The ingeniousness of computers are unlike anything else. Computers are so clever that they can signal to a user when something is wrong and even when they are sick, however, they cannot tell you how to fix the problem. If you get a message saying "ink is low", or "check the ink" it leaves you wondering how, some even wonder what an ink cartridge is? Computer user's might wonder where ink cartridges are inside of a printer. They think, "How do I change it? Additionally, "What kind of ink do I need"? These are just a few "very specific" questions one would ask themselves when attempting to resolve computer problems.

Trying to choose printer ink can leave you feeling like you've opened Pandora's Box. There are so many ink brands and printer variations that the customer is often overwhelmed by all the options. Do you order online, or head to the office supply store? The shelves and websites are over run with cartridges for ink jet printers and laser printers; ink for Canon's and Epson's, and Dell's; black or colored ink; new or refilled ink cartridges-the list is endless. Until you learn more about ink cartridges, it might be best to visit your local office supply store where a clerk can help you make the most suitable selection.

To find suitable ink cartridges you must first know your printer. Look at the user's manual and jot down the printer make and model. Read the directions in the manual on how to locate, remove and replace ink cartridges. Place the extracted ink cartridge in a plastic bag and take it with you to a local office supply store. If you are lucky, your store of choice might take the expended cartridges in exchange for a discount to your purchase price.

Once you have gathered the information needed, and have your old cartridge in hand, it is time to head to the office supply store. After you find the ink cartridges at the store, weigh your options and compare prices. More than likely it will not be cost effective to buy the a single ink cartridge. Often times, stores offer discounts on multi-packs. What's greater is two color ink cartridge packages often come with free black cartridges, free paper, and even buy-one-get-one-free specials. Some stores offer rebates, credit cards, or vip member cards that ultimately reduce the cost associated with doing your own printing. These specials can greatly reduce the overall cost of ink; leaving you with spare ink cartridges which will eliminate the frustration that comes from starting a print job late at night and running out of ink.

When you return how with your purchase, review the directions in the manual to help you install them into your printer. Once you have installed the cartridges a few time, you can waive using the manual again. Be sure to complete any rebate forms and submit them before the deadlines, and keep the packaging and receipt until you have printed a sample page and are sure the cartridge fits and is working properly.