Epson XP-960 Adjustment Program

The Epson Expression Photo XP-960 is a high-end all-in-one inkjet printer, specifically designed for high-quality photo printing. It features a 6-color Ultra HD ink system, the ability to print on CDs/DVDs, and various advanced connectivity options.

However, after a significant period of use and reaching a predetermined print count, like most Epson inkjet printers, the XP-960 may suddenly cease operation and display a “Service Required” error message or have alternating blinking indicator lights on the control panel. This is a common indication that the waste ink counter is full, and you will need an Epson XP-960 Adjustment Program to resolve it.

Why Does Your Epson XP-960 Show “Service Required”?

Every Epson inkjet printer incorporates a waste ink management system. This ink is generated during print head cleaning cycles (to prevent clogs and maintain print quality) or when the printer performs other internal maintenance routines. This waste ink is absorbed by porous pads (often called “waste ink pads” or “absorbent pads”) located inside the printer.

To prevent excessive waste ink accumulation and overflow (which could lead to severe damage to internal components or leakage into the environment), Epson has integrated a counter into the printer’s firmware. When this counter registers that the amount of waste ink has reached its manufacturer-programmed limit, the printer will automatically lock up for protection and display an error message, prompting the user for service.

Common signs of this error on the Epson XP-960 include:

• An error message on your computer screen: “A printer’s ink pad is at the end of its service life. Please contact Epson support.” or “Service Required.”
• The indicator lights on the printer’s control panel blinking alternately or simultaneously (typically the ink and paper lights).
• The printer refusing to execute any print, copy, or scan commands, even though it’s powered on.

Important Note: For the XP-960, the waste ink pads are typically permanently installed inside the printer and are not as easily replaceable as the “Maintenance Boxes” found in some higher-end Epson models. Therefore, merely resetting the counter without addressing the physical pads can lead to waste ink overflow, potentially damaging the printer or causing a mess. Many users opt to clean the pads (if they have the technical knowledge and are careful) or, more commonly, divert the waste ink to an external tank using a modification kit.

Epson XP-960 Adjustment Program: Your Effective Troubleshooting Tool

The Epson XP-960 Adjustment Program (also known as a Resetter or WIC Reset Utility) is a specialized service software that allows you to access and adjust the technical parameters of your printer. This is an essential tool for you to troubleshoot the “Service Required” error and many other printing issues yourself without needing to take the printer to a repair shop, significantly saving time and money.

The main functions of the software include:

• Reset Waste Ink Pad Counter: This is the core and most critical function. It resets the waste ink counter to “0%” (new) status, thereby clearing the “Service Required” error and allowing your printer to resume operation immediately.
• Powerful Head Cleaning: Performs more intense cleaning cycles than standard driver options. This is very useful when print heads are severely clogged, causing streaks, missing lines, or faded colors in your prints.
• Print Head Alignment: Helps realign the positions of the ink nozzles to ensure sharp, precise prints without misalignments or blurring.
• Nozzle Check Pattern Printing: Prints a special pattern that allows you to easily check if all ink nozzles are firing correctly, helping to quickly diagnose print quality issues.
• Printer Information Check: Displays detailed information about the printer’s operational parameters, including the number of pages printed, estimated ink levels, and logged error history.
• EEPROM Data Copy/Initial Setting: This function allows for backing up, writing, or initializing EEPROM data, useful in more complex repair scenarios or when replacing the mainboard.
• Advanced Functions (Version Dependent): Some tools, like certain versions of the WIC Reset Utility, might offer advanced features such as firmware changes or disabling cartridge chip checks (making the printer “chipless”), but these are more complex and carry higher risks.

Benefits of Using the Adjustment Program for Epson XP-960

• Cost Savings: You can fix errors yourself at home, avoiding unnecessary repair and maintenance fees.
• Quick & Convenient: Resolve the “Service Required” issue immediately, ensuring your work is not interrupted.
• Extended Printer Lifespan: By proactively maintaining and resolving issues promptly, you can significantly prolong the performance and lifespan of your Epson XP-960 printer.
• Maintain Optimal Print Quality: The head cleaning and alignment functions help ensure your prints consistently achieve the highest quality, which is particularly important for a photo printer like the XP-960.

Important Notes for Download and Usage

• Correct Software Version: Always ensure you download and use the specific Epson XP-960 Adjustment Program compatible with your printer model and operating system. Using incompatible software can lead to serious errors or permanent damage to your printer.
• Stable USB Connection: The printer needs to be connected directly to your computer via a USB cable and must remain powered on throughout the software’s operation. Do not use Wi-Fi or network connections when performing the reset to ensure stable communication and avoid errors.
• ADDRESS PHYSICAL WASTE INK PADS: While the software can reset the counter, the physical waste ink pads will still be full. If not addressed, waste ink can overflow, potentially damaging the printer or causing a mess. You should consider options such as:
  • Contacting Epson support for their recommended service or a professional pad replacement.
  • Disassembling the printer yourself to clean or replace the pads (requires technical knowledge and careful handling).
  • Installing an external waste ink tank modification kit to divert waste ink into a separate container that can be easily emptied. This is a popular and effective long-term solution for high-volume users.
• Temporarily Disable Antivirus Software: Some antivirus programs might incorrectly identify the Adjustment Program as a threat (false positive) due to its operational nature. You may need to temporarily disable them for the software to run smoothly without being blocked.
• Download from Reputable Sources: Always download the software from trusted websites or providers to avoid viruses or malware. Be aware that many reset tools for these models, especially the WIC Reset Utility, often require a purchased activation key to unlock the full reset function. While “free trial” keys might be available, they often only allow a partial reset or a limited number of uses.

Get Your Epson XP-960 Adjustment Program Today!

Don’t let a “Service Required” error disrupt your printing. Search for and download the Epson XP-960 Adjustment Program today to confidently troubleshoot issues, restore functionality, and keep your Epson Expression Photo XP-960 printer running smoothly and efficiently!