Dell 964 AIO Printer Error Code 1203

Question

Have Dell Photo 964 AIO Printer for three years ... no problems until now. Using XPS730 Desktop w/ Windows XP SP3 (32 bit) OS. Printer will scan but will not print and 'Error Code # 1203' appears on Printer LCD (not on computer display) when trying to print. Tried the usual fixes: unplugged USB cable and Power cord and waited 3 minutes, removed both Black and Color Ink Cartridges and wiped contacts on Printer and Cartridges. Finally, bought new 'Series 5' Black Ink Cartridge. Printer started working again and printed about 10-15 pages (and I thought my problems were over), then stopped printing with the same Error Code 1203 message on the Printer LCD. If I remove the Black Ink Cartridge, the message does not appear on the Printer LCD (so I can still Scan) otherwise, with both Ink Cartridges installed in the Printer the Error Message screen on the LCD covers-up the menu screen so that it is not possible to FAX or scan from the Printer control panel. Solicit your best advice ... all suggestions appreciated. THANKS!

PudgyOne · Answer

SMT101,

Error 1203 is a very interesting error code. Here is what I found out about error 1203

Error 1203 is a very interesting cartridge error. It means your catridges overflow even from brand new catridges after a several prints or right after you refilled the catridges. Check to see if ink are smeared on the holder where the contact panel with the cartridge

Solution:
I use the lint free cloth(coffee filter work great) with a few drops of water to dampen and clean off those contact on the holder and my printer work again.
Then before you print anything, you should run aligned the catridges a couple times then run clean catridges a couple times.
Print the test page to see how it's look and way you go.
Be sure not to leave any debris of lint free cloth(coffee filter work great on those holder contact panel.

Dell Series 5 ink cartridges have a sensor in them that cannot be reset. Article on refilling Dell ink cartridges.

Dell Series 5 ink cartridges can be purchased at Staples, Walmart or Dell's Website.

Rick

SMT101 · Answer

Rick,

Thank you for your help ... it is sincerely appreciated.

I have re-cleaned the printer contacts using a coffee filter and installed a new Series-5 Cartridge.

I reset the computer (pulled USB cable and power cord and re-installed).

Printer is still inop. Current investment in new Series 5 Black ink cartridges is about $100 (3 x $34.01 from Staples).

I am prepared to press on with the solution to this problem, but I don't know what else to try ... and, I really NEED a printer now.

Unless you have another suggestion, it may be time for me to cut my losses and buy a new printer.

I solicit your best advice.

Thanks again!

PudgyOne · Answer

SMT101,   Sounds like faulty Dell Series 5 cartridges. Take them to place of purchase for a replacement or refund.     Rick

Printers

Dell 964 AIO Printer Error Code 1203

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