Patent ID: 6474771
Filing Date: 2002-11-05
Classification: B41J,G03G

Abstract:
A printing apparatus being configured to receive at least one ink cartridge for storing and dispensing ink, said at least one ink cartridge having disposed thereon an ink cartridge information module, said ink cartridge information module having stored thereon ink cartridge management information, and an ink level detector, said ink level detector detecting amount of said ink remaining in said at least one ink cartridge, said apparatus comprising:a control circuit portion configured to communication with said ink cartridge information module and said ink level detector, said control circuit portion being configured to at least one of delete and modify at least a portion of said ink cartridge management information when said ink level detector indicates that said amount of said ink remaining in said at least one ink cartridge is below a predetermined level; wherein said at least a portion of said ink cartridge management information indicates at least one of authenticity and suitability of said ink cartridge.