Lexmark Firmware Help...PLEASE

rich200k

I have updated my lexmark s405 printer firmware to find it now blocks all compatable cartridges. I understand this is a big problem for lots of people now but does anybody know of a way to remove the update and go back, or to go back to the manufacturers settings.

I have already done the reinstall of software which I had a hint would be useless as the firmware is on the printer and it was. I have also tried the red X and green Start button together reset (which didn't work).

I'm at my wits end as I refuse to buy any more cartridges on principle as I already have ones which were working till this morning and are 90% full.

Please any help in this matter would be appreciated.

Also regardless of the outcome I would like to add Lexmark has lost the trust of a loyal customer of over 8 years and if I can't get a "fix" i'll definatley be buing another brand.

thebyp

When you say firmware, do you mean drivers?

If so then you can roll back the drivers from within windows.

rich200k

Hi no it's a firmware update from lexmark. Not a driver

rich200k

This site states it's irreversable but I can hope

http://www.expertreviews.co.uk/inkjet-printers/1282069/lexmark-firmware-update-blocks-third-party-carts

thebyp

just checking - if its under a year old return it to lexmark.

fwor

I confess I dislike Lexmark, having scrapped the two I owned because of ink cost and unreliability.

Have you tried contacting Lexmark directly? It's possible that, having seen the OFT investigation started, they might be seeking a way out of having that decide against them, and offering a roll-back for anyone who complains might be in their self interest?

rich200k

I spoke to them in the U.S via live chat today who have told me and I quote "you chose to update your system" (terrible customer service) all they advised was to buy genuine cartridges at a cost of £50. From what I can gather they are waiting for the outcome by the OFT, but they were challanged in the U.S. in 2002 and that case is still ongoing, so not holding much hope.

I am going to try my luck with local P.C. Worlds manager tomorrow as I did ask upon purchase if it would take compatible ink and it now won't, hopefully Lexmark will bear the brunt of the return in the long term. Fingers crossed

Hammyman

thebyp wrote: »

just checking - if its under a year old return it to lexmark.

On what grounds? It isn't faulty as it works with the genuine cartridges.

Hammyman

rich200k wrote: »

I am going to try my luck with local P.C. Worlds manager tomorrow as I did ask upon purchase if it would take compatible ink and it now won't, hopefully Lexmark will bear the brunt of the return in the long term. Fingers crossed

Good luck. It did when they sold you it. It works with genuine cartridges.

darave

to be honest i don't really think you have a case
the printer did accept compatibles when you purchased the printer
the problem is down to you accepting the firmware upgrade

i run my own ink cartridge and stationery store and i remember static control taking on lexmark for the return program they was running on toner cartridges and static won that case

i can't see how lexmark can get away with this they are forcing the customer to purchase oem i think they will get told to offer a roll back service

kagsb70

I have also been 'stung' by the firmware update for my Lexmark printer. I had just installed non genuine catridges that were working fine until the upgrade. Lexmark argument for the upgrade is that by resticting the use of non genuine cartridges it is having a positive impact on the environment as it the printer is more efficient when using genuine cartridges! I would love to know what impact on landfil of now obselete printers will have on the environment, not to metion the fact you are prevented from recycling cartridges. £54 for genuine cartridges v £45 for higher spec printer with ink,... doesn't take a genius to figure that one out.