Firmware Reset Samsung Ml 2160 2165 2160w 2165w 〈PRO — Solution〉
Guide to Firmware Reset for Samsung ML-2160 and ML-2165 Series Resetting the firmware on your Samsung ML-2160
, or their wireless versions (2160W/2165W) is a common way to resolve toner detection issues or to enable "chipless" printing, which allows you to use refilled cartridges without the printer blocking them due to a low toner signal 1. Identify Your Printer Information
Before attempting any firmware reset or "fix," you must know your printer's specific details. These are often required if you are using third-party firmware tools. Print Configuration Report : Hold the Print Screen/WPS button (located above the power button) for about 10 seconds
until the LED flashes once, then release it. This report contains your Serial Number Firmware Version Print Supplies Information : Hold the same Print Screen/WPS button for approximately 15 seconds
until the LED stays green, then release it. This report will show your CRUM series number , which is unique to your current toner chip. 2. Enter Download Mode To "flash" or rewrite the firmware, the printer must be in Download Mode Turn off the printer and disconnect the power. Press and hold the (or Print Screen) button while turning the printer back on.
The LED should turn green, indicating it is ready to receive new firmware files. 3. Applying the Firmware Fix
Most firmware resets involve a "fix" file specifically generated for your printer's Serial Number and CRUM series. Connect via USB
: Ensure the printer is connected directly to your computer via a USB cable; do not attempt this over Wi-Fi. Run the Flash Tool
: On your PC, you typically drag the firmware file (often with an extension) onto a specialized USB executable tool (like usbprns2.exe Wait for Reboot
: The printer will start programming (taking 1–2 minutes) and will reboot itself once finished.
turn off the printer or computer during this process, as it can corrupt the hardware.
The story of the Samsung ML-2160 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
series is a classic tale of "the printer that refused to die." These compact, reliable monochrome lasers became legendary in the 2010s—not just for their small footprint, but for the underground community that formed to bypass their restrictive firmware. The "Endless Toner" Legend
While Samsung designed these printers to stop once the MLT-D101S cartridge chip hit zero, owners discovered they could "permanently" reset the machine using modified firmware. By installing these community-created "Fix Firmware" files, users could remove or tape over the toner chip entirely, allowing the printer to run on refilled powder indefinitely. 🛠️ How to Reset Your Machine
If you're dealing with a modern error or an interrupted update, here’s how to clear the "paperweight" status: 1. The Standard Hard Reset
If your printer is acting up (flashing lights, not responding), try a hard power cycle first: Disconnect the power cord from the wall. Wait 5 full minutes to drain the capacitors. Plug back in and hold the Power button. 2. Recovering from a Failed Update
If a firmware update was interrupted and the printer is now stuck with a "red light" or "toner failure," you may need a recovery install: Connect the printer to a PC via USB cable.
Download the official Universal Print Driver or firmware from HP Support (HP now manages Samsung printers).
Drag and drop the .hd firmware file onto the update executable to force a re-flash. 3. Printing Your Reports
To know exactly which firmware version you have (essential for any reset), use these button combinations:
Configuration Report: Hold the Print Screen / WPS button for ~10 seconds (until the LED flashes once).
Supplies Information: Hold the same button for ~15 seconds (until the LED stays solid green).
These community guides show how to extract the necessary printer data and apply firmware fixes to bypass toner chip restrictions: Reset Fix Firmware Samsung ML-2165 325K views · 14 years ago YouTube · Oscar Mendoza firmware reset samsung ml 2160 2165 2160w 2165w
Alex had a deadline. It was 11:30 PM, and the final draft of his portfolio needed to be printed for a 9:00 AM interview. He hit "Print" on his trusty Samsung ML-2165W , only for the dreaded red LED to start blinking.
The printer insisted it was "out of toner," even though Alex had just refilled the cartridge by hand. The problem wasn't the powder; it was the CRUM chip on the cartridge, a tiny digital watchdog that told the printer the toner was dead, even if it was full.
Alex knew he had two choices: buy a brand-new, expensive cartridge or perform a firmware reset. The Plan
He found a guide on a tech forum. The goal was to "fix" the printer’s brain so it would stop checking the chip entirely. To do it, he needed three things: The printer's Serial Number. The CRUM number from a "Supplies Information" report. The current Firmware Version (like V1.00.01.11). The Ritual
Alex held down the Print Screen/WPS button for 10 seconds until the green light flashed, and out came the configuration report. He then held it for 15 seconds to get the supplies report.
With the data in hand, he downloaded a "fix" file—a custom .hd firmware designed for his specific serial number. He connected the printer via USB and dragged the firmware file onto a small program called usbprns2.exe.
