Frequently Asked Questions
What is a new OEM cartridge?

OEM cartridges are new cartridges that are specially designed and manufactured by the same company that makes the brand of printer you have.


What is a Compatible Cartridge?

In most cases these cartridges perform the exact same function as their expensive counterparts, but for much less. The printer warranty will not expire by using these types of cartridges. HP and Lexmark do not allow compatible cartridges due to the patent they have on the print head.


What is a Remanufactured Cartridge?

Remanufactured cartridges are those that have been refilled and checked for quality assurance. Most remanufactured cartridges offer identical ink quality for less money.


What is an Ink Refill Kit?

An option you have when your ink runs dry is refilling your empty cartridge with fresh ink. Depending on the manufacturer, many ink cartridges can be refilled 3-10 times. Ink refill kits allow you to refill the empty cartridge yourself.


What are the different types of shredding called and how are they cut?

There are two types of shred: Strip-cut and Cross-cut. A cross-cut shredder cuts paper both lengthwise and widthwise. Cross-cut shredders will significantly decrease the volume of your shredding but will often require more maintenance. Strip-cut shredders cut paper lengthwise into strips and require little or no maintenance.


Will compatible toner cartridges void my warranty?

No. The US government (FTC) says that its against the law for companies to force you to buy their products exclusively. Certain antitrust acts protect your rights as a consumer to purchase from any supplier without fear of losing your warranty.


How do I know if my laser printer uses a cartridge that can be recycled?

80% of the laser printers on the market today use a Canon-based engine. Canon holds the patent on the engine and print technology. They manufacture the engine and cartridge, and sell them to other companies. They are all the same engines and all the same cartridges so they can all be recycled.


What are the paper grades, weights, and there common uses?

Paper grades are defined by their usage, such as Book or Cover stock. They are often referred to in combination with the basis weight: for example, 20 lb. Bond or 70 lb. Book. Another abbreviation for pound is #.


What does the fuser do on a laser printer?

The fuser is the system that melts the toner onto the medium. The hot-roll and the back-up roller make up the fuser system.


What is laminator roll core thickness?

Most laminators use a roll with a one inch core. The core is the hole that runs through the lamination film. Larger laminators use anywhere from a 2 1/4-inch core up to a three inch core.


Why should I laminate an item?

Lamination significantly enhances the color and contrast of pictures and protects the items from everyday wear and tear.


What is Pressure Sensitive Film?

Lamination film that has at least one side that is sticky. The sticky side will attach to the product being laminated.


What does the board refer to on a binder?

Stock material of varying thickness and flexibility placed between cover material and the lining of a binders. Thickness is measured in .000 inches and can vary from .020" to .250" . There are several qualities of board - genuine binders board, pasted chipboard, red-flex.


Does it matter which side of the paper is copied first?

You get the best results when you copy the proper side first. Most copier paper will have some type of indicator as to which side should be copied on. The construction of the copier will determine if the paper has to be placed up or down so the correct side is copied first.


How long can I store a toner cartridge before using it?

Using the toner cartridge within one year of purchase is recommended. The copier toner performance will deteriorate over time. The faster you use it the better quality it is. Store at room temperature and its best to keep the toner cartridge sealed in its bag until ready to use.


Is there less toner in a recycled cartridge than a new cartridge?

No, In most cases a recycled cartridge contains as much toner as the "OEM" cartridge. Check with your supplier for details.


What is Rag Content in Copier Paper?

The rag content of paper is the percentage of scrap cloth mixed with the pulp fibers during manufacturing. Rag content in paper varies between 20% and 100%. In general, high rag content papers are not recommended for most copiers. The cloth fibers tend to separate from the paper and lodge in critical areas of the copier.


What is Embossing? Debossing?

Embossing is the process of stamping a raised image into the surface of the substrate. A brass or metal die engraves the image using extreme pressure and heat. Debossing is the same except the image is lowered on the substrate.


How many times can I refill my Inkjet Cartridge?

It depends on the cartridge, but the average is 10 times.


How much can I save by buying a compatible or remanufactured cartridge?

A compatible cartridge saves you about 50-75% over the cost of a new OEM cartridge.


What is the difference between new and recycled toner cartridges?

Price seems to be the main difference in most cases. Since recycled cartridges are used there is some wear and tear, but not enough to make a difference in the copy quality.


What does professionally remanufactured mean?

Professionally remanufactured cartridges are recycled inkjet cartridges designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications. The process involves inspecting, disassembling, cleaning, and refilling the ink. The cartridge is then tested, sealed, and then sold.
 

Give us a call or e-mail us for a quotation at nci@ncicartridges.com

800 513 5157
 
 
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