Firmware Reset Samsung Ml 2160 2165 2160w 2165w Link -
Published by: Tech Printer Solutions
Reading time: 8 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
If you own a Samsung monochrome laser printer from the ML-2160 series, you have likely encountered a frustrating reality: automatic firmware updates often disable third-party or refilled toner cartridges. One day your printer works perfectly; the next, it shows a permanent "Non-Samsung Toner" or "Replace Toner" error—even when the cartridge is full.
The only reliable solution is a firmware reset (downgrade). This article provides a step-by-step guide, troubleshooting tips, and the verified firmware reset Samsung ML 2160 2165 2160W 2165W link.
After a successful firmware reset, you must disable automatic updates to avoid re-locking the printer.
For most users experiencing toner or configuration issues on ML-2160 / 2165 / 2160W / 2165W, the button panel method (Method 1) is the safest and most effective firmware reset. It clears NVRAM errors without needing drivers or software.
If you are trying to fix a “toner not recognized” problem, note that a firmware reset will not override the toner chip counter. You may need to:
The "full story" behind firmware resets for the Samsung ML-2160, ML-2165, and their wireless "W" counterparts is a long-standing battle between printer owners and manufacturer-imposed cartridge locking systems. The Conflict: Toner Chips vs. Refills These printers use
cartridges, which come equipped with a "CRUM" chip. This chip acts as a counter; once the printer decides the cartridge is "empty," it locks the device, even if there is still physical toner left. Users found that even refilling the toner manually wouldn't work because the chip remained "locked". The "Fix" Movement
To bypass these costs, a community developed "Fix Firmware" (often called "Resoft" or "Reset Fix"). This modified software is designed to: Permanently Reset Counters
: The printer sees the toner level as 100% every time it starts up. Eliminate Chips
: After the fix, users can remove or tape over the cartridge chip and print using only refilled toner. The Technical Evolution
The story evolved as Samsung released newer, more secure firmware versions:
Guide to Firmware Reset for Samsung ML-2160 and ML-2165 Series
The Samsung ML-2160 and ML-2165 series printers are compact and efficient, but they often encounter a common roadblock: the toner chip counter. These printers use chips on the toner cartridges to track page counts. Once a pre-set limit is reached, the printer may stop functioning and display "Toner Empty" or "Invalid Toner" errors—even if there is still physical toner left in the cartridge.
A firmware reset (or "fix firmware") allows you to bypass this chip, enabling the use of refilled cartridges or third-party toner without a chip. 1. Identify Your Printer Information
Before performing a reset, you must know your specific printer details. Firmware fixes are often tied to the unique identifiers of your machine. Model Number: (e.g., ML-2160, ML-2165W).
Firmware Version: Crucial for choosing the correct fix file.
Serial Number: Found on the back of the printer or in reports.
CRUM Number: The unique ID of the toner chip currently installed. How to Print Reports
Configuration Report: While in standby, hold the Print Screen (or WPS for "W" models) button for about 10 seconds until the LED flashes once, then release.
Supplies Information (CRUM): Hold the same button for approximately 15 seconds until the LED stays solid green, then release. 2. The Firmware Reset Process
The reset involves flashing a modified firmware file (often called a "FIX" file) to the printer. firmware reset samsung ml 2160 2165 2160w 2165w link
For the Samsung ML-2160 and series (including wireless 'W' models), firmware resets are typically used to enable "chipless" printing, allowing you to refill toner cartridges without replacing the expensive electronic chips. Official firmware updates are now managed by HP following their acquisition of Samsung's printer division. Firmware Reset Procedure
To perform a firmware reset, you generally need to put the printer into Download Mode and then apply a "fix" file.
Identify Your Details: Most reset fixes require your printer's Serial Number, Firmware Version, and CRUM number.
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 for about 15 seconds until the LED stays green, then release.
Enter Download Mode: Turn the printer off. Hold the Stop/Clear or Print Screen button while turning the power back on. The LED should turn green or orange, indicating it is ready for data.
Apply the Fix: Connect the printer via USB and drag the firmware fix file (usually a .hd file) onto the update executable (like usbprns2.exe).
Finalize: Once the printer reboots, you must remove or cover the chip on the toner cartridge with tape for the reset to take effect. Essential Resources & Links
Official Drivers & Firmware: The official repository for standard updates is now hosted on HP Support.