To perform a firmware reset or "fix" on Samsung ML-2160, 2165, 2160W, and 2165W printers, you generally need to obtain the printer's specific data (Serial Number, CRUM, and Firmware Version) to generate a compatible fix file. This process allows the printer to operate without requiring toner cartridge chips 1. Identify Your Printer Information
Before attempting any reset, you must print reports to get the required identifiers: Configuration Report: Print Screen / WPS
button for about 10 seconds until the LED flashes once, then release. This report contains the Serial Number Firmware Version Supplies Information: Print Screen / WPS
button for approximately 15 seconds until the LED stays green, then release. This report contains the CRUM number 2. Enter "Forced" Download Mode
If the printer is blocked or the firmware doesn't upload normally, use this mode: Turn the printer Print Screen / WPS button and then press the
Continue holding both for about 3 seconds until the status indicator turns green. 3. Upload the Firmware Fix Once you have the specific firmware file (usually a file) from a provider like Connect the printer to your computer via Drag and drop the firmware file (e.g., ML2160_V1.00.01.xx.hd ) onto the application file usbprns2.exe A DOS-style window will appear showing the progress. Do not turn off the power during this time. The printer will reboot automatically once finished. 4. Finalize the Reset Remove or Cover Chip:
After the reboot, you must either remove the chip from the toner cartridge or cover it with tape. Verify Reset: The toner level should now show as Important Safety Note: Firmware for the (standard) and (wireless) series are NOT compatible
. Ensure you are using the exact version meant for your specific model to avoid bricking the device. Do you have the Firmware Version CRUM number
from your reports to determine which specific fix file you need? Samsung ML-2160 Firmware - ORPYS
Understanding Firmware Resets for Samsung ML-2160 & ML-2165 Series Resetting the firmware on Samsung ML-2160 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
, and their wireless "W" counterparts is a common procedure used primarily to bypass "Toner Empty" errors or to allow the use of refilled cartridges without expensive replacement chips. Why Perform a Firmware Reset?
Samsung printers use a built-in counter that halts printing once a predetermined page limit is reached, regardless of whether the toner is actually empty. A firmware "fix" or reset modifies the printer's internal software so it no longer requires a valid toner chip to function, allowing you to:
Reuse original cartridges by simply refilling them with toner powder.
Eliminate chip costs, as the printer's counter will reset to 100% every time it is restarted.
Fix persistent errors where the printer fails to recognize a perfectly good compatible cartridge. Step 1: Gather Printer Information
Before attempting a firmware reset, you must know your printer's specific version. Guide to Firmware Reset for Samsung ML-2160 and
Configuration Report: Hold the Print Screen / WPS button for about 10 seconds until the LED flashes once, then release.
Supplies Information: Hold the same button again for about 15 seconds until the LED stays green, then release.
Key Details to Note: Serial Number (SN), Firmware Version, and CRUM number. Step 2: Applying the Firmware Reset (The "Fix")
Warning: Incorrect firmware can permanently damage your printer. Ensure the file matches your specific version exactly.
Samsung ML-2160 (including wireless variants) are compact laser printers known for their reliability but hindered by restrictive toner chips. A "firmware reset"—often called a "fix firmware" or "chipless" mod—is a popular community solution to bypass these chip restrictions, allowing for cheaper toner refills. Overview of the Firmware Reset
The primary goal of this firmware modification is to permanently "unlock" the printer so it no longer requires the expensive electronic chip located on the toner cartridge. How it Works
: Users install a modified firmware file tailored to their specific printer's Serial Number and CRUM (chip) number. The Result
: The printer's internal counter resets to 100% every time the device is powered on, even if the toner chip is removed or covered with tape. Pros & Cons Risk/Drawback Cost Savings
Enables the use of generic toner or DIY refills without buying new chips. Modifying firmware typically voids the manufacturer's warranty Sustainability
Reduces electronic waste by reusing old cartridges multiple times.
Risk of "bricking" the printer if the update is interrupted or the wrong file is used. Convenience
No "toner empty" lockouts when the cartridge still has physical powder.
Requires technical steps like finding the current firmware version and SN/CRUM data. Requirements for Reset
To perform a successful reset, you typically need to gather specific information from your printer's Configuration Supplies Information Model Name : (e.g., ML-2165W). Firmware Version : (e.g., V1.01.01.05 or V3.00.01.14). Serial Number : Found on the back of the device or in the reports. CRUM Number : A unique ID for the current toner chip. Common Recovery Steps
If your printer becomes unresponsive after a failed firmware attempt, users often use a "forced mode" (Download Mode) by holding the Print Screen/WPS
button while turning the power on. This allows the printer to accept a fresh original or fix file to restore functionality.
For official drivers and standard troubleshooting, you can visit the HP Support page for Samsung ML-2160 ML-2165W section to find your current firmware version?
