ERROR MESSAGE from EPSON: Ink cartridges cannot be recognized

When it’s time to change your printer’s ink, error messages are terrible annoying. One of the most common messages that Epson printer owners see is an error message stating “Ink cartridges cannot be recognized”. 

Epson has spent considerable time and effort to make it more difficult for compatible ink cartridges more difficult to use. However, at the same time, they created another problem in that even OEM cartridges aren’t recognized sometimes.

There are a few steps you can take if you get this error message: 

1. Open the cover and remove all of the ink cartridges from the printer.
2. Turn the printer off and completely unplug it from the wall. 
3. Let it sit without power for a few minutes. 
4. Plug the printer back in and turn the printer on. 
5. When prompted to insert ink, insert the compatible cartridges one at a time making sure they are in the correct slot and fully connecting with the printer. Occasionally the error code presents itself when an ink cartridge is not sitting properly in the printer and they do not make proper contact. 

When you install, reinstall or remove ink cartridges, be sure to check the microchips on the cartridges to ensure they are clean. Avoid touching them with your fingers. If you continue to receive the same error message after taking the five steps above, try replacing the cartridges one at a time until you determine which one is causing the message.