Third-Party Reset Tools: While not official, sites like eReset and ORPYS provide custom "chipless" firmware fixes and detailed video tutorials.
Technical Guides: Detailed PDF release notes and manual update instructions can be found on Scribd.
Caution: Using non-official "fix" firmware can void your warranty and, if interrupted, may render the printer unusable ("bricking"). Ensure you have a stable power connection before proceeding.
This report outlines the procedure for performing a firmware reset on Samsung ML-2160, ML-2165, and their wireless (W) variants. Note that "resetting" in this context typically refers to either a factory reset to clear settings or a firmware "fix" to allow printing without toner chips. 1. Pre-Reset: Identifying Firmware Details
Before applying any firmware modifications, you must identify your current firmware version and CRUM number.
Configuration Report: Hold the Print Screen / WPS button for ~10 seconds until the LED flashes once, then release. This prints the Serial Number and Firmware Version.
Supplies Information: Hold the Print Screen / WPS button for ~15 seconds until the LED stays solid green, then release. This prints the CRUM series number. 2. Firmware Reset Procedures
Depending on your goal (factory reset vs. chip-less printing), follow the relevant method below: Method A: Soft/Factory Reset (General Malfunctions) To clear memory and internal errors:
Button Method: Turn on the device and hold the Stop/Cancel button for 10–15 seconds until the LEDs flash, then restart.
Menu Method (if applicable): Navigate to Menu > System > Factory Settings. Method B: Firmware "Fix" (Chip-less Printing)
Third-party "fixes" are often used to bypass toner chip requirements. Use these with caution as they may void warranties.
Enter Download Mode: Turn off the printer. Hold the Print Screen (or WPS) button while turning the power back on. Release after ~3 seconds once the LED turns green. Published by: Tech Printer Solutions Reading time: 8
Flash Firmware: Connect to a PC via USB. Drag and drop the specific .hd firmware file onto the usbprns2.exe utility.
Completion: The printer will flash and reboot. You must then remove or cover the toner chip with tape for the reset to take effect. 3. Essential Resources & Links
Official Support: Visit Samsung ML-2165W Setup (HP Support) for official manuals and drivers. Detailed Guides: eReset Guide for identifying firmware versions.
ORPYS ML-2160 Firmware for specific file-handling instructions. Video Tutorials: How to print reports for Samsung ML-2160/2165.
Warning: Interrupting a firmware update (e.g., power loss) can permanently corrupt the printer's firmware. Always use a stable power source or UPS during the process. Firmware Reset Samsung Ml 2165wbfdcm - Facebook
Samsung ML-2160 series (including 2165, 2160W, and 2165W ), firmware "resets" are typically used to bypass toner chip requirements, allowing you to use refilled cartridges without seeing "toner empty" errors. Firmware Reset Resources
To perform a reset, you need specific information from your printer reports, including the Serial Number CRUM number , and current Firmware Version Firmware Fix Services : Third-party sites like
provide custom "fix" files often based on your specific printer ID. Original Firmware
: If you need to revert to factory settings, original files can be found on ORPYS Original Firmware List or through HP Support , which now manages Samsung printer software. How to Reset (Basic Steps) Samsung ML-2160 Firmware - ORPYS
A firmware reset (often called a "fix" or "chipless" firmware) for the Samsung ML-2160 series allows the printer to operate without the toner cartridge's communication chip. This is primarily used to bypass "Toner Exhausted" errors and enable the use of low-cost refilled or third-party cartridges. Understanding the Firmware Reset
Standard Samsung cartridges contain a CRUM chip. This chip counts pages and "locks" the printer once a certain limit is reached, even if ink remains. A firmware reset modifies the printer's internal software to ignore this chip signal. Supported Models ML-2160 / ML-2165: Standard USB models. ML-2160W / ML-2165W: Wireless-enabled models. 🛠️ Step 1: Identify Your Printer Data
Firmware fixes are unique to each machine. You must collect three pieces of data before searching for a reset file: Firmware Version: (e.g., V3.00.01.14). CRUM Number: An 11-digit serial unique to the toner chip.
Serial Number: The 15-character ID found on the back of the printer.
How to get this: Hold the Print Screen (or WPS) button for about 10–15 seconds until the status light flashes rapidly, then release. It will print a Configuration Report and a Supplies Information page. ⚡ Step 2: Preparing for the Reset
Connect via USB: Do not attempt a firmware flash over Wi-Fi.
