How to Find Out How Much Ink I Have in a Dell Ink Cartridge

By Quinn Marshall

Some printers have a button you can press for ink level estimates.
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Dell inkjet printers use disposable ink cartridges that hold a specific level of ink. Some Dell inkjet printers have an ink level monitor that analyzes ink usage and gives an alert when the level reaches a certain point. Other Dell inkjet printers continue to use an ink cartridge until it stops working properly. Checking your ink cartridge level periodically helps you anticipate when a new cartridge is needed, and prevents poor print quality for last-minute projects.

Step 1

Click the round "Windows" button on the left side of the desktop menu. Choose "Control Panel" from the "Start" menu.

Step 2

Select "View devices and printers" under "Hardware and Sound." Double-click the icon that belongs to your printer. A list of printer features and options appears. Choose the link titled "Printer Options."

Step 3

Click the "Services" tab. Select "Ink levels" to see an ink level estimate. Not all Dell printers have an ink estimate listed under the Services tab.

Step 4

Install the Dell software that came with your printer if an ink level estimate isn't listed in the "Services" tab. Print a test page using the software by clicking "Print Test Page." If your Dell printer's ink levels are low, an alert appears that displays estimated ink cartridge levels and a warning to replace the cartridge.

Step 5

Look at the LCD screen on your Dell printer if it has one. Some Dell inkjet printers display a "Low Ink" warning if your ink cartridge is low.

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