Emergency Solutions: How to Fix Brother Printer Inkbox Full DCP-T710W in Minutes

The Brother DCP-T710W is a popular printer known for its affordability and high-quality prints. However, like any printer, it can encounter issues, and one of the most frustrating is the “Inkbox Full” error message. This message can appear even when you have plenty of ink left, preventing you from printing.
This blog post will guide you through the most common causes of the “Inkbox Full” error and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it. Whether you’re a seasoned printer user or a tech novice, this guide will help you get your Brother DCP-T710W back up and running in no time.

Understanding the “Inkbox Full” Error

The “Inkbox Full” error message on your Brother DCP-T710W is not always indicative of a full ink tank. It can be triggered by several factors, including:

• Clogged ink cartridges: Over time, ink cartridges can become clogged, preventing the printer from reading the ink levels accurately.
• Faulty ink level sensor: The sensor responsible for detecting ink levels can malfunction, leading to an inaccurate reading.
• Air bubbles in the ink system: Air bubbles can form in the ink system, obstructing ink flow and causing the printer to think the ink tank is full.
• Incorrect ink cartridges: Using incompatible or counterfeit ink cartridges can cause the printer to malfunction.
• Electrical issues: A faulty electrical connection or power supply can also trigger the error message.

Troubleshooting Steps: How to Fix Brother Printer Inkbox Full DCP-T710W

Now that you understand the potential causes, let’s dive into the practical solutions to fix the “Inkbox Full” error.

1. Restart Your Printer

The simplest solution is often the most effective. Restarting your printer can reset the ink level sensor and resolve temporary glitches.

• Turn off the printer completely.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
• Wait for at least 30 seconds.
• Plug the power cord back in and turn the printer on.

2. Check and Clean the Ink Cartridge Contacts

Dirty ink cartridge contacts can prevent the printer from reading the ink levels correctly.

• Open the printer cover: Carefully open the printer cover to access the ink cartridges.
• Remove the ink cartridges: Gently lift and remove each ink cartridge from its slot.
• Clean the contacts: Use a dry, lint-free cloth or cotton swab to clean the gold-colored contacts on the ink cartridge and the corresponding contacts in the printer.
• Reinstall the ink cartridges: Once the contacts are clean, carefully reinsert the ink cartridges into their slots.

3. Reset the Ink Level Sensor

If the cleaning didn‘t resolve the issue, resetting the ink level sensor might help.

• Open the printer cover: Access the ink cartridges.
• Locate the ink level sensor: Look for a small, rectangular sensor near the ink cartridges.
• Gently press the sensor: Use a clean finger or cotton swab to gently press the sensor for a few seconds.
• Close the printer cover: Close the cover and try printing again.

4. Check for Air Bubbles

Air bubbles in the ink system can obstruct ink flow and cause the “Inkbox Full” error.

• Turn off the printer: Ensure the printer is off and unplugged.
• Remove the ink cartridges: Carefully remove the ink cartridges.
• Check for air bubbles: Look closely at the ink tanks and the ink lines for any visible air bubbles.
• If you find bubbles: Gently tap or shake the ink tanks to help the bubbles rise to the top.
• Reinstall the ink cartridges: Replace the ink cartridges and turn the printer back on.

5. Use Genuine Ink Cartridges

Using counterfeit or incompatible ink cartridges can lead to printer malfunctions, including the “Inkbox Full” error. Always use genuine Brother ink cartridges specifically designed for your DCP-T710W model.

6. Check the Electrical Connection

A faulty power cord or electrical outlet can disrupt the printer’s functionality.

• Check the power cord: Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into the printer and the wall outlet.
• Try a different outlet: Plug the printer into a different wall outlet to rule out any issues with the current one.

7. Update the Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware can sometimes cause compatibility issues and lead to errors.

• Download the latest firmware: Visit the Brother website and search for the latest firmware update for your DCP-T710W model.
• Install the firmware: Follow the instructions provided on the Brother website to install the update.

Beyond Troubleshooting: When to Seek Professional Help

If you have tried all the troubleshooting steps and the “Inkbox Full” error persists, it may be time to seek professional assistance. Contact Brother customer support or a qualified technician for further diagnosis and repair.

The Final Word: Printing Success with Your DCP-T710W

The “Inkbox Full” error can be frustrating, but with a little patience and troubleshooting, you can get your Brother DCP-T710W back to printing smoothly. Remember to use genuine ink cartridges, check for air bubbles, and keep your printer clean. If you encounter persistent issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I reset the ink levels manually?
A: It’s not recommended to manually reset the ink levels. This can lead to inaccurate ink readings and potentially damage your printer.
Q: How often should I clean the ink cartridge contacts?
A: It’s a good practice to clean the contacts every few months or whenever you notice printing issues related to ink levels.
Q: What if I accidentally spilled ink on my printer?
A: If you spill ink on your printer, immediately unplug it and use a dry, lint-free cloth to clean up the spill. Avoid using water or any cleaning solutions, as they can damage the printer. Contact Brother customer support for further guidance.
Q: Why is my printer printing blurry or faded even though the ink levels seem fine?
A: This could be due to clogged printheads. Cleaning the printheads with a specialized cleaning solution might resolve the issue. Refer to your printer’s manual for instructions on cleaning the printheads.