Remove other USB devices: Unplug extra scanners or printers.
Stable Power: Ensure your computer and printer won't lose power during the 2-minute process.
Original Driver: Ensure the official Samsung/HP drivers are installed so the PC recognizes the device. 📥 Step 3: The Reset Process
Once you have obtained the specific firmware file (.hd or .fls) and a "USBPRNS2.exe" uploader tool: Enter Download Mode: Turn the printer off.
Hold the Print Screen/WPS button and the Power button simultaneously. Release when the status LED glows orange/green. Upload the File:
On your PC, click and drag the firmware file (.hd) onto the usbprns2.exe icon. A command prompt window will appear showing the progress. The Update: After a successful firmware reset, you must disable
The printer lights will blink rapidly. Do not touch the printer. The printer will restart automatically when finished. ⚠️ Important Precautions
The "Tape" Trick: After a successful reset, you must cover the chip on the toner cartridge with electrical tape or remove it entirely. This prevents the printer from trying to update the chip data again.
Warranty: Applying custom firmware usually voids the manufacturer's warranty.
Firmware Version Matters: If your version ends in "NU" (Non-Upgradable), standard reset files may not work. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Printer not recognized: Try a different USB port (preferably on the back of the PC) or a shorter USB cable.
Stuck on "Wait Image": This means the printer is ready but hasn't received the file. Check your driver status.
Red Light remains: Ensure the toner chip is covered and there are no paper jams.
If you want to move forward, I can help you identify your specific firmware version or guide you on how to read the configuration report.
This review evaluates the firmware reset fix for the Samsung ML-2160, ML-2165, ML-2160W, and ML-2165W series, a popular modification designed to bypass toner chip restrictions. Overview
The firmware reset (often called "Fix Firmware") is a software modification that allows these printers to operate without the electronic chips found on Samsung MLT-D101S cartridges. By removing this restriction, users can refill existing cartridges or use cheaper compatible toners that lack a chip. Key Features & Benefits
Cost Savings: Effectively reduces printing costs by up to 50–60% by allowing for simple toner refills instead of purchasing expensive new chipped cartridges.
Chip Independence: Once installed, you can remove the chip entirely or cover it with tape; the printer will permanently report toner levels at 100%.
Starter Cartridge Support: Allows you to refill and continue using the "starter" cartridge that originally came with the printer.
Reversible: Many providers offer the original firmware alongside the fix, allowing you to return the printer to its factory state if needed for warranty purposes. Installation Process The process typically involves a few technical steps:
Report Printing: Hold the Print Screen/WPS button (about 10–15 seconds) to print the Configuration and Supplies Information reports.
Information Gathering: You must provide the printer's Serial Number, Firmware Version, and CRUM number to the firmware provider to generate a unique fix file.
Flashing: Connect the printer via USB and drag the provided .hd fix file onto a specialized executable (like usbprns2.exe).
Hardware Modification: After the printer reboots, you must remove or tape over the chip on the toner cartridge. Potential Risks Samsung ML-2160 Firmware - ORPYS
Insert any compatible or refilled toner cartridge. The error message should disappear. Print a test page.
A: This is a known glitch. Turn off the printer, remove the toner, close all covers, turn it back on, then reinsert the toner. The jam flag will clear.
| Error Message | Solution |
|---------------|----------|
| “No printer found” | Reinstall the Samsung printer driver first (version 2.0 or later). |
| “Firmware file corrupted” | Re-download from the link above and verify checksum. |
| “Model mismatch” | Ensure you have the correct file for ML-2160/2165, not for SCX or M series. |
| Printer stuck in “Updating” loop | Power-cycle printer and PC, then restart the tool. |
| “Access denied” on Windows 10/11 | Run the tool in Windows 7 compatibility mode (Properties > Compatibility). |
| Symptom | Likely cause | Solution |
|--------|--------------|----------|
| Error lights persist after reset | Paper jam, worn fuser, or motor issue | Check for actual hardware failure. |
| “Toner Empty” message remains | Toner chip is still at end-of-life | Replace the chip or use a cartridge reset tool. |
| Wi-Fi still not working (W models) | Network reset required separately | After factory reset, re-configure Wi-Fi via WPS or USB. |
| Buttons unresponsive during reset | Wrong button or timing | Try again. Use “Cancel” button. On some models, try “Power” + “Cancel”. |