The firmware reset (often called a "Fix Firmware") for the Samsung ML-2160, 2165, 2160w, and 2165w
is a third-party modification designed to bypass the toner chip counter. This allows users to refill original cartridges or use cheap "chipless" alternatives without the printer blocking operation due to "low toner" errors. kartridgmsk.com Review of Firmware Reset Cost Efficiency
: This is the primary benefit. By resetting the firmware, you stop the printer from requiring a new chip with every refill, which can significantly reduce long-term printing costs. Convenience
: Once the fix is applied, you can simply refill the toner powder and continue printing until the quality physically degrades, rather than when a digital counter tells you to stop. Installation Difficulty : Generally, the process involves dragging a firmware file onto a USB loader (like usblist2.exe ) while the printer is in a special "Download Mode". Critical Risk
: Modifying firmware carries a risk of "bricking" the printer if the process is interrupted or if the wrong version is used. This modification also voids the official warranty JustAnswer Compatibility & Requirements Step 3: Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily disable
To find a working fix, you must identify your printer's specific data by printing a Configuration Report Supplies Information Report ML-2160/2165 : Hold the Print Screen button for ~10 seconds until the LED flashes. ML-2160W/2165W : Hold the button for ~10 seconds. Key Data Needed Why it Matters Firmware Version
Fixes are specific to versions (e.g., V1.01.01.05 or V1.01.02.03). CRUM Number
Modern "Fix" files are often locked to a specific toner chip's serial number. Machine Serial Number
Used by providers to generate a unique firmware file for your specific unit. FIX прошивка ML-2160 ML-2165 ML-2165W
A firmware reset for the Samsung ML-2160, 2165, 2160W, and 2165W series is a popular modification designed to bypass the printer’s toner chip security. By overwriting the official firmware with a "fix" version, users can refill existing cartridges or use cheaper compatible ones without the printer blocking them with "low toner" or "replace cartridge" errors. Key Benefits
Massive Cost Savings: Reduces printing costs by up to 85% by allowing refills of the original "starter" cartridge and use of non-original toners.
Chip Independence: Once the reset is applied, you can remove or tape over the toner chip; the printer will permanently recognize the toner as 100% full.
Ease of Use: The process typically involves running a simple program (an .hd file) on a computer connected via USB, taking roughly 5–10 minutes. Major Risks & Drawbacks
Warranty Voidance: Modifying the firmware with third-party software is not supported by Samsung and will void your official warranty.
Risk of "Bricking": If the update is interrupted (e.g., power failure or disconnected cable), the printer’s firmware can become corrupted, rendering the device non-functional.
No Universal Fix: Reset files are usually tied to a specific Serial Number or CRUM number; using the wrong version can cause permanent errors.
Environmental Monitoring: Because the printer always sees "100%," you must manually monitor print quality to know when a refill is actually needed to avoid damaging the internal drum. Typical Reset Process
Resetting a Samsung ML-2160 or ML-2165 series printer (including the W wireless versions) usually refers to either a factory reset to clear settings or a firmware "fix" to bypass toner chip requirements. 1. Basic Factory Reset
Use this to clear network settings or minor errors without changing the firmware version.
Method 1 (Button): Turn on the printer and hold the Stop/Cancel button for about 10–15 seconds until the LED lights flash, then release.
Method 2 (Wireless Models): For the ML-2165W, you can often reset network settings by holding the WPS button for 10 seconds until the status LED flashes once. 2. Advanced "Tech Menu" Reset
If your printer is not responding to standard buttons, you can access the hidden service menu (usually for models with a display, though some combinations work via a connected PC): Enter the sequence: Menu > Back > Left > Right > OK > Stop. Navigate to Tech Menu and select Data Setup.
Choose Clear All Memory to restore the printer to out-of-the-box settings. 3. Firmware "FIX" (To Bypass Toner Chips)
Many users seek a "firmware reset" to stop the printer from demanding a new cartridge when the chip counter runs out.
Warning: Installing unofficial "FIX" firmware may void your warranty or brick the printer if done incorrectly. Samsung Printer Reset & Error Code Guides - Farbtoner
Xpress series. ... Reset: Menu → # → 1934 → Technician Menu → Reset → Enter → Restart. Common error codes: 46 (Replace drum), 24 ( Farbtoner.com GmbH
Step 3: Disable Antivirus and Firewall
Temporarily disable Windows Defender or any third-party security software. These tools often block the low-level USB communication required for firmware flashing.
Issue 1: "Printer Not Found" Utility Error
- Solution: Switch the printer to "Firmware Recovery Mode." Turn off the printer, hold the "Cancel" button, turn it back on, and as soon as the lights flash, release Cancel. The printer will now accept a firmware flash even if it was thought "dead."
Conclusion
Resetting the firmware on the Samsung ML-2160 / ML-2165 series is an effective way to bypass toner chip restrictions and extend the life of your printer. While the process requires some technical confidence, following the steps above can save you the cost of replacing the printer or buying expensive OEM toner cartridges. Always double-check that you have the correct firmware file for your specific model variant before beginning.
Steps:
- Print a Network Configuration Report:
- Press and hold the WPS button for about 10 seconds, or press the Cancel button twice quickly (varies by firmware). Alternatively, use the printer driver’s “Print Info” menu.
- Note the printer’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.100).
- Open a web browser and enter:
http://<IP address>(e.g., http://192.168.1.100) - Log in:
- ID:
admin - Password:
sec00000(default) oradmin(older firmware)
- ID:
- Go to Settings → Device Settings → Reset (or Maintenance → Reset).
- Choose Factory Reset or Reset All Settings.
- Click Apply → confirm.
- Printer will reboot automatically.