. The illustration may not match your cartridge exactly, but will closely represent the location of the cartridge features.
When inserting the needle, how do I know where to punch the holes through the printer cartridge label?
Follow the instructions listed in the instruction book closely. You may have to remove the cartridge label. If you require additional assistance, please contact Nukote Customer Service.
Where do I put the tape on the cartridge when I’m done?
For cartridges requiring an adhesive strip to reattach the cap follow the instructions listed in the instruction book.
If I made a mistake with the tape, can I use household tape?
Yes, you may use a piece of standard clear tape if a mistake is made.
HP 25/49 and LX 1980/15M – Adhere the tape to the side of the cartridge, pull it across the top of the cartridge and adhere it to the opposite side. Do not go front to back (label side to contact side.)
LX 10N0026/Dell T0530 – Adhere the tape to the side of the cartridge, pull it across the top of the cartridge and adhere it to the opposite side. Make sure not to cover the tiny vent hole on the top. Do not go front to back (label side to contact side.)
I inserted the needle into the cartridge, but the ink will not go in. What am I doing wrong?
Follow the instructions listed in the instruction book. If you are experience difficulty, squeeze the bottle and slightly withdraw the needle no more than 1/8 of an inch.
Why are my ink bottles not full?
An ink jet cartridge holds only a small amount of ink. Each refill kit bottle contains enough ink to perform multiple refills.
Available Refill Kits and Quick Tips >
[–]
What are the advantages of using Nukote brand remanufactured laser toner cartridges?
Nukote’s Earth-friendly, remanufactured laser cartridges deliver premium quality performance and significant cost savings over national brand cartridges. By buying remanufactured print cartridges, you can reduce the amount of waste in landfills, conserve natural resources, reduce energy consumption and save money.
How long should I expect my cartridge to last?
Your Nukote brand cartridge is designed to last as long as the national brand cartridge would last. View our 20 Step Remanufacturing Process.
What causes white areas on my printed copy?
The machine corona wire may need cleaning, or the transportation seal may not be completely pulled out, or the toner needs to be distributed more evenly by rocking the cartridge back and forth. Also, the cartridge could be empty.
What causes my machine or cartridge to produce a bad odor?
Some possibilities are particles of paper or other debris burning in the machine. The ozone filter may also need to be changed. Refer to your machine manual for proper maintenance of your machine.
What causes black marks on the back of my paper?
Dirty pickup claws may need to be cleaned as part of the normal machine maintenance.
What causes the print to look blurred or too dark?
Try adjusting the density dial. If that doesn’t correct the issue, the mirror in the printer may require cleaning.
What causes random, solid black vertical lines or droplets on my printed copy?
The cartridge corona wire may need cleaning.
What causes consistent vertical, thin, black lines on my printed copy?
The fuser assembly claws may need cleaning, or the fuser roller may have reached its end of life and need to be replaced as part of the normal machine maintenance. If changing the cartridge corrects the situation, the cartridge may be defective. In that case, please contact Customer Service.
What could cause random spotting on my printed copy?
You may need to change the fuser roller wand. If changing the cartridge corrects the situation, the cartridge may be defective. In that case, please contact Customer Service.
What options are available to me as a reseller of Nukote laser cartridges?
Nukote laser cartridges are available in a variety of packaging and private label/private brand options. Cartridges are also available in bulk.
[–]
What is the difference between a correctable and a multistrike ribbon?
A correctable ribbon releases the ink completely onto the paper. The ribbon cannot be reused and corrections must be made using a liftoff tape. A multistrike ribbon is made of film whereas every available space is utilized by advancing only partial characters. Corrections can be made with a cover-up tape.
What is the difference between matrix ink fabric and high density fabric?
Matrix inks are especially designed and used for all dot matrix applications. High density fabric is used for dot matrix applications where high pin count print heads are used (i.e. 24 pin vs. 9 pin print heads) or where cartridge/printer design dictates a short fabric length (i.e. re-inking cartridges with seamless loop fabric). High density fabric has a greater thread count per inch along and across the fabric making it able to endure print head impact for longer than the designated print life of the cartridge.
What can cause small black particles to fall off a film ribbon into my machine?
It could be that you are experiencing “flaking” which means the coating separates from the base of the film. If it persists, please contact Customer Service.
Do you make indelible ink?
Yes. All of our ribbon ink is indelible and fade/run resistant.
What is a ribbon re-inking system?
