Figure 2-5. Use Before Date On Print Cartridge Package; Table 2-1. Print Cartridge Life Specification - Samsung SF-330 Series Service Manual

SF-330 Series Graphic Print Bar
Service Guide
2.2.2 Print Cartridge Expiration
Using print cartridges that are past their expiration date can cause print quality problems. The print cartridge life
specification is shown in the following table:

Table 2-1. Print cartridge life specification

Ink cartridge
M40, C40
The open life specification of the cartridge is valid for use in an office environment, with a printing frequency of at
least once a month.
To determine if a print cartridge is past its expiration date, read the use before date printed on the box and ensure
the print cartridge is sealed in its original packaging. The print cartridge should be installed before the date shown
on the package (see Figure 2-5). The print cartridge expiration date is also printed on the front of the cartridge
body.
2.2.3 Causes for Short Print Cartridge Life
There are several causes for short print cartridge life, which are discussed in this section.
1. Printed pages containing graphics or dense print have a higher percentage of ink coverage than specified for
average print cartridge life when printing in text mode. The percentage of ink coverage on printed pages has a
significant impact on the number of pages per print cartridge. Heavy concentrations of ink reduce the number
of pages per print cartridge.
2. The print cartridge may be past its expiration date.
3. The printing device may have been turned off with the print cartridge out of the service station and the nozzles
uncapped, leaving them exposed to the atmosphere. This could lead to crusted ink on or in the nozzles may
lead to a shorter print life (see section 2.1.2.2 for removing crusted ink). This can also cause misdirected
nozzles if ink is allowed to harden on the nozzle plate. This is again caused by the product being turned off
Samsung Electronics Confidential
© Copyright Samsung Electronics Company 2002
Sealed in original package
(shelf life)
18 Months
Use before date

Figure 2-5. Use before date on print cartridge package

Page 10
Open, maintained (capped)
in service station
180 Days
SF-330 Series Graphic Print Bar Service Guide
Revision 1.0; 23-Jul-02