Date listed on the replacement 12a cartridge box

[DaveinMich]

I usually buy sealed OEM HP 12a cartridges on ebay, for a fraction of the price that new ones cost retail at the usual chain office supply places near me.

I always assumed they were expired or somehow defective in some way but I've never had any problems doing this.

My question: The one I just bought off ebay has some coded numbers and the date 9/11/09 stamped on the outside of the box. Is that the "sell by" date or the date of manufacture?

I'm aware that, at least, theoretically, laser cartridges have a shelf life.

Any comments please?

[Big Al]

Been working on laser printers for a long time. As long as the cartridge is stored in a reasonable temperature and humidity there should be no problem. Occasionally we will see a refilled cartridge, usually a newer one, usually refilled overseas, and some of the contacts are a little corroded. Cleaning them up with an eraser gets it going. After you pull the tape give it a good shake to get the toner loosened up and you should be good to go. Not sure what the date means but dont worry about it. Store it in a cool dry place and it should be good for years.

Al

[DaveinMich]

Thanks for the info!

[Compman55]

Some smart chips will give annoying errors when it is out of date. Usually it will still work though.