My Epson CX8400 will not print black text?

sounds like a bad ink carriage.

From the Epson web site:
Q:
Can the printer still print if an ink cartridge is expended or not installed? A: No. The printer will not operate if any cartridge is expended or removed. It's best to always have extra cartridges on hand.
I do this for fun not $$$.
Jim

hello

i have this link below that gives you allinformation about your Epson printer. specifically the manual , required for review to address the issue with the ink cartridge error.

Run a Printer Check A printer check will help you determine if the Epson Stylus CX8400 Series is operating properly. 1. Turn off the Epson Stylus CX8400 Series and your computer, if connected. 2. Disconnect any connected USB cables. 3. Load plain paper in the sheet feeder. 4. Press Setup. 5. Select Maintenance and press OK. 6. Select Nozzle Check and press OK. 7. Press Start. 8. The Epson Stylus CX8400 Series begins printing the nozzle check pattern. • If the page prints, your Epson Stylus CX8400 Series is operating. Your problem may be caused by your computer, cable, software, or setting selections. Check for additional solutions or re-install your software. If the pattern on the page has gaps, clean or align the print head. • If the page does not print, the Epson Stylus CX8400 Series may have a problem. Check for additional solutions. If they don't work, contact Epson.

general= http://www.epson.ca/cgi-bin/ceStore/support/supDetail.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&oid=90342


manual = http://files.support.epson.com/htmldocs/cx84__/cx84__ug/wwhelp/wwhimpl/js/html/wwhelp.htm

lost disc and want to download my epson to this computer

Manual for Epson Stylus CX8400:
Quick reference guide in pdf-format can be downloaded here:
http://files.support.epson.com/pdf/cx84__/cx84__qr.pdf

An overview of all documents and manuals on this site:
http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/support/supDetail.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&infoType=Doc&oid=90342&prodoid=63069506&category=Products

Yep

I put alcohol in inside the printer, where you insert the ink cartruges then cleaned with paper towl and it works for me.....

Your next step is dependent on exactly how the nozzle check prints.

Let me know

Make sure you are connected to a USB 2.0 port on your computer. The printer does not do so well on a USB 1.1 port.

If you have a desktop, you can add a USB 2.0 adapter card. If you have a notebook you can use a USB 2.0 converter card (PCMCIA or PC Card or CardBus(32bit) or whatever).