For years, I have listened weekly to a call-in radio show on Mississippi Public Broadcasting
called, “Everyday Tech”, and over the years they have had callers to the “live” show asking
questions about problems with printers. Thanks to my use of Linux Mint, I have avoided most problems. Indeed, one of the hosts, who runs his own repair business, lamented constantly that he absolutely dislikes trying to answer printer questions. Yes, “Why does my printer not work?” is a common question. It could be outdated drivers or wifi connection, etc. but it has only become worse with the latest Windows 10 and 11 updates for HP printers that include their “Dynamic Security” software that is automatically downloaded to your computer. Here is a brief explanation of what Dynamic Security means:
Dynamic Security
- HP uses a system called “dynamic security” to identify legitimate HP ink cartridges.
- This system often involves chips within the cartridges that log printing data and prevent the printer from operating with refilled or counterfeit cartridges.
- HP claims this is to protect its intellectual property, ensure a good customer experience, and prevent counterfeiting, but it has been criticized as a way to force consumers to buy their ink.
- HP has faced class-action lawsuits and other legal action related to its use of dynamic security.
Here is an update:
As you can see, it was planned that the consumer was to be forced to pay for the extremely expensive HP brand ink. Well, I have an old HP printer that I have used since 2010, and with Linux Mint that printer still operates. Now, here is the problem with planned obsolescence, namely, as the printer ages the ink cartridges get rare and expensive. Presently a color/black cartridge set is $97! However, I have a small business in Cornwall, PEI that can refill empty HP cartridges. I was in to the store this week, and to refill those colour/black cartridges cost $35. This arrangement has gone on for years and my printer has worked fine. Still, a problem arose this time with the black cartridge. The chip has been inserted so many times that it failed; therefore, I was forced to buy a new black cartridge from HP for $44, when to refill one from my local business cost $12. My printer is working again now. Still have HP printer problem with ink? Here is a link: good luck! (Lesson learned: Stick with Open Source Software and local business)
Rev. Martin Dawson (retired)
Cornwall, PEI