Some ribbons are designed with a built-in ink reserve. As the fabric cycles through the cartridge, additional ink is applied assuring quality print throughout the life of the cartridge. A re-inking ribbon design is required when machine design dictates a small cartridge and a seamless loop ribbon must be utilized.
What does the 0-1-2-3 dial on a cartridge indicate?
The dial increases the darkness of the print–the higher the digit, the darker the print quality. However, it is subjective to the specific cartridge. Please contact Customer Service for more information about your specific product.
What is the shelf life of your ribbons?
We recommend one year from the date of purchase.
Do you offer ribbons in any other colors besides black?
Yes, but products are machine specific. Please use our Product Finder Tool for a complete listing.
What should I do if my ribbon won’t advance once installed in my printer?
Check to be sure it is seated properly in the machine. If the problem persists after you’ve verified it is seated properly, please contact Customer Service. There may be an issue with the printer driver mechanism or the ribbon may be jammed.
Is there anything I can do to darken the print when I install a new ribbon in my machine?
You can usually adjust the print head. Refer to the instructions in your machine manual.
What is the difference between a tacky and a tackless liftoff?
Tacky liftoff refers to the stickiness of the coating. Our 86L is a tacky liftoff tape. Tackless liftoff is not as sticky as the tacky liftoff. This product is also referred to as “low tack” or “tackfree.”
What can cause a liftoff tapes to not correct a mistake?
Make sure the shiny side of the tape is facing you and the dull side is toward the paper.
What is a seamless loop ribbon?
In a seamless loop ribbon, a proper width loop of fabric is slit from tube woven fabric (much like a sock or stocking.) This eliminates having a weld in the ribbon which would be a weak point over time and after many passes through the print head. Seamless loop ribbons are utilized where machine design dictates a small cartridge and a shorter length of ribbon. Seamless loop ribbons have additional ink applied within the cartridge throughout life.
Why does the cloth look like an accordion when I open it up?
The fabric is fan folded and inserted into the cartridge in a predetermined “S” pattern causing it to have this appearance.
What is a ribbon eyelet?
It is the device attached to the end of the cloth which triggers the ribbon to reverse for more use.
Do you have a universal calculator spool?
Yes, our universal calculator spool ribbon is our BR80C.
Does it matter if my ribbons in the past had one color advancing knob and now have another color (blue vs. black, etc.)?
No, as long as you confirmed that you have the correct compatible ribbon for your machine.
[–]
Do I have to match my copier toner to my developer?
Yes, make sure you only use copier toner and developer designed specifically for your machine.
Does Nukote sell developer?
Yes, for some machines. Please use our Product Finder Tool for a complete listing.
What causes dirty corona wires?
Usage over time will cause build up of any brand of toner.
What can I do if changing the toner does not improve the quality of my print?
Follow the preventive maintenance steps suggested in your owner’s manual. You may need to perform the manufacturer’s suggested routine maintenance with an authorized technician.
[–]
How does a thermal fax ribbon work?
Thermal fax ribbons use heat to melt an ink coating. The melted ink is then transferred to the paper. The ink cools and solidifies which bonds it to the paper to form an image.
How do I install a cartridge ribbon into my fax machine?
If you have purchased a Nukote compatible cartridge (B390, B392, B398 or B402), it fits into the machine the same as an OEM cartridge would.
How do I install refills into my fax machine?
Our refills are designed to fit the same way into an OEM cartridge or a Nukote cartridge. Follow the easy-to-follow installation instructions located on every Nukote package. Also, since these ribbons are compatible with the OEM product, you can follow the installation instructions in the owner’s manual.
Should the “shiny” side of the film be up or down?
The answer to this question varies from one fax machine to another. The thermal print head can be above or below the paper as it travels through the fax machine. Also, on some ribbons, it may be difficult to identify the “shiny” side. If you have followed the installation instructions properly, the machine will print properly. Otherwise, remove the film and install facing the other way.
What can I do if the print quality of my fax is poor?
First, make sure the cartridge is installed properly. Some fax machines have print resolution settings that can be adjusted to improve print quality. Please refer to your owner’s manual to determine how to adjust these settings. You may need to clean the print head on the fax machine. Please refer to your owner’s manual to make sure the cleaning is done properly.
What is a “C” wind or an “S” wind on a ribbon?
This refers to the path the ribbon follows as it unwinds from the supply core to the rewind core. The correct wind must be used when a new ribbon is installed, or the ribbon will not work.
Is there a “universal” thermal fax ribbon?
Due to the differences in core diameters, ribbon diameters, notching patterns, and film attachments to the core, it is not possible to have one ribbon fit all thermal fax